Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) sectors open the door to in-demand high-paying careers, including engineering, science, and research opportunities. STEM professionals can explore diverse fields.
There are dozens of STEM disciplines and professional fields in career demand with strong math and science skills. The following section covers some of the most common STEM fields and programs that can be taken at post-secondary institutes around the world. Most of these fields offer opportunities for greater career advancements.
Astronomy majors learn about the universe by studying physics and chemistry as they relate to celestial objects. Students often take courses in calculus, astrophysics, astronomical techniques, and mechanics. Some astronomy majors become college faculty members, while others work at federal laboratories. About 10% of astronomy majors work in private industry, such as in the aerospace sector.
Biology majors ask questions about how the living world works and evolves. They often study evolution, nanobiology, biophysics, and applied bioinformatics. Beyond jobs in academia and education, biologists are essential to the advancement of medical science, biotechnology, and the pharmaceuticals. Biology graduates can pursue careers as water quality specialists, geneticists, and doctors.
Chemistry students take a variety of classes in organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry. They also study physics, mathematics, and statistics. These students develop essential skills related to creative problem-solving, data analysis, and communication.
As most universities offer both bachelor's and master's degrees in chemistry, learners have many opportunities to pursue careers in academia and technical fields. Beyond academia, chemistry majors can find work as analytical chemists, pharmacologists, and toxicologists.
Technological progress in recent decades has increased the need for talented computer science majors. These learners may study topics like artificial intelligence, robotics, and video game programming. Core courses include computer organization and systems, principles of computer systems, and data structures and algorithms. Graduates can pursue careers as programmers, infosec professionals, and web developers.
Electrical engineering students take introductory courses in mathematics, calculus, and sustainable engineering. Advanced coursework covers electromagnetic waves and materials, integrated circuit engineering, and digital signal processing. With these skills, electrical engineering majors create electrical systems and devices that improve the human experience, shaping everything from iPads and GPS navigation hardware to hydro, wind, and solar power generation systems.
Core courses in geology cover physics, chemistry, and mathematics, as well as petrology, tectonics, and stratigraphy. In advanced courses, students learn more about the planet's surface environments, physical processes like earthquakes and plate movements, and paleontology. Graduates can find work in urban planning, mining and resource extraction, and primary education.
Information technology majors study advanced math, including discrete math and calculus, along with interactive design, web application development, and organizational communication. Graduates can find work as network and database administrators, application system designers, or multimedia specialists.
Mathematics is a bridge between the physical world, the internal world, and the abstract spaces in between. Mathematics majors study algebra, geometry, and topology, as well as applied mathematical fields like fluid dynamics. Graduates can pursue careers in research, teaching, investment banking, and strategic consulting.
Mechanical engineering students take basic science classes in chemistry and physics before launching into major courses like mechanical systems, thermal science, differential and integral calculus, and experimental physics. Mechanical engineers are interested in both functionality and aesthetics.
Physics students focus on the most basic elements of scientific inquiry, learning how to effectively solve complex problems in areas like classical mechanics, optics, electromagnetism, and quantum mechanics. Employing advanced mathematical reasoning and laboratory skills, physicists may solve problems related to issues like climate change, commercial space travel, and food safety.
