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Career Development Matt SedlarWhat is STEM Designation and Why Does it Matter?
Jessica Dickenson Mar 18, 2025
In today’s rapidly advancing world, educational opportunities are expanding in innovative ways, particularly in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). With increasing global demand, more universities are offering STEM-designated degree programs, providing both domestic and international students with new avenues for growth. But what exactly does it mean for a degree to be STEM-designated, and how is this evolving trend transforming the landscape of higher education?
Understanding STEM-Designated Degree Programs
A STEM-designated degree program refers to an academic program recognized by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for its focus on the core disciplines of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. These programs are designed to not only provide students with a strong foundation in their chosen field but also to equip them with the technical expertise and critical thinking skills required to excel in the rapidly changing job market.
What makes STEM programs especially appealing is their emphasis on rigorous, hands-on learning. Unlike traditional programs, STEM-designated degrees typically require students to engage with complex problem-solving techniques, quantitative analysis, and cutting-edge technologies. This ensures that graduates are well-prepared to step into a variety of careers that demand highly specialized knowledge and skill sets, whether in fields like software engineering, data science, biomedical research, or environmental engineering.
Why Does it Matter?
STEM programs are more than just a series of courses—they’re a gateway to emerging technologies, innovation, and a wide range of high-demand careers. Students enrolled in STEM-designated programs benefit from specialized training and exposure to cutting-edge developments in their fields, ensuring they are prepared to meet the challenges of tomorrow's workforce.
One of the most attractive aspects of STEM-designated programs, particularly for international students, is the opportunity to work in the United States post-graduation. Thanks to the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension, international students who earn a STEM degree are eligible to work in the U.S. for up to three years without requiring employer sponsorship. This provides an invaluable opportunity to gain hands-on experience in their field, contributing to their professional development and potentially opening doors to longer-term employment opportunities.
STEM-designated degrees are offered at a variety of educational levels, from undergraduate to graduate and even doctoral programs.
This wide range of options allows students to pursue higher education in STEM fields at different stages of their academic journey, whether they are just beginning their studies or seeking advanced specialization in a specific area. With the growing demand for STEM professionals in industries worldwide, these programs play a crucial role in preparing the next generation of innovators, researchers, and leaders.
Why Should You Pursue a STEM-Designated Degree?
Pursuing a STEM-designated degree offers a wealth of opportunities, and there are several compelling reasons why students should consider this path.
- Demand for STEM Professionals: The world is increasingly dependent on technology, innovation and data-driven solutions, and there is a demand for STEM workers. Graduates with STEM degrees in industries such as healthcare, software development, biotechnology, and cybersecurity. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects job growth in many STEM occupations over the next decade, making these fields a reliable path for long-term career stability.
- Contributing to Innovation and Solving Global Challenges: STEM fields are at the forefront of addressing some of the world’s most pressing issues, including healthcare advancements and technological innovation. By pursuing a STEM-designated degree, you’ll be positioned to contribute to groundbreaking research, design solutions and create technologies that can have a lasting impact on society. Whether you're developing new medical treatments, advancing clean energy solutions, or improving communication technologies, your work can make a difference.
- Strong Career Advancement and Job Security: STEM professionals often enjoy strong job security due to the high demand for their skill set. Furthermore, STEM graduates have significant room for career advancement, whether by moving into management roles, specializing in niche areas, or pursuing further education. With continuous technological advancements, there are always new areas for specialization, allowing for long-term career growth and professional development.
The rise of STEM-designated degree programs represents a pivotal shift in the landscape of higher education, offering students a chance to immerse themselves in dynamic fields that are essential to modern society. With the benefits of specialized training, global work opportunities, and career advancement, STEM programs provide the necessary tools for students to thrive in a world increasingly driven by technological and scientific progress.
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Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics 2023 / Occupational Outlook Handbook 2022. BLS estimates do not represent entry-level wages and/or salaries. Multiple factors, including prior experience, age, geography market in which you want to work and degree field, will affect career outcomes and earnings. Herzing neither represents that its graduates will earn the average salaries calculated by BLS for a particular job nor guarantees that graduation from its program will result in a job, promotion, salary increase or other career growth.
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