According to the U.S. Census Bureau, females make up only 27 percent of the workforce in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), yet these areas represent some of the fastest-growing and highest-paid jobs of the future. Azusa Pacific University defies that trend with its recent ranking as one of the top 12 Western R2 Universities that Produce the Most High-Earning Females. “This ranking is a testament to the quality of APU’s programs and faculty who prepare students with critical thinking, communication, problem solving, leadership, and teamwork skills that help female graduates succeed in graduate school and in their chosen professions, including in the STEM fields: nursing, engineering, computer science, mathematics, physics, biology, and chemistry,” said Megan Prosser, PhD, interim dean, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, professor, Department of Biology and Chemistry.
This Steppingblocks study used demographic, education, and employment filters to generate a list of R2 universities producing the most high-earning females under 40 earning $100,000 or greater.
“We are thrilled to know our alumni are shattering the glass ceilings. These women represent the best of APU—Christian-centered difference makers, who because of their skill, intelligence, and character stand out as rising stars in their workplaces and communities,” said Rukshan Fernando, PhD, provost. “The high expectations and mentoring they received from our committed faculty contributed to them becoming leaders that others want to follow.”
As an R2-designated institution, APU engages in high research activity. Faculty members are deeply engaged in original research, teach their own courses, and often involve their students in their research projects, including undergraduates. This translates to richer learning opportunities, better marketability upon graduation, and ultimately, a better return on investment.
APU also placed in the top 12 percent of universities nationwide on its return on investment (ROI). Categorized in an online database published by Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce, APU was scored on a variety of factors, including tuition and costs, average student debt, graduation rates, and net earnings after graduation.
In addition to these accolades, APU was ranked in the top 25 universities nationwide according to alumni ratings. Awarded by the Journal of Consumer Affairs and published by Forbes, APU was ranked No. 22 and joins elite universities, including Harvard, Princeton, and Massachusetts Institute of Technology. APU is 1 of only 2 Christian universities to make the list.
