Among international students in the U.S., a significant portion pursue technology-related degrees and careers, partly because STEM graduates may qualify for up to 36 months of OPT. According to USCIS data, computer-related occupations continue to dominate H-1B approvals, accounting for approximately 64% of approved petitions in FY 2024. As H-1B lottery selection rates have become increasingly competitive, many international students working in technology fields are exploring Day 1 CPT programs as a way to maintain employment authorization while pursuing an additional degree.
Table of Contents
How to Choose the Right Day 1 CPT Program as a Technology Professional?
1. Master of Business Administration (MBA)
2. Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
3. MS in Project Management
4. MS in Engineering Management
5. MS in Business Analytics
6. MS in Cybersecurity
Conclusion
How to Choose the Right Day 1 CPT Program as a Technology Professional?
When choosing a Day 1 CPT program, you need to follow two fundamental principles: (1) your program should be related to your job; and (2) it should be distinct from your previous degree in terms of either discipline or educational level.
Most foreign employees in technology have already earned a STEM master's degree in the U.S. A logical next step in their career development would be to pursue either a PhD in the same field or a master's program in management. However, since few Day 1 CPT universities offer PhD programs in technology, a master's degree in management—such as an MBA, MS in Project Management, or MS in Engineering Management—will be a good option for technology professionals.
In fact, it is common for someone working in a tech company for several years to pursue a management degree to advance to a management position. Thus, choosing a management-related program can demonstrate an understandable career trajectory and thereby minimize the possibility of receiving an RFE (Request for Evidence) or denial in your future H-1B and green card applications.
Day 1 CPT and RFE: What Should You be Prepared for?
1. Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Schools Options: Westcliff University (STEM); CIAM; Sofia University; Humphreys University (STEM); Monroe University; New England College; North Carolina Wesleyan University; Texas Wesleyan University; Goldey-Beacom College (STEM); Curry College; Concordia University Texas; Avila University Arizona; Lamar University
An MBA is a versatile program suitable for most Day 1 CPT students, as it can be related to a wide range of job positions. As long as your job involves communication, team management, and commerce, you can pursue an MBA degree while maintaining your employment. For those in tech companies, an MBA can be a transitional step toward management positions.
Many MBA programs offer diverse concentrations to meet the needs of students working in relevant industries. For example, the MBA programs at Westcliff University, Monroe College, Humphreys University, and Ottawa University all offer an IT management concentration, while Sofia University’s MBA program provides a data analytics track. These options are ideal for technology professionals looking to expand their expertise.
Moreover, some companies provide tuition assistance programs to encourage employees to engage in lifelong learning or management skills. Some clients are attending Day 1 CPT MBA programs with full funding from their employers. Check your company’s policy to see if you are eligible for financial aid!
2. Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
Schools Options: Westcliff University; Sofia University; Ottawa University; National Louis University
Similar to the MBA, the DBA (Doctor of Business Administration) can also apply to a variety of careers. While DBA programs typically have higher tuition fees than MBA programs, they can provide students with longer legal stays in the U.S., since DBA programs usually last 3-5 years. This extended duration provides more opportunities to join the H-1B lottery.
Choosing a DBA program has another advantage: it makes the progression of your educational path more logical, especially if you already have multiple master’s degrees. For instance, if you have earned a STEM master’s degree and a Day 1 CPT MBA degree, pursuing a DBA degree can lower your chances of receiving an RFE in immigration applications.
Among all Day 1 CPT DBA programs, Westcliff University’s program is the most affordable (around $19k per year), with many scholarship opportunities available. Additionally, Westcliff University has campuses in both California and Florida, which are geographically convenient for most students. However, if you live in the Midwestern region, Ottawa University may be a better option.
3. MS in Project Management
Schools Options: Harrisburg University; New England College; Goldey-Beacom College; Indiana Wesleyan University
MS programs in project management provide students with the technical knowledge and leadership skills necessary to create and manage corporate projects. In tech companies, project managers play a crucial role in implementing and coordinating projects. Many technology professionals have plenty of experience in interacting with project managers, making it natural for them to pursue a degree in project management for career advancement.
Three Day 1 CPT universities with project management programs are located on the East Coast. Harrisburg University’s program offers a cybersecurity concentration, ideal for engineers working in this field. If you find Harrisburg too pricey, you can consider New England College, where the annual tuition is $9k.
4. MS in Engineering Management
Schools Options: Westcliff University; Harrisburg University
Combining engineering skills and management knowledge, engineering management programs are particularly suitable for tech workers. These programs equip technology professionals with the ability to lead projects, manage teams, and make strategic decisions that drive innovation and efficiency within their organizations. By understanding both the technical and business aspects of projects, graduates are better prepared to navigate the complexities of the tech industry. Compared to MBA programs, engineering management programs are more tailored to technology professionals, which enables to provide convincing explanations about their educational choices.
Two well-known Day 1 CPT Universities offer MS programs in engineering management: Westcliff University in California and Harrisburg University in Pennsylvania, convenient for students on both the West and East Coasts. Moreover, Harrisburg University takes its program a step further by offering a cutting-edge AI concentration, equipping students with advanced skills.
5. MS in Business Analytics
Schools Options: Harrisburg University; National Louis University
MS programs in business analytics are situated at the intersection of business and data analytics. Equipping students with advanced skills in big-data management, data-driven decision-making, and data visualization, these programs are ideal choices for students who have already earned a data science degree. By bridging the gap between technical analysis and business applications, they prepare students to succeed in data-driven business world.
Day 1 CPT universities offering this option are quite limited. For those living in the Southern U.S., National Louis University offers great options. However, if you are in the Northeastern part, Harrisburg University may be a better consideration. Each of these institutions provides students with the chance to gain valuable work experience from the very beginning of their program.
6. MS in Cybersecurity
Schools Options: New England College; Harrisburg University
Cybersecurity is a specialized branch of computer science that has attracted international students. As cyber threats become increasingly pervasive, organizations across sectors are in great need of professionals who can safeguard their digital assets and data integrity. If you previously obtained a degree in computer science, you might consider specializing in cybersecurity to gain experience in dealing with cyber incidents. Given that cybersecurity is closely related to programming, this specialization can be a logical next step in your educational journey if you work as a software engineer/developer.
Two Day 1 CPT universities on the East Coast offer specializations in cybersecurity: New England College and Harrisburg University. New England College focuses more on the technical aspects of cybersecurity, while Harrisburg University emphasizes the management and organizational operations related to cybersecurity, preparing students for leadership roles in the field.
Conclusion
Above are the best 6 Day 1 CPT programs for technology professionals. These programs offer a diverse range of specializations and strengths, from technical expertise to leadership in organizational operations, suitable for those with a STEM degree and experience in tech companies.
When selecting a Day 1 CPT school, it is important to consider multiple factors such as location, tuition, and on-site requirements.
If you have further questions about school and program selection, don’t hesitate to book a free consultation for expert advice. We are dedicated to finding the most suitable Day 1 CPT school for you and helping you continue your U.S. journey.
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