How to Choose STEM Courses in the UK?

Updated on 18 April, 2024

Bulbul Sharma

Bulbul Sharma

Manager- Content @upGrad

What is STEM?

STEM is an acronym for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. It encompasses a curriculum that broadens the scope of these four subjects. The demand for STEM courses consistently increased due to the diverse range of specializations blooming out of the large area of science.

 

Why Study STEM in the UK?

The UK is one of the top study destinations abroad, as it offers everything, from the best-in-class facilities, experienced faculty, and high placements to memorable campus life and overall personality development. Universities in the UK are famous for offering a highly practical and impeccable course curriculum, making students employable and ready for the industry.

Most popular UK universities rank among the top 100 universities in the world and are esteemed for their innovation, creativity, and learning environment. The top UK universities have highly skilled and experienced faculties who have mastered the art of promoting innovative learning and scientific thinking among the students. STEM graduates from UK universities have a competitive edge regarding career opportunities and placements.

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How To Choose STEM Courses in the UK?

Your STEM program must help you explore a purpose-driven career in the field of science, medicine, or research, add valuable resume-building experience, and keep you on track for graduation. Enlisted are some specific pointers you must look at while exploring STEM study abroad programs in the UK.

Strong academic partners 

Ensure that the program provider has a well-established relationship with reputed academic/research institutions. It is ideal if you can enroll directly into a college or university and take specialized courses that would enhance your international experiences.

Select options that fit your GPA

Often students enrolled in STEM programs find it challenging to choose options that fit their GPA. You can explore various topics, such as epidemiology, bioinformatics, and the political side of healthcare.

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Hands-on learning

Ensure that you have opportunities to collaborate with recognized professors and scientists in field research. It gives you a chance to see theoretical knowledge come to life and helps you narrow down your career choice while you earn your credits.

Internships 

You can utilize your time abroad and build your career with an internship in business development, marketing, and psychological research. Internships are an excellent way to gain corporate experience that sets you apart after college. Your further gain cultural skills by working alongside people with diverse backgrounds besides earning your credits.

Scholarships 

Most STEM providers offer scholarships and grants to help international students make the international experience an affordable option. Some institutions offer funding or travel grants to STEM students, which helps them carry on with their research in the UK.

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Best Universities for STEM Programs in the UK

The country is home to numerous universities and colleges dating back centuries. The table below lists the top 10 universities to study STEM degrees, ranked and recognized by QS World Ranking in 2022.

University Name  Subject-Wise QS Ranking 2022
University of  Oxford

Engineering and Technology: 6

 

Mathematics: 5

University of Cambridge

Engineering and Technology: 3

 

Mathematics: 4

Imperial College London

Engineering and Technology: 7

 

Mathematics: 11

The University of Manchester

Engineering and Technology: 45

 

Mathematics: 51-100

University College London (UCL)

Engineering and Technology: 39

 

Mathematics: 49

The University of Edinburgh

Engineering and Technology: 66

 

Mathematics: 36

King’s College London

Engineering and Technology: 145

 

Mathematics: 51-100

University of Bristol

Engineering and Technology: 106

 

Mathematics: 51-100

The University of Warwick

Engineering and Technology: 164

 

Mathematics: 62

University of Glasgow

Engineering and Technology: 188

 

Mathematics: 101-150

Popular STEM Programs at UG and PG Levels in the UK

Several UK universities offer STEM courses at undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) levels. These include: 

  • Civil engineering
  • Chemical engineering
  • Mechanical engineering
  • Aerospace engineering
  • Electrical engineering
  • Biotechnology 
  • Physics
  • Chemistry
  • Mathematics
  • Biomedical sciences
  • Information technology 
  • Pharmacology
  • Environmental Sciences
  • Astrophysics 
  • Data Science
  • Artificial intelligence 
  • Material science and engineering

Top Prospects After STEM Program in the UK

The table below illustrates the top five prospects after completing a STEM degree in the UK and their job growth in the next 10 years.

STEM Course Average Salary Projected Job Growth Rate (10 years)
Statistics  1,14,000 GBP per annum 22.50%
Paleontology 1,05,860 GBP per annum 13.90%
Nutritional Sciences  61, 270 GBP per annum 11%
Geographical Information Sciences & Cartography 65, 470 GBP per annum 15.50%
Computer Sciences  1,11,780 GBP per annum 10.80%

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Table of Contents

  1. FAQs

FAQs

Is pursuing STEM worthy?

Yes, a STEM degree is worthy. Although pursuing a STEM degree is challenging, it offers students numerous benefits. With a STEM degree, you can improve your chances of a better placement opportunity, enhance your earning potential, and learn diverse and valuable skills essential for various fields.

How to choose the best UK University for STEM courses?

You can choose the best UK University for enrolling in STEM courses by checking a few important aspects. These include checking the ranking, specializations, facilities available, fee structure, admission requirements, eligibility, and placement records.

Why should I enroll myself in a UK University for my STEM course?

STEM courses in the UK are in high demand among both students and employers, especially those offered by the top-ranked universities. Besides, the salary packages are higher for STEM courses in the UK than for non-STEM courses.

What are the best courses in STEM?

Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, often referred to as STEM, are vital components of today’s global society. Some top STEM courses include petroleum engineering, atomic or molecular physics, management science, information technology, water resources engineering, computer engineering, chemical engineering, biological sciences, network and system administration, and paleontology.

In what kind of STEM degrees can I enroll?

Different degree levels prepare you for different careers in STEM fields. The five major types of STEM degrees you can enroll yourself in include associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, doctoral degrees, and specialized medical degrees.

Did you find this article helpful?

Bulbul Sharma

Manager- Content @upGrad

Bulbul is a self-driven professional and an expert writer & editor. She has been a part of the ed-tech industry for the past 2 years now and is motivated to provide study abroad aspirants with factually correct and relevant information. Her knack for impactful writing makes her blogs worth a read!

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