Title: 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.