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That's the DSU equation. We're a four-year university with nationally recognized programs, cutting-edge facilities, and the brightest thinkers. But we're also a tight-knit, inclusive community. Small class sizes mean hands-on training and individualized attention. All this with an affordable, public school price that's among the best values in the region.

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Home ― Gateway to STEM Certificate

Gateway to STEM Certificate

Explore STEM careers during high school

Explore your interests in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, and jumpstart your path to a future career. Opportunities in STEM continue to grow with occupations projected to grow 10.8% nationwide between 2022 and 2023.* The Gateway to STEM certificate allows high school students to learn about the varying professions through dual-credit college courses and apply the earned credits to many majors.

The certificate is available on DSU’s campus, online, and as In-District High School Dual Credit delivery in approved school districts. Students can take the courses at the reduced dual-credit rate if qualified, saving time and money to spark their professional path.

*U.S. Department of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Next Steps

Emerging leaders in STEM

This certificate is intended for high school students considering majors or degree programs in STEM fields. The certificate is stackable with bachelor programs in Biology, Mathematics, Computer Science, Software Engineering and other technology programs or could be used as stackable general education electives for other major programs.

Students can apply up to 13 credits to DSU’s majors in the College of Arts & Sciences, The Beacom College of Computer & Cyber Sciences, or College of Business & Information Systems.

Certificate courses

The Gateway Certificate is stackable with many possible majors. Contact us if you have any questions on the best courses to take toward a specific degree at DSU.

We’re here to help you explore your interests and jumpstart your career pathway!

Available courses for this certificate

Course Number Course Title
BIOL 151/151L General Biology I w/Lab
CHEM 112/112L General Chemistry I w/Lab
PHYS 207/207L University Physics I w/Lab
MATH 114 or higher
CSC 150/150L Computer Science I
CSC 170/170L Programming for Engineers and Scientists
CSC 115 Test-Driven Software Development

Learning outcomes

  • Define a problem and apply appropriate techniques to obtain valid solutions.
  • Analyze available facts, evidence, and observations and apply rational, unbiased analysis to form judgements.
  • Systematically explore and investigate complex issues to develop well-supported conclusions.