By Andi Croft

Photo source: https://unsplash.com/photos/IjYmtMogTlE 

So you have probably heard about STEM, which stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.

These fields pay special attention to critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation. As such, STEM makes a fast-growing industry.

For one, there is an increasing demand for scientific and technological innovations. More so in today's knowledge-based economies. That said, the need for a STEM-based education has also become higher.

This is why there is a growing number of educational institutions that offer STEM-related courses. And while it can be challenging to learn, there are engaging STEM curriculum and learning strategies you can do.

In this post, we have listed ten exciting STEM-related courses you can check out and what you should expect.

Statistics

This course better prepares students for a career as a statistician. Their job entails collecting, organizing, and analyzing information.

Biostatistics, data mining, and sampling surveys are probably some of the key terms and concepts learned in this course.

Getting a bachelor's degree in this field opens up plenty of career opportunities in various industries.

Mathematics

Almost all STEM fields include math at some point. Math fields usually involve arithmetic, geometry, and algebra. Applied math will then bring these methods and concepts to STEM's other areas.

Initially, students will study abstract algebra and nonlinear differential equations. As they progress, the subjects will go in-depth in a variety of areas in mathematics.

Meanwhile, Mathematicians are considered one of the top-earning professionals. Mathematicians who work in the research and development services industry are believed to earn an average salary of $122,240 per year.

Paleontology

Usually, in the four-year program, students will be trained to study the fossils of dinosaurs and ancient plant life. You can also participate in research projects while gaining hands-on experience. This includes studying fossilized bones, shells, and casts of animals.

It also leads to amazing career opportunities. One can become a teacher, work in a museum, or become a researcher.

Degree-holders can also become an anthropologist, curator, geologist, or a topographic surveyor.

Microbiology

If you're interested in microorganisms, then the perfect STEM course for you to major in is microbiology.

Here, you can learn more about infectious diseases. This includes conducting experiments that focus on the pathogenic potential of a microorganism.

You can pursue a career path in a wide variety of sectors. You can be a research associate, lab technician, lead scientist, or university professor.

Actuarial Science

This degree often teaches students to analyze risks. As such, they get to exercise a combination of mathematics and science.

Actuarial science majors are often hired in the insurance industry. However, you can also find them in scientific research and company management firms.

Biological Sciences

By getting a degree in biological sciences, one can pursue multiple career opportunities. You can teach, become a researcher, or do scientific fieldwork. This can be a strong foundation for those who want to enter the biotech, medical, and pharmaceutical industries.

Similarly, they can also specialize in the following fields:

-Biology

-Life sciences

-Bacteriology

-Immunobiology

And if you are tech-savvy, you can start a life sciences startup in the future. Who knows? You might receive investment from life science tech VCs.

An excellent example would be Biospring Partners, which is an equity firm co-founded by Michelle Dipp and Jennifer Lum.

Computer Science

This program allows students to learn the latest methods and practices in computer engineering. This includes having a deeper understanding of emerging technologies in software development.

It also offers a wide array of job opportunities in the tech sector. Some of which are:

Software developers

Game developers

Cybersecurity consultants

Database admins

Information Technology

As the world goes digital, there will be an increasing demand for people who can digitize and manage data. And you can be one of them by studying Information Technology.

Career paths in the IT industry include web and software development, computer system analysts, robotics, and network engineers.

Petroleum Engineering

This is a field of engineering that involves producing hydrocarbons, which can either become natural gas or crude oil.

The curriculum mainly focuses on tackling essential issues on energy security. As such, students can have the knowledge and skills on the exploration, extrication, and production of oil.

Mind you, working as a Petroleum Engineer can be a well-paying job.

Aerospace Engineering

As one of the fastest-growing industries today, aerospace engineering is a highly attractive STEM major. It gives students employment opportunities to work with organizations that design and build missiles, air crafts, space crafts, and other national defense technologies.

This is a great major for people who want to work as aircraft manufacturers for civil and military organizations. Aerospace engineering degree-holders can also work in aircraft research, development, and manufacturing. Other than that, their job also includes improving flight safety and fuel efficiency.

You might be the one who can invent a commercial plane that produces 50% less carbon emission!

Over to You

We cannot deny that there is no shortage of career opportunities for STEM majors.

For one, there is an increasing demand for STEM-related professionals. Second, such jobs pay well. It also gives you the headstart you need should you prefer to have a startup.

But with so many STEM-related courses to choose from, it can be cumbersome for you to pick which one to take. As such, we recommend assessing your skills and the things that you are passionate about.

That way, you take the first step to fulfilling your dreams. Whatever skills and knowledge you need to develop, you can definitely learn it at school.

Learn more about courses and lessons with RobotLAB!

Engage K12! online curriculum gives you access to hundreds of lesson plans, activities, and simulation tools to teach Coding, Programming, Math, ELA, and STEM for grades 4-12.