STEM stands for science, technology, engineering and mathematics. These disciplines involve various subjects, including computer science, civil engineering, biomedicine and more.
Universities worldwide are eager to recruit students in these areas, and there is a high demand for STEM graduates in the job market. It's no surprise that STEM is one of the top fields in higher education.
But which areas within STEM attract the most interest? Read on to discover the most popular STEM degrees.
Table of contents:
- Benefits of pursuing a STEM degree
- Healthcare
- Biological sciences
- Engineering
- Computer science
- Artificial intelligence
Benefits of pursuing a STEM degree
As STEM fields require highly specialised and skilled workers, salaries tend to be high, and unemployment rates are low. Plus, there are a range of different professions for STEM degree graduates such as:
- Software developer
- Statistician
- Dentist
- Paediatrician
- Civil engineer
- Biochemist
- Psychologist
- Physician assistant
STEM graduates are highly sought-after because their work is crucial for economic growth and development.
A report by the World Economic Forum predicts a global shortfall of over 85 million skilled workers by 2030, with the largest deficits in engineering and technology. This talent shortage could lead to a potential loss of USD 8.5 trillion in global GDP over the next decade.
On the other hand, companies that address the skills gap in STEM are reaping substantial returns. According to a study by Accenture, every US dollar invested in employee learning yields USD 3.53 in measurable value, translating to a 353% return on investment.
There are plenty of opportunities for STEM graduates. In fact, having a STEM degree could improve your chances of working in another country.
For example, in the United States, STEM graduates can stay in the country for two years after graduation as part of the Optional Practical Training programme.
Click the button below to register with Hotcourses Abroad for more information about post-study work visas and graduate careers.
An overview of the most popular STEM degrees
Let's take a look at some of the most talked about STEM degrees that address current demands and offer high-paying career opportunities:
Healthcare
There is a strong demand for healthcare professionals globally, offering a variety of career options for those with the right qualifications.
The abundance of job opportunities worldwide and the sense of fulfilment of working in the healthcare industry explain the consistent popularity of healthcare degrees among international students.
Medicine
Medicine degrees are among the most sought-after healthcare qualifications, providing a direct path to becoming a doctor, physician or consultant.
The global demand for qualified doctors ensures excellent career prospects and opportunities for medical graduates to make a profound impact on individuals and communities around the world.
Nursing
Nurses are in high demand worldwide, especially in Australia, Canada and the United States. In the UK, nursing degrees offer strong employment prospects. According to the National Health Service (NHS), 94% of nursing graduates secure employment within three months of completing their courses.
Nursing degrees offer a range of career options in various healthcare settings, from hospitals to community health services. Pursuing a nursing degree also allows you to develop transferable skills, such as communication and critical thinking.
Dentistry
Dentists in the UK earn high salaries. According to the National Careers Service, A junior dentist can earn around GBP 51,000 per year, while an experienced dentist can make around GBP 108,000 annually.
Apart from working for public healthcare systems like the NHS, dentists can work in private practices or as self-employed contractors who manage their own hours.
Biological sciences
Biological sciences degrees are a popular choice among students interested in exploring the complexities of life, from genetics to ecology.
Biological science programmes offer a comprehensive understanding of living organisms and their environments, equipping graduates with the skills to pursue careers in research, healthcare, biotechnology and conservation.
With a broad range of specialisations, biological sciences are your gateway to rewarding jobs in both the public and private sectors.
Biology
Are you interested in contributing to medical advances, finding cures to diseases and gaining a better understanding of the natural world? If so, a degree in biology can open the door to a wide range of popular careers in the health and science sectors. These careers include:
- Marine biologist
- Laboratory technician
- Pharmacologist
- Academic researcher
- Microbiologist
Environmental science
With the pressing issue of climate change, there's a growing demand for professionals with expertise in environmental science.
An environmental science degree provides highly desirable knowledge and skillsets as businesses and governments strive to become more environmentally conscious.
Engineering
The growing demand for engineering degrees is evident in the job market projections. The US Bureau of Labour and Statistics (BLS) predicts that employment in engineering will expand at a rate above the average for all occupations between 2023 and 2033.
The BLS also estimates that around 140,000 new engineering jobs will be created in the United States by 2026, underscoring the field's increasing importance.
The engineering sector is also a vital part of the UK's development and innovation. The Royal Academy of Engineering states that the engineering sector employs over 5 million people and contributes more than GBP 500 billion to the UK economy yearly.
This significant impact highlights why engineering degrees remain a top choice for students looking to enter a thriving, future-proof profession.
Civil engineering
Civil engineers design, build and maintain infrastructure such as dams, bridges, roads, tunnels and ports. Due to global urbanisation and population growth, there is a consistent need for new infrastructure projects worldwide.
A report by Global Market Insights suggests that the civil engineering market has a value of around USD 12.5 trillion and is expected to grow by 5.2 per cent between 2024 and 2032.
If you are seeking a secure career with plenty of room for progression, pursuing a civil engineering degree would be a wise decision.
Mechanical engineering
Mechanical engineering involves designing, constructing and testing mechanical and thermal devices such as electric generators, wind and gas turbines and air conditioning units.
As one of the largest industrial sectors in the global economy, a degree in mechanical engineering can help you pave the way to a promising career.
The BLS predicts that the industry will grow by seven per cent between now and 2030, creating around 20,200 job openings in the United States each year.
Similarly, the European mechanical engineering sector is projected to experience steady growth over the next ten years. Currently, the sector employs around three million people in the EU, and It is estimated to expand at an annual average rate of 3.8 per cent in the following decade.
Computer science
A degree in computer science will prepare you for many high-paying and in-demand careers. According to the BLS, the need for computer and information scientists in the US is expected to grow by 22 per cent by 2026, with the current median salary being USD 136,620 per year.
Studying computer science can also qualify you to become a web developer, data analyst or software engineer, all of which are highly paid roles.
Artificial intelligence
Artificial intelligence is a rapidly expanding field, with no signs of slowing down. In 2024, the global AI market surpassed USD 184 billion. It is projected to exceed USD 826 billion by 2030 (Statista, 2024).
As AI continues to revolutionise industries across the globe, degrees in artificial intelligence, mathematics or data analytics are becoming increasingly valuable, offering strong career prospects in this booming sector.
Now that you're familiar with the most popular STEM degrees, it's time to explore your options. Use our course search tool below to find the perfect study programme and take the next step on your academic journey.
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