Science and Math Degrees

All these degrees are meant to be theoretical in nature though they may offer tracks focused on practical applications.

The bachelor’s degree of four years will be the first degree for most people interested in science & math. Master’s degrees focused on applications are often offered. For master’s degrees you are expected to develop a sub-area of focus. For example a student of physics might pursue solid state physics or astrophysics or medical physics as his sub-area of specialization.

Doctoral degrees are targeted at those individuals who wish to conduct research and can often span more than four years.

Specializations in Science & Math
Science & Math degrees give you the option of specializing specific subject areas as mentioned above. You can also pick the duration of your degree depending on your career objectives.

At the same time, science & math are becoming increasingly interdisciplinary and often drawing upon non-science subjects as well. One of the most common specializations available in science & math is nanotechnology and materials science which combine elements of chemistry, biology and physics. Specializations in renewable energy will combine math, physics, geology and chemistry.

Emerging programs combine computer science with the humanities and biology with the social sciences. Many of these fields are in their infancy and you can rest assured that there will be even more specializations in time.

Career opportunities and salaries for students of science & math
Students of science & math can command very high salaries. The highest salaries are generally commanded by those students of science & math who have specialized in areas with applications in industry. Students with experience in computer programming, energy and design can pull over $50,000 a year in the beginning. There are chances for advancement with experience and the development of managerial talents.

Some students of math & science are able to land very lucrative jobs in the finance sector which seeks students with strong analytical abilities and exposure to rigor.

Science & math students often use their background to prepare for careers in law, economics, medicine and government. A science & math background is increasingly recognized as the ideal preparation for students looking to enter a variety of careers that benefit from technical backgrounds.

How long does it take to get a Science and Math degree?

The duration of your degree will depend on the type of degree and school you are attending. Most bachelor's degrees, including those in math and science, take a total of 4 years. If you have a 2 year long associate’s degree in the field, your credits will get transferred and you can get your bachelor's degree in 2 years instead. However, this may only be an option with some colleges. You could also opt for an accelerated program and graduate faster. Most masters programs take 2 years to complete.

What are the requirements to get a Science and Math degree?

For an associate's or bachelor's degree in math and science, you will require a high school diploma with a high concentration of subjects taken in the STEM field and a good SAT score. Different colleges will have different requirements and guidelines. For a master's and doctoral degree in math and science, the requirements will likely include work experience too.

How much can I make with a Science and Math degree?

The annual median wage of Mathematics Degree holders was $86,700 as of May, 2018. According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, this is higher than the annual median wage for most occupations. The median annual wage of all employees working in Life, Physical and Social Science Occupations was $66,070 as of May, 2018. As students pursued higher education in this field, their wages rose and unemployment figures decreased.

Sources:
*All salary related figures have been taken from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.