Program of Strategic Emphasis Waivers Available for STEM Undergraduates

Undergraduate students enrolled in one of 11 Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math (STEM) degree programs at Florida Atlantic University may be eligible for tuition waivers. The eligible degree programs in the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science include the B.A. and B.S. mathematics programs, where students may qualify for tuition waivers under Florida’s Programs of Strategic Emphasis initiative.

To be eligible for the waiver, a student must meet the following requirements: Be a Florida resident for tuition purposes; earned at least 60 semester credit hours toward a baccalaureate degree within two academic years after initial enrollment at a Florida public postsecondary institution; and be enrolled in one of 11 programs of strategic emphasis as determined by the Florida Board of Governors (BOG).

“This waiver program will help increase access and participation among promising STEM students,” stated Yuan Wang, Ph.D., professor and chair, Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Schmidt College of Science. “It will also allow them to focus on developing the relevant skills required in their fields, as well as spark excitement, innovation, and discovery in these future leaders.”

Students enrolled in the B.A. and B.S. programs within the Department of Mathematics and Statistics benefit from the college’s rigorous coursework are well-prepared for a wide range of careers. Graduates often become successful actuaries, teachers, and statisticians, and many also command high-demand jobs in data science and analytics. In addition, Florida Atlantic’s undergraduate mathematics programs provide a strong foundation for students interested in advanced or professional degrees, especially in the field of medical sciences.

“This tuition waiver allows students like me to focus more on their studies without the added pressure of financial constraints,” shared Tran Nguyen, a junior mathematics major. “I am incredibly grateful for this support, as it has allowed me to pursue my passion for mathematics with dedication and enthusiasm. It has also given me the opportunity to continue to explore the many facets of this subject and dedicate myself to learning and growing in this field.”

As a young woman in STEM and as a first-generation student, Nguyen hopes to inspire more students to believe in themselves and follow their dreams. When her family first came to the United States, the language barrier and cultural differences were the first obstacles Nguyen had to overcome. Even today, there are days when the challenges of her studies and career path make her question if she should keep going, but in those moments of doubt, she remembers that those experiences helped her form the resilience she carries with her today.

“Never give up. You can do more than you think,” stated Nguyen. “Everyone has a different starting point; therefore, each person’s destination and success are also different. Don't be discouraged or compare yourself to others because you will be good in your own way.  I hope that by sharing my experiences and challenges, I can help girls see that they also have a place in these STEM fields. This journey may not be easy, but it will bring you great achievements and immeasurable pride.”

In 2021, the Florida Legislature amended Section 1009.26, Florida Statutes, to create the Programs of Strategic Emphasis Waiver. This waiver was first available to resident undergraduate students enrolled in the 2021-2022 academic year, who completed at least 60 semester credit hours towards a baccalaureate degree within two academic years after initial enrollment at a Florida public postsecondary institution and were enrolled in upper-division courses required for eligible academic programs.

Interested mathematics majors can apply through the Student Controller's Office. Details can also be found here.

Learn more about undergraduate programs in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics.