STEM degrees continue to attract students who want strong career opportunities, competitive salaries, and skills that can be applied across multiple industries.
STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. The category includes everything from computer science and artificial intelligence to engineering, mathematics, biotechnology, and data science.
For students choosing a university major in 2027, STEM can be particularly attractive because many STEM occupations are connected to technology, healthcare, energy, manufacturing, finance, research, and other industries that require specialized skills.
For international students, STEM degrees can have an additional advantage in countries such as the United States and Canada because some programs may provide access to post-graduation work opportunities or immigration pathways, depending on current regulations.
However, not every STEM degree leads to a six-figure salary.
The highest-paying careers are usually associated with a combination of specialized education, technical skills, industry demand, experience, and geographic location.
This guide explores the highest-paying STEM degrees in 2027, the careers they can lead to, salary potential, employment opportunities, and what students should consider before choosing a STEM major.
Important: Salary ranges vary significantly by occupation, location, experience, employer, and education level. The figures discussed below are general market ranges rather than guaranteed starting salaries.
What Are STEM Degrees?
STEM degrees are academic programs focused on:
- Science
- Technology
- Engineering
- Mathematics
Examples include:
Science
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Biochemistry
- Environmental Science
Technology
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Data Science
- Artificial Intelligence
- Cybersecurity
Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
- Civil Engineering
Mathematics
- Mathematics
- Statistics
- Actuarial Science
- Applied Mathematics
STEM programs typically emphasize analytical thinking, quantitative reasoning, experimentation, programming, engineering design, or technical problem-solving.
Highest-Paying STEM Degrees in 2027
The following degrees are among the strongest options for students targeting high-paying STEM careers:
- Computer Science
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Software Engineering
- Data Science
- Computer Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Petroleum Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
- Cybersecurity
- Mathematics
- Statistics
- Actuarial Science
- Biomedical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Physics
- Biotechnology
- Materials Science
- Environmental Engineering
- Civil Engineering
Let’s examine the major options.
1. Computer Science
Computer Science is one of the most versatile and potentially lucrative STEM degrees.
Students learn concepts such as:
- Programming
- Algorithms
- Data structures
- Databases
- Computer architecture
- Artificial intelligence
- Operating systems
- Software development
Graduates can pursue careers including:
- Software Engineer
- Software Developer
- Data Engineer
- Cloud Engineer
- Machine Learning Engineer
- Systems Engineer
- Solutions Architect
Why Computer Science Pays Well
Computer science graduates can work across virtually every industry.
Technology companies need software engineers.
Banks need technology professionals.
Healthcare organizations need digital systems.
Retailers need e-commerce platforms.
Manufacturers need automation.
This creates a broad employment market.
Experienced software engineers and specialized technology professionals can earn very high compensation, particularly in major technology markets.
2. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Artificial intelligence is one of the most rapidly developing areas of STEM.
AI degrees can prepare students for careers involving:
- Machine learning
- Deep learning
- Natural language processing
- Computer vision
- Generative AI
- Robotics
- AI research
Potential careers include:
- Machine Learning Engineer
- AI Engineer
- Applied Scientist
- Research Scientist
- Computer Vision Engineer
- NLP Engineer
- AI Researcher
AI professionals with strong programming, statistics, mathematics, and research skills can be highly competitive.
3. Software Engineering
Software Engineering focuses on building reliable software systems.
Students learn:
- Software architecture
- Programming
- Databases
- Testing
- DevOps
- Cloud computing
- Systems design
Potential careers include:
- Software Engineer
- Backend Engineer
- Frontend Engineer
- Full-Stack Engineer
- Mobile Developer
- DevOps Engineer
- Platform Engineer
Software engineering is particularly attractive because skills can transfer between industries.
4. Data Science
Data Science combines:
Statistics + Programming + Machine Learning + Business Analytics
Data scientists analyze large datasets to help organizations make decisions.
Potential careers include:
- Data Scientist
- Data Analyst
- Machine Learning Scientist
- Data Engineer
- Business Intelligence Analyst
- Quantitative Analyst
Important skills include:
- Python
- SQL
- R
- Statistics
- Machine learning
- Data visualization
- Cloud platforms
The combination of technical and analytical skills can make data science graduates competitive in many industries.
5. Computer Engineering
Computer Engineering combines elements of electrical engineering and computer science.
Students may study:
- Hardware
- Embedded systems
- Digital systems
- Computer architecture
- Electronics
- Programming
- Robotics
Career options include:
- Computer Engineer
- Hardware Engineer
- Embedded Systems Engineer
- Systems Engineer
- Robotics Engineer
- Semiconductor Engineer
Computer engineering can be particularly valuable as demand increases for AI hardware, robotics, semiconductor technology, and high-performance computing.
6. Electrical Engineering
Electrical engineering is a broad STEM discipline covering:
- Electronics
- Power systems
- Telecommunications
- Control systems
- Signal processing
- Automation
Potential careers include:
- Electrical Engineer
- Electronics Engineer
- Controls Engineer
- Power Engineer
- Telecommunications Engineer
- Semiconductor Engineer
Electrical engineering professionals work in technology, energy, manufacturing, transportation, aerospace, and other industries.
7. Petroleum Engineering
Petroleum engineering has historically been associated with high salaries.
Professionals work on:
- Oil extraction
- Reservoir management
- Drilling
- Production
- Energy systems
Potential roles include:
- Petroleum Engineer
- Drilling Engineer
- Reservoir Engineer
- Production Engineer
However, students should consider long-term energy trends and industry volatility before choosing this degree purely for salary.
8. Chemical Engineering
Chemical engineering combines chemistry, physics, mathematics, and engineering.
Graduates can work in:
- Pharmaceuticals
- Chemicals
- Energy
- Manufacturing
- Biotechnology
- Food production
- Materials
Potential careers include:
- Chemical Engineer
- Process Engineer
- Manufacturing Engineer
- Process Safety Engineer
- Quality Engineer
9. Aerospace Engineering
Aerospace engineering focuses on aircraft, spacecraft, propulsion, and related systems.
Students can specialize in:
- Aerodynamics
- Propulsion
- Avionics
- Flight systems
- Spacecraft
- Autonomous systems
Potential careers include:
- Aerospace Engineer
- Systems Engineer
- Propulsion Engineer
- Flight Engineer
- Aerospace Systems Analyst
Some aerospace and defense positions have citizenship or security restrictions, which international students should investigate before choosing this career path.
10. Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity has become one of the most important technology disciplines.
Cybersecurity professionals protect organizations against:
- Cyberattacks
- Data breaches
- Malware
- Identity theft
- Network intrusions
- Ransomware
Potential careers include:
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Security Engineer
- Security Architect
- Penetration Tester
- Cloud Security Engineer
- Incident Response Specialist
Cybersecurity skills are needed in financial services, healthcare, government, technology, energy, and virtually every digital industry.
11. Mathematics
A mathematics degree can lead to more careers than many students realize.
Graduates can enter:
- Data science
- Finance
- Artificial intelligence
- Actuarial science
- Research
- Education
- Technology
Potential roles include:
- Quantitative Analyst
- Data Scientist
- Statistician
- Actuary
- Research Analyst
- Mathematician
Students can increase their career options by combining mathematics with programming and statistics.
12. Statistics
Statistics is particularly valuable in a data-driven economy.
Students learn:
- Probability
- Statistical modeling
- Regression
- Experimental design
- Data analysis
- Statistical computing
Potential careers include:
- Statistician
- Data Scientist
- Biostatistician
- Quantitative Analyst
- Risk Analyst
- Research Scientist
Statistics is also an excellent foundation for graduate study in data science and machine learning.
13. Actuarial Science
Actuarial science combines mathematics, statistics, economics, and finance.
Actuaries analyze financial risk for:
- Insurance companies
- Pension organizations
- Financial institutions
- Consulting firms
Potential careers include:
- Actuarial Analyst
- Actuary
- Risk Analyst
- Insurance Consultant
Professional examinations are an important part of advancing in the actuarial profession.
14. Biomedical Engineering
Biomedical engineering combines engineering with medicine and biology.
Students may work on:
- Medical devices
- Prosthetics
- Biomaterials
- Medical imaging
- Biomedical systems
Potential careers include:
- Biomedical Engineer
- Medical Device Engineer
- Clinical Engineer
- Research Scientist
- Biomaterials Engineer
The field can be particularly attractive for students who want to combine healthcare and engineering.
15. Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical engineering remains one of the broadest engineering degrees.
Students learn about:
- Mechanics
- Thermodynamics
- Materials
- Manufacturing
- Robotics
- Design
Potential careers include:
- Mechanical Engineer
- Design Engineer
- Manufacturing Engineer
- Robotics Engineer
- Product Engineer
Graduates can work in automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, energy, robotics, and medical technology.
16. Physics
Physics develops strong quantitative and analytical skills.
Graduates can enter careers in:
- Engineering
- Data science
- Technology
- Research
- Energy
- Finance
Potential careers include:
- Physicist
- Research Scientist
- Data Scientist
- Quantitative Analyst
- Engineering Specialist
Advanced research positions often require a master’s degree or PhD.
17. Biotechnology
Biotechnology combines biology, chemistry, technology, and research.
Potential industries include:
- Pharmaceuticals
- Healthcare
- Agriculture
- Food science
- Genetics
- Biomedical research
Potential careers include:
- Biotechnologist
- Research Scientist
- Laboratory Scientist
- Bioprocess Engineer
- Bioinformatics Scientist
Students interested in biotechnology should understand that some of the highest-level research careers require graduate education.
18. Materials Science and Engineering
Materials scientists develop and study materials used in:
- Electronics
- Aerospace
- Energy
- Manufacturing
- Medical devices
- Construction
Potential careers include:
- Materials Engineer
- Materials Scientist
- Process Engineer
- Research Scientist
Materials science is increasingly important in areas such as batteries, semiconductors, advanced manufacturing, and renewable energy.
19. Environmental Engineering
Environmental engineering combines engineering principles with environmental protection.
Graduates can work on:
- Water treatment
- Waste management
- Pollution control
- Sustainability
- Environmental compliance
- Renewable energy
Potential roles include:
- Environmental Engineer
- Sustainability Engineer
- Water Resources Engineer
- Environmental Consultant
20. Civil Engineering
Civil engineering focuses on infrastructure.
Graduates work in:
- Construction
- Transportation
- Structural engineering
- Water systems
- Infrastructure
- Urban development
Potential careers include:
- Civil Engineer
- Structural Engineer
- Transportation Engineer
- Construction Engineer
- Project Engineer
Civil engineering may not have the same salary ceiling as some technology fields, but it can offer broad and relatively stable career opportunities.
Highest-Paying STEM Degrees: Comparison
| STEM Degree | Salary Potential | Career Flexibility | Common Careers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science | Very High | Very High | Software Engineer |
| Artificial Intelligence | Very High | High | AI Engineer |
| Software Engineering | Very High | Very High | Software Engineer |
| Data Science | Very High | Very High | Data Scientist |
| Computer Engineering | Very High | High | Computer Engineer |
| Electrical Engineering | High | Very High | Electrical Engineer |
| Cybersecurity | High | Very High | Security Engineer |
| Petroleum Engineering | High | Moderate | Petroleum Engineer |
| Chemical Engineering | High | High | Chemical Engineer |
| Aerospace Engineering | High | Moderate | Aerospace Engineer |
| Mathematics | High | High | Quantitative Analyst |
| Statistics | High | High | Statistician |
| Actuarial Science | High | Moderate | Actuary |
| Mechanical Engineering | High | Very High | Mechanical Engineer |
| Biomedical Engineering | High | Moderate | Biomedical Engineer |
| Physics | High | High | Physicist |
| Materials Science | High | Moderate | Materials Engineer |
| Biotechnology | Moderate–High | Moderate | Research Scientist |
| Environmental Engineering | Moderate–High | High | Environmental Engineer |
| Civil Engineering | Moderate–High | Very High | Civil Engineer |
Which STEM Degree Has the Highest Salary?
There is no single STEM degree that guarantees the highest salary.
Compensation depends heavily on the occupation you enter after graduation.
For example, a computer science graduate could become a software engineer, data scientist, or technology consultant.
A mathematics graduate could become a teacher or quantitative analyst.
The degree alone does not determine income.
Occupation + experience + skills + industry + location often have a greater impact on earnings.
Best STEM Degrees for Six-Figure Careers
Students targeting careers with strong six-figure earning potential may want to investigate:
Technology
- Computer Science
- AI
- Software Engineering
- Data Science
- Cybersecurity
Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
Quantitative Fields
- Mathematics
- Statistics
- Actuarial Science
Specialized Fields
- Petroleum Engineering
- Certain biomedical and biotechnology careers
A six-figure salary is not guaranteed immediately after graduation, but these fields can provide strong long-term earning potential.
Best STEM Degrees for International Students
International students should evaluate STEM degrees differently from domestic students.
In addition to salary, consider:
- Post-graduation work authorization
- Employer sponsorship
- Immigration pathways
- Demand for international graduates
- Professional licensing
- Cost of education
- Geographic mobility
In the United States, certain STEM-designated programs can potentially provide access to the 24-month STEM OPT extension after the initial period of post-completion OPT, provided the student and employer satisfy the applicable requirements.
This can make STEM degrees particularly attractive to F-1 international students.
However, not every program with a STEM-sounding name qualifies. Students should verify the program’s official CIP code and STEM designation with their university.
Best STEM Degrees for Jobs
If your priority is employment flexibility, consider degrees that can be applied across many industries.
Computer Science
Technology, healthcare, finance, retail, government and consulting.
Electrical Engineering
Energy, telecommunications, manufacturing, automotive and technology.
Mechanical Engineering
Manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, robotics and energy.
Data Science
Finance, healthcare, technology, marketing and operations.
Cybersecurity
Banking, government, healthcare, technology and energy.
Best STEM Degrees for Remote Jobs
Some STEM careers are particularly compatible with remote or hybrid work.
These include:
- Software Engineering
- Data Science
- Cybersecurity
- Cloud Computing
- Data Analytics
- Machine Learning
- Software Development
Engineering and laboratory-based careers generally require more physical presence.
Remote work availability depends heavily on the employer and position.
Best STEM Degrees for Entrepreneurship
Some STEM degrees also provide opportunities to build technology companies.
Computer Science
Software startups, SaaS, mobile applications and AI products.
AI
AI platforms, automation tools and machine learning products.
Biomedical Engineering
Medical devices and healthcare technology.
Biotechnology
Biotech products and research companies.
Electrical Engineering
Hardware, robotics and electronics startups.
Data Science
Analytics platforms and AI-driven business products.
STEM Degrees With the Best Career Flexibility
If you’re uncertain about your exact career path, consider a degree that can lead to multiple occupations.
Computer Science
Can lead to:
Software → AI → Data → Cloud → Cybersecurity
Mathematics
Can lead to:
Finance → Data → AI → Statistics → Research
Electrical Engineering
Can lead to:
Electronics → Energy → Robotics → Telecommunications → Automation
Mechanical Engineering
Can lead to:
Manufacturing → Automotive → Aerospace → Robotics → Energy
Career flexibility can be particularly valuable because labour-market conditions can change over time.
How to Choose the Best STEM Degree
Don’t choose a degree based solely on salary rankings.
Instead, evaluate these seven factors.
1. Your Interests
Do you enjoy programming?
Do you enjoy mathematics?
Do you prefer laboratory work?
Do you enjoy designing physical systems?
2. Your Strengths
STEM fields can require strong quantitative and analytical abilities.
3. Job Demand
Research the occupations associated with the degree.
4. Salary
Compare entry-level and experienced compensation.
5. Education Cost
Calculate tuition plus living expenses.
6. Career Flexibility
Consider how many different occupations the degree can lead to.
7. Immigration or Work Authorization
International students should understand post-graduation work options before enrolling.
STEM Degree vs. Non-STEM Degree
A STEM degree isn’t automatically better than a non-STEM degree.
A STEM degree may provide:
- Technical skills
- Quantitative training
- Access to technical careers
- Strong salary potential
- STEM OPT eligibility in qualifying U.S. programs
But non-STEM fields can also lead to excellent careers.
The best degree depends on your individual goals.
How to Increase Your Earning Potential With a STEM Degree
Your degree provides the foundation, but employers often want evidence that you can apply what you’ve learned.
Complete Internships
Gain real-world experience before graduation.
Build Projects
Create a portfolio demonstrating your technical abilities.
Learn Industry Tools
For example:
Data Science: Python, SQL, R, Power BI
Software: Java, Python, JavaScript, Git, cloud platforms
Cybersecurity: SIEM, networking, cloud security
Engineering: CAD, MATLAB, simulation tools
Develop Communication Skills
Technical professionals still need to communicate effectively.
Network
Connect with employers, alumni, professors, and industry professionals.
Consider Graduate School
Some research-intensive or specialized STEM careers require advanced education.
Common Mistakes When Choosing a STEM Degree
Choosing Based Only on Salary
A high salary won’t help if you dislike the work.
Ignoring Competition
Some high-paying STEM careers attract enormous numbers of applicants.
Assuming Every STEM Degree Is the Same
Computer science and biology, for example, can have very different career pathways.
Ignoring Practical Experience
A degree without experience can make entering competitive industries harder.
Ignoring Immigration Rules
International students should understand work authorization before committing to a program.
Assuming a STEM Degree Guarantees a Job
STEM designation does not guarantee employment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest-paying STEM degree in 2027?
Computer science, artificial intelligence, software engineering, data science, computer engineering, and certain engineering and quantitative degrees can lead to some of the highest-paying STEM careers.
Which STEM degree is best for jobs?
Computer science, software engineering, data science, cybersecurity, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering offer broad career applications.
Which STEM degree is best for international students?
Technology and engineering programs can be particularly attractive because many qualify as STEM fields, but students should verify the specific program’s classification and consider employer sponsorship and work authorization.
Which STEM degree is best for the future?
AI, computer science, data science, cybersecurity, robotics, semiconductor engineering, and other technology-intensive fields have strong long-term potential, although no career is guaranteed.
Can a STEM degree lead to a six-figure salary?
Yes, some STEM occupations can reach six-figure compensation, particularly with experience and specialization. However, salary depends on occupation, employer, industry, and location.
Is STEM worth it in 2027?
For many students, yes. STEM can provide strong technical skills and access to high-demand careers. However, students should choose a STEM field that matches their abilities and career goals rather than pursuing it solely because of salary.
Final Thoughts
The highest-paying STEM degrees in 2027 are likely to remain concentrated in areas where advanced technical skills are highly valuable.
Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and other specialized engineering fields can provide excellent career opportunities.
But the degree itself is only the starting point.
Your earning potential will depend on what you do with it.
A student who graduates with a STEM degree, completes internships, builds technical skills, develops a strong professional network, and gains relevant work experience can be much more competitive than someone who simply has the degree.
For international students, the decision requires another layer of planning. Consider work authorization, STEM classification, employer sponsorship, post-graduation opportunities, and long-term immigration goals alongside salary and career demand.
Ultimately, the best STEM degree is not necessarily the one at the top of a salary ranking.
It is the degree that gives you the strongest combination of earning potential, employment opportunities, career flexibility, personal aptitude, and long-term professional growth.