In 2008, less than 0.25% of students who earned a degree in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) fields were Native American.

In 2006, less than 2.5% of PH.D.’s granted in STEM fields were to Native Americans.

According to Systemic Research, Inc. and its Quality Education for Minorities Network (QEM), in 2006 most Native American students selected a major outside of the STEM fields.

23% – Liberal Arts
12.1% – Business
10% – Education
10.1% – Vocational/Career programs
9.6% – Social Sciences
11.6% – Undeclared
0.4% – Mathematics
6.5% – Science
4.5% – Computer Science and/or Technology

Unfortunately these statistics only reflect the low number of Native Americans pursuing degrees in STEM fields. The statistics on the drop out rate for Native Americans is even more staggering.

QEM concluded some of the reasons Native Americans had such a high dropout rate was:
1. The mistrust of the school system
2. Schools’ failure to integrate the student’s culture into curricula
3. Lack of American Indian teachers
4. Lack of comfort with the school environment

This is why it’s important to have programs like Native Explorers that provide American Indian teachers and incorporates culture into its curriculum to help the comfort level for the students and build trust between the educators and students.