When you consider earning a degree, you want to look for an academic program that will prepare you well for your post-graduation goals. A degree isn’t just a piece of paper that you frame and hang on a wall. It’s evidence that you’ve put the work in to gain the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in the field of your choosing.

If you’re exploring potential areas of study, you might want to consider entering the STEM field. A STEM education can offer you opportunities in a variety of roles after graduation, and may provide you with skills that can translate in different workplace settings.

What Does STEM Mean?

Let’s start with a basic question: Exactly what does STEM mean? It’s a term many are familiar with, but don’t necessarily understand. STEM is a common abbreviation for four closely connected areas of study: science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The fields are often associated due to the similarities that they share both in theory and practice.

According to the National Science Foundation, STEM workers contribute to a nation’s living standards and economic growth. It’s no surprise that the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that occupations in the STEM field are expected to grow by 10.8% through 2032, compared with 2.3% for non-STEM occupations.*

What is Considered a STEM Degree?

A STEM degree is one that falls within the fields of science, technology, engineering or mathematics. Some examples include:

Your STEM education can provide versatile skills, like problem solving and critical thinking, that are beneficial both in and out of the workplace.

According to the World Economic Forum’s The Future of Jobs Report 2023, employers are looking for candidates who know how to think creatively and analytically and will be able to solve problems the company faces, no matter what field you pursue.

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