What is STEM?

STEM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, fields the White House call "critical to the prosperity, security, and health of our Nation."

Why STEM?

The U.S. Department of Education calls literacy in STEM fields "essential" to solving the complex challenges of today and tomorrow, and to meet the demands of the dynamic and evolving workforce.

In Massachusetts

• 17% of the Massachusetts total workforce are STEM workers
• 21% of the Commonwealth’s total workforce is employed by a STEM industry, significantly higher than the nation’s average (14%)
• 40% of all employment revolves around innovation industries (clean energy, information technology, defense and advanced manufacturing).
• The number of STEM jobs is expected to increase by 7.2% by 2028, accounting for 40% of total expected employment growth
• Entry-level wages in STEM careers are twice that for all other Massachusetts occupations. - Massachusetts Executive Office of Education and Department of Higher Education

Women in STEM

• Women now comprise 27% of the STEM workforce, up from 8% in 1970
• Women make up nearly half of all mathematics and physical science positions, and 64% of social science STEM occupations. - U.S. Census Bureau
• See UMass Dartmouth's women in STEM making a difference and leading the way. 

What can you do with a STEM degree?

UMassD STEM graduates have careers in accounting, artificial intelligence, astrophysics, biology, chemistry, cybersecurity, data science, education, engineering, finance, game design, healthcare, information technology, insurance, marine science and technology, mathematics, research, software development, sustainability, and more.