5 Great STEM Career Paths in 2023 was originally published on Firsthand.
If you’re looking to get into a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) career, now’s the time. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) states that the demand for jobs in STEM fields is expected to grow at a rapid pace between now and 2031, and you know what that means—more opportunities! Here are some of the best STEM careers to pursue in 2023.
Data Scientist
Not just a clever name, data scientists own the responsibility of gathering and meticulously examining data sets. Their day-to-day consists of analyzing data, identifying patterns, performing research, and testing, among many other things. Individuals who are interested in analytics and data, and who have strength in statistics and coding make great data scientists.
The prerequisite for becoming a data scientist includes a bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics, or other related fields; however, certain employers may require a master’s degree or even a doctorate degree. As a data scientist, you can expect to make anywhere from $100,000 to $130,000 per year.
Biochemist
What happens when you take biology and chemistry and mix them together? Why, it’s biochemistry! If you’ve got an interest in the above-mentioned sciences, then this role might be perfect for you. Here, you’ll be studying the physical and chemical makeup of all different kinds of organisms, along with various biological processes including cell growth, disease, hereditary factors, and more.
If you’re looking to get into biochemistry, you’ll need to get after a bachelor’s degree in…wait for it…biochemistry, chemistry, or any number of related fields. Certain positions might require a doctorate if you’re getting into some super serious independent research, so keep that in mind as well. This job commands an annual salary ranging from $100,000 to $134,000.
Software Developer
If you’re a hardcore gamer and you’ve built your own sweet, high-powered computer, or even if you just love technology and computers in general, software development might interest you. In this role, you’ll be designing and developing software applications, while also performing maintenance and providing updates. The demand for this job is expected to grow a whopping 26% by 2031, a rate that far exceeds most other occupations.
If this seems like your jam, you’ll need to get yourself a bachelor’s degree in computer and information technology, or, as always, another related field. As a software developer you’ll be swimming in dough just like Scrooge McDuck, making anywhere between $120,000 to $146,000 per year—capital!
Information Security Analyst
The demand for information security is growing at a rapid pace, which makes this career path a no-brainer if you’re into computers and technology. Here, you’ll be responsible for developing and implementing information security measures, as well as identifying any potential threats. The best part about this job is most companies are looking to modernize their digital security capabilities, so finding work shouldn’t be a problem.
For this role, you’ll be required to possess a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or any of those good old related fields. Information security analysts can expect to make anywhere between $102,000 and $135,000 per year, depending on factors such as where you live, or your level of experience.
Operation Research Analyst
Are you a mathematics enthusiast? Do you love solving problems and consider yourself a math-a-magician? Then this one is right up your alley. Operation research analysts perform the task of developing complex mathematical models and applying them to solve any number of problems. Like the other entries on this list, demand is expected to grow rapidly over the next ten years.
Most often, operation research analysts require a bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics, or in any other related field. In certain scenarios, an employer might prefer a master’s degree, so keep that in mind as you navigate your studies. Those working in this field earn a very respectable salary of anywhere between $82,000 to $117,000 per year.
There are many career paths in the STEM field, most of which will be viable long into the future. As demand continues to grow, more new and exciting opportunities will become available. Doing what you love is extremely important to a happy and fulfilling life, so don’t sleep on these great careers if you’re interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
