STEM Courses in USA: Complete Guide for International Students

STEM courses refer to educational programs and courses that focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. These courses aim to give students a strong foundation in these fields, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and analytical skills. All four disciplines of STEM courses are considered vital for technological advancement, innovation, and problem-solving in various industries.

While pursuing STEM courses, students often incorporate hands-on experiments, projects, and practical applications to enhance understanding and encourage innovation. STEM education plays a crucial role in preparing students for careers in scientific research, engineering, technology development, and related industries.

When it comes to studying STEM courses abroad, the first country that comes to mind is the USA. The country is highly renowned for its quality education, especially in the field of STEM courses. So, let's know why the USA is an amazing option for international students to study STEM courses.

• Top-notch universities: The USA is home to prestigious top universities and institutions known for their excellence in STEM education, offering world-class faculty, cutting-edge research facilities, and a comprehensive curriculum.

• Research Opportunities: The USA is a hub for scientific research and technological advancements, providing unparalleled opportunities to engage in groundbreaking research projects and collaborate with renowned researchers. The universities believe in offering practical-based knowledge to their students along with theory. 

• Post-Study Work Permit: The USA Student Visa allows three years of post-study work permit for international students pursuing STEM courses in USA. It is a great opportunity to gain work experience in top-notch companies worldwide. It also makes your CV look appealing and enhances your future prospects. 

• Internship and Co-op Programs: Many STEM courses in the USA offer opportunities for internships and co-op programs, enabling students to gain hands-on experience, build networks, and apply their knowledge in real-world settings. 

• Industry Connections: Proximity to major tech hubs like Silicon Valley provides students with exposure to industry leaders, startups, and entrepreneurial ecosystems, enhancing career prospects and job opportunities.

• Scholarships and Funding Options: There are various government and university-based scholarships, grants, and assistantship programs available for international students pursuing STEM courses, helping to alleviate the financial burden of education.

• Skill Development: STEM education in the USA emphasises a multidisciplinary approach, encouraging students to explore diverse areas within the field and develop a broad range of skills and knowledge. The universities equip students with skills and make them industry-ready before they complete the course.

There are more than 300 STEM courses offered in the USA. Therefore, international students often need clarification and help with the numerous choices. Let's check some of the best STEM courses in USA below.

• Aeronautical or Aerospace

• Actuarial Science

• Agricultural Engineering

• Animal Science

• Architectural Engineering

• Astronomy

• Behavioral Sciences

• Biochemistry 

• Botany 

• Biology

• Biomedical Technology

• Chemistry 

• Chemical Engineering

• Civil Engineering

• Computer Programming 

• Computer and Information Science

• Data Management

• Environmental Studies

• Food Science 

• Forensic Chemistry 

• Forensic Science and Technology

• Geology

• Genetics 

• Horticulture Science

• Human Biology 

• Mathematics 

• Mechanical Engineering 

• Meteorology 

• Mining Technology

• Molecular Biology 

• Military Applied Science 

• Nutritional Science

• Nuclear Physics

• Petroleum Technology

• Pharmaceutical Science

• Physics 

• Plant Science

• Statistics 

• Telecommunication

• Zoology 

The USA is a hub for various top-notch institutions offering STEM courses. Some of the best universities to study STEM courses in USA are:

The eligibility criteria to enrol for  STEM courses in USA varies according to the university and program you choose to pursue. How the basic eligibility criteria to enrol for STEM courses in the USA are mentioned below:

• A bachelor's degree of minimum 4 years in the relevant field

• Minimum 65% overall marks in bachelor's degree

• Few top-notch universities may require a GRE score of 550. 

• Some universities also require field-relevant work experience of 2-3 years. 

• English proficiency test scores with a minimum overall IELTS band score of 6.5 (or equivalent score in any other proficiency test that your preferred university accepts. 

• Statement of Purpose

• Letter of Recommendation

• Valid Passport

Many international students have a myth that US universities do not accept applications for STEM courses without the GRE. However, there are various universities which accept international students.

• Concordia University, Chicago

• Dayton University, Ohio

• University of Utah

• James Madison University

• Pittsburg State University

• Sacred Heart University

• New Mexico State University

• Pittsburg State University 

US universities like Harvard University, MIT, Stanford University, Columbia University, Caltech, and others offer one-year STEM courses for international students. You can easily find various specialisations in one-year STEM courses, such as Behavioral Sciences, Astronomy, Architectural Engineering, Botany, Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, etc. A 1-year STEM course in USA is a great option for international students aspiring to study in USA and gain high-quality skills on an affordable budget.

Pursuing a STEM course in the USA opens up a plethora of exciting job opportunities for graduates. With a strong emphasis on scientific research, technological advancements, and innovation, the USA has a thriving job market in STEM fields. Check job options and their average salary after pursuing STEM courses in the USA.

Q: What are the top STEM programs to pursue in the USA?

A: The US offers many top-tier STEM programs that provide exceptional educational opportunities for aspiring professionals. Some top STEM programs to study in USA include Engineering, Biomedical Science, Computer Science, Statistics, and Life Science.

Q: What is the cost of studying STEM programs in USA for international students?

A: The cost of studying a STEM program in the USA for international students depends on the institution and program you choose to pursue. Generally, tuition fees for STEM programs in the USA are higher than other fields of study. On average, international students can expect to pay between 20,000 USD to 50,000 USD per year for undergraduate programs, and the costs can exceed $50,000 for graduate programs.

Q: Is studying STEM courses in USA a good decision for international students?

A: Studying STEM courses in the USA is undoubtedly a highly favourable decision for international students. The USA is renowned for its world-class institutions, cutting-edge research facilities, and thriving scientific community. Pursuing STEM education in the USA equips international students with a comprehensive skill set, critical thinking abilities, and hands-on experience in their chosen field. Moreover, the USA offers many opportunities for internships, research collaborations, and industry connections, which greatly enhance career prospects.

Q: Can a commerce student apply for STEM Courses in USA?

A: Yes, commerce students can pursue STEM degrees in the USA. While STEM degrees are traditionally associated with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, many universities in the USA offer programs that allow students from diverse academic backgrounds, including commerce, to pursue STEM degrees. These programs often provide foundational courses to bridge the knowledge gap and enable commerce students to develop the necessary skills and understanding of STEM subjects.

If you are still unsure or would like to get deeper insight, we encourage you to have a word with our team of expert counsellors at Meridean Overseas Education Consultants (MOEC). If you are unable to travel to our offices, we offer online counselling services via our website. Our dedicated counsellors will provide you with the best guidance regarding your application to study in USA. Don't hesitate to contact us at application02@meridean.org or call us at 1800-1230-00011.