Bridge Programs as an approach to improving diversity in physics

Abstract

In most physical sciences, students from underrepresented minority (URM) groups constitute a small percentage of earned degrees at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Bridge programs can serve as an initiative to increase the number of URM students that gain access to graduate school and earn advanced degrees in physics. This talk discussed levels of representation in physical sciences as well as some results and best practices of current bridge programs in physics. The APS Bridge Program has enabled over 100 students to be placed into Bridge or graduate programs in physics, while retaining 88% of those placed.