Should You Pursue a STEM Major?

Should You Pursue a STEM Major?
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by Staff Writers
Published on November 8, 2021

Choosing a career in STEM can be lucrative. In 2019, the median salary for STEM workers ages 25 and older was about $77,000, whereas the median salary for non-STEM occupations was about $47,000.

STEM is an acronym for a cluster of academic disciplines and fields: science, technology, engineering, and math. These kinds of careers consistently grow as technology advances and further integrates with our day-to-day lives. The executive director of the STEM Education Coalition calls STEM careers the "jobs of tomorrow."

There's a variety of subjects to specialize in and jobs to pursue within STEM. If you have an interest in data, technology, problem-solving, or innovation, you might want to consider a STEM major.

Use the following decision tree to help you decide. You can also download it as a PDF.

BestColleges STEM Decision Tree

Feature Image: Ridofranz / iStock / Getty Images Plus

STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and math. Learn why STEM is a great field to major in and pursue professionally. Biology is a challenging major, but well worth the investment of time and energy. Biology majors can choose from a variety of well-paying careers. Wondering whether you should triple major in college? Learn about the pros and cons faced by students who pursue a triple major.