Best STEM Master's Degrees

Admissions requirements for STEM master's degree programs are usually similar within each school, although specialized programs may have other criteria that students must meet. Either way, all students should hold a bachelor's degree in a related subject to their intended master's degree program. Students can fill out the online application found on their prospective college or university's website and request that their official undergraduate transcripts be mailed from their previous colleges to the office of graduate admissions. Typically, students must pay a nominal fee to submit their application materials.

The following supplemental documents may also be requested during the application process:

• A personal statement/college essay
• Letter(s) of recommendation
• Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores

Master's-level STEM programs are usually highly selective and students should speak to an academic advisor to ensure they have fulfilled the prerequisite requirements for their program, including meeting the minimum required grade point average (GPA). An academic advisor is also available to assist students with additional admissions criteria, deadlines, and enrollment.

There are several advantages to obtaining an advanced master's degree in a STEM field. While STEM careers are widely available with opportunities continuously increasing amongst several sectors, most graduates have greater career prospects with a graduate and/or postgraduate education. In fact, students pursuing careers in the medical field with the intent to practice are usually required to pursue a master's degree as a stepping stone for a doctoral degree.

Graduates with master's STEM degrees are typically eligible for higher salaries, as well, and may have more opportunities to pursue career advancement. Additionally, STEM fields tend to emphasize diversity with numerous working and learning outlooks for women and those of diverse ethnicities. Individuals seeking fulfilling careers that grossly impact societies should consider a master's degree in a STEM field.

Many colleges and universities offer reputable STEM master's degree programs; however, students should consider several factors when choosing a program that best aligns with their academic and professional goals.

No matter which STEM field a student intends to study, it is important for applicants to review course offerings, concentrations, and other opportunities for practical training or internships. Many STEM graduate programs have several specializations that students may wish to concentrate on; for example, engineering majors may have the option to pursue mechanical engineering, civil or environmental engineering, or bioengineering. Likewise, technology students may be interested in studying computer science, information systems, or artificial intelligence.

Additionally, graduate students may wish to consider opportunities for distance learning. Several master's degree STEM programs provide online curriculums or hybrid learning environments of both online and in-person coursework. Distance learning generally offers students greater scheduling flexibility and the ability to enroll in a program outside of the student's location.

Most importantly, students should choose a program that is accredited by a regional or programmatic accrediting agency. The following section will discuss accreditation for STEM master's degree programs.

Students should enroll in an accredited master's STEM program or regionally accredited college or university to be eligible for financial aid, scholarships, and gainful employment. Schools that are accredited have met stringent criteria set by accrediting organizations that have determined exemplary curriculum and instruction in STEM fields, as well as the availability of academic and career resources.

For example, several engineering, computing, and natural sciences programs are accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). Approved by four commissions, the ABET aims to ensure that STEM programs meet and exceed today's professional standards.

If a specific STEM program has not received programmatic accreditation, students should attend a regionally-accredited school; for example, the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) provides accreditation to seven northwestern states, and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) accredits 11 southern states.

Students seeking additional information on their college or program's accreditations can visit their school's website. The U.S. Department of Education also maintains the Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs (DAPIP) that allows students to search for a particular school's accreditations.

Curriculums for STEM master's programs vary by school, however, all graduate students should hold a bachelor's degree in related STEM subject areas. Although specialist and elective courses are wide-ranging, students may need to complete a series of prerequisites or foundational coursework that may be common amongst different STEM programs.

Most students have the option to pursue a thesis or non-thesis track in pursuit of their STEM master's degree. A thesis track is usually a research-based curriculum that aims to prepare students for a doctoral program later on. A non-thesis track in a STEM subject may culminate in a terminal degree and students are usually required to complete a capstone project, portfolio, or professional paper that demonstrates key learning outcomes.

Science Master's Degree Coursework

Students have several options for pursuing a science master's degree, including more traditional disciplines (e.g., biology, chemistry, physics), as well as other programs of study like biochemistry, veterinary medicine, epidemiology, or geoscience. Although different programs may offer more diverse course offerings depending on the school and discipline, foundational courses may be similar across wide-ranging curriculums.

Students majoring in chemistry are oftentimes required to take Chemical Research or Research Methods in Chemistry courses, a thesis course, and a graduate-level seminar on a special chemistry topic. Additionally, many curriculums require that students complete core coursework in organic, analytical, physical, inorganic, or biological chemistry; or a combination of two or more chemistry specializations.

Other natural science programs, such as geoscience, may also incorporate biological, physical, and chemical studies as prerequisites for a master-level curriculum.

Technology Master's Degree Coursework

Technology master's degree curriculums are designed to provide STEM students with hands-on training and expertise in computer science and technology innovation. Most graduate-level computer science programs, whether taken in-person or online, share similar foundational courses, such as:

• Operating Systems
• Design and Analysis of Algorithms
• Computation
• Data Structure and Design

Additionally, students enrolled in master's technology degree programs may have the option to specialize or concentrate on a particular computer science subfield; e.g., software engineering or security/cyber operations. Other more specialized technology master's degree programs may integrate aspects of engineering majors, including artificial intelligence, web design and development, and systems architecting.

Engineering Master's Degree Coursework

With an emphasis on the design and utilization of machines and structures, engineering master's degrees are offered in a wide array of subfields, such as aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering, marine engineering, civil engineering, and several others.

Students who major in engineering are apt to take several complex courses that draw from mathematics, science, and technology in preparation for developing machines and devices that humans regularly interact with. For example, mechanical engineering master's coursework commonly includes Finite Element Methods, Computational Fluid Dynamics, and Mechanical Engineering Analysis.

Biomedical engineering master's degree programs also focus on technology and mathematics with the integration of science and physiology studies, as well. Examples of biomedical engineering coursework may include Computational Biomechanics, Molecular Engineering, and Cardiovascular Mechanics.

Mathematics Master's Degree Coursework

Master's degree programs in mathematics vary greatly with an emphasis on applied, theoretical, and educational mathematical studies. Students enrolled in these types of programs may find wide-ranging degree requisites that fall within the typical range of master-level credit requirements, although some programs require the completion of additional coursework. Furthermore, mathematics programs may not necessarily require that students take foundational courses, but may instead encourage students to specialize in a specific area of study based on their career aspirations.

Many master's mathematics degree programs offer the following course titles:

• Numerical Analysis
• Complex Variables
• Differential Equations
• Topology
• Scientific Computing
• Methods of Applied Mathematics

Licensure & Certification in STEM Fields

Depending on the STEM field, licensure and certification may be mandatory or voluntary. Engineers across various engineering subfields may choose to pursue a Professional Engineer (PE) credential through the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE). The PE credential allows individuals to supervise other engineers, authorize projects, and provide various engineering services to the public. To obtain licensure, engineers must graduate from an ABET-accredited program, pass a comprehensive exam, and meet the academic and professional criteria set by the NSPE.

In addition to a PE, other engineering board certifications may be voluntarily obtained through the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) (coastal, water resources, navigation, geotechnical, ports, and ocean), as well as the American Academy of Environmental Engineers and Scientists (AAEES) which certifies PE holders in an environmental specialization.

Professionals in other STEM fields, such as web development and design, may also wish to demonstrate their expertise with programming certifications in computer languages and products; for example, JavaScript, C++, Microsoft MCSD, and Chef Badges.

Students majoring in STEM fields are encouraged to partake in internship and fellowship opportunities throughout their master's degree programs. Internships provide opportunities for students to apply their learning to their respective disciplines, gain professional experience and feedback, network with industry leaders, and make their own contributions to the field.

Internship locations are typically broad. For example, students majoring in environmental science may pursue internships at national parks, federal environmental departments, nonprofit organizations, zoos, aquariums, and museums. The National Security Agency (NSA) also offers different types of statistician and numerical data-oriented internship opportunities to graduate mathematics students.

Many colleges and universities maintain a database of paid and unpaid internship opportunities, or students may seek external internship opportunities. Students who are interested in partaking in a STEM internship or fellowship should speak with their program advisor or career services representative at their school.

There are several postgraduate options for students who hold STEM master's degrees. In addition to various licensure and certifications, students may choose to pursue graduate certificates in STEM specializations or enroll in a rigorous doctoral program of study. These professional, research-focused programs are the highest level of scholarship and are obtainable in a variety of subjects, including doctorate degrees in health science or even online doctorates in information technology.

Students who pursue postgraduate degrees, certificates, and licensure typically market themselves for various research, post-secondary teaching, and leadership positions. Another postgraduate option for STEM majors may include membership with a professional organization. We will discuss several of these postgraduate opportunities in the following sections.

Professional organizations provide graduates with STEM degree opportunities for research, networking, career development, and other professional advantages. For example, mathematics majors may decide to join the American Mathematical Society (AMS) that seeks to advance research and advocacy in mathematical sciences. Prospective AMS members can choose between six membership categories, pay their respective annual dues, and gain access to several membership benefits, including peer-reviewed research, training and career services, the AMS directory, and travel grants.

Civil engineering professionals and graduates also have the option to join the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) which serves as a leading resource of civil engineering information, research, advocacy, and safety standards. Individual and corporate memberships are available, as well as student chapter membership for prospective civil engineering professionals.

Additionally, the Association for Information Systems (AIS) offers membership to educators, researchers, postgraduate students, and retired professionals who are committed to the advancement of information systems practice and education. The AIS membership benefits include career advancement and training, access to current research and annual conferences, and networking opportunities for its members.

A master's degree in a STEM field is usually appealing to graduates and employers alike due to higher wages, an increasingly advanced talent pool, and prospective job growth in several industries. For example, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) mechanical engineers anticipate job growth of 4 percent in the next decade, particularly for professionals with specialized software training and computational design and simulation experience. Likewise, mathematicians and statisticians with computer programming skills are expected to see job growth of 33 percent (2019-2029).

STEM majors are typically highly proficient in mathematics, science, and technology and may discover several hands-on science careers or roles in which they may apply their technical and innovative expertise. Additionally, employment trends in STEM fields are notably diverse with endless possibilities for women engineers, people of color who specialize in technology and math, and even science careers for introverts.

Science Career Opportunities

Graduates with STEM degrees in a science field may enter a wide range of careers from biological and chemical research to public health to veterinary medicine and even the environment. Due to the varied nature of the work, scientists may work in an office, laboratory, outdoors in the field, or a combination of each setting.

Like all STEM fields, a scientist's skills and knowledge may overlap with engineering, math, and technology disciplines; and while a bachelor's degree may be acceptable for entry-level positions, individuals are likely to have much greater prospects and/or career advancement with a master's degree or higher.

Overall, scientists should possess strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, communication, research, writing, interpersonal, and time-management skills. For careers, such as hydrologist, environmental scientist, or geoscientist, individuals should also exhibit physical stamina for conducting their work in remote and uneven terrains.

According to 2020 numbers from the BLS, the median salary for the following science careers were:

• Hydrologist: $84,040
• Chemists and Materials Scientists: $80,680
• Epidemiologists: $74,560
• Geoscientists: $93,580

Technology Career Opportunities

As the technology industry undergoes significant digital advances, computer science majors remain in high demand. Graduates working in technology fields usually have concentrated expertise in computer programming, software development, and information systems. Additionally, technologists tend to be capable mathematicians and analytical thinkers, as well.

Individuals working in technology roles typically have a solutions-based way of thinking and a high level of technical skill. Utilizing various programs, networks, and digital tools, professionals aim to write codes and test program functionality to solve problems throughout various information technology careers.

In many technology fields, emphasis is placed on collaboration and teamwork to get projects done. Because the technology industry changes so rapidly, tech workers must remain flexible and adaptable within their positions. In many instances, it is recommended that individuals pursue continuing education courses and digital-focused certifications to stay abreast of industry trends.

According to the BLS, as of 2020, the median salaries for the following technology careers were:

• Computer Programmers: $89,190
• Computer and Information Systems Managers: $151,150
• Software Developers: $110,140
• Computer Systems Analysts: $93,730

Engineering Career Opportunities

Drawing from their technical and innovative expertise, engineering professionals apply their education and training to the design, development, analysis, and implementation of machinery for everyday use. Depending on the branch of engineering an individual is trained in, engineers may conduct their work in offices or in the field, while others may need to travel to different work sites.

There are several branches of engineering science for STEM students to major in (e.g., aerospace engineering, industrial technology engineering, electrical engineering, civil engineering, chemical engineering, etc.) and graduates with these types of degrees may be interested in careers like electrical engineering technologist or construction engineering technologist, also known as civil engineers.

Nearly all engineers possess excellent math, creativity, problem-solving, decision-making, concentration, and oratorical skills. Additionally, engineers may want to pursue a Professional Engineer (PE) credential for career advancement, leadership opportunities, and to demonstrate their knowledge in an engineering subfield.

According to the BLS's 2020 statistics, the median salaries for the following engineering careers were:

• Electrical and Electronics Engineers: $103,390
• Civil Engineers: $88,570
• Biomedical Engineers: $92,620
• Mechanical Engineers: $90,160

Math Career Opportunities

Having a strong educational background in mathematics may lead to many lucrative math careers. To become a mathematician or statistician, individuals should be adept at analyzing numerical data and applying mathematical techniques and formulas to solve complex problems. Oftentimes, mathematicians are employed in healthcare, government, research, engineering, business, technology, academia, and other sectors.

However, mathematics majors may also wish to pursue different types of math business careers with their degrees. The capacity to research and analyze data trends and statistical models is typically desirable to employers who capitalize on these professionals' abilities to assess financial risks and make better business decisions.

Mathematics professionals may work alone or with a team and usually possess strong analytical and critical thinking, communication, interpersonal, and reasoning skills.

According to the BLS, the median salary in 2020 for the following mathematics careers were:

• Mathematicians and Statisticians: $93,290
• Economists: $108,350
• Financial Analysts: $83,660
• Operations Research Analysts: $86,200

Students can pursue STEM education at any degree level (associate, bachelor's, master's, or doctorate). Furthermore, there are many program options for STEM certificates that are available for students to gain a specialized study in STEM topics.

No matter what degree level of study a student pursues, majoring in a STEM field is likely to help students gain transferable analytical thinking, inquiry, collaboration, problem-solving, organization, innovation, and leadership skills. This unique and advanced skill set tends to be desirable for many STEM careers.

Associate Degrees in STEM Fields

Associate degrees in STEM fields aim to provide foundational learning for students to pursue higher degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics programs.

Typically, associate degree curriculums consist of approximately 60 credits of general education requirements (e.g., reading, math, science, and writing), as well as several specialist and elective courses. Depending on the school, students may be able to take a more comprehensive STEM curriculum or choose a specific program, such as engineering fundamentals, computer technology, or environmental science. Many colleges are now offering online associate STEM degrees or hybrid programs, as well.

Most often, associate degrees in STEM fields take about two years to complete and result in an Associate of Science (AS) or an Associate of Applied Science (AAS). Some STEM programs, such as geology, may result in an Associate of Arts (AS). Most students with associate degrees decide to continue their education in a bachelor's degree program.

Bachelor's Degrees in STEM Fields

A bachelor's degree in STEM fields is usually about 120 credits of general education, specialist, and elective coursework, although some programs have additional course requirements. (General education requirements-about 60 credits-may be fulfilled in an associate degree program.)

Students have broad options for STEM majors at the bachelor level and may have the ability to concentrate on a specialization in their respective programs. Additionally, students majoring in STEM can pursue a more focused discipline, for example, civil engineering or marine biology. Similar to associate degrees, students may pursue online bachelor's degrees in STEM, as well.

Generally, STEM bachelor's degrees take approximately four years to complete and culminate in a Bachelor of Science (BS), although some students may receive a Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng.), or another type of professional degree.

Doctoral Degrees in STEM Fields

Students with a master's degree in a STEM field may choose to continue their studies in a doctoral program. As previously mentioned, doctorates are ideal for individuals seeking post-secondary teaching posts, research positions, and leadership roles. Postgraduate students may obtain doctorates in several different subject areas. Science majors, for example, may decide to segue their learning towards a doctoral degree in nutrition. Likewise, online doctorates in public health are also available. Students who have majored in mathematics may decide to pursue their doctoral education in an economics program.

The requirements for a doctorate vary by school and program; however, on average, a doctorate is approximately 45-60 credits, sometimes more. Other program requirements may include teaching apprenticeships, practical training, a thesis/dissertation and defense, and comprehensive examinations.

Upon completion of their doctoral programs, students may receive a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) or another professional degree, such as a Doctor of Information Technology (DIT) or a Doctor of Engineering (D.Eng.).

Certificates in STEM Fields

Graduate certificate programs in STEM fields allow students to improve or gain new skill sets, seek career advancement, or stay abreast of industry trends across numerous STEM areas. For example, individuals with engineering master's degrees may wish to pursue CAD certificate programs that focus on drafting technologies and software. Similarly, computer science majors may opt to enroll in computer programming certificate programs or something a bit more specific, such as a graduate certificate in cyber security.

Science and health majors also have several options when it comes to lab technician certificate programs. Depending on the type of science or health master's degree a student has obtained, they may wish to seek a graduate certificate in medical terminology, forensics, or public health and nutrition.

A certificate program is usually about 12-18 credits and takes approximately a year to complete. Students pursuing a graduate certificate have the option to complete their coursework online, in-person, or in a hybrid curriculum.

The cost of tuition and other campus-related expenses for a master's degree in a STEM discipline varies by school, program, and geographical location. Students can expect to pay an application fee when they submit their application, as well. This typically costs about $30.

For prospective graduate students who intend to study at a public college or university in their resident state, tuition may be offered at a lower rate. In contrast, those attending a private school or out-of-state public university could potentially pay higher tuition fees. Additionally, out-of-state students may need to consider whether they plan to pay for room and board or off-campus housing, which can be costly.

Other academic costs may include technology fees (usually a charge for computer science and engineering students), laboratory fees, books and materials, student services, and activities fees.

STEM programs are also often available as distance learning or accelerated programs, which may lower several campus-based costs (e.g., tuition, credit hours, student services, and room and board). Students who are self-starters with excellent time-management and organization skills may be excellent candidates for online STEM programs.

To determine the costs of tuition and gain more information regarding financing and financial aid options, it is recommended that individuals reach out to their school's Graduate Admissions Office or Financial Aid Office to speak with a representative.

Students who need financial assistance in seeking a STEM graduate degree may be eligible for federal financial aid, funding, or scholarships. To determine how much federal aid an individual qualifies for, students can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Eligibility requirements include proof of citizenship, attendance at an accredited school, and proof of financial need.

Additionally, scholarships and grants are usually available online or through a student's school. Typically, students can search for scholarships based on their degree program and academic and professional interests. Other financial aid options may include tuition reimbursement programs through an employer or workplace, as well as military benefits.

Out to Innovate Scholarship

The Out to Innovate Scholarships are offered to LGBTQ+ students at the undergraduate and graduate levels who are majoring in STEM fields. Eligibility requirements include a minimum grade point average of 2.75, participation in LGBTQ+ programs and organizations, the submission of the online application, and letters of recommendation. First and second-place winners will be selected and awards range from $3,000-$8,000.

AfterCollege Science Student Scholarship

The AfterCollege Science Student Scholarship is available to currently enrolled graduate students majoring in any science discipline, including but not limited to biology, chemistry, marine biology, geology, etc. Applicants must create and/or update their profile on the AfterCollege website (personal information, education, work experience, awards, and special skills). One winner will be selected for a $500 scholarship award.