STEM Scholarship Opportunities for Degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math

Earning a degree or certification opens a world of job opportunities that you were previously shut out from.  It is no guarantee that your first job will as lucrative as you hope, but it DOES guarantee an opportunity.  Any career path is a long journey, and earning that degree is the first, and most important step.

For jobs in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) a degree is even more crucial.  The courses can be rigorous but come with a huge payoff.  STEM jobs, when compared to other industries, have a ridiculously low unemployment rate, incredibly high demand, high pay, and all metrics continue to trend positively.   

STEM jobs are all-encompassing, ranging from solo ventures in laboratories to collaborative efforts in all areas.  The most important personality trait when entering into these fields is a thirst for learning and a curious mind, due to intensive course work and (the typically required) continuing education. 

There has been a concerted effort to ensure diverse working environments within the stem field and because of this, there are a TON of scholarship opportunities, especially for minorities.

STEM Degrees

Most commonly, STEM careers require a Bachelor’s degree. Because of this, we’ll be focusing on scholarships and careers of the same nature.  Typically, a Bachelor of Science (BS) Degree takes about four years to complete.  Because all Universities and Colleges have their own requirements within their degree programs, the models used will be approximate.  On average, in order to graduate with a BS Degree, you’ll complete 120 credit hours.

Science

Science is the study of structure and behavior through observation and experiment. If that definition seems broad, it is.  Science and Science degrees cast a wide net and provide plenty of career options. Here are a few degrees and jobs that correspond: 

Technology

For those who want to narrow their interest and curiosities away from behavior and into the world of computers, we’ve provided a quick glimpse into the tech field.  See below:

Engineering

Engineers are, were, and seemingly will always be, in high demand.  Compensation is highly competitive.  If you are inquisitive and analytical, this degree may be for you.  Check out what your future may look like below: 

Math

If you love numbers and want to make a career out of problem-solving and equations, you’ll be rewarded handsomely.  Here are just a few of the options at your fingertips: 

Women in STEM

While stereotypes may suggest that STEM careers are for men, statistics show otherwise.  Women have been increasingly involved in the field, and show no signs of slowing down.  Today’s progress is possible, because of yesterday’s trailblazers.

Influential Women in Stem

Katherine Johnson - Whom the 2016 movie “Hidden Figures” focused on.  Katherine was influential in every major space program, including the inaugural moon landing, paving the way for a ‘...giant leap for mankind”

Florence Seibert - A biochemist known for the development of the international standard for TB testing.

Lise Meitner - Known for her joint discovery of Nuclear Fission (along with Otto Hahn) and the element protactinium, this science maeven was once dubbed the “German Marie Curie” by Albert Einstein.

STEM Scholarships for Women

All of the women listed above were scholars first.  Their accomplishments were preceded by a shared intense work ethic and pursuit of knowledge.  To follow their footsteps, listed below are some scholarships to help get the next generation of women in STEM started:

• Young Women in STEM Scholarship
• Women in Tech Scholarship
• Virginia Heinlein Memorial Scholarship

Where to Find Scholarships?

There are several databases that gather scholarships according to various requirements.  Many scholarships have particular prerequisites in order to be selected/awarded.  Each scholarship also has it's own process, though most ask for an essay or long-form answers to several thought provoking questions, along with transcripts, letters of recommendation, etc.  Typically, more money awarded equals more requirements and scrutiny. 

What to look for?

When applying for a scholarship, you want to make sure it’s right for you.  Take time to review the requirements and stipulations.  Some requirements are based on age, grade level, geographic location, race, gender, etc.  Don’t worry though, there are plenty of scholarship opportunities for everyone.