Science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, jobs are in demand worldwide and the United States educational system has specifically emphasized these jobs for decades.
Colleges promote their STEM educational programs at the same time that some employers complain about a shortage of qualified workers in these fields. Reports now are mixed on whether there is a shortage or surplus of jobs and applicants, maybe because STEM covers so many different occupations.
STEM jobs offer a wide range of opportunities. U.S. News and World Report compared occupations that are designated as STEM jobs to come up with the top jobs that have potential for growth for the future.
U.S. News and World Report compared the number of job openings expected this year, the median salary and the unemployment rate for qualified applicants to come up with the top 10 STEM occupations. Financial advisor makes the list, as does psychologist, which is usually thought of as a social science subject but is defined as a STEM occupation.
The jobs pay well, but many demand advanced degrees. Following are the top 10 STEM jobs according to U.S. News and World Report in ascending order.
10. Operations Research Analyst
27,600 projected jobs, $78,630 median salary, 2.6 percent unemployment rate
9. Web Developer
39,500 projected jobs, $64,970 median salary, 3.6 percent unemployment rate
8. Psychologist
32,500 projected jobs, $94,590 median salary, 1.2 percent unemployment rate
7. IT Manager
53,700 projected jobs, $131,600 median salary, 1.9 percent unemployment rate
6. Actuary
4,400 projected jobs, $97,070 median salary, 0.8 percent unemployment rate
5. Financial Advisor
73,900 projected jobs, $89,160 median salary, 2 percent unemployment rate
4. Mathematician
700 projected jobs, $111,110 median salary, 0.8 percent unemployment rate
3. Software Developer
135,300 projected jobs, $98,260 median salary, 2 percent unemployment rate
2. Computer Systems Analyst
118,600 projected jobs, $85,500 median salary, 2.4 percent unemployment rate
1. Statistician
10,100 projected jobs, $80,110 median salary, 0.8 percent unemployment rate