If you're pursuing a degree to enhance your career options, you'll be glad to know that earning just about any degree will put you far ahead in the working world than someone who forgoes college altogether. But did you know that if you earn an education degree in STEM fields, you'll be joining an ever-growing industry of educators who are having a massive impact on students' futures as well as the STEM industry as a whole? Too few people are sufficiently STEM-educated, yet the global need for scientific research, development and engineering teachers is high. Additionally, STEM educators are usually paid better than educators in the liberal arts field. Since STEM-related fields are so dynamic, we figured there is a lot that a potential STEM educator might not know about the STEM industry and how their involvement will impact the lives of students and professionals.
1. An aptitude for math, logical thinking and creativity makes you a great candidate for an education degree in STEM subjects, like Mathematics Education and Science Education.
2. Every year, hundreds of thousands of teaching jobs go unfilled, especially in STEM-related fields. (source)
3. Entry-level job openings for teachers of STEM programs pay an estimated 30% more than average.
4. Because STEM industries require well-educated associates, pre-college introductory programs are available for educators to help guide younger students towards the fields of study they would most enjoy.
5. According to the National Science Foundation, 27% of the global Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and 40% of the U.S. GDP come from knowledge and science-based industries. That means that STEM educators have a huge impact on the U.S. economy as a whole.
6. The U.S. spends more than any other country for research and development (R&D), but China, India and Brazil are catching up. As a STEM educator, you are front and center to take part in ground-breaking research.
7. Thanks to increased federal expenditures and grants programs, more universities now retain their doctorates for advanced science and engineering research.
8. Since the late 1990s, women earn over half of all science and engineering degrees.
9. STEM careers suffer less during economic downturns and recover more quickly.
10. By training your brain for critical, creative thinking, your STEM education will have universal life application, meaning you'll be more flexible across a multitude of possible careers.
11. A STEM education can lead to successful self-employment and entrepreneurial pursuits.
12. If you have a head for numbers, you can probably master any STEM discipline (and teach it, too).
13. Scientific people find better mates when surrounded by other science-minded people. Virtually every industry and many academic categories need critical thinkers, innovators and - most of all - teachers. Unquestionably, choosing an education degree program with a focus on STEM subjects is a smart and stable career path that allows you to have a huge impact on students and your own career. Learn more about our graduate programs in Mathematics Education and Science Education.
