Students around the country are deciding what to study in college, and many are choosing STEM degrees at colleges like Northwestern Polytechnic University. So, what is driving this trend?
There are many reasons students are turning to STEM degrees. Here are some of the best.
1) Demand for STEM graduates is on the rise.
There are endless opportunities for students who have STEM degrees. According to National Geographic, 50 percent of all jobs will require science, technology, engineering, and math skills in the next decade. So far, 4.7 million men and women with technical college training are needed to keep up with job growth projections through 2025.
2) STEM students learn to think critically and solve problems.
STEM degrees teach students how to problem-solve, which is highly valued in today’s workforce. In fact, the median annual wage of all STEM occupations was $68,000 in May 2012, while non-STEM workers earned a median wage of $37,000 a year over the same period.
3) STEM degrees can lead to high-paying jobs.
Not only do STEM degrees offer job security, but they also come with high earning potential. Jobs in the science, technology, engineering, and math fields are some of the highest paying in the country. For example, petroleum engineers earn a median wage of $120,000 a year.
4) STEM degrees are interesting and challenging.
STEM degrees are always changing, which makes them interesting and challenging. Students who study STEM subjects can look forward to learning about new technologies and developments as they happen.
5) STEM degrees prepare students for the future.
The world is becoming more and more technological every day. As a result, those who have STEM degrees will be better prepared for the future than those who don’t. They will have the skills necessary to compete in a global economy and solve complex problems.
6) STEM degrees are fun.
Believe it or not, STEM degrees can be a lot of fun. Students who study science, technology, engineering, and math get to explore new worlds and ask questions that have never been asked before. They also get to use their creativity and imagination to solve problems.
7) STEM degrees enable students to enjoy their careers.
STEM degree holders enjoy an edge over those without college degrees regarding employment, salaries, and opportunities for advancement. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, STEM degree holders are employed at a much higher rate than non-STEM degree holders (85 percent versus 60 percent) and earn more than non-STEM degree holders each year (an average of $62,000 versus $37,000).
8) STEM degrees encourage students to think outside the box.
STEM students don’t just learn how to solve problems; they learn how to ask questions and find new ways to approach old problems. This helps them develop a creative mindset that is highly sought after by employers.
9) STEM degrees are important for the future of our country.
The United States is falling behind other countries when it comes to science and math education. In order to stay competitive in a global economy, we need more students pursuing STEM degrees.
So, what is the bottom line? Are STEM degrees the wave of the future?
The answer is a resounding yes. If you are thinking about going to college, you should strongly consider studying science, technology, engineering, or math. These degrees will open up a world of opportunities for you and help you secure a high-paying job in the future.