STEM With Certifications

STEM refers to the disciplines of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. As the pace of technology accelerates, the public and private sectors look to the STEM workforce to build innovations that will power society now and into the future.Footnote1

Covering a broad range of disciplines, topics in STEM vary significantly. STEM encompasses everything from biological and physical sciences to computer programming and mechanical engineering. These disciplines may require more vigorous coursework than other educational paths. But pursuing education in STEM subjects can position learners to compete for the jobs of tomorrow and learn valuable, transferable skills, such as critical thinking, creativity, and teamwork. STEM programs can offer an interdisciplinary, hands-on approach to solving problems, making for an immersive and engaging learning experience.

Learn about many different STEM topics, with edX’s catalog of STEM programs, trainings, and courses open to learners of all levels.

Many educational institutions emphasize the interdisciplinary nature of STEM topics and their real-world applications. Instead of teaching an individual discipline like chemistry or computer science in a vacuum, course instructors may now focus on providing a comprehensive foundation of STEM knowledge and integrating that knowledge with relevant technology. This helps to effectively breaking down the barriers that once existed between certain scientific or mathematical disciplines.Footnote2

Because STEM covers a variety of subjects, many learners still choose to specialize in a particular area. For instance, pursuing a degree in engineering can prepare learners with advanced STEM skills that they could then apply to a related subdiscipline, such as aeronautics or electronics.

There’s a great deal of crossover between individual courses, too. Foundational mathematics courses, for example, may dive into the problem-solving skills that serve as the basis for further scientific inquiry in many other STEM fields, while technology courses may include lessons in computer engineering. edX offers a variety of STEM courses and learning options created for learners of diverse backgrounds, abilities, and career paths.

If you’re planning to teach STEM subjects and want to further your skills as a STEM teacher, you may find it helpful to take a course designed to introduce fundamental STEM principles into K-12 and post-secondary education curricula and classrooms.