What Can You Do With a STEM Degree? 

As a child, did you dream of a career in which you could make lifesaving discoveries through research, help astronauts travel to outer space, build towering skyscrapers, or simply change the world? If so, a STEM college major—a degree program focused on science, technology, engineering, or mathematics—may be the right fit for you.

As a growing industry with high starting salaries, a college major in STEM offers exciting career opportunities in a wide range of fields. Here are a few options to explore in the world of STEM:  

• Computer science: In this major, you’ll study algorithms, programming languages, and computer architecture as well as learn how to design, build, and optimize software and hardware systems.
    
• Mathematics: Learn how to use mathematical models to solve real-world problems as a mathematics student. In this major, you’ll focus on advanced mathematical concepts such as calculus, algebra, and statistics. 

• Biology: As a biology major, you’ll explore living organisms and the natural world, from the smallest bacteria to the largest animals. With this college degree, you could begin a career in fields such as ecology, genetics, or microbiology.
    
• Chemistry: Study the properties, composition, and reactions of substances in a chemistry degree program. Depending on the college, you can specialize in areas such as organic chemistry, biochemistry, or physical chemistry.
    
• Physics: In a physics degree program, you’ll study the fundamental principles of matter and energy, from subatomic particles to the entire universe, with specializations in areas such as astrophysics, particle physics, and condensed matter physics.
    
• Engineering: Learn how to apply scientific and mathematical principles to design, build, and test new products and systems as an engineering major. You can also choose a specialty such as civil engineering, mechanical engineering, or electrical engineering.
    
• Environmental science: As an environmental science major, you’ll study the interactions between humans and the natural environment, with specializations in areas such as sustainability, climate change, or environmental policy.  

• Data science: In this major, you’ll learn how to collect, analyze, and interpret large sets of data. Depending on the school, you may choose to specialize in areas such as machine learning, data visualization, or data engineering.  

This list is just a glimpse into some of the exciting fields of study that can lead you to many different careers in STEM. Depending on the path you choose, you may want to consider further education and specialized training to expand your job opportunities, especially in fields like biology or chemistry. Talk with your school guidance counselor or a career counselor to learn more about STEM and which field may be the best fit for your skills and career goals.

For more resources and information on preparing for college, visit the K12 College Prep Center.