Learn STEM with online courses and programs
STEM careers in the U.S. are growing rapidly, with many fields reporting skill shortages. Learn how to meet industry needs and build a profitable career with online STEM courses and programs on edX.
What is STEM?
STEM is an interdisciplinary approach to learning and education that combines Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). STEM education emphasizes contextualizing information so students understand how these concepts apply to real-world scenarios — an essential part of turning theories into scientific progress.
Research in STEM fields is essential for driving modern scientific innovations. By making STEM more approachable, educators can empower students to solve societal problems and fill essential roles through research and critical thinking.
Why learning STEM matters
- Promotes analytical skills: Hands-on STEM learning can strengthen your critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Encourages scientific progress: By promoting the scientific method, STEM education guides students to develop innovative solutions, such as new medical treatments, that benefit society.
- Develops crucial members of society: Access to high-quality STEM education can encourage students to pursue careers in high-impact fields, such as medicine, engineering, and chemistry.
- Creates a range of high-paying opportunities: STEM subjects encompass a large and profitable sector of the job market, according to the National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics (NCSES), with STEM workers earning about $19,100 per year more than those in non-STEM occupations.
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What do you learn in STEM programs?
STEM programs impart scientific and mathematical knowledge, encompassing subjects built on empirical evidence, from computer science to biology and engineering. These fields rely on evidence, experimentation, and modeling to build and refine knowledge.
A STEM program encourages hands-on experimentation, so these programs often pose problems that students must use their subject knowledge to solve. This often involves conducting experiments or building models to put a concept into practice, such as viewing cells through a microscope or testing mathematical theories for real-life applications.
Many of the skills you'll build in each STEM subject overlap — you need mathematics in engineering, for instance. But you can also develop professional, or "soft," skills in these courses, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and effective communication.
Example courses in STEM subjects
How do you get started in STEM?
Anyone can learn STEM. The best learning pathway for you, however, depends on your prior experience and existing knowledge.
Beginner
A beginner can pursue many paths toward employment in a STEM field. You may start with a single online course or certificate program that eases you back into a STEM-focused learning environment, such as UPValenciaX: Math Fundamentals: Algebra. You may also benefit from earning a bachelor's degree in a STEM subject, such as the University of London's online BSc Mathematics and Economics.
Intermediate
Individuals with a solid understanding of STEM subjects who want to develop deeper expertise can explore master's degrees or MicroMastersⓇ programs. These programs can provide a pathway toward higher-paying STEM jobs that often require a more advanced understanding of the subject.
For example, people who have a bachelor's in computer science can further their education by pursuing Hawai‘i Pacific University's Master of Science in Cybersecurity online.
Advanced
If you're ready to master a subject and qualify for leadership roles in a STEM field, you have many options. You may benefit from earning a doctorate or completing an executive education course, which offers field-specific leadership skills.
For example, earn an Online Doctor of Public Health from the George Washington University or build your AI leadership skills in the Oxford Saïd: Artificial Intelligence Programme.
How to choose the best STEM program for you
Consider the following questions when deciding between STEM programs of study:
- Career goals: What are you interested in?
- Current skills: What level of understanding do you have in that field?
- Desired level of education: What level of education are you hoping to pursue?
- Job market: How much demand is there for someone in that field?
- Economy: What is the earning potential for someone in that field?
Courses
A STEM course takes 1-12 weeks to complete, with costs ranging from around $20-$300.
Courses
A STEM course takes 1-12 weeks to complete, with costs ranging from around $20-$300.