STEM course can have various advantages. Learn about how choosing one of the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics degrees for your education in the USA can benefit you as a Nepalese student.
What is STEM?
STEM is basically a term used to denote Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. Students pursuing their degree in any of these related programs are highly recognized due to the availability of jobs in these sectors and ever growing fields. STEM courses require problem solving skills which will help students counter challanges they face in future. Professionals from these degrees earn more compared to other people.
S(science): Few courses for science include biotechnology, biophysics, environmental science, Medicine etc.
T(Technology): Few courses for the technology field include Computer science, Information technology(IT), Cybersecurity, cloud computing etc.
E(Engineering): Few courses in Engineering fields include Aerospace engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering etc.
M(Mathematics): Few courses in Mathematics include applied mathematics, statistics, calculus, linear algebra etc.
Which country to pursue a STEM degree in?
Countries like the USA, Australia, UK, Canada and Germany are ranked as the best countries for STEM degrees. The USA is rated as the best country to pursue their science, engineering, technology and mathematics degree in. The quality of education provided by the universities in the USA are far better compared to other countries. Additionally, International graduates for these courses in the USA can work up to 36 months after graduation, which is way longer than the 12 months Optional practical training(OPT) period for non-STEM courses. This sector grows faster in USA creating STEM graduates better post study work opportunities, ultimately helps in getting permanent residence(PR) of USA faster.
Top Univeristies offering STEM courses in the USA
USA is considered to be one of best destination for international students. There are numerous universities and colleges providing various courses. Few top rated univeristies offering Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics courses are:
- Harvard University
- University of california, berkeley
- Pace University
- Stanford University
- Michigan State University
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- University of texas, Dallas
- California institute of technology
- Purdue university
How will STEM courses benefit Nepalese students applying for the USA?
For Nepali students aspiring to study abroad, pursuing a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics offers huge opportunities. With the global job market increasingly prioritizing skilled individuals with robust STEM expertise, studying these fields overseas can help you with the skills and experiences essential to excel in today’s competitive world.
Additionally, students choosing STEM related courses have a significantly better visa rate compared to other courses. Since these degrees have higher job demand in the USA and globally it is better for students to choose courses related to science, technology, engineering and mathematics to pursue their undergraduate or graduate degree. Universities with these courses offer scholarships and other opportunities for deserving students.
Research Opportunities
The USA is a country full of opportunities and students pursuing their masters degree in any of science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields may also get the research assistantships and other research opportunities. Since, science and technology is ever growing, there is a lot to research and understand in this field. Research students benefit the university and the country as well, which is the reason why USA accepts more students planning to apply STEM degrees. Few highly research based fields include: Agriculture, biotechnology, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Calculus, Mathematics equations, Aerospace Engineering etc. Students planning to apply masters in any research based fields are often qualified for better scholarships, assistantships etc from the university.
Do all STEM degrees pay a high salary?
STEM degrees might pay better salaries compared to other degrees but not all of it pay a hefty salary. Technology and engineering degrees earn better salaries compared to science and mathematics degrees. Students graduating from bachelors of science in chemistry earns approx $40000 which is significantly lower than salaries offered by technology/ engineering degrees. Salary and other offers might also vary according to your skills, honesty, discipline and overall performance in the company you are working for.
Should every undergraduate and graduate student from Nepal choose a STEM degree?
A STEM degree might be better for students who thrive more on research and love to explore technology. Studying STEM based programs might be challenging for students who are enrolled in these courses without any research/knowledge. It can be very hectic for some students since you have to focus more on studies caring less about extracurricular activities. We recommend not to choose a STEM based courses just because you heard someone saying “Oh! this course provides better opportunities”. We recommend you to learn more about programs and fields it covers and if you are really into a certain field and can commit to it then you can choose your field.
Choosing subjects on the basis of what other says might lead you to serious problem in the future. Lack of knowledge regarding courses and its subjects often leads to hectic schedule, which might cause depression and other issues to students. I suggest nepalese students who are planning to study in USA to choose the course according to their preference not based on what they hear.
The future of STEM education
The STEM educational model helps students develop their skills to explore various career opportunities. In an ever-evolving global economy and technologies, the ability to merge technical knowledge with creative problem-solving is becoming increasingly essential. Students who hone their skills in these areas will definitely reach the height they are aiming for themselves.
For Nepali students aspiring to study abroad, pursuing a STEM degree opens doors to numerous benefits. These include access to better educational institutions, advanced research facilities, promising career opportunities, and culturally enriching environments. Taking this step not only helps the way for personal and professional growth but also helps students to contribute meaningfully to global advancements in technology and innovation.
Career Choices
Science, technology, engineering and mathematics cover nearly 60-70% of job market nowdays. Although, Non-STEM courses have bigger fields and area of education, demand of STEM couses is ever growing and reaching new heights. Purusing one of these degree opens path for students in various areas. For eg: If you are graduated from cybersecurity, you can easily get placements into cybersecurity firm and work as cybersecurity analyst in the future or you can also tutor new generation who are eager to learn about cybersecurity.
Students have wide range of career opportunities to choose from. Job growth rate is ever increasing in STEM sectors each year making students to focus more on these sectors. To start your career in STEM domain, first, identify your interests and goals, get yourself enrolled in a program (Qualify and get a degree) , apply for a internship/job in your loved sector, get yourself better and climb your rank to your desired position.
Learn about F1 visa and studying in USA .