MS in Data Science and Sustainability Management: Your Path to a 3-Year STEM OPT

Have you ever wondered how to continue living longer in the US after graduation? The STEM OPT 3-year program could be your answer. It lets international students with STEM degrees work in the US for up to 36 months post-graduation. If you are eyeing a master’s degree, choosing a STEM-designated program is not just smart; it is strategic.

For international students, it is more than just a work permit. It is the chance to turn your academic investment into a launchpad for a global career. The three-year OPT STEM option means you can stay, work, and thrive in the US job market, especially if you are in fields like data science or sustainability management.

At Schiller International University, our MS in Data Science and MS in Sustainability Management are STEM-designated, opening doors to this incredible opportunity. Whether you are crunching data or champion sustainability, these programs prepare you for high-demand careers.

Learn what the STEM OPT extension is, how it works, and why it is a smart move for anyone eyeing a long-term professional life in the States. If you are thinking about your next steps or just want to know how to make the most of your degree, keep reading to explore how Schiller’s Tampa STEM programs can set you on a global employability path.

What is the  STEM OPT 3 Years Extension?

The STEM OPT 3 years extension allows F-1 visa students with STEM degrees to extend their Optional Practical Training (OPT) by 24 months, in addition to the standard 12-month OPT period, allowing eligible graduates to work in the US for up to 36 months total (1). 

This extra time helps you gain real-world experience in your field, making you more competitive in the job market. Here is the catch: Only programs classified as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security qualify. To qualify, your degree must be from an accredited, SEVP-certified school, and your employer must participate in E-Verify. 

OPT vs. STEM OPT at a Glance

Key Points:

• STEM OPT extension is only for students in STEM fields.
• The three-year OPT STEM option gives you time to gain real-world experience.
• Employers must meet specific requirements for you to qualify.
• Staying longer boosts your global employability path.

(Pro Tip: Forget scrambling to switch visas within a year. With a STEM OPT 3 years window, you will have time to gain expertise, network, and even apply for an H-1B visa multiple times.)

Eligibility for the STEM OPT Extension

To qualify for STEM OPT, you need to meet a few key criteria. First, your degree like an MS in Data Science or MS in Sustainability Management—must be on the STEM Designated Degree Program List. You also need to be on regular OPT and work for an employer enrolled in E-Verify. 

Eligibility Checklist:

• Degree on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List.
• Your school must be SEVP-certified. Schiller’s Tampa campus, for example, meets this criterion.
• Hold an F-1 visa and complete a STEM degree (e.g., MS in Data Science, MS in Sustainability Management).
• Currently on standard OPT.
• Your employer must enroll in E-Verify. This free system confirms your eligibility to work in the US.
• An E-Verify employer's job offer letter.
• Apply within 60 days of your school’s DSO recommendation.

(Source: USCIS)

Common STEM OPT-Eligible Degrees

(Pro Tip: Even if your current degree is not STEM, a prior STEM degree (earned in the last 10 years) could still make you eligible.)

How to Apply for STEM OPT Extension?

Are you applying for a STEM OPT 3-year extension? Getting a STEM OPT extension is not complicated, but you need to follow the steps closely. Ensure your degree is STEM-designated, find an E-Verify employer, and start by talking to your school’s Designated School Official (DSO), then gather your documents and apply through USCIS.

Schiller’s team guides you through applying for a STEM OPT extension, making it easier to secure Schiller Tampa OPT opportunities.

Steps for STEM OPT Eligibility Guide:

(Source: Study in the States)

Timeline Hack:

• Apply early. While waiting, your work authorization auto-extends by 180 days.
• Keep your employer’s E-Verify details handy.
• Stay in touch with your DSO for updates.

After Receiving STEM OPT Extension: What’s Next?

Once you have your STEM OPT 3 years approval, you are set for up to 24 extra months of work. But there are rules to follow, like reporting to your school and updating your employer information.

Key Responsibilities:

Report employment and address changes to your DSO every six months.

Work at least 20 hours per week in a job related to your STEM degree.

Employers must provide a formal training plan via Form I-983.

Make sure your employer meets STEM OPT Employer Requirements and Responsibilities.

STEM OPT Employer Requirements and Responsibilities

Your job is not just a paycheck; it is a training ground. Employers must:

• Enroll in E-Verify: Non-negotiable for STEM OPT candidates.
• Offer 20+ Hours Weekly: Part-time gigs will not cut it.
• Align Work with Your Degree: Data science graduates cannot flip burgers (unless it is a data-driven burger chain?).
• Report Changes Promptly: If your role shifts, your employer must update your training plan.

For further details, visit the USCIS STEM OPT page.

Schiller’s STEM-Designated Master’s Programs

Schiller International University offers two STEM master’s programs with OPT eligibility: MS in Data Science and MS in Sustainability Management. These programs are crafted to make you a smart global professional, ready for the challenges of today’s workforce. With a focus on practical, challenge-based learning, you will gain skills that employers value. Also, both programs qualify for the STEM OPT 3 years extension, letting you work in the US longer.

Master of Science in Data Science

The MS in Data Science teaches you to analyze complex data and build predictive models. You will master tools like Python and learn to visualize data effectively, preparing you for roles like Data Scientist or Business Analyst. The program’s hands-on approach ensures you are ready for OPT for MS in Data Science opportunities.

Program Benefits 

STEM-Approved Curriculum: Courses in Python, machine learning, and big data analytics aligned with DHS requirements. 

10-Month Accelerated Format: Graduate faster, start working sooner. 

Master of Science in Sustainability Management 

The MS in Sustainability Management focuses on sustainable business practices. You will study carbon management, ESG reporting, and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, equipping you for roles like a Sustainability Manager. This program’s STEM OPT eligibility guide ensures you can pursue Schiller Tampa OPT opportunities.

Program Benefits 

STEM Classification: Combines environmental science with business strategy—a rare blend for STEM OPT eligibility. 

Dual Degrees & Certifications: Partner with UNITAR, earn an UN-recognized fellowship, and attend graduation in Geneva. 

Real-World Projects: Tackle sustainability challenges for companies like LOEWE, boost your resume before graduation. 

(Bonus: Schiller’s Global Employability Path integrates workshops, certifications (AWS, Google), and internships: making you a smart global professional.) 

Why Data Science and Sustainability Management?

Both MS in Data Science and MS in Sustainability Management are hot fields with real impact. They are not just about theory: these programs teach you the skills that employers want. With the STEM OPT 3 years, you get time to use what you have learned, whether you want to work in  the technology, business, or environmental sectors.

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 36% growth in data science jobs from 2023 to 2033 (BLS). Meanwhile, LinkedIn’s 2024 Jobs on the Rise List notes Sustainability Specialists as the top-growing role due to rising ESG demands (Sustainability Magazine).

Studying these fields at Schiller positions you for a highly employability-oriented career, with the STEM OPT 3 years extension boosting your prospects.

Market Insights

• Data science jobs to grow 36% by 2033 (BLS). 
• Sustainability roles surge as companies prioritizes ESG (LinkedIn). 
• Sustainability skills increased hiring rates by 54.6%. 

Benefits of Choosing Schiller for Your STEM Education

Why pick Schiller for your STEM programs with OPT eligibility? Our programs offer unique advantages that prepare you for success. From global campuses to practical training, Schiller ensures you are a smart global professional ready for the challenges ahead. The STEM OPT 3 years extension is just one benefit, letting you work in the US for up to three years.

Advantages:

• 3-Year OPT STEM Option: Work in the US for 36 months post-graduation.
• Global Campuses: Study in Madrid, Paris, Heidelberg, or Tampa for a global perspective.
• Challenge-Based Learning: Hands-on projects prepare you for real-world challenges.
• Networking: Connect with professionals and peers worldwide.
• Scholarships: Up to 50% off tuition to make education accessible.

Contact our admissions team. They will decode credit transfers, scholarships, and how to maximize your STEM OPT extension.

Apply Now to secure your spot in Schiller’s MS in Data Science or Sustainability Management.