Choosing STEM pathways

Choosing STEM pathways

It is predicted that in coming years approximately 75 per cent of all new jobs will require qualifications and skills in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Why STEM is important

Employer demand for graduates with these qualifications and skills is on the rise and will continue to increase as job roles diversify.

However, a large proportion of students are not studying STEM subjects or considering STEM related careers.

Even more of a concern is 60 per cent of young people are studying for jobs that will not exist or will be radically affected by automation in the next 10 to 15 years.

Employment opportunities in STEM related industries are increasing each year. Employers are looking for:

  • Analytical skills - Analysing and interpreting information and assessing the best course of action.
  • Scientific skills - Breaking down complex scientific concepts and systems.
  • Mathematical skills - Accurately gathering and analysing data. Applying simple and complex equations to solve problems.
  • Technical skills - Troubleshooting and debugging a complex technological system or repairing a machine.

While obtaining STEM related qualifications is extremely important, studying STEM subjects also provides transferable skills that are essential to competing in today’s job market. These transferable skills include:

  • problem solving
  • creativity
  • critical analysis
  • teamwork
  • independent thinking
  • initiative
  • communication
  • digital literacy.

The workplace of the future requires strong foundation skills in science and mathematics. To compete, young people are encouraged to study STEM subjects as part of their Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE), particularly the more challenging levels of science and mathematics. Choosing STEM subjects as part of the WACE opens the door to exciting and emerging careers, where young people can use their STEM skills to solve real world problems and have the ability to adapt to the changing workforce.

 

LIST OF STEM WACE SUBJECTS

ATAR
Mathematics Science

Technologies

Mathematics specialist

Mathematics methods

Mathematics applications

Mathematics essential

Mathematics foundation

Mathematics preliminary

Animal production systems

Aviation

Biology

Chemistry

Earth and environmental science

Human biology

Integrated science

Marine and maritime studies

Physics

Plant production systems

Psychology

Applied information technology

Automotive engineering and technology

Aviation

Building and construction

Children, family and the community

Computer science

Design

Engineering studies

Food Science and technology

Materials Design and technology

VET

Automotive

Construction industries

Engineering

Information and communication technology

Primary industries

   

For more information visit School Curriculum and Standards Authority