What is STEM?
You’ve probably heard how crucial STEM is. It’s also likely that you’ve heard individuals in STEM fields usually have prosperous financial lives. However, you may not be aware of the true definition of STEM.
Defining STEM
Finding a definition for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) is easy. For example, enrolling in a college biology course means you’re in a STEM course. But STEM is much more than a simple acronym.
STEM as an Educational Philosophy
Fundamentally, STEM combines all four disciplines into a single, cross-disciplinary program. It focuses on instructional strategies and real-world applications, not just academic theory.
The Importance of Integration
This integration is crucial. Even though math is a STEM subject, earning a degree in it alone doesn’t mean you’ve completed a STEM program. STEM education benefits come from combining all four disciplines with practical teaching methods.
Considering a Career in STEM?
Do you think a job in STEM would interest you? Accelerated Pathways can help! Our team can discuss your goals and create a personalized education plan to help you achieve them while saving money.
STEM is quite different. And, like, very difficult.
Don’t worry if you’re still confused about everything. STEM is a difficult concept to understand. It may be simpler to completely comprehend how STEM disciplines become STEM programs if you know what a college-level STEM program looks like for a student.
STEM focuses heavily on science and math.
The Importance of Science and Math in STEM
Remember, STEM focuses on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. While technology and engineering may seem fun (who wouldn’t want to create robots in class?), many students find science and math less enjoyable. However, mastering these subjects is crucial for success in STEM.
Science and Math: The Foundation of STEM
Science and mathematics are essential in STEM because technology and engineering rely on them. For example, an Architectural Engineering student designing a 10-story skyscraper must understand the math and science behind it. STEM fields heavily emphasize math and science, often both. Consequently, students who struggle with these subjects often drop out or switch to less demanding fields.
Overcoming Challenges in STEM
Struggling with STEM in the past doesn’t mean you can’t succeed now. It just means STEM might be more challenging for you. On the other hand, practical teaching methods in STEM programs might make these subjects easier to understand than before.
Beyond Math and Science
Don’t get too excited just yet, math and science whizzes. Mathematics and physics are just the beginning. STEM requires a broad set of skills and knowledge across all four disciplines.
STEM is a new method of learning.
STEM: A New Approach to Learning
STEM, as a philosophy, aims to integrate all four disciplines (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) so students solve problems using cross-disciplinary knowledge. This means traditional learning techniques, like memorization and repetition, are mostly discarded.
Emphasis on Problem-Solving
You will rarely be given an explicit solution. Instead, you’ll need to use what you know to find the correct answer. This requires inventiveness, flexibility, technical understanding, and mastery of each subject.
Challenges for Analytical Thinkers
Analytical students who aren’t particularly creative often struggle with STEM. Successful students quickly learn to think independently and abandon the expectation of being told what to think.
Guided Learning
STEM professors don’t expect freshmen to understand advanced mathematics immediately. Students are guided in their studies to gradually master the four subjects. However, success in STEM depends on the ability to solve problems, not just memorization.
STEM classes limit students’ ability to chose classes for fun.
STEM programs are a ton of work.
Even gifted STEM students often feel overwhelmed by the heavy homework and study demands. These programs are known for their rigorous workloads due to the complexity of the subjects. More hours of study outside class are essential.
However, it is not just busy work. STEM students must stay focused, as mistakes can be costly. High-quality work is expected, regardless of the workload. This is crucial since their future tasks require precision.
For instance, a single coding error by a software developer can ruin a program and cost a company thousands. Similarly, a minor mistake in a rocket launch can cost lives. Therefore, flawless performance in high-stress conditions is necessary, making rigorous STEM education essential.
STEM requires pupils to approach education in an active and curious manner.
Despite the hard work, STEM can also be a lot of fun. Remember that these programs are built on real-world applications and study methodologies, so you won’t just be learning about robots in a classroom. You will really create robots in order to learn about them.
A noteworthy example is California Institute of Technology (one of the greatest STEM universities in the US), which teaches Biological Science through a combination of classroom instruction and student participation in research initiatives. Their students actively participate in the development of whatever cutting-edge technology or ground-breaking discoveries the institution is currently working on—doing real work in the discipline that they are learning.
In a STEM program, you will spend a significant amount of time learning by doing.
What can I do with my STEM education after graduation?
Technology appears to advance by leaps and bounds on a daily basis. However, everything from new software to new metal alloys for spaceships to the discovery of new sources of renewable energy or a solution for a previously incurable disease must be developed by someone. And, as technology advances, the already strong need for STEM workers increases.
A STEM curriculum is quite intense. To make it all the way through, you must be extremely dedicated, persistent, and willing to make sacrifices. However, this type of schooling develops abilities and mindsets that employers highly value. And, because there is such a great demand for STEM workers, firms in STEM professions are ready to provide some of the highest starting salaries available to fresh grads.
The most in-demand STEM jobs right now:
Computing: The Fastest Growing STEM Discipline
Computing is one of the most rapidly rising STEM disciplines. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, it accounts for approximately 71% of STEM occupations. Roles include software developers, statisticians, and computer systems analysts. Essentially, if they work with computers or programs, they are likely in computing.
This increased demand makes sense. Our lives now depend heavily on digital technology for communication, entertainment, automotive functions, medical practices, and significant economic activities. As technology advances, computing vocations will grow even more crucial.
Engineering and Physical Sciences: Second in Demand
Next are engineering and physical sciences. These fields include orthodontists, petroleum engineers, biochemists, nurse anesthetists, civil engineers, and cartographers. These jobs involve hands-on work with immediate, tangible results, unlike computing-focused roles.
Life Sciences and Mathematics: Theoretical Fields
Life sciences and mathematics are smaller fields but still significant, making up the third-largest share of STEM jobs. These sectors are more theoretical, with roles such as Clinical Research Associates and Economists. Although these jobs are in demand, they might be more challenging to secure.
Diverse STEM Opportunities
STEM careers are vast and varied. Whether you like working with computers, making robots, drawing blueprints for skyscrapers, or developing new medications, completing a STEM program in college opens up numerous career paths for you.
Should You pursue a STEM education?
Is STEM Right for You?
Why Pursue STEM?
Want a fantastic job right after college? A STEM degree is a great way to achieve that. It offers an unparalleled education, except for a few years of on-the-job training. However, not everyone is suited for a college-level STEM program.
Questions to Consider
Are you serious about your education?
STEM requires dedication and hard work. There’s no room for those wanting to enjoy their “last four years of freedom” before starting a real job.
Are you genuinely interested in STEM?
Success in STEM depends on staying engaged, curious, and actively interested. If you get bored and fall asleep in class, it’s unlikely you’ll perform well.
Are you ready for the challenge?
STEM is difficult, possibly the toughest challenge you’ll face. Even bright and motivated students struggle. Success comes to those who apply themselves daily and face challenges head-on.
Next Steps
Think STEM might be right for you? If so, you could be the perfect candidate for a STEM education.
Need help determining if a STEM degree fits your goals? Accelerated Pathways can help you create a personalized education plan to achieve your degree and save money.
