Chapter 8: Social and Academic Influences on Stem Career Aspirations: The Experiences of Black Male Doctoral Students at an HBCU

A qualitative research approach explored the examination and identification of Black male students’ social and academic influences and experiences and the factors that contributed to their career development. Demographic survey questionnaires and in-depth interviews were administered to four participants, all doctoral-level students majoring in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields at a southern historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). The findings showed that social and academic influences such as interpersonal relationships with peers, early identification for STEM promise at the middle and high school level, persistence towards pursuing a STEM major/career, and the importance of racial representation in the STEM field all play a role in both academic and career aspirations. Implications for future research, suggestions to ensure academic success, and identifying key factors that will aid teaching, learning, and practice are provided.