What are STEM Subjects? 

STEM is a 'catch all' term, an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects in an educational context.

On the face of it, the term appears simple, but in reality the terms ´science´ and ´technology´ can be defined in several ways.

The S stem subject: What is science?

'S' stands for science. On the face of it, science is an easy-to-understand term. Sciences are designed to be objective, based on data; the arts are subjective, influenced by feelings/opinions.

When it comes to education, however, controversy begins and simplicity ends when we ask whether ´science´ includes social sciences (for example economics, political science, psychology and sociology).

Is economics a science?

Those in favour of economics as a science see it as such because economists try to explain the world using scientific method developing and testing theories about how things work: investigating, observing, testing the data, classifying the facts and, of course, interpreting them. This often includes mathematical models for testing.

However, others argue that it is an art because there are limits to what can be tested and how, and it deeply influences social behaviours.

There is no straight answer, so economics degrees, for example, are offered as both Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degrees or Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) degrees.

Political Science, Politics, or something else completely?

Political science has sub-fields which may or may not be sciences.

For example, domestic politics may include the study of elections, public opinion, and government structures and behaviours (local, national and international). Comparative politics focuses on analysing similarities and differences between countries politics and policies. International relations examines political relationships/interactions between countries, and may include studies of war, foreign policy, political economies and the like. Political theory, by contrast, examines philosophies. Add public administration (studying the role of the bureaucracy), public policy and public law (looking at systems and justice) and the only thing that´s clear is that ´nothing is clear´ when deciding whether politics is an art of a science.

The LSE calls its degree a BSc, Kings College London runs a BA degree. So clearly, it can be either/or, and students are well advised to look at course content carefully before deciding what is right for them.

Is Psychology a science?

Psychology uses systematic methods of observation, experiments and data in order to understand/predict behaviour and the mind. Empirical evidence and peer reviews mean that psychology falls well within any definition of a science.

However, some argue that it fails to meet basic requirements for scientific rigour. Its terminology is not always clearly defined. It is hard to quantify. Experimentation and testing are tough (largely on ethical grounds). Tests cannot often be reproduced and humans are unpredictable. Consider themes like happiness and love. An element of subjectivity and an infinite number of variables are at play, including gender, culture, upbringing.

Despite these considerations, across the UK psychology is seen as a science, a social science, and, like economics, may be a BA (Bachelor of Arts) degree, with specialisations such as forensic psychology or counselling psychology, or a BSc (Bachelor of Science) with a focus on statistics, research, and data analysis.

Is sociology a science subject?

Sociology is the scientific and systematic study of human society social behaviour, patterns of relationships and such. Like psychology, in the UK degrees are offered as both BA and BSc. Theoretically, a BSc relies more on social/political theory than a more ´humanities´ based BA.

The T and E STEM Subjects: Engineering and Technology

“Technology is the sum of techniques, skills, methods, and processes. It is used in the creation of a product or the accomplishment of objectives in STEM. For example, the technology (microscopes) made by engineers using math is used by scientists.”

(Definition by Stemcadia) 

Engineering is concerned with the design, building, and use of engines, machines, and structures.

Whilst information technology (IT) is an obvious 'technology', boundaries generally blur when it comes to technology and engineering.

The amount of technology needed for an aerospace mission to Mars, for example, demonstrates clearly how the two disciplines merge.

Engineering itself has many disciplines, including civil engineering, mechanical engineering, astro aero engineering, chemical engineering.....

The M in STEM Subjects: Mathematics

Mathematics (maths, or math) is the study/science of “quality, structure, space, and change”, the logics of shape, quantity, order, relationships, and arrangement. In summary, numbers, shapes, and space.

Degrees cover three primary areas – maths, statistics, and operational research.

Mathematicians deal in numbers, shape, and space simplifying complex problems, classifying ´things, and proving that certain things can or cannot happen.

Statisticians make predictions and decisions based on data, and have importance when we look at things like drug approval, where flooding may happen, where to invest money.

Operational research (OR) can sometimes be known as management science. It analyses decision-making processes.

Given that maths degrees can include subjects like quantum mechanics and fluid dynamics, the blurred edges with engineering are clear.

But is mathematics a science or an art?

Given all of the above, it would be easy to assume that maths MUST be a science. But it is possible to study mathematics as a BA.

The BSc focuses on maths, appropriate if you want to go on to graduate studies in math or physics, or other hard science. In practise, BA programmes tend to be combined degree such as maths and music or maths and philosophy.

What is an MMath

An MMath is essentially a Masters degree in Mathematics, achieved by undertaking an additional year of study.

STEM or STEAM?

If civil engineering and naval architecture are considered STEM subjects, is building architecture, with its emphasis on the visual, a science? How about ceramics and glass?

The term STEAM adds an A for Arts into STEM.

Many argue that Arts and Technologies are different, and need to be kept separate, whilst others argue that the A is a valuable addition. Some STEM degrees appear to undervalue traits like creativity, critical thinking, and ethics.

And as we've seen from the above, the difference in degree terms is about content. Many purists feel that pure BSc STEM degrees are harder. However, the world also needs critical thinkers to drive innovation. By combining elements of the arts and humanities with STEM courses, STEAM students may be better placed to innovate.

Each have their place!

STEM Graduates Career Prospects - Where STEM Subjects Lead

STEM careers often offer higher than average salaries. STEM graduates can generally around around 20% more than other graduates. These are obviously averages but the sector is vibrant. However it's generally the career opportunities, the variety in each STEM field, and the chance to develop new transferable skills that encourage people to study STEM subjects.

Why Study STEM: STEM Careers

Youth Employment UK has put together a fabulous resource on the numerous STEM careers: STEM Careers Guide.

Making student life easier with Self Storage

Whether STEM or STEAM, whatever science and technology course you are taking, there are are times at university/HE college when belongings are a tie, like the summer holidays or years abroad.

For students studying in Wales, Manchester or Telford, Pink Storage can help with safe, easily accessible space: Student Storage.