What are the STEM Majors?
What does STEM stand for? STEM is short for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. But now, you might be wondering, “What are the STEM majors?” Well, you’re not alone! Many students are curious about the types of STEM degrees and majors available, and if STEM is right for them.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about STEM degrees, including:
- What does STEM stand for, and what are the STEM majors popular today?
- Common academic skills across STEM majors
- The benefits of STEM education, including the global relevance and mobility of STEM degrees
- A STEM major list of popular degree programs
- Popular majors that are not actually STEM majors
- Interdisciplinary STEM majors and STEM subjects
- The best STEM majors for the future
- Some of the best colleges for STEM and what makes them stand out
- Tips for choosing the best STEM degrees for your future in STEM
If you’re ready to learn more about STEM majors, read on! First, let’s start with the basics. What does STEM stand for, exactly?
What does STEM stand for?
So, what is STEM? STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Let’s break this down and discuss the significance of each of the STEM subjects.
S is for…
Science is the study of the natural world. Majors in science help inform advancements in medicine, energy, sustainability, and many other areas. If you’re wondering, “What are the STEM majors?”, start with these core areas.
T is for…
Next, technology is the application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes and includes subjects like computer science, software development, and data science. Technology enhances our daily lives in nearly every area — just look at all the technology around you.
E is for…
Engineering involves designing and building systems using science and math. With specialties ranging from mechanical to biomedical engineering, this field is dedicated to practical solutions. As you ask and answer what are the STEM majors in engineering, remember the field spans many specializations.
M is for…
Finally, math focuses on numbers, patterns, and logical reasoning. It underpins all other STEM areas by providing the tools for analyzing data and solving complex problems. While applied math is easy to see in other STEM fields, pure mathematics has also contributed significantly to our modern world.
Though each STEM area has its own focus, they’re all interconnected. The overlap between STEM subjects fosters innovation and leads to breakthroughs. It’s one reason why students asking, “What are the STEM majors?”, get answers that bridge multiple disciplines.
For decades, there’s been a growing push worldwide for stronger STEM programs and career preparation. If you’re still wondering, “What are the STEM majors, and are they worth it?”, rest assured they’re increasingly relevant and in demand.
What do STEM majors study?
More specifically, what are the STEM majors focused on in the classroom? STEM majors may focus on different disciplines, but they share a common academic core. Across the many STEM majors, most students learn topics rooted in problem-solving, critical thinking, research, data analysis, and innovation.
While the specifics vary by major, most STEM students engage in coursework designed to build technical expertise and analytical thinking. Specifically, common STEM coursework includes labs, coding, advanced math, and project design. It’s also not uncommon for students to undertake research and even do service projects during their studies, especially at prestigious institutions. Additionally, STEM programs often provide hands-on experience, offering opportunities to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings like internships and co-ops.
A key strength of STEM education today is the emphasis on application and solving practical challenges. STEM majors deepen your academic knowledge and allow you to make contributions to your community and the world. As such, it’s worth asking: what are the STEM majors that make the biggest impact locally and globally?
No matter your career path, you’ll find your field represented in a STEM major list. A STEM major list can help you determine which areas are more in line with your strengths and interests.
Benefits of STEM education
STEM programs open the door to a wide range of opportunities. From strong career prospects to global opportunities and versatile skill sets, the benefits of a STEM education are endless.
So, what are the STEM majors good for? Well, landing a job, for one thing. Indeed, one of the benefits of STEM education is its strong career outlook. In fact, STEM occupations are among the fastest growing and most in demand across the globe. For example, fields like data science, software engineering, and renewable energy are expanding rapidly and offer high starting salaries. Learning what are the STEM majors with the highest returns can help you plan strategically.
The best STEM degrees are recognized and respected around the world, making them a strong foundation for international work or study. Specifically, world-leading STEM programs, like at MIT, cultivate a powerful combination of skills including critical thinking, analytical reasoning, creativity, and collaboration. Understanding what are the STEM majors with international relevance can help you make a globally competitive choice.
These days, what are the STEM majors if not increasingly interdisciplinary? In fact, innovation often results from interactions between seemingly unrelated disciplines and areas. In light of this, many modern STEM programs promote collaboration and learning beyond one field of study. Often, STEM education today also fosters an entrepreneurial mindset. In fact, many successful startups are led by individuals with STEM backgrounds. Many universities support entrepreneurship through innovation labs and grant opportunities, encouraging students to turn their ideas into viable ventures.
Access to a broad STEM major list helps students compare potential careers. With so many options on the STEM major list, students can also explore unique combinations. To make informed choices, try to think long term. Specifically, what are the STEM majors that align with your long-term ambitions?
STEM Major List
While it’s easy to break down STEM into its four content areas, it can be daunting to approach STEM without knowing the majors. What are the STEM majors most common at today’s universities? Below is a comprehensive STEM major list of popular degrees:
This STEM major list highlights the diversity within STEM and explores some of the best STEM majors. When in doubt, return to the central question: what are the STEM majors that are the right choice for you? What are the STEM majors that offer both challenges and opportunities that you’re interested in?
For students still undecided, reviewing STEM major lists can be a helpful way to narrow choices. Additionally, counselors and advisors often encourage students to keep a STEM major list handy as they consider electives, internships, and summer programs that align with their goals. Indeed, general exploratory programs and even more specific ones, such as those for women in STEM, are great introductions to various fields. These experiences can help you answer the essential question: what are the STEM majors you want to explore further?
What are the STEM majors: Science
As stated above, science explores the natural world through observation and experimentation. Science majors often engage in lab work, field research, and data interpretation to better understand the world around us. Here’s a closer look at a well-rounded STEM major list and some of the best STEM majors in science.
Science Majors
Astronomy is the study of celestial bodies and the universe. Typical STEM track coursework in astronomy includes physics, calculus, and astrophysics. Potential career options include astronomer, astrophysicist, and space scientist.
Biology is the study of living organisms. Typical coursework includes cell biology, genetics, and anatomy. Potential career options include biologist, research technician, and healthcare professional.
Biochemistry focuses on the chemical processes that occur within living organisms. Typical coursework includes organic chemistry, molecular biology, and enzymology. Potential careers include biochemist, pharmaceutical researcher, and clinical lab scientist.
Chemistry is the study of matter and how substances interact, combine, and change. Typical coursework includes general and organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, and physical chemistry. Potential careers include chemist, chemical analyst, and forensic scientist.
The earth and planetary sciences field examines Earth’s structure, composition, and processes. Typical STEM track coursework in earth and planetary sciences includes geophysics, mineralogy, and planetary geology. Potential careers include geoscientist, planetary scientist, and environmental consultant.
Environmental science focuses on solving environmental challenges like climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss. Typical coursework includes ecology, environmental policy, and hydrology. Potential careers include environmental scientist, sustainability analyst, and conservation officer.
Geology is the study of Earth’s physical structure and the processes that shape it. Typical coursework includes petrology, stratigraphy, and paleontology. Potential careers include geologist, mining or petroleum consultant, and environmental engineer.
Genetics focuses on heredity, gene function, and the role of DNA in living organisms. Typical STEM track coursework in genetics includes molecular biology, genomics, and bioinformatics. Potential careers include geneticist, genetic counselor, and biomedical researcher.
Marine biology studies ocean life. Typical STEM track coursework in marine biology includes marine ecology, oceanography, and fisheries science. Potential careers include marine biologist, aquaculture technician, and marine conservationist.
Microbiology explores microorganisms and their roles in health, disease, and ecosystems. Typical coursework includes immunology, virology, and microbial genetics. Potential careers include microbiologist, infectious disease specialist, and lab technician.
Neuroscience studies the nervous system and brain. Typical coursework includes neurobiology, cognitive science, and psychology. Potential careers include neuroscientist, neuropsychologist, and clinical researcher.
Physics is the study of matter, energy, and the fundamental forces of nature. Typical coursework includes mechanics, electromagnetism, and quantum physics. Potential careers include physicist, engineer, and data analyst.
Zoology focuses on the biology, behavior, and evolution of animals. Typical coursework includes animal physiology, ecology, and evolutionary biology. Potential careers include zoologist, wildlife biologist, and conservationist.
Of course, this list is non-exhaustive — there are many disciplines within and around the ones listed above. These are just the most common STEM programs you’ll find during your college search. Next, let’s explore some fields within technology.
What are the STEM majors: Technology
The technology branch of STEM focuses on computers and digital tools. As digital infrastructure expands into every part of modern life, technology majors have become some of the most sought after fields of study. Below are some key technology STEM majors.
Technology Majors
Artificial intelligence centers on developing computer systems that can perform tasks typically requiring human intelligence. STEM courses in artificial intelligence include algorithms, neural networks, and natural language processing. Potential careers include AI engineer, machine learning researcher, and data scientist — and many more that we’re still discovering.
Computer science is the study of computational systems, programming languages, and algorithmic processes. Typical coursework includes programming, software development, and databases. Potential careers include software developer, systems analyst, and app developer.
Computer engineering focuses on designing computing systems. Typical STEM courses in computer engineering include digital logic, microprocessors, and embedded systems. Potential careers include hardware engineer, firmware developer, and systems architect.
Cybersecurity involves protecting systems, networks, and data from cyberattacks. Typical coursework includes network security, cryptography, and ethical hacking. Potential careers include information security analyst, penetration tester, and cybersecurity consultant.
Information systems programs focus on how to use computer systems and software to support organizational operations and decision-making. Typical STEM courses in information systems include business analytics, database management, and systems analysis. Potential careers include IT consultant, systems analyst, and business intelligence analyst.
Information technology focuses on implementing, managing, and supporting technology systems and networks within organizations. Typical coursework includes networking, cloud computing, and systems administration. Potential careers include IT specialist, network administrator, and help desk technician.
Robotics focuses on building robots and automation systems. Typical coursework includes mechatronics, control systems, and artificial intelligence. Potential careers include robotics engineer, automation specialist, and AI hardware developer.
Technology offers some of the best STEM majors for students who enjoy solving problems with digital tools, building systems that people use daily, and staying on the cutting edge of innovation. But perhaps you want to work more in the physical world. Well, that’s where engineering shines.
What are the STEM majors: Engineering
Engineering majors apply scientific and mathematical principles to design, build, and improve systems that solve real-world problems. Below is a breakdown of key STEM majors in engineering.
Engineering Majors
Aerospace engineering deals with the design, development, and testing of aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. Typical STEM courses in aerospace engineering include aerodynamics, propulsion, and flight mechanics. Potential careers include aerospace engineer, flight systems engineer, and defense contractor.
Bioengineering focuses on the development of technologies for healthcare, agriculture, and biotechnology. Typical coursework includes genetics, biomechanics, and biomaterials. Potential careers include bioengineer, agricultural engineer, and bioprocess engineer.
Biomedical engineering focuses on creating medical technologies like artificial organs, imaging devices, and prosthetics to improve human health. Typical STEM courses in biomedical engineering include anatomy and physiology, medical imaging, and biomechanics. Potential careers include biomedical device designer and clinical engineer.
Chemical engineering involves converting raw materials into usable products like fuels, pharmaceuticals, and plastics. Typical coursework includes thermodynamics, reaction engineering, and process design. Potential careers include process engineer, petrochemical engineer (related to oil drilling and similar industries), and pharmaceutical engineer.
Civil engineering is concerned with the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure. Typical STEM courses in civil engineering include structural analysis, geotechnical engineering, and transportation engineering. Potential careers include civil engineer, structural engineer, and transportation planner.
Environmental engineering is used to solve environmental problems, like pollution control, waste management, and sustainable design. Typical coursework includes hydrology, air quality, and wastewater treatment. Potential careers include environmental engineer, sustainability consultant, and water resources engineer.
Electrical engineering focuses on the development of electrical systems, including circuits, power generation, and electronics. Typical coursework includes circuit analysis, electromagnetic, and signal processing. Potential careers include electrical engineer, electronics designer, and power systems analyst.
Materials engineering studies the structure and properties of materials to create better products. Typical coursework includes thermodynamics, crystallography, and materials characterization. Potential careers include materials scientist, product development engineer, and nanotechnology researcher.
Mechanical engineering deals with the design and manufacturing of mechanical systems, from HVAC to robotics. Typical STEM courses in mechanical engineering include dynamics, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics. Potential careers include mechanical engineer, automotive designer, and manufacturing engineer.
Nuclear engineering involves working with nuclear energy and radiation. Typical coursework includes nuclear physics, reactor design, and radiation shielding. Potential careers include nuclear engineer and medical physicist.
Engineering majors and careers offer a dynamic blend of creativity and practical problem-solving. They’re the best STEM majors for students who enjoy hands-on innovation and want to design solutions that shape how we live. Finally, let’s look at majors in math.
What are the STEM majors: Mathematics
Math majors help solve complex problems, make data-driven decisions, and develop theoretical frameworks for understanding numbers and data. Below are some of the key math-centric STEM majors.
Mathematics Majors
Actuarial science uses mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to assess risk. Typical STEM track coursework in actuarial science includes probability, statistics, and financial mathematics. Potential careers include actuary, risk analyst, and financial planner.
Applied mathematics focuses on using mathematical techniques to solve real-world problems. Typical coursework includes differential equations, numerical analysis, and linear algebra. Potential careers include operations researcher, data analyst, and software developer.
Computational mathematics is concerned with creating algorithms and solving mathematical problems. Typical coursework includes discrete math, algorithms, and numerical methods. Potential careers include algorithm engineer, cryptographer, and computer modeler.
Data science involves extracting insights from large datasets. Typical STEM track coursework in data science includes data mining and statistics. Potential careers include data scientist, data analyst, and machine learning engineer.
A traditional math major includes coursework in abstract algebra and number theory. Potential careers include mathematician, educator, and researcher.
Statistics is the science of analyzing and interpreting data. Typical STEM track coursework in statistics includes statistical inference and regression analysis. Potential careers include statistician, biostatistician, and market researcher.
Math STEM majors are perhaps the best STEM majors for vigorous analytical thinkers. These degrees offer versatility across industries like tech, finance, government, healthcare, and academia. When building a comprehensive STEM major list, math-based degrees provide the critical problem-solving and analytical backbone.
You may have noticed that some popular majors are not listed above. Let’s take a closer look at a few majors and why they are not considered STEM majors.
Is economics a STEM major?
Those wondering “what are the STEM majors?” might also be curious if economics falls into the category of a STEM major. Economics describes the study of society and social systems, such as financial markets or families, using math and data. While historically economics hasn’t been considered a STEM major, that trend is changing, especially with the rise of more quantitative programs.
Whether or not economics is a STEM degree may depend on the program’s course list and the school’s classification. Some economics majors put emphasis on STEM courses, such as Northwestern, which includes economics on its STEM major list. Other schools, like Davidson College, classify their major as a STEM program, but not their minor. Some colleges also offer both a BA and a BS in Economics. For example, UT Austin’s BS in Economics requires 16 to 21 hours of typical STEM courses to reinforce a student’s quantitative skills.
Before majoring in economics, we recommend learning about different types of programs and what career paths they lead to. Next, let’s explore another field that is sometimes, but not often, considered a STEM major.
Is nursing a STEM major?
If you asked someone, “What are the STEM majors?”, they’d probably include biology or pre-med in their answer. So, if that’s the case, is nursing a STEM major? Well, traditionally, nursing doesn’t appear on STEM major lists; it’s usually classified as a healthcare major. Indeed, many federal organizations, such as the Department of Homeland Security and the National Science Foundation, don’t count nursing as a STEM track.
However, this decision is often debated, as nursing programs do require a lot of science and technology. For example, nursing majors must take many STEM courses about:
- Anatomy, biology, and physiology in clinical practice
- The use of medical technology and electronic health records (EHRs)
- The application of pharmacology and biochemistry in patient care
There’s plenty of support for traditional STEM fields that nurses need, especially with a worsening nurse shortage and declining nursing school applications. As such, there are organizations and advocates that are pushing for nursing’s inclusion on STEM major lists. Additionally, groups like the American Association of Critical Care Nurses and NursingIsStem.Org campaign for better resources and funding for nursing students.
Finally, what about accounting?
Is accounting a STEM major?
Many who wonder “What are the STEM majors?” are curious if accounting counts as a STEM major. After all, we included actuarial science above in our STEM majors list. What exactly is accounting? Accounting is the process of recording and processing business transactions. As it turns out, accounting is normally categorized as a business or finance major, not part of the STEM track. This classification, like with economics and nursing, can vary depending on the institution or program. For example, the University of Southern California’s accounting bachelor’s program is STEM, in part due to its focus on research and data analytics.
More commonly, master’s programs in accounting may have a heavy data analytics focus. The concentration of STEM courses in these programs leads to the major being counted as a STEM degree. Regardless of whether accounting is part of the STEM major list at a school, STEM skills are increasingly important in accounting. For example, knowing how to use computer programs for data analysis or knowing how to solve problems is a crucial skill for many accountants.
Now, let’s pivot to some less common STEM majors that span several disciplines. These majors offer unique experiences for students to explore multiple fields and pioneer new ways of addressing problems.
Interdisciplinary STEM majors
When searching “What are the STEM majors?,” you may come across majors that sound like two separate majors combined. Likely, these are interdisciplinary majors, which combine aspects of two different STEM majors into one with innovative ways of solving complex problems. Examples of interdisciplinary STEM majors include bioinformatics, environmental engineering, computational biology, or mechatronics.
Let’s look at some examples of interdisciplinary STEM major programs. MIT, for example, has the chemistry and biology major, and the computer science and molecular biology major. As a chemistry and biology interdisciplinary major, you would be a member of both the chemistry and biology departments. You may go on to work in industries like pharmaceuticals or biotechnology, both of which benefit from an interdisciplinary perspective. Meanwhile, Stanford offers interdisciplinary STEM tracks such as computation and mathematical engineering, and biomedical computation. A biomedical computation major may prepare students to design computer systems that help doctors analyze patient data.
Interdisciplinary STEM majors are valuable for students whose interests overlap two or more fields. They also offer cutting edge ways to solve complex, modern problems. Sometimes, interdisciplinary majors give graduates an edge over other job candidates, as they offer fresh perspectives on traditional approaches. However, whether the best STEM majors for you are interdisciplinary programs is ultimately dependent on your goals and needs.
If receiving a high salary is one of your goals, then the next section on the highest paying STEM majors may be of interest.
What are the highest paying STEM majors?
What are the STEM majors popular for more than their challenging academics and interesting careers? Well, as you probably know, STEM majors have a reputation for high salaries. While determining the best STEM majors for you will depend on many factors, one of them could be potential earning power. Indeed, one of the benefits of STEM education is that it often leads to above-average paying jobs.
The best STEM majors for salary include:
- Computer Engineering
- Computer Science
- Aerospace Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Biomedical Engineering
- Data Science
- Actuarial Science
While these are the best STEM degrees based on average pay, your actual salary will depend on a variety of factors. Namely, your role, industry, level of experience and education, and where you live will all influence your paycheck.
If you hope to enter a career field with a lot of room for growth, look for STEM majors in developing fields. In the next section, we will explore some of these in greater depth.
Best STEM majors for the future
As we mentioned above, the best STEM majors for you will depend on a variety of factors. One aspect of choosing a major is considering its future growth. What are the STEM majors with the best career prospects?
Some of the best STEM degrees for future growth include artificial intelligence, robotics, environmental science, data science, and biomedical engineering. These career fields are relevant to industries such as clean energy, healthcare innovation, and automation. These fields interface directly with the most urgent crises of our age, and as such, they’ll only grow going forward. These careers emphasize skills such as adaptability, interdisciplinary approach, and technological fluency.
Many of these majors will dominate STEM major lists at the top institutions for STEM, which we explore in the next section.
Best Colleges for STEM
For students and families asking, “What are the STEM majors?,” searching for the best colleges for STEM is a natural next step. Without a doubt, there are many excellent schools if you wish to pursue STEM subjects in college. Still, some colleges are undeniably known for being at the top of lists for best STEM programs.
Here are a few of them:
10 Top STEM Colleges
1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Perhaps the most globally well-known institution for those wondering, “What are the STEM majors?” is MIT in Cambridge, Massachusetts. MIT is renowned for its approach to using engineering and science to accelerate innovation. Among many other impressive statistics, nearly 95% of its undergraduates engage in research through the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program.
2. Stanford University
Across the country in California is another top school for STEM courses, Stanford University. Stanford’s proximity to Silicon Valley, the heart of technological innovation in the United States, is no coincidence. Indeed, Stanford’s faculty, staff, and students were a large part of the boom of Silicon Valley. Even now, they continue to contribute to and benefit from the opportunities of this region where STEM reigns supreme.
3. California Institute of Technology
Students looking for a more intimate educational experience with an impressive depth of research experiences might consider CalTech. The incredibly small student body, under 1,000 students, allows for a 1:1 student to PhD researcher ratio. In other words, every student has access to hands-on, quality research experiences.
4. Georgia Institute of Technology
Our next school is on the other end of the spectrum when it comes to size. Georgia Tech is a massive public institution focused on STEM tracks with nearly 20,000 undergraduates. Consistently, Georgia Tech is ranked amongst the top public schools for STEM courses such as computer science and engineering. Students also benefit from a range of co-op and internship opportunities that get them hands-on experience.
5. University of California, Berkeley
While UC Berkeley is well-regarded in many academic fields, its engineering school is one of the top three in the nation. Known for its interdisciplinary, hands-on approach, Berkeley also attracts some of the nation’s best faculty. In fact, 70 Berkeley professors are part of the National Academy of Engineering, one of the highest distinctions an engineer can receive. Furthermore, Berkeley’s Bay Area location also lends itself to opportunities for students to mingle with the brightest minds in Silicon Valley.
6. Carnegie Mellon University
As we have shared thus far in our discussion of “What are the STEM majors?,” business is often not part of STEM major lists. However, at Carnegie Mellon, business majors study ample STEM subjects. In fact, the Tepper School of Business takes an analytical approach to business. Carnegie Mellon is also well known for its computer science STEM courses.
7. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Another top-ranked engineering STEM program, Urbana-Champaign has also been a leader in education reform related to STEM. The school has initiatives to increase diversity and support for STEM students, bringing the benefits of a STEM education to everyone.
8. University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
At UMichigan, the STEM major list is long, as well as the list of STEM-related clubs. After all, what are the STEM majors good for if you can’t mingle with your colleagues outside of class? Students also experience the applied benefits of STEM education via hands-on research at the U-M Biological Station and Camp Davis.
9. Purdue University
Another Midwest institution known for its strong STEM education is Purdue, located in West Lafayette, Indiana. Purdue’s engineering programs are among the best STEM majors in the nation. At the Lilly Research Facility, students gain hands-on research experience, especially geared towards supporting women in STEM.
10. Harvey Mudd College
When students research, “What are the STEM majors?,” they may not plan to come across a school like Harvey Mudd, which emphasizes the liberal arts alongside its impressive STEM major list. Notably, Harvey Mudd requires every senior to complete a research project, and many do so earlier. In fact, the Clinic Program engages juniors and seniors in collaborative research projects where 4-5 students tackle a topic that can positively impact society.
As we can see, this list represents a range of institutions. They range from large to small, public to private, and even STEM track-focused to broader liberal arts programs with STEM strengths. When choosing schools to apply to for a STEM track, you will want to start by considering: “What are the STEM majors that interest me?” Then, you can begin to narrow down the schools that offer the STEM major list which most meets your needs. Up next, we will look at tips for choosing a STEM major.
Tips for choosing a STEM major
While there are many benefits of STEM education, choosing the right STEM subjects to study is important. As we explored in our earlier discussion of “What does STEM stand for?”, STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. However, more broadly, STEM also speaks to a set of skills and ways of approaching problems. Along with being good at mathematics, STEM students are curious problem-solvers with a collaborative, inquisitive approach to learning.
What are the STEM majors that are right for you? Here are some tips to help you research and plan:
4 Tips to Choose a STEM Major
1. Assess your strengths.
Look at your previous academic coursework. Where have you thrived the most? Rather than focusing just on your grades, look deeper — where did you grow intellectually? Where did you show the greatest enthusiasm? What made these experiences interesting to you? Did you like building, researching, problem solving, coding? Knowing yourself better will help narrow down your potential STEM major list.
2. Explore your interests.
What are the STEM majors you’re interested in? There are many STEM majors out there, and it’s important to try fields that interest you in different ways. As such, consider shadowing people who work in different STEM fields, seek out a STEM summer program, or join a STEM-focused club. Only through exposure will you know if a field truly interests you and whether you want to pursue it. As you do so, you may also find communities of learners interested in the same STEM topics as you.
3. Seek out resources.
As the STEM major list grows internationally, so do the number of resources available to prospective STEM students. For example, there are free videos explaining different fields, online courses to study on your own time, and college programs for ambitious high schoolers. Take advantage of all that is available to you so that you’ll understand what STEM stands for and asking the question “What are the STEM majors?” will no longer be necessary.
4. Play.
A big part of being successful as a STEM major is to have a creative, problem-solving attitude. One way to do this is to seek out fun ways to solve problems in your daily life. Frustrated with your toothbrush holder? See if you can design a new one from materials at home. Don’t like your school’s online calendar? Develop the code for a new one. After all, what are the STEM majors if not play applied to solve problems and create solutions? Approaching learning as play makes it more enjoyable and helps you build skills important in STEM.
Even if these experiences teach you that STEM is not the right path for you, they still have something to teach you. Exploring will undoubtedly expand your horizons and open you up to new ways of thinking.
What Are the STEM Majors, And Which One Is Right for You? – Final Thoughts
In this article, we covered several topics related to the question: “What are the STEM majors?” Besides exploring the basic questions about what STEM stands for, we also explored STEM majors lists and the benefits of STEM education.
Beyond simply googling “What are the STEM majors?” or perusing STEM major lists for the right major for yourself, we recommend getting firsthand experience in the field. In doing so, you will learn what are the STEM majors that best meet your interests. Certainly, career prospects are an important factor to continue, which is why we explored the fastest growing careers for STEM majors. At the same time, we also recommend focusing on the courses, topics, and experiences that will most intrigue you. Tackling a STEM track can be challenging, which is why selecting a major that interests you is important.
What are the STEM majors you’re interested in? Maybe by now, you’ve locked in your answer and are ready to get started on your college applications. Or maybe you still need some guidance in finding the right major for you. If you think you’d like some expert advice this admissions season, reach out to CollegeAdvisor today for a free consultation. Our Admissions Experts have helped hundreds of students craft outstanding applications and essays, and ultimately get into their dream schools!
This article was written by Bailey Bennett and Courtney Ng. Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.
