The rising tide of STEM: Why more students are choosing to study STEM overseas

There are many reasons why students choose to study STEM overseas. Here are the top benefits of studying STEM:

1. Access to world-class institutions

Studying at renowned institutions, whether it’s one of the top universities in the UK or a top American university, provides access to cutting-edge courses, state-of-the-art laboratories, and leading researchers in various STEM fields.

This environment is not only intellectually stimulating but also incredibly inspiring, offering students a highly motivational atmosphere that fuels their passion for discovery and innovation. Plus, it offers unparalleled opportunities to network with future leaders and innovators.

2. Specialised programs and research opportunities

International students can engage in niche programmes and research, gaining invaluable practical experience and contributing to advancements in their respective fields. For instance, the University of California, Berkeley has a joint program in Computational Precision Health (CPH). This is a new graduate training and research program that applies computation in real-world settings to improve the quality, efficiency, and equity of medicine and public health. This specialised access is why more students want to study STEM.

3. Funding opportunities

While studying overseas can be a significant investment, there are numerous funding opportunities and scholarships available for STEM students in the UK, US, Australia, and many other countries. For example, at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, one of the top American universities, there are specific course-related aid packages available for everything from mechanical engineering to biology, ensuring that talented students from around the world can access their programs. These help to reduce the financial burden of pursuing advanced degrees abroad.

A STEM education opens diverse and in-demand career paths across a multitude of industries. Here are the key benefits STEM graduates can look forward to:

1. High job demand

STEM graduates are highly sought after across industries, from technology and healthcare to finance and manufacturing. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, STEM jobs are projected to grow 10.4% between 2023 and 2033, significantly outpacing non-STEM job growth. This demand also means that there will be excellent job security and competitive salaries for those with an education in STEM.

2. Opportunities to break into emerging fields

An education in STEM offers the chance to be among the first to explore and develop entirely new sectors, making them ideal for those who are driven by curiosity and a desire to pioneer future technologies. In recent years, careers in areas like artificial intelligence, data science, and renewable energy have rapidly expanded, creating a wealth of specialised roles for individuals with strong STEM backgrounds. These fields offer innovative and impactful opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge technologies and sustainable solutions.

3. Global careers

International experience enhances global career prospects, providing students with a competitive edge and more opportunities in the international job market. Young adults with bachelor’s or higher degrees in STEM tend to have more positive economic outcomes, such as higher median earnings, than do those with degrees in non-STEM fields, according to the US National Center on Educational Statistics. This highlights the long-term economic benefits and global recognition associated with a STEM education acquired overseas.

Pursuing STEM education internationally offers many advantages beyond academic and professional development. Firstly, having a STEM education means you'll equip yourself with critical skills for future careers, including problem-solving, analytical thinking, and adaptability, which are highly valued by employers across industries.

Secondly, international study can help you develop cultural awareness and global perspectives, preparing you to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.

Whether you're looking to study in the UK, Canada, or the US, STEM opens doors to a world of innovation and global impact. If you are considering an education in STEM, you can start by researching courses and countries to find the best fit for your academic goals and career path.

Help is available for free to guide you through your decision. A global leader in student placement services, IDP provides expert study abroad consultants who can walk you through your program selection and the university application process. They’ll also offer advice on how you can prepare for or even fund your overseas education. Book a counselling session with IDP's study abroad consultants today to kickstart your international STEM journey.