What Is a STEM Degree? And What Can You Do with One?

A STEM degree is a degree in the fields of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM). The Canadian Occupational Project System (COPS) projects a moderate or strong demand for jobs in the STEM fields between 2024 and 2033 as the field faces a labour shortage [1].

In fact, the demand for engineers and other professionals is so great that the government implemented a new immigration pathway to streamline the process for individuals with a STEM background to enter and work in the country. It also offers various incentives to individuals interested in preparing for a STEM career.

By earning a degree in one of these disciplines, you could enter a workforce prepared for a variety of in-demand and high-paying careers. Explore various types of STEM degrees and their associated job prospects.

4 types of STEM degrees

The four types of STEM degrees correspond to the four disciplines within the category: science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Within these broad categories, you find various programmes you can pursue to specialise your learning.

Science degrees

Science is the study of the material, physical, and natural world. Many jobs in the sciences require at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Some of the common science bachelor’s degrees in Canada include:

The following are some of the jobs that generally require a degree in science:

• Environmental technician

• Clinical laboratory technologist

• Exercise physiologist

• Agricultural sciences technician

• Veterinarian

• Research scientist

• Genetic counsellor

• Environmental epidemiologist

• Physician assistant

• Nurse practitioner

Technology degrees 

When you apply science and math to human activity, you get technology, a field with high demand for skilled workers. While not all tech jobs require a degree, many employers seek candidates through college recruiting programmes, and some offer tuition reimbursement and opportunity for continuing education. As people rely more and more on technology, job opportunities should continue to expand. 

Some of the common technology bachelor’s degrees include:

An advantage of technology careers is that some jobs offer the ability to work remotely. If you’re looking for a career that you can do from home, a STEM degree in technology could open up new opportunities. The following are some of the fastest-growing jobs that generally require a degree in technology:

• Web developer

• Machine learning engineer

• Software developer

• Physics research scientist

• Securities analyst

Engineering degrees

If technology is the result of applying science and math to human activity, engineering comprises the methods that get us there—the design, building, and operation of machines, engines, and other structures. Some of the common engineering bachelor’s degrees include:

Generally, you’ll need an engineering degree to be competitive in the field. The following are some in-demand jobs that generally require a degree in engineering:

• Civil engineer

• Electrical engineer

• Environmental engineer

• Mechanical engineer

• Software developer

Mathematics degrees

If you love mathematics, the science of numbers, quantity, and space, a STEM degree can set you on a path to a rewarding career. Mathematics offers career opportunities in academia and industry in fields ranging from technology to finance. Some of the common math-related bachelor’s degrees include:

Math skills translate across numerous jobs and industries. By earning a math-related degree, you could potentially build a career in any number of fields that interest you. The following are some of the top jobs that generally require a degree in math:

• Economist

• Actuary

• Mathemetics professor

• Data scientist

• Mathematician

• Statistician

Earn your STEM degree

A STEM degree prepares individuals for diverse and high-demand careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, offering opportunities for specialisation and advancement in various industries.

Jobs in STEM are projected to continue growing, along with the demand for skilled candidates to fill positions in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Explore how earning your STEM degree online from a top university could open up new opportunities in high-growth industries like data science, computer science, and cybersecurity.