The nation also has to deal with crime, violence, and poverty. At the international level, we are concerned with limiting population growth, stabilizing emergent democracies, and fostering appropriate industries in developing countries, as well as with sustaining national security and global economic health. Society expects them to contribute to new debates on public policy, to improve our competitive position in global markets, to help to create high- value jobs, and to improve the education of citizens at many levels. It is the purpose of this report to examine how well graduate school prepares students to integrate and disseminate their knowledge and apply it to the full range of present societal needs. Throughout this report, the term graduate scientists and engineers refers to persons who have attained a master's or doctor of philosophy degree in science or engineering.
Science is taken to include the life sciences, physical sciences, social sciences, and mathematics.
Engineering is taken to include all specialties of engineering.