STEM degrees remain among the strongest academic choices for students planning to study and build careers in the United States. Demand for workers with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics skills continues to increase as businesses adopt artificial intelligence, expand cybersecurity systems, invest in advanced manufacturing, develop new technologies, and rely more heavily on data.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in STEM occupations is projected to grow by 8.1% between 2024 and 2034, compared with 3.1% for all occupations. STEM occupations also had a median annual wage of $103,580 in 2024, more than twice the median wage for all occupations.

The strongest demand is concentrated in areas such as computing, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data analysis, engineering, and advanced manufacturing. Computer and mathematical occupations alone are projected to grow by 10.1% from 2024 to 2034, making them the fastest-growing major STEM occupational group after the broader healthcare-related groups are considered. BLS attributes much of this growth to continued demand for AI solutions, data analysis, and the integration of technology into business operations.

For students, however, choosing a degree based solely on the number of jobs available can be misleading. The strongest option is usually a degree that combines current employer demand, projected job growth, a broad range of career opportunities, and skills that can be applied across industries.

The following are among the most in-demand STEM degree fields for students in the USA.

1. Computer Science

Computer science is one of the most in-demand STEM degree fields in the United States because virtually every major industry now depends on software, computing infrastructure, and digital systems.

A computer science degree can lead to careers in software development, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, systems analysis, machine learning, technology consulting, and computer research.

Software developers are particularly important to the U.S. technology labor market. BLS projects employment for software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers to grow by 15% from 2024 to 2034, with approximately 129,200 openings each year across the occupation. Software developers alone are projected to account for about 267,700 additional jobs over the decade.

Computer systems analysts are also projected to grow by 9%, with approximately 34,200 openings annually. These professionals help organizations design and implement technology systems as businesses continue to expand their use of IT and artificial intelligence.

Computer science therefore remains one of the most versatile STEM degrees for students who want access to a wide range of technology careers.

Potential careers with a computer science degree

• Software developer
• Artificial intelligence engineer
• Machine learning engineer
• Systems analyst
• Cloud engineer
• Software quality assurance analyst
• Technology consultant
• Computer and information research scientist

Computer science is also particularly relevant to international students because many technology-related programs qualify as STEM programs, although students should always verify the specific CIP code of their program when considering STEM OPT eligibility.

2. Data Science and Analytics

The amount of data generated by businesses, governments, healthcare organizations, financial institutions, and technology companies continues to increase. As a result, professionals who can collect, analyze, interpret, and use large datasets are increasingly valuable.

Data science is one of the fastest-growing STEM career areas in the United States. BLS projects employment of data scientists to increase by 33.5% between 2024 and 2034, from approximately 245,900 jobs to 328,300. That represents an increase of about 82,500 jobs.

Data scientists had a median annual wage of $112,590 in 2024, although the importance of this degree for students seeking employment is its combination of strong demand and cross-industry applicability rather than salary alone.

Data science graduates can work in industries such as:

• Technology
• Finance
• Healthcare
• Retail
• Manufacturing
• Consulting
• Government
• Telecommunications

A degree in data science, statistics, mathematics, computer science, or a closely related field can provide pathways into this growing area.

3. Cybersecurity

As organizations become increasingly dependent on digital infrastructure, protecting computer systems, networks, and sensitive information has become a major business priority.

Cybersecurity is therefore one of the most in-demand areas within the broader computer and information technology field.

BLS projects employment of information security analysts to grow by 28.5% between 2024 and 2034, adding approximately 52,100 jobs. About 16,000 openings are projected each year.

The demand is being driven partly by the increasing frequency and severity of cyberattacks and data breaches affecting businesses and other organizations.

Students interested in cybersecurity may study:

• Cybersecurity
• Information security
• Computer science
• Information technology
• Network security
• Computer engineering

Potential careers

• Information security analyst
• Cybersecurity analyst
• Security engineer
• Network security specialist
• Security consultant
• Penetration tester
• Security architect

For students who want a technology career but prefer security and risk management over software development, cybersecurity can be a particularly strong specialization.

4. Electrical and Electronics Engineering

Electrical and electronics engineering remains highly relevant as the United States expands its use of semiconductors, advanced electronics, communications technology, renewable energy systems, automation, and other technologies.

BLS projects employment of electrical and electronics engineers to grow by 7% from 2024 to 2034, with approximately 17,500 openings annually.

Demand is expected to be supported by the development of sophisticated consumer electronics, solar arrays, semiconductors, and communications technologies.

Electrical engineering can therefore provide access to several rapidly developing industries rather than limiting graduates to traditional electrical utilities.

Potential careers

• Electrical engineer
• Electronics engineer
• Semiconductor engineer
• Hardware engineer
• Controls engineer
• Telecommunications engineer
• Power systems engineer
• Renewable energy engineer

The degree can be particularly valuable for students interested in the intersection of hardware, software, energy, automation, and communications.

5. Industrial Engineering

Industrial engineering is becoming increasingly important as U.S. businesses look for ways to improve efficiency, automate processes, reduce costs, and optimize supply chains.

BLS projects employment of industrial engineers to grow by 11% between 2024 and 2034, significantly faster than the 3% average for all occupations. Approximately 25,200 openings are projected each year.

The growth is connected to increasing demand for industrial engineers in manufacturing, consulting, engineering services, and research and development. Their expertise is also relevant to supply-chain management, logistics, automation, and production optimization.

Industrial engineering can therefore be a strong choice for students who want an engineering degree without restricting themselves to one technical industry.

Potential careers

• Industrial engineer
• Manufacturing engineer
• Process engineer
• Supply chain analyst
• Operations analyst
• Quality engineer
• Automation specialist

6. Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical engineering remains one of the broadest engineering disciplines and continues to have strong demand across manufacturing, engineering services, energy, robotics, automotive technology, medical devices, and automation.

Employment of mechanical engineers is projected to grow by 9% from 2024 to 2034, compared with 3% for all occupations. BLS projects approximately 18,100 openings each year.

The continued adoption of automation and increasingly complex manufacturing equipment is expected to support demand for mechanical engineers.

Mechanical engineering graduates can work on everything from machines and industrial equipment to medical devices, batteries, robotics, and thermal systems.

Potential careers

• Mechanical engineer
• Robotics engineer
• Manufacturing engineer
• Automotive engineer
• Product development engineer
• Mechatronics engineer
• Energy systems engineer

Its broad applications make mechanical engineering one of the more adaptable engineering degrees for students who want flexibility across industries.

7. Mathematics and Statistics

Mathematics and statistics have become increasingly important as organizations rely on quantitative analysis to make decisions.

Statistics is particularly relevant to fields such as artificial intelligence, data science, finance, healthcare research, market research, technology, and government.

BLS projects employment of statisticians to grow by 9% between 2024 and 2034, while the combined mathematicians and statisticians category is projected to grow by 8%. The demand is linked partly to the increasing amount of digitally stored information and the need for organizations to analyze data to improve products, business processes, and decision-making.

Students with mathematics or statistics degrees can move into careers such as:

• Statistician
• Data analyst
• Data scientist
• Actuary
• Quantitative analyst
• Operations research analyst
• Risk analyst
• Research scientist

The degree becomes particularly valuable when combined with programming, data analysis, machine learning, or financial skills.

8. Computer and Information Systems / Information Technology

Computer and information systems-related degrees are also strongly connected to the continued expansion of technology across the U.S. economy.

Organizations increasingly need professionals who can manage information systems, integrate software and hardware, analyze technology requirements, and ensure that business systems operate effectively.

Computer systems analysts, one of the major occupations associated with this field, are projected to grow by 9% between 2024 and 2034, with approximately 34,200 openings each year.

Unlike some highly specialized technology degrees, information systems can combine technical knowledge with business and organizational skills.

Potential careers

• Computer systems analyst
• IT analyst
• Systems administrator
• IT consultant
• Database administrator
• Business systems analyst
• Technology project specialist

This makes information systems particularly suitable for students who want a career that combines technology with business operations.

Most In-Demand STEM Degrees Compared

The table below summarizes several of the strongest STEM degree fields based on the projected demand of occupations commonly associated with each field.

STEM degree field	Example occupation	Projected growth, 2024–34	Key demand indicator
Computer Science	Software developer	15%	~129,200 annual openings across software developers, QA analysts and testers
Data Science	Data scientist	33.5%	~82,500 additional jobs
Cybersecurity	Information security analyst	28.5%	~52,100 additional jobs
Electrical Engineering	Electrical/electronics engineer	7%	~17,500 annual openings
Industrial Engineering	Industrial engineer	11%	~25,200 annual openings
Mechanical Engineering	Mechanical engineer	9%	~18,100 annual openings
Mathematics & Statistics	Statistician	9%	~2,200 annual openings for mathematicians and statisticians combined
Information Systems / IT	Computer systems analyst	9%	~34,200 annual openings

The figures represent occupations rather than degrees themselves. A degree can lead to several occupations with different employment outlooks, and not every graduate enters the occupation most closely associated with the degree.

Why STEM Demand Is Growing in the USA

Several long-term changes are contributing to the growing demand for STEM professionals in the United States.

Artificial intelligence and automation

Businesses are investing heavily in artificial intelligence, machine learning, automation, and other digital technologies. BLS expects continued demand for workers who can develop AI systems, analyze data, and integrate technology into business operations.

This is contributing to strong demand for computer scientists, software developers, data scientists, engineers, and other technology professionals.

Cybersecurity threats

The increasing frequency and severity of cyberattacks and data breaches are creating additional demand for cybersecurity professionals. Organizations need workers capable of protecting networks, systems, applications, and sensitive information.

Advanced manufacturing

Manufacturing is becoming increasingly dependent on automation, robotics, advanced equipment, and data-driven production systems. This creates opportunities for industrial, mechanical, electrical, and other engineering professionals.

Growth of digital data

Businesses are collecting and storing increasingly large quantities of information. Statisticians and data scientists are needed to transform this information into useful insights for business, healthcare, research, and government decision-making.

Expansion of technology across industries

Technology careers are no longer limited to traditional technology companies. Financial institutions, hospitals, manufacturers, retailers, government agencies, transportation companies, and professional services firms all depend on technology and data.

This broad application helps explain why computer and mathematical occupations are projected to grow by 10.1% from 2024 to 2034.

Best In-Demand STEM Degrees for International Students

For international students, demand is particularly important because obtaining a degree does not automatically result in employment after graduation.

A degree connected to a large and growing labor market can provide more opportunities to secure internships, entry-level positions, and longer-term employment.

Among the strongest options are computer science, data science, cybersecurity, electrical engineering, industrial engineering, mechanical engineering, mathematics/statistics, and information systems.

Computer-related degrees stand out because technology skills are required across multiple industries. Engineering degrees can also provide broad opportunities, particularly in manufacturing, energy, electronics, automation, and infrastructure.

Students should also consider whether their specific program qualifies for the STEM OPT extension. Eligible F-1 students who meet the requirements can receive a 24-month extension after their initial post-completion OPT when their degree qualifies under the Department of Homeland Security's STEM Designated Degree Program List. Eligibility depends on the specific degree classification and other requirements, so students should verify their program rather than assuming that every STEM-sounding course qualifies.

How to Choose an In-Demand STEM Degree in the USA

Demand should be an important factor when selecting a degree, but students should evaluate several elements together.

1. Projected employment growth

Look at how quickly employment in the occupation is expected to grow over the next decade. Data scientists and information security analysts, for example, have much faster projected growth than the overall U.S. labor market.

2. Number of annual job openings

Growth percentage does not tell the entire story. A smaller occupation can have a very high growth rate but relatively few total openings.

Software development is a useful example. Its projected growth rate is lower than that of data science, but the occupation is much larger and is expected to generate a substantial number of openings each year.

3. Industry flexibility

Degrees that can be applied across several industries can provide greater career flexibility. Computer science, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and statistics can all be used in multiple sectors.

4. Skills employers are seeking

Students should consider the skills that accompany the degree. Programming, artificial intelligence, data analysis, cybersecurity, cloud computing, automation, and advanced mathematics can strengthen the career value of many STEM programs.

5. International student considerations

International students should research internship opportunities, STEM OPT eligibility, employer sponsorship practices, and any occupation-specific restrictions before selecting a program.

A field may have strong overall U.S. demand while still presenting additional challenges for international graduates in certain industries or positions.

Final Thoughts

The most in-demand STEM degrees in the USA are closely connected to the country's growing reliance on technology, data, automation, cybersecurity, and advanced engineering.

Computer science remains one of the strongest all-around choices because of the size and diversity of the technology labor market. Data science and cybersecurity stand out for exceptionally high projected growth, while industrial, mechanical, and electrical engineering provide strong pathways into manufacturing, automation, energy, electronics, and other technical industries.

Mathematics and statistics are increasingly valuable as organizations rely on data-driven decision-making, while information systems and IT provide opportunities for students who want to combine technology with business operations.

Ultimately, the most in-demand STEM degree is not necessarily the one with the highest percentage growth. Students should consider the combination of job growth, total openings, industry flexibility, earning potential, and post-study employment opportunities.

For international students, selecting a STEM degree that aligns with a growing U.S. labor market can provide a stronger foundation for building a professional career after graduation.