5 Popular Online Bachelor’s Degrees in STEM

5 Popular STEM Degrees Available Online

• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
• Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
• Bachelor of Science in Game Programming & Development
• Bachelor of Science in Information Technologies
• Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems

Online bachelor’s degrees in STEM are a great way for individuals to earn a degree in an area that offers excellent career growth. In the complex world we live in, students who have the best chance of success are not just those who are educated but also those who can put to work what they know, which is where STEM comes in. STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) jobs seem to be everywhere, especially for those fortunate to have a degree. Earning a STEM degree online allows students to obtain valuable work experience while earning a degree. Here are five popular online bachelor’s degrees in STEM.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Computer science is a very popular field and just might be one of the most popular online bachelor’s degrees in STEM. Graduates of this program generally have various career opportunities available to them. Students will complete general education courses as well as computer science core courses, such as mobile architecture and programming, programming languages, software security, programming concepts and full-stack development. One of the things that make this particular degree so popular is that it offers several concentrations so students can focus on the area that interests them the most. Concentrations include:

• Project Management for STEM
• Data Analysis
• Software Engineering
• Information Security

Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity

With the increasing use of computers and the internet in our personal and business lives, the need for good cybersecurity has never been higher. Computer Science.org indicates that the field of information security analysis should see job growth of 28 percent between 2016 and 2026. The cybersecurity bachelor’s degree program offers students a lot of hands-on training through online labs and virtual cyber workstations. Students can also choose from concentrations like data analytics or project management.

Bachelor of Science in Game Programming & Development

Computer games appear to be everywhere today, whether they’re on our laptops, tablet, smartphone or some other smart device, and they continue to become more popular every year. Computer game programmers and developers are very much in demand today, which makes this program among the top online bachelor’s degrees in STEM. Students learn a variety of programming languages, master game development and learn how to develop games across various platforms. Course topics in this program might include 3D modeling, information technology and digital games, digital game development, graphics and layout in print media, and scripting for games.

Bachelor of Science in Information Technologies

Like cybersecurity and computer science, information technology is an important part of computers and computer systems. The field of information technology involves using, sharing and securing information. This program includes various areas of concentration including:

• Cybersecurity
• Business Management
• Software Development
• Data Analytics
• Project Management

The online bachelor’s degree in information technologies is often offered as a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts program. Students interested in joining the workforce immediately following graduation often choose the BS program while students wishing to advance their education often choose the BA program.

Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems

In the business world, computers are filled with information, and businesses want to know that their employees not only are familiar with their information systems but also that they can manage it. In addition to general education courses, the students will also take courses like electronic business, computer platform technologies, IT service management, data and information management, and structured query languages. Two popular areas of concentration in this program are project management and IT management.

Related Resource: 20 Best Affordable Schools in Georgia for Bachelor’s Degree

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average annual wage for STEM jobs was $87,570 in 2015, which is substantially higher than the $45,700 earned in non-STEM jobs. Employment in STEM jobs also grows much higher than with non-STEM jobs. Earning a popular online bachelor’s degrees in STEM offers rewarding and exciting career opportunities.