STEM careers—those in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—are among the most in-demand and high-paying jobs today. These fields offer endless opportunities for problem-solving, creativity, and innovation, making them ideal for students looking for fulfilling and lucrative careers.
We’ve put together this list highlighting some of the best STEM careers for students. Many require advanced degrees, but others are accessible with certifications or associate degrees. Each job on our list includes an average salary* and the necessary education or training.
*Note: All salary information is from Indeed.com and represents the average salary for each job in February 2025 in the United States.
Jump to:
FREE PRINTABLE
Career Exploration Worksheet Bundle
Use our free career exploration lesson plans and handouts to encourage students to explore all the options available to them.
Best STEM Careers in Science
Getty Images
Biomedical Engineer
Biomedical engineers design and develop medical devices and equipment to improve healthcare outcomes.
Average Salary: $97,500
Education/Training: Bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering or related field
Getty Images
Genetic Counselor
Genetic counselors assess genetic risks and provide guidance to patients and families.
Average Salary: $89,300
Education/Training: Master’s degree in genetic counseling
Getty Images
Environmental Scientist
Environmental scientists analyze data to develop solutions for environmental issues.
Average Salary: $79,600
Education/Training: Bachelor’s degree in environmental science or related field
Getty Images
Pharmacist
Pharmacists dispense medications and provide advice regarding drugs to patients.
Average Salary: $128,900
Education/Training: Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree
Getty Images
Forensic Scientist
Forensic scientists analyze crime scene evidence to help solve criminal cases.
Average Salary: $63,200
Education/Training: Bachelor’s degree in forensic science or chemistry
Best STEM Careers in Technology
Getty Images
Software Developer
Software developers create and maintain applications for computers and mobile devices.
Average Salary: $119,200
Education/Training: Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field
Getty Images
Cybersecurity Analyst
Cybersecurity analysts protect organizations from cyber threats and data breaches.
Average Salary: $112,300
Education/Training: Bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity or certifications like CISSP
Getty Images
Data Scientist
Data scientists analyze large datasets to help companies make strategic decisions.
Average Salary: $126,700
Education/Training: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in data science or statistics
Getty Images
IT Support Specialist
IT support specialists troubleshoot and maintain computer systems.
Average Salary: $57,800
Education/Training: Associate degree or certifications like CompTIA A+
Getty Images
AI Engineer
AI engineers develop artificial intelligence systems and machine learning models.
Average Salary: $135,600
Education/Training: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in AI, computer science, or engineering
Best STEM Careers in Engineering
Getty Images
Civil Engineer
Civil engineers design and oversee infrastructure projects like bridges and highways.
Average Salary: $94,200
Education/Training: Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering
Getty Images
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical engineers design and develop mechanical systems and devices.
Average Salary: $95,400
Education/Training: Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering
Getty Images
Electrical Engineer
Electrical engineers work on electrical systems for buildings, vehicles, and devices.
Average Salary: $102,100
Education/Training: Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering
Getty Images
Aerospace Engineer
Aerospace engineers design and develop aircraft, spacecraft, and satellites.
Average Salary: $116,500
Education/Training: Bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering
Getty Images
Robotics Engineer
Robotics engineers create robots for industries like healthcare, manufacturing, and defense.
Average Salary: $110,700
Education/Training: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in robotics or mechanical engineering
Best STEM Careers in Mathematics
Getty Images
Actuary
Actuaries analyze financial risks using mathematics and statistics.
Average Salary: $113,400
Education/Training: Bachelor’s degree in actuarial science or mathematics
Getty Images
Statistician
Statisticians collect and analyze data to support decision-making.
Average Salary: $99,200
Education/Training: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in statistics
Getty Images
Financial Analyst
Financial analysts assess investments and financial trends.
Average Salary: $92,800
Education/Training: Bachelor’s degree in finance or economics
Getty Images
Operations Research Analyst
Operations research analysts use math to improve business efficiency.
Average Salary: $96,700
Education/Training: Bachelor’s degree in mathematics or business analytics
Getty Images
Cryptographer
Cryptographers develop encryption algorithms to secure digital communications.
Average Salary: $110,500
Education/Training: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in cryptography or cybersecurity
Emerging STEM Careers
Getty Images
Bioinformatics Scientist
Bioinformatics scientists use data to solve biological and medical problems.
Average Salary: $104,300
Education/Training: Bachelor’s degree in renewable energy or environmental engineering
Getty Images
Quantum Computing Researcher
Quantum computing researchers develop next-generation computing technology.
Average Salary: $140,200
Education/Training: PhD in quantum computing or physics
Getty Images
Space Scientist
Space scientists study celestial bodies and space exploration technologies.
Average Salary: $120,300
Education/Training: Master’s degree or PhD in astronomy or astrophysics
Getty Images
Nanotechnology Engineer
Nanotechnology engineers work with tiny materials for medical and industrial uses.
Average Salary: $114,900
Education/Training: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in nanotechnology or chemical engineering
Don’t forget to grab your free career exploration lesson plans!
We Are Teachers
