Bridging the Gap – A Systematic Review of Retention and Attrition in STEM Education Across the Academic Pipeline

Abstract

STEM attrition continues to undermine national innovation and educational equity, with substantial losses across educational stages. This systematic literature review (SLR) synthesises evidence from 2015 to 2025 to identify institutional, psychosocial, and demographic factors affecting STEM persistence. Drawing on Expectancy-Value Theory (EVT), Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT), and Self-Determination Theory (SDT), the review categorises findings into four themes: institutional and curricular interventions, psychosocial and motivational determinants, equity and intersectional moderators, and measurement and longitudinal analytics. A comprehensive search using Scopus yielded 67 high-quality, peer-reviewed articles. Methodologically, the review adhered to PRISMA 2020 guidelines, applied MMAT for appraisal, and used thematic synthesis to cluster studies. Results show that interventions such as course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs), culturally responsive mentoring, and predictive analytics significantly enhance retention. Psychosocial constructs like science identity, mathematical resilience, and reduced math anxiety are consistent predictors of persistence. Moreover, demographic factors such as gender, first-generation status, and LGBTQ+ identity moderate the effectiveness of interventions. Measurement tools and machine learning models contribute to early risk detection and equity monitoring. This review advances the literature by integrating disparate findings into a cohesive theoretical and empirical framework. It concludes that retention is shaped by a synergy of cognitive beliefs, supportive environments, and structural equity. Implications for policy and practice include the need for multi-level, identity-conscious interventions, improved measurement practices, and longitudinal tracking of student outcomes. Future research should adopt intersectional, culturally responsive, and methodologically rigorous approaches to build inclusive STEM ecosystems.