45 Great STEM Careers: Good-Paying Jobs at Every Degree Level
People in STEM careers have the potential to change the world for the better. But they also have the chance to improve their own happiness and prosperity. In fact, many STEM fields are known for great advantages such as a strong job outlook, high salaries, and fulfilling work.
It's true: STEM jobs tend to pay better, on average, than other jobs requiring similar levels of education. And they often provide built-in opportunities to truly make a difference.
Plus, exciting scientific discoveries and technological advances continue to open new doors for people with the right expertise. So the demand for STEM workers is expected to keep rising. Ready to learn more? This article provides clear answers to questions like "What are the STEM degrees that are most in demand?" and "How much does STEM pay?" In fact, each STEM careers list below will let you explore several occupational possibilities for a particular degree level. You'll also learn about the median salary and projected job outlook for each occupation listed.
- What are STEM jobs?
- 18 STEM jobs you can get with an associate degree
- 18 STEM jobs that require a bachelor's degree
- 9 STEM jobs that often require a master's degree or PhD
Salary information and job growth is based on 2022 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics unless otherwise indicated. All yearly median earnings are rounded to the nearest thousand.
What Are STEM Jobs?
STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. So a STEM job is any occupation related to one or more of those areas. That means dozens of professions fall under the STEM umbrella. In fact, almost any comprehensive list of STEM careers (A-Z) will include a huge range of job titles, from accountant to zoologist.
But these diverse careers share a common purpose: All STEM disciplines involve applying scientific principles to real-world situations in some way. That's the cool thing about these occupations: The best STEM jobs are focused on solving problems. For example, among many other possibilities, pursuing a STEM career may lead to doing something great such as working to protect the environment, developing new healthcare treatments, or creating safer e-commerce websites. So when you look at the variety of careers on each STEM jobs list, imagine the astounding potential to make a positive difference.
This variety extends to STEM education. It's a misconception that all STEM majors are geared toward advanced degrees. (Some STEM degrees only take two years to complete.)
So, what are STEM majors actually good for? You're about to find out. As you'll discover, STEM students can major in a huge range of subjects related to the physical sciences, computers and information technology, mathematics, engineering, healthcare, and medical technology.
18 STEM Jobs You Can Get With an Associate Degree
Think you can only get a job in one of the STEM professions after many years of education? Think again. A lot of good-paying STEM careers—in demand occupations—only require a two-year associate degree or less.
So if you want to work in STEM but don't want to spend a long time in school, check out these jobs that don't require a four-year degree:
1. Mobile application developer
What's your favorite app? Chances are, you have many favorites. Just imagine being able to spend each day designing and developing new apps for phones, tablets, and other mobile devices. Mobile app developers get to put their creativity and technical skills to work in a field that has a bright future. In fact, this career has been named the best job in America.
It's possible to learn app development on your own. But this field is competitive, so the expertise you can acquire in a formal training program may help you get further ahead. Many associate degree programs are available.
- Median annual wage: $127K
- Projected job growth: 26 percent
2. Radiation therapist
Exciting developments are happening in the way medical professionals use radiation to treat cancer and other diseases. Radiation therapists assist patients in understanding treatment procedures, and they administer the radiation therapy prescribed by physicians. You need good people skills as well as careful attention to detail in this career.
Certificate, associate degree, and bachelor's degree programs are available. Licensure is mandatory in most states and often involves passing a national certification exam.
- Median annual wage: $90K
- Projected job growth: 2 percent
3. Diagnostic medical sonographer
Work with equipment that uses high-frequency sound waves to take pictures—called ultrasounds—of organs and tissues. Your work can play an important role in helping physicians diagnose and treat patients. This career offers several areas of specialization. In addition to an associate or bachelor's degree, many employers look for professional certification.
- Median annual wage: $81K
- Projected job growth: 14 percent
4. Web developer
As a web developer, you can be responsible for both the look and functionality of a website. Professionals in this field often specialize in design (creating the "look" of a website and ensuring that it is attractive and intuitive) or development (working with the code behind the scenes to ensure it functions properly). Some developers further specialize in sectors such as e-commerce, gaming, or news and information.
No matter where your professional focus lies, this career requires lifelong learning and the ability to stay on top of changing trends. After all, as a web developer, you need to be aware of new technology in order to create sites that are user-friendly, secure, and efficient.
- Median annual wage: $79K
- Projected job growth: 17 percent
5. Aerospace engineering and operations technologist and technician
Aerospace engineering and operations technologists and technicians are responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining equipment necessary for creating, testing, and maintaining aircraft and spacecraft. Their role is essential in guaranteeing the reliability and accuracy of crucial components in these vehicles and systems.
Most aerospace engineering and operations technologists and technician positions require an associate degree. Additionally, these professionals may require security clearances for certain projects, particularly those related to national defense.
- Median annual wage: $74K
- Projected job growth: 8 percent
6. Aircraft mechanic
Aircraft mechanics help make it possible for passengers and crew members to fly safely on airplanes or helicopters. That's a lot of responsibility, so workers in this field must complete a thorough certification process. Fortunately, many training options are available. You can train at an FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician school or through the military. Some people also learn this trade on the job.
- Median annual wage: $75K*
- Projected job growth: 5 percent*
7. Radiologic technologist
Use non-invasive technology such as x-rays to help physicians diagnose and treat patients. These important healthcare professionals can also obtain training to perform more specialized procedures such as mammograms or angiograms.
Most associate degree programs for this field take about two years. Some four-year bachelor's degree programs are also available. Licensure is required in most states, so be sure you research the requirements for your area.
- Median annual wage: $65K
- Projected job growth: 5 percent
8. Calibration technologist or technician
Calibration technologists and technicians are responsible for maintaining the accuracy of measurement devices in various sectors, including manufacturing and healthcare, by applying the principles of measurement science.
Typically, calibration technologists and technicians are required to have an associate degree in a specialized area like electronics engineering technology.
- Median annual wage: $62K
- Projected job growth: 4 percent
9. Industrial engineering technician
Are you efficient and practical? Industrial engineering technicians work with engineers to create cost-effective and organized workflows in areas such as manufacturing. If you're a proactive problem-solver who likes to get to the bottom of how things work, this field can offer a variety of interesting opportunities, from supply chain management to electronics manufacturing.
- Median annual wage: $61K
- Projected job growth: 3 percent
10. Health information technologist
Health information technologists combine their expertise in information technology (IT) and healthcare to manage and organize medical records and health information data, ensuring accuracy, confidentiality, and compliance with regulatory standards.
An associate degree is the minimum you need for these positions but, some employers could require a bachelor's degree.
- Median annual wage: $58K
- Projected job growth: 16 percent
11. Computer support specialist
Help people solve computer or network problems. Using your technical expertise, you can troubleshoot issues and help come up with solutions. Some professionals in this field respond to questions and complaints via email or over the phone, while others work with organizations to maintain their computer networks.
In addition to technical knowledge, solid people skills are important in this career, since you could find yourself working with people who have limited understanding of computers. Some positions may require a bachelor's degree, and continuing education is always important due to the ever-changing nature of technology.
- Median annual wage: $58K
- Projected job growth: 5 percent
12. Wind turbine technician
Wind turbine technicians help make it possible to harness the power of the wind in order to generate clean and sustainable electricity. After a relatively short training period, you could do the hands-on work of installing, maintaining, and repairing giant wind turbines. If you like working outdoors and don't have a fear of heights, you can find plenty of opportunities in this important field.
- Median annual wage: $57K
- Projected job growth: 45 percent
13. Medical laboratory tech
Medical laboratory technicians and technologists play a key role helping people stay healthy. Without the work they do in laboratories, healthcare providers couldn't diagnose, treat, and monitor patients as effectively. Plus, as the medical and scientific community continues to gain new insights into the importance of personalized medicine—including greater knowledge of how to test for genetic conditions—the demand for lab tests keeps rising.
With an associate degree, you can work as a laboratory technician and perform tests on blood, tissue, and bodily fluid samples. Medical laboratory technologists typically have more responsibility and are able to perform more complex procedures. Technologist positions often require a bachelor's degree.
- Median annual wage: $57K
- Projected job growth: 5 percent
14. Chemical technician
Chemical technicians provide many types of support to chemists and other scientists, including setting up and performing experiments. And this is one research-based career that doesn't require extensive education since it's often possible to enter this field with a two-year associate degree. When checking out possible programs, look for classes that include lots of time in the lab.
- Median annual wage: $51K
- Projected job growth: 3 percent
15. Environmental science and protection technician
Perform hands-on work that helps keep our environment clean. Environmental science and protection technicians work with environmental engineers to monitor the effects of pollution and contaminants by collecting and testing samples from the earth, water, or air. They often work outside or in testing laboratories. This is a great career for people who want to make a difference and see direct results from their work.
- Median annual wage: $48K
- Projected job growth: 6 percent
16. Food science technician
Food science technicians support food scientists by evaluating and assessing the quality of products and food items to ensure they meet industry standards and regulatory requirements. These technicians typically have an associate degree in biology or chemistry.
- Median annual wage: $48K
- Projected job growth: 5 percent
17. Mapping or surveying technician
Mapping and surveying technicians collect the data that cartographers use to make maps. Mapping technicians perform many of their duties on a computer, editing and processing field data. Surveying technicians work mostly outdoors, measuring and collecting the raw information used to make maps. An associate degree in a subject like geomatics can prepare you for mapping technician work, and surveying technicians often learn on the job.
- Median annual wage: $47K
- Projected job growth: 3 percent
18. Solar photovoltaic installer
Solar photovoltaic installers assemble and install the panels that generate power from sunlight. This is very physical work that is often performed on rooftops. In addition to learning how to assemble panels, you also need to know the basics of working with electricity. As more and more progress is made in developing alternative energy sources such as solar power, the number of job opportunities in this field is rising quickly. A solar energy school can help prepare you to work in this field, which has become one of the hottest STEM jobs in demand.
- Median annual wage: $45K
- Projected job growth: 22 percent
18 STEM Jobs That Require a Bachelor's Degree
A bachelor's degree can open the door to even more STEM careers. Most bachelor's degrees take about four or five years of study. (But some students take even longer to complete their degrees.) However, STEM majors at this level tend to offer a good return on your educational investment. The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that in 2022, the median salary for STEM bachelor's degree holders is $97,980, which is significantly higher than the median for all bachelor's degree programs ($44,670).
For many of the jobs listed below, you need a bachelor's degree for entry-level work. In some cases, you need a master's degree in order to advance in the field.
1. Petroleum engineer
Did you know that current technologies don't allow us to obtain all of the oil and gas from the wells we drill? As concern grows over worldwide oil and gas supplies, petroleum engineers look for improved extraction methods. They study reservoirs of oil and gas to determine the best ways to safely remove everything contained in a well, including the best drilling methods and materials. They also research and develop new technology.
- Median annual wage: $132K
- Projected job growth: 2 percent
2. Aerospace engineer
Aerospace engineers design things that fly, such as airplanes or spacecraft. In fact, the two main categories for this career are: (1) astronautical (working with spacecraft and satellites) and (2) aeronautical (working with aircraft such as planes and helicopters). Both areas rely heavily on physics, so potential aerospace engineers should enjoy physics classes. The military (and military contractors) are large employers in this field, so you may need a security clearance. A bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering or a similar engineering field is required.
- Median annual wage: $127K
- Projected job growth: 6 percent
3. Actuary
Actuaries specialize in evaluating the financial implications of risk and uncertainty. Utilizing mathematics, statistics, and financial theory, they gauge the likelihood of future events and assist businesses and clients in crafting strategies to reduce the economic impact of these risks in their organizations.
- Median annual wage: $114K
- Projected job growth: 23 percent
4. Information security analyst
It's an unfortunate fact that cyberattacks and data breaches are on the rise. The good news is that public awareness of the importance of good cybersecurity practices is growing. That means more job opportunities for information security analysts.
These IT professionals are responsible for keeping networks and systems secure. A big part of this career is creating and maintaining disaster recovery plans to ensure that organizations can keep running even if they experience a cyberattack or other disaster. A bachelor's degree is usually required to work in information security, and some firms might look for an MBA in information systems. In addition, a number of certifications are available.
- Median annual wage: $112K
- Projected job growth: 32 percent
5. Chemical engineer
You might not always be aware of what they do, but you're always surrounded by the work of chemical engineers—sometimes literally. For example, did you know that chemical engineers are often responsible for the comfortable clothing we wear? That's because their work has improved the quality and feel of synthetic fabrics. These scientists can also be found in an amazing range of other industries, from medicine to manufacturing to food processing and much more. Chemical engineers spend a lot of time in manufacturing plants or refineries, as well as laboratories and offices.
- Median annual wage: $106K
- Projected job growth: 8 percent
6. Computer systems analyst
Do you like working with computers? Would you enjoy helping organizations make decisions that improve their efficiency? If so, you should look into this career. By combining business knowledge and programming skills, you could make recommendations to companies and organizations that maximize their use of technology. Computer systems analysts can even design systems that match organizational goals.
- Median annual wage: $102K
- Projected job growth: 10 percent
7. Biomedical engineer
From sophisticated diagnostic instruments to new drug treatments, medical innovations have led to an increased reliance on technology for delivering effective healthcare. And who is responsible for designing, installing, and maintaining the medical equipment that makes it all happen? Biomedical engineers. They're trained to use the principles of engineering to solve medical problems. Biomedical engineering programs combine courses about engineering design with classes on biological sciences.
- Median annual wage: $100K
- Projected job growth: 5 percent
8. Database administrator
Almost every business and organization relies on data in order to make smart decisions. Database administrators help keep all of that information safe, organized, and easy to use. A key element of managing data is making sure it's accessible to those who are authorized to view it and protected from those who aren't. Central to this work is mastery of database languages such as Structured Query Language (SQL). A bachelor's degree provides a good entry point into this career, and some employers look for certifications on specific languages or products.
- Median annual wage: $100K
- Projected job growth: 7 percent
9. Environmental engineer
Our planet faces a lot of challenges. Environmental engineers work to solve problems in order to keep the world around us safe and clean. Whether they're designing projects to reduce the impact of air pollution, coming up with new waste-reduction processes, or assessing the environmental impact of construction sites, these innovative thinkers combine creativity and knowledge from multiple areas of STEM (science and engineering especially) in order to create solutions that can help us all.
- Median annual wage: $97K
- Projected job growth: 6 percent
10. Industrial engineer
Industrial engineers need solid business knowledge in addition to mastery of engineering concepts. That's because they aim to make businesses and organizations more efficient. There's a lot of potential for variety in this career. You could analyze data to improve supply chain management, design more efficient manufacturing processes, and much more. Companies across many different industries employ industrial engineers.
- Median annual wage: $96K
- Projected job growth: 12 percent
11. Mechanical engineer
A mechanical engineer designs, analyzes, and oversees the manufacturing and maintenance of mechanical systems and devices. They apply principles of physics and material science to develop and improve products ranging from engines and machinery to consumer electronics. Computer technology is used extensively for integrating sensors and controllers, aiding design and testing.
- Median annual wage: $96K
- Projected job growth: 10 percent
12. Geoscientist
Do you want to learn more about the Earth and perhaps play a role in helping to protect its future? Geoscientists study the planet's functions, history, and composition. They're often found outside doing fieldwork such as collecting samples or monitoring conditions, and their work can lead to the development of natural resources, like gas and oil, or to activities that protect the environment.
Some specialities within the geoscience field include seismology, geophysics, paleontology, and petroleum geology. A bachelor's degree can prepare you for entry-level work. Other positions may require a master's degree or specialized training. You could work in a wide range of sectors, from mining to construction.
- Median annual wage: $87K
- Projected job growth: 5 percent
13. Meteorologist or atmospheric scientist
Believe it or not, predicting the weather is a lot harder than it looks on television. In fact, although meteorologists and atmospheric scientists focus on weather and climate issues, there's a lot more to these careers than just telling us whether it will be sunny on the weekend. These scientists can also do things like measure the impact of human activity on climate change or study the interactions between the ocean and the atmosphere. A graduate degree is often necessary for research positions.
- Median annual wage: $84K
- Projected job growth: 4 percent
14. Agricultural engineer
Agricultural engineers work to keep our food supply safe and cost-effective. For example, you could focus on designing sophisticated farm equipment, finding a more environmentally friendly way to dispose of agricultural waste, or determining the best way to store a certain kind of food. The rising population is prompting many agricultural engineers to investigate better means of food production. They often specialize in farming, forestry, aquaculture, or food processing.
- Median annual wage: $83K
- Projected job growth: 6 percent
15. Accountant
There's much more to accounting than making sure that bills get paid on time (although that's a very important task). Accountants also maintain records and use financial information to help make business decisions. Within this field, many specializations exist. For example, you could help investigate financial crimes as a forensic accountant or become an expert on IRS regulations as a tax accountant. Some employers look for a master's degree, but it's also possible to work as an accounting clerk with an associate degree.
- Median annual wage: $78K
- Projected job growth: 4 percent
16. Cartographer
You probably have at least one navigation app on your phone that helps you find your way to places that are new to you. Cartographers play a key role in creating the digital (or paper) maps that guide you and everyone else. They use geographic measurements to create and update maps.
Plus, did you know that cartographers who use Geographic Information System (GIS) data can also be called geographic information specialists? And people who specialize in creating models of the surface of the Earth using technology such as satellite surveys are called photogrammetrists. A bachelor's degree is usually required in a subject such as cartography, geography, geomatics, or surveying.
- Median annual wage: $72K
- Projected job growth: 5 percent
17. Forensic science technician
At first glance, helping investigators solve crimes might not seem like a STEM career. But police rely on people knowledgeable in science to collect and analyze evidence. Forensic science technicians examine crime scenes, gather samples, and evaluate what they find. That might mean assessing the DNA found at a site, taking photographs of evidence, or even reconstructing a crime scene. So forensic science technicians can work inside or outside of a lab. Travel can also be part of the job. Some crime scene investigators are police officers who have completed extra education in this subject.
- Median annual wage: $64K
- Projected job growth: 13 percent
18. Biological technician
Want to be involved in biological or medical research but don't want to commit to earning a PhD? Consider this occupation. These trained scientists work on research projects, typically in a lab setting. Although they are not usually the people in charge of a research project or study, they do the hands-on work of running tests, analyzing data, and performing experiments. A bachelor's degree in biology is typically required, and having some lab experience while in school can help you find a position.
- Median annual wage: $50K
- Projected job growth: 5 percent
9 STEM Jobs That Often Require a Master's Degree or PhD
At the graduate-degree level, the requirements for some STEM jobs are a bit more fluid. In other words, the exact level of education you need might depends on the nature of the particular job you want as well as your long-term goals.
In some of the STEM fields below, a master's degree is required for entry-level work. In others, it's possible to find a job with a bachelor's degree, but employers tend to look for a master's degree. And many of the occupations that require a master's degree offer even more opportunities for workers with PhDs. (You often need a PhD in order to do independent research.)
Earning a master's degree can take about one to two years beyond the time it takes to get your bachelor's. (But many students require more time.) When it comes to earning a PhD, it's difficult to put a timeline on it, since it's very dependent on how your research, writing, or other projects progress. But many graduate students spend four to eight years completing their PhDs.
With additional training, salaries rise. And as a group, careers that require a master's degree are the fastest-growing occupations when ranked in terms of educational requirements.
But many people pursue graduate degrees because they want the opportunity to specialize in a field that interests them or to do in-depth research. So if you want to dive really deep into a particular subject, then graduate-level STEM degrees offer many rewards beyond high salaries and good job prospects.
1. Physicist or astronomer
Astronomers study outer space, including the stars that we can see and the vast universe beyond them. In contrast, physicists study the interactions between matter and energy, often at a molecular level. So why are these two careers—one looking from a huge distance and the other focused on tiny things—often grouped together? Simply put, astronomers use the principles of physics to study space. That connection puts both physicist and astronomer at the top of the STEM careers list for students who have an interest in space.
Many physics and astronomy positions, particularly research-oriented jobs, require a PhD. But it's possible to get entry-level work in the government with a bachelor's degree. At the graduate level, most students specialize in a specific area such as particle physics or astrobiology (the study of life in the universe).
- Median annual wage: $143K (for physicists); $128K (for astronomers)
- Projected job growth: 5 percent
2. Computer research scientist
Do you like learning new technology and staying on top of evolving trends in the computer world? Ever wondered where revolutionary developments like a new programming language originate? Computer research scientists are the leaders in our quest for new technology. They strive to make computers (and computerized tools such as robots) more efficient. Instead of basic programming, these scientists work with complex theories in order to simplify technical tasks. Most people in this career have a master's degree, but it's possible to get started with a bachelor's degree.
- Median annual wage: $137K
- Projected job growth: 23 percent
3. Mathematician or statistician
It's no secret that the Internet has produced vast amounts of data. (How much? By 2025, it's estimated that 181 zettabytes of data will be created every second for every person on Earth.)
Organizations need mathematicians to analyze all of that data in order to guide planning and business decisions. And that's just one career possibility. Mathematicians and statisticians can also apply their expertise in other areas, such as psychology, marketing, or sports. Biostatisticians specialize in medical statistics.
Working as a statistician typically requires a master's degree with a focus on statistics (although some statisticians study other subjects such as economics or computer science). In general, a strong background in computers is essential.
- Median annual wage: $112K for mathematicians; $99K for statisticians
- Projected job growth: 30 percent
4. Biochemist or biophysicist
Biochemists and biophysicists research the processes underlying all life, often at the molecular level. Biochemists focus on chemical processes, while biophysicists focus on physical dynamics. But the two fields do overlap. Much of the work in these careers is aimed at advancing medical treatments and our understanding of disease. New advances in genetics are leading to exciting work for these scientists. To be involved in research, you usually need a PhD.
- Median annual wage: $104K
- Projected job growth: 7 percent
5. Medical scientist
Imagine discovering a cure for cancer. Or a way to prevent multiple sclerosis. Those are the types of goals that medical scientists work to achieve. They perform studies, tests, and research on health problems through activities like lab work or clinical trials. The increasing demand for medical scientists is being driven by factors such as exciting new discoveries and the aging population. Most medical scientists have a PhD in one of the life sciences such as biology, and some have medical degrees.
- Median annual wage: $100K
- Projected job growth: 10 percent
6. Genetic counselor
This is one of the top STEM careers for women. Recent years have seen dramatic developments in our ability to perform genetic testing. But these tests also carry emotional risks and sometimes involve hard decisions. Genetic counselors help patients navigate this new territory. They need a strong background in genetics and biology as well as empathetic counseling skills. To work in this field, you often need a master's degree in genetics or genetic counseling, and some states require passing a certification exam.
- Median annual wage: $90K
- Projected job growth: 16 percent
7. Psychologist
Psychology might not seem like an obvious STEM job, but the American Psychological Association (APA) points to the field's impact on scientific and technological innovations, as well as the importance of understanding human behavior when designing and implementing technology.
Some fields of psychology, such as neuropsychology or developmental psychology, involve interesting research to determine why people behave the way they do. So psychologists in those fields can spend time in a lab instead of talking to patients. Most psychologists have a PhD or a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) degree, although some positions are available to people with master's degrees. You also need to be licensed in order to call yourself a psychologist.
- Median annual wage: $85K
- Projected job growth: 6 percent
8. Epidemiologist
How does a specific virus spread? What factors contribute to autoimmune disorders? How can we reduce falls in the elderly? Epidemiologists investigate these questions and more. They monitor trends in public health and look for solutions. In addition to evaluating patterns related to disease and disability, epidemiologists work to educate the public about staying healthy, so good communication skills are important. Many epidemiologists have a master's degree in public health, while others have a medical degree and a degree in epidemiology.
- Median annual wage: $79K
- Projected job growth: 27 percent
9. Zoologist or wildlife biologist
Do you think animals make the best coworkers? Zoologists and wildlife biologists study animals of all kinds. (Despite the name, zoologists usually study animals in their natural habitats. Zookeepers are the people who work with animals in zoos.) Zoologists tend to specialize in one type of animal, while wildlife biologists study a particular environment and the animals that live there. Wildlife biologists can also focus on protecting species of animals from extinction or threats. Entry-level work in both fields is possible with a bachelor's degree, but for research or scientific work, you need at least a master's degree.
- Median annual wage: $67K
- Projected job growth: 3 percent
Now's the Time to Start Pursuing an Exciting STEM Career
As you've just seen, the world of STEM is filled with great careers at every degree level. So why not get going in one of these satisfying fields? The career-focused training available from vocational colleges and technical institutes can help you get started in all kinds of cool STEM careers. Just enter your zip code into the following search tool to start discovering convenient programs near you!
* Bureau of Labor Statistics, updated with 2023 data.
