Women vs. Men in STEM Degrees - Do We Have a Problem

1. Introduction

“According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 93 out of 100 STEM occupations have wages above the national average, yet only 6.7% of women graduate college with a STEM degree.”

STEM careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics represent some of the highest-paying and fastest-growing opportunities in today’s job market. However, significant gender disparities persist in who pursues these valuable degrees.

2. Understanding STEM Education

2.1 STEM Fields Definition

• Core Disciplines

  • Science
  • Technology
  • Engineering
  • Mathematics

• Included Fields

  • Agriculture & Agriculture Operations
  • Architecture & Related Services
  • Biological & Biomedical Sciences
  • Communications Technologies
  • Computer & Information Sciences
  • Engineering
  • Engineering Technologies
  • Mathematics & Statistics
  • Natural Resources & Conservation
  • Physical Sciences
  • Science Technologies

2.2 Current Gender Distribution

“The breakdown of STEM graduates in 2016 was 37% female and 63% male, highlighting a significant gender gap in these fields.”

• Graduation Statistics
  • Women: 7% of female graduates choose STEM
  • Men: 15% of male graduates choose STEM
  • Overall: Women represent 37% of STEM graduates

3. Gender Patterns in STEM

3.1 Women’s STEM Preferences

• Popular Fields for Women

  • Biological Sciences
  • Environmental Studies
  • Agricultural Sciences
  • Architecture

• Salary Implications

  • Early career salaries: $32,000-$62,000
  • Lower average starting salaries
  • More likely to require advanced degrees

3.2 Male-Dominated Fields

• High Representation Areas

  • Computer Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Software Development

• Salary Comparisons

  • Early career salaries: $40,000-$90,000
  • Higher average starting salaries
  • More direct career paths

4. Understanding the Gap

4.1 Cross-Cultural Patterns

• Ethnic Distribution
  • Consistent gender gap across ethnicities
  • Higher STEM participation among Asian students
  • Gender disparity persists in all groups
  • Similar patterns internationally

4.2 Potential Factors

• Cultural Influences

  • Field perception as masculine
  • Limited female role models
  • Societal expectations
  • Early education experiences

• Educational Barriers

  • Introductory class structure
  • Teaching methods
  • Mentorship availability
  • Support systems

5. Broader Context

5.1 Education Trends

• Overall College Statistics
  • Women: 53% of college graduates
  • 600,000 more female graduates in 2016
  • Higher female college enrollment
  • Better female graduation rates

5.2 Career Implications

• Non-Degree Career Options
  • Construction and manufacturing
  • Gender pay gap in non-degree jobs
  • Impact on career choices
  • Economic incentives

6. Proposed Solutions

6.1 Educational Initiatives

• Classroom Changes

  • More welcoming introductory courses
  • Diverse teaching methods
  • Increased hands-on experience
  • Collaborative learning environments

• Support Programs

  • Mentorship opportunities
  • Women in STEM networks
  • Industry partnerships
  • Research opportunities

6.2 Cultural Changes

• Role Model Visibility
  • #MakeWhatsNext campaign
  • Women in STEM spotlights
  • Success story sharing
  • Industry leadership diversity

7. Take Action

Ready to explore your potential in STEM? Take these next steps:

1. Use our Major Matcher → to evaluate your interests and strengths
2. Research STEM programs at different universities
3. Connect with women in STEM fields
4. Explore internship opportunities

Remember: Success in STEM is not determined by gender but by passion, dedication, and opportunity. Whether you’re interested in biology, engineering, or computer science, there’s a place for you in these growing fields.