Today, STEM industries — science, technology, engineering, and mathematics — are growing faster than ever.
This growth is leading to thousands of job openings and critical opportunities for career advancement. Thus, the need for skilled, driven STEM professionals who have cutting-edge knowledge is realized to fill this unique talent gap.
Let’s talk about each of the overarching themes within STEM and break down a few of the best STEM degrees for the future.
STEM — (Life) Science
Science is diverse and constantly evolving. Professionals working in scientific fields are responsible for incredibly impactful advancements in fields related to medicine, healthcare, technology, and more — making it one of the most transformative fields in which to pursue a career.
Here are just two of the best science-focused degrees you could pursue.
Neuroscience
Neuroscience is the academic study of the nervous system and its functions. Neuroscientists often specialize in a particular research area. For instance, this PhD candidate is studying proteins involved in neurodegenerative disease primarily focusing on tau, which is a major protein involved in Alzheimer’s disease.
Since the training and responsibilities of a neuroscientist are so specific and complex, the salary matches the dedication that goes into breaking into this field. The average salary for medical scientists is $95,310, with a job growth rate of 17 percent over the next decade.
To become a neuroscientist, you’ll need a doctorate degree in neuroscience. Getting this degree will give you the practical skills to research, identify, and provide solutions to challenges related to the nervous system.
Biology
Biology is a natural science that is focused on the scientific study of life. It is a broad field of study that allows for most professionals to specialize in a particular research area, such as human biology, plant biology, and more.
The job outlook for professionals working in biology is bright. While the job growth rate is about as fast as average (at 4 percent), the average salary for biologists is $85,290.
To become a biologist, you’ll need a master's degree in biology or a doctorate degree in biology. As you work to obtain your graduate biology degree, you can choose a specialty and explore what areas of the biological field most appeal to you.
STEM — Technology
Every single day, we encounter technology that not only makes our lives easier but that also saves lives. From robots that help in surgery to analysts who protect matters of security, fields rooted in technology are impactful and critically important.
Technology will continue to evolve, grow, and advance — here are a couple of impactful fields related to technology.
Robotics
Robots are not some distant concept perpetuated by science fiction — you can find robotics being used in healthcare, public safety, agriculture, the military, and more. For instance, robotics assist with surgical procedures, improve efficiency in manufacturing facilities, and even bring new levels of safety to high-risk industries like mining.
As technology evolves, so will the need for experienced robotics professionals. Those working in robotics can expect to earn about $100,600 a year, and the job market will grow at a rate of 6 percent by 2026.
To work in robotics, you must obtain a graduate degree related to robotics. By pursuing a graduate degree that is rooted in robotics technology, you will develop the sought-after skills needed to make a difference in your industry of choice.
Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity is one of the most popular fields today. It includes the protection of computer systems and networks from unlawful disclosure, theft, or damage. Some specialties within cybersecurity include network security, cloud security, and malware analysis.
The average salary for those who work in cybersecurity is $102,600, and the market is expected to grow an astounding 35 percent over the next decade.
To secure a career in cybersecurity, you’ll need to obtain a degree like business cybersecurity management. Understanding the ins and outs of cybersecurity, especially for businesses, requires careful study and experience. Finding a respected degree that will give you both is crucial to your success as a cybersecurity professional.
STEM — Engineering
Engineering is a multifaceted field that uses scientific principles to design and build machines or structures that we use every single day, such as vehicles, buildings, bridges, tunnels, and more.
There are so many branches of engineering, including chemical, civil, environmental, computer, aerospace, mechanical, electrical, and petroleum. Each branch is specifically focused on improving the world around us.
Here are a couple of the best engineering degrees you should consider today.
Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineer
Petroleum and natural gas engineers work to safely develop new sources of energy in the form of petroleum and natural gas. They also help to harness that energy and apply it in creative ways, taking the time to understand the impact of their findings.
The job outlook for petroleum careers is positive, with an average salary of $130,850 and an 8 percent job growth rate.
To land a career in this niche engineering field, you will need to obtain a petroleum and natural gas engineering degree, either a master's or doctoral degree. By doing so, you will develop the necessary skills to secure a career focused on the oil and gas industry.
Computer Hardware Engineer
Computer hardware engineers are responsible for researching, developing, and testing computer systems and other computer-related components. They also design computer devices that are then used in manufacturing products, such as cars, medical devices, and home appliances.
Professionals in this industry can expect an average salary of $128,170 a year, and the job growth rate is 5 percent, which is about as fast as the national average.
If you’re considering a career in computer hardware engineering, be sure to pursue a master's or doctoral degree that will give you a solid foundation in computer science so you can be prepared for any challenge that comes your way.
STEM — Mathematics
The scientific study of number, space, and quantity, mathematics is used everywhere and is all around us. Mathematics can be studied on its own (pure mathematics) or applied to other disciplines, such as engineering (applied mathematics).
A complex and rigorous field, there will always be a critical need for mathematics professionals who can solve problems based on numerical calculations and research.
Biostatistics
If you’re looking for a way to combine your love of data and science into one effective field, consider biostatistics. Biostatistics is a branch of statistics that deals with data related to living organisms. Specializations within biostatistics include epidemiology, genetics, pharmaceuticals, and other branches of public health.
Biostatistics professionals can expect to find work in diverse industries, such as biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, or information technology. Biostatistics professionals can also expect to make around $96,403 a year.
If you want to enter this field, look for a dynamic graduate biostatistics program that focuses on training students to design studies and interpret data arising from research in health and medicine.
West Virginia University — Offering Some of the Best STEM Degrees for the Future
At West Virginia University, we understand the importance of investing in your future. That’s why we offer a variety of dynamic and celebrated STEM graduate degrees, so you can choose the one that best fits your passions.
If you want to help the world become a better place through the use of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, then we encourage you to request more information. You can also subscribe to The Summit Ahead Podcast, a monthly podcast for tomorrow's graduate students.
And if you’re ready to advanced STEM degrees? Apply today.
As an aspiring leader in STEM education, we invite you to explore our resource — A Guide to Grad Programs and Careers in STEM!
