A degree in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) opens up numerous opportunities for a career in the hard sciences and offers avenues for professional advancement. STEM occupations are projected to experience an 8 percent growth by 2029, surpassing the average growth rate of all occupations at 3.7 percent, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics [1]. By pursuing a STEM degree, you can enter the job market equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary for a wide range of in-demand and well-paying careers. In fact, the National Association of Colleges and Employers identified STEM fields as the top-paid majors among the class of 2020 graduates [2].
Let’s explore the various opportunities that await individuals with STEM degrees and delve into the potential career prospects.
Types of STEM Degree
Science Degrees:
Science encompasses the study of the physical, natural, and material world. Many science-related occupations require at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. The following are some common science bachelor’s degrees awarded during the 2018-2019 academic year [3]:
- Nursing: 143,232 degrees awarded
- Biology: 75,016 degrees awarded
- Kinesiology and exercise science: 25,514 degrees awarded
- Chemistry: 13,723 degrees awarded
- Health sciences: 13,147 degrees awarded
Here are a few rapidly growing jobs that generally require a science degree, along with their projected growth by 2030, based on the US Bureau of Labor Statistics [4]:
- Environmental science and protection technician: 11 percent growth
- Clinical laboratory technologist or technician: 11 percent growth
- Exercise physiologist: 13 percent growth
- Forest science technician: 16 percent growth
- Veterinarian: 17 percent growth
- Medical scientist: 17 percent growth
- Genetic counselor: 26 percent growth
- Epidemiologist: 30 percent growth
- Physician assistant: 31 percent growth
- Nurse practitioner: 45 percent growth
Read this also: Master’s in Healthcare Administration Online: Career Outlook, Online Learning, and Admission Requirements
Technology Degrees:
Technology encompasses the application of science and mathematics to human activities, resulting in a field that requires skilled professionals. While not all technology jobs necessitate a degree, many employers actively seek candidates through college recruiting programs, with some even offering tuition reimbursement and opportunities for continuing education. As our reliance on technology continues to grow, so do job opportunities.
Here are some common technology bachelor’s degrees awarded during the 2018-2019 academic year [3]:
- Computer science: 30,140 degrees awarded
- Information technology: 11,034 degrees awarded
- Information science: 8,823 degrees awarded
- Computer and information systems security: 4,819 degrees awarded
An advantage of pursuing a career in technology is the potential for remote work. If you are seeking a profession that allows you to work from home, a STEM degree in technology can open up new opportunities. The following are rapidly growing jobs that generally require a technology degree, along with their projected growth by 2030, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics [4]:
- Web developer or digital designer: 13 percent growth
- Special effects artist or animator: 16 percent growth
- Software developer, quality assurance analyst, or tester: 22 percent growth
- Computer and information research scientist: 22 percent growth
- Information security analyst: 33 percent growth
Engineering Degrees:
Engineering involves the design, construction, and operation of machines, engines, and other structures. To be competitive in the field, an engineering degree is generally required. The following are common engineering bachelor’s degrees awarded during the 2018-2019 academic year [3]:
- Mechanical engineering: 36,817 degrees awarded
- Electrical and electronics engineering: 17,398 degrees awarded
- Civil engineering: 14,518 degrees awarded
- Chemical engineering: 11,107 degrees awarded
- Computer engineering: 8,882 degrees awarded
The following are rapidly growing engineering jobs that generally require an engineering degree, along with their projected growth by 2030, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics [4]:
- Petroleum engineer: 8 percent growth
- Materials engineer: 8 percent growth
- Civil engineer: 8 percent growth
- Aerospace engineer: 8 percent growth
- Aerospace engineering and operations technologist or technician: 9 percent growth
- Environmental engineering technologist or technician: 8 percent growth
- Chemical engineer: 9 percent growth
- Technical writer: 12 percent growth
- Industrial engineer: 14 percent growth
Mathematics Degrees:
Mathematics, the science of numbers, quantity, and space, offers rewarding career opportunities in academia and various industries such as technology and finance. A math-related STEM degree can pave the way for a diverse range of careers. The following are common math-related bachelor’s degrees awarded during the 2018-2019 academic year [3]:
- Mathematics: 18,116 degrees awarded
- Econometrics and quantitative economics: 7,789 degrees awarded
- Statistics: 2,938 degrees awarded
- Applied mathematics: 2,632 degrees awarded
Here are rapidly growing jobs that generally require a math-related degree, along with their projected growth by 2030, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics [4]:
- Economist: 13 percent growth
- Actuary: 24 percent growth
- Postsecondary teacher: 24 percent growth
- Operations research analyst: 25 percent growth
- Data scientist: 31 percent growth
- Mathematician or statistician: 33 percent growth
Conclusion,
Pursuing a STEM degree opens up numerous opportunities in the hard sciences. Whether you choose a science, technology, engineering, or mathematics degree, you will be equipped with the skills needed to thrive in various in-demand and well-compensated careers. The projected growth in STEM occupations further solidifies the potential for a successful and fulfilling career in these fields.
[1] US Bureau of Labor Statistics: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/
[2] National Association of Colleges and Employers: https://www.naceweb.org/
[3] Data source for common bachelor’s degrees awarded: Not specified
[4] US Bureau of Labor Statistics: https://www.bls.gov/
Read More Blogs Here:
- What is MSW Degree – Unlocking the Potential: Exploring the Meaning and Benefits
- Demystifying Associate Degrees: Understanding the Duration and Benefits
- Masters Degree in Organizational Leadership: Unlocking Your Leadership Potential
- Psychology Degree: Exploring the Human Mind and Career Opportunities
- Computer Science Degree Online – Accreditation, Cost, Time Frame, and more
- Accounting Degree Online – Accreditation, Cost, Time Frame, and more
- Human Resource Degree Online – Know all about How to, Where to and more
- Easiest Online College for Military: A Guide for Service Members
- How to Get a Business Degree Online
- How Fast Can You Get a Bachelor’s Degree Online?
- How Fast Can You Get a Teaching Degree Online?