What is STEM? That’s easy. Science. Technology. Engineering. Math. Of course, you probably already knew that.
And what you really want to know is:
How is STEM different from science?
Why are STEM fields so important these days?
Should you choose a STEM major in college?
How do you know if STEM is right for you?
What can you do with a STEM degree?
Great questions! We answer all of them in this blog post. Read through to the end, and you’ll know how to make informed decisions about whether or not to pursue a STEM major in college.
Let’s start by covering the basics.
What is STEM?
STEM doesn’t simply stand for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics—STEM education integrates those fields to equip learners with essential skills for a technology-driven future.
STEM became a buzzword in professional and academic communities across the US in the early 2000s, when policymakers and educators began to recognize the need for a cohesive educational framework that prepared students for the future of work.
This shift in focus towards interdisciplinary learning and practical skill development marked a pivotal moment in education reform efforts.
But you’re right to wonder: what makes STEM different from the general study of subjects like engineering, physics, computer science, or mathematics? Let’s talk it through.
The philosophy of STEM education
The philosophy of STEM education promotes interdisciplinary skills through hands-on, inquiry-based methods, emphasizing real-world problem-solving and collaboration.
For example, unlike a standard physics or computer science curriculum, STEM programs integrate multiple disciplines into project-based learning experiences.
So, while you might still focus on mastering programming languages or understanding fundamental laws of motion, the collaborative projects truly set a STEM education apart.
These collaborative projects require students to apply their knowledge in practical contexts, working alongside peers with diverse expertise to solve complex, practical problems.
Why the focus on collaboration, problem-solving, and hands-on learning?
This approach deepens students’ understanding within individual disciplines while simultaneously cultivating essential professional skills such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability.
Why STEM is important
Did you know President Biden’s 2024 budget included a $1.4 billion investment to the National Science Foundation (NSF) to accelerate STEM education and workforce development?
Countries like China and India are also known for making significant investments in STEM programs. But why?
What makes STEM so important that governments across the globe continue to invest heavily in these programs?
By promoting and investing in STEM education, these governments hope to ensure their citizens and their nations remain competitive in the global economy and at the forefront of innovation and technological advancement.
Does that mean STEM is more important than other fields? Not necessarily. However, it does acknowledge that STEM disciplines are vital drivers of progress and economic growth, and will be so for the foreseeable future.
STEM subjects vs STEM programs
People can use “STEM” in fairly different ways: STEM subjects are taught as standalone courses within traditional educational settings. For example, students may take separate biology, computer science, calculus, and physics classes, each focusing on a specific STEM discipline.
On the other hand, STEM programs are interdisciplinary, bringing together concepts and skills from multiple STEM subjects to address real-world problems and promote innovation.
For instance, a STEM program might involve students designing and building a prototype for a renewable energy system. In this project, students might draw upon knowledge from physics to understand energy principles, apply engineering principles to design the system, employ technology to collect and analyze data, and use mathematics to calculate efficiency and performance metrics.
What are STEM fields?
What is considered a STEM major? Some answers are likely obvious, but you may have questions concerning potential edge cases: Is business a STEM major? What about fields like nursing, psychology, or architecture? The answers to these questions very depending on who you ask.
Why is there debate over what counts as a STEM field? Because the classification varies depending on perspective and criteria. It’s a reflection of the evolving nature of technology and knowledge.
According to The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) STEM Designated Degree Program List, a STEM program involves the study of:
“Engineering, biological sciences, mathematics, and physical sciences, or a related field. In general, related fields will include fields involving research, innovation, or development of new technologies using engineering, mathematics, computer science, or natural sciences (including physical, biological, and agricultural sciences).”
The DHS’s list is extensive, including fields commonly offered as college majors, such as Architecture, Business Management, Cognitive Psychology, Computer Science, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Science, Human Biology, and Statistics.
Nursing is not on the DHS’s STEM degree program list. However, it is on other lists.
For example, the Higher Education Research Institute at UCLA includes nursing, medicine, dentistry, and several other health professional fields on its list of STEM disciplines.
Reasons to possibly major in STEM
Are you considering a major in STEM? Great! But also a heads up: doing so will offer some challenges.
Majoring in a STEM discipline often requires a commitment to completing rigorous coursework, dedication to mastering complex concepts, and persevering through challenges and setbacks.
If you’re up for the challenge, here are several compelling reasons to pursue this path.
Because you like it
This is one of the best reasons, if not the best.
Do you enjoy diving deeply into scientific concepts, conducting experiments, or coding algorithms? Do you find satisfaction in understanding how things work? If so, pursuing a major in a STEM field can be fulfilling and worth the effort.
(And if you don’t actually like these things, maybe spend some time reading about how to think through your major.)
You’re skilled in math and scientific reasoning
Do you find joy in solving complex equations, analyzing data sets, or discovering the mysteries of the universe through scientific inquiry? If so, you probably excel in math and have a knack for logical reasoning. In that case, a STEM major could be a natural fit for you.
You enjoy exploring new technologies
Do you enjoy staying up-to-date with emerging technologies, experimenting with programming languages, or tinkering with robotics projects? If so, pursuing a STEM major could provide you with opportunities to dive deeper into these interests and work toward making contributions to technology.
Career opportunities
Are you focused on securing a well-paying and fulfilling job after graduating from college? A STEM degree can equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to be competitive for a wide range of lucrative and in-demand career opportunities.
What can I do with a STEM degree?
With a STEM degree, you have a wealth of career options due to the high demand for STEM professionals across various industries.
For example, in fields like computer science and data analysis, there's a significant shortage of skilled workers to fill roles in areas such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and big data analytics.
Recent projections expect the STEM talent shortage to reach 1.4 million people by 2030.
This imbalance between supply and demand creates favorable conditions for STEM graduates, offering competitive salaries, job security, and opportunities for professional advancement.
Popular STEM careers
Here are ten examples of popular STEM careers, including key responsibilities, median salaries, and job growth projections, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’s Occupational Outlook Handbook.
1. Software Developer
Software developers design, code, and test software applications for various platforms and purposes, ensuring functionality and user satisfaction.
Median Annual Salary: $124,200
2022-32 Job Growth Projection: 25% (Much faster than average)
2. Biomedical Engineer
Biomedical engineers conduct research, analyze data, and collaborate with healthcare professionals to design innovative medical technologies.
Median Annual Salary: $99,550
2022-32 Job Growth Projection: 5% (Faster than average)
3. Environmental Scientist
Environmental scientists research the natural environment and human impact on ecosystems, collect and analyze data, and develop strategies to protect and preserve the environment.
Median Annual Salary: $76,480
2022-32 Job Growth Projection: 6% (Faster than average)
4. Data Scientist
Data scientists develop algorithms, build predictive models, and analyze large datasets to extract valuable insights and inform decision-making processes for data-driven companies.
Median Annual Salary: $103,500
2022-32 Job Growth Projection: 35% (Much faster than average)
5. Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical engineers design, develop, and test mechanical systems and devices. They collaborate with teams to create innovative solutions, analyze performance, and ensure compliance with regulations.
Median Annual Salary: $96,310
2022-32 Job Growth Projection: 10% (Much faster than average)
6. Information Security Analyst
Information security analysts protect organizations from cyber threats by identifying vulnerabilities, monitoring systems, implementing security measures, investigating security breaches, developing incident response plans, and staying updated on emerging threats.
Median Annual Salary: $112,000
2022-32 Job Growth Projection: 32% (Much faster than average)
7. Civil Engineer
Civil engineers analyze data, ensure compliance with regulations, and manage project budgets and timelines while planning, designing, and overseeing construction projects such as roads, bridges, and buildings.
Median Annual Salary: $89,940
2022-32 Job Growth Projection: 5% (Faster than average)
8. Aerospace Engineer
Aerospace engineers design and develop aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems to innovate aerospace technologies for scientific exploration, defense, and communication purposes.
Median Annual Salary: $126,880
2022-32 Job Growth Projection: 6% (Faster than average)
9. Electrical Engineer
Electrical engineers design, develop, and test electrical systems and equipment for a wide range of applications, including renewable energy technologies, smart grids, electric vehicles, and consumer electronics.
Median Annual Salary: $104,610
2022-32 Job Growth Projection: 5% (Faster than average)
10. Environmental Engineer
Environmental engineers design, develop, and implement sustainable energy systems like solar, wind, and hydroelectric power. They conduct feasibility studies, design energy infrastructure, and optimize renewable energy technologies.
Median Annual Salary: $96,530
2022-32 Job Growth Projection: 6% (Faster than average)
Final thoughts
Pursuing a degree in STEM can be challenging. It can also open up opportunities to make meaningful contributions to society and secure well-paying jobs in high-demand industries. But it’s not for everyone.
If you need advice on exploring other major options, check out this guide on how to choose a college major
Special thanks to Ameer Drane for writing this blog post.
Ameer is a freelance writer who specializes in writing about college admissions and career development. Prior to freelancing, Ameer worked for three years as a college admissions consultant at a Hong Kong-based education center, helping local high school students prepare and apply for top colleges and universities in the US. He has a B.A. in Latin American Studies from the University of Chicago and an M.A. in Spanish Linguistics from UCLA. When he’s not working, Ameer loves traveling, weight lifting, writing, reading, and learning foreign languages. He currently lives in Bangkok, Thailand.
Top values: Growth / Diversity / Empathy
