15 Best STEM Degrees For Minorities in 2026
STEM degree programs from colleges like Florida International University and Arizona State University can help underrepresented minorities start great careers.
STEM combines four disciplines: science, technology, engineering, and math. Students who pursue STEM degrees in higher education open doors to fast-growing, high-wage careers. Common STEM jobs include:
- mechanical engineer
- computer network architect
- chemist
- mathematician
- astronomer
- physicist
Minority students are often underrepresented among STEM majors. Still, many top STEM schools in the U.S. offer degrees that can help minorities get into the field.Students in underrepresented groups can find great degree programs in the STEM disciplines from schools like Indiana University and Bellevue University. Below, we'll review the top STEM degrees for minorities.
Top Stem Degrees for Minorities
<p>Students who want to start a STEM career must first earn a degree in their chosen discipline. The following are the best colleges for underrepresented students eager to enter the field.
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<h3 id="section---1.UniversityOfPhoenixMdashBSInComputerScience">1. University of Phoenix — BS in Computer Science</h3>
<p>The Bachelor of Science (BS) in computer science from the University of Phoenix is a flexible online program teaching foundational aspects of IT. Coursework explores networking, AI, programming, cybersecurity, and big data. The university offers fixed tuition and scholarships to keep costs low for all students.
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<h3 id="section---2.FloridaInternationalUniversityMdashBSInElectricalEngineering">2. Florida International University — BS in Electrical Engineering</h3>
<p>Florida International University offers an ABET-accredited BS in electrical engineering for students interested in healthcare and engineering careers. Courses teach students the application of electronics and electromagnetism. Students also learn to design, develop, and test electrical equipment (e.g., power generation and GPS devices).
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<h3 id="section---3.LibertyUniversityMdashBSInCivilEngineering">3. Liberty University — BS in Civil Engineering</h3>
<p>Students who want to become civil engineers can enroll in Liberty University's BS in civil engineering program. The degree prepares enrollees for roles that involve transportation engineering, surveying, and project and construction management. Small classes help students gain a better understanding of the field.
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<h3 id="section---4.ArizonaStateUniversityMdashBSEInMechanicalEngineering">4. Arizona State University — BSE in Mechanical Engineering</h3>
<p>Arizona State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSE) in mechanical engineering. This program is great for students who want careers that involve designing, building, and controlling machines, systems, and devices. This ABET-accredited program prepares students to become energy, supply chain, and mechanical engineers.
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<h3 id="section---5.UniversityOfNorthDakotaMdashBSInBiomedicalEngineering">5. University of North Dakota — BS in Biomedical Engineering</h3>
<p>The University of North Dakota offers the only online bachelor's in biomedical engineering in North Dakota. Courses explore neuroengineering, bioinformatics, and cardiovascular engineering. Internships, research, and design competitions give students experience in the field. UND has high rankings for affordability, retention, and academic quality.
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<h3 id="section---6.IndianaUniversityMdashBSInDataScience">6. Indiana University — BS in Data Science</h3>
<p>Indiana University's BS in data science prepares students for careers as research analysts, information officers, data mining engineers, and more. Courses explore database applications, data fluency, and data management. This program is offered completely online. It has affordable tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students.
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<h3 id="section---7.AmericanPublicUniversityMdashBSInEnvironmentalScience">7. American Public University — BS in Environmental Science</h3>
<p>American Public University students can enroll in the BS in environmental science program. This degree prepares students for roles as environmental scientists and specialists. They can learn about pollution science and waste management. Fish and wildlife conservation and geographic information science (GIS) are also explored.
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<h3 id="section---8.BellevueUniversityMdashBSInMathematics">8. Bellevue University — BS in Mathematics</h3>
<p>Bellevue University offers a BS in mathematics. Specializations include secondary education, predictive modeling, and data analytics. This 100% online program explores applied statistics, linear and abstract algebra, and more. Students interested in teaching can secure a secondary-level teacher certification with an endorsement in math
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<h3 id="section---9.UniversityOfMassachusettsLowellMdashBSInAppliedMathematics">9. University of Massachusetts Lowell — BS in Applied Mathematics</h3>
<p>At the University of Massachusetts Lowell, students can prepare for roles as financial analysts, computer programmers, and statisticians with a BS in applied mathematics degree. Coursework covers calculus, linear algebra, and computing. This online program can be completed in as few as 12 months.
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<h3 id="section---10.DeVryUniversityMdashBachelorSInCybersecurityAndNetworking">10. DeVry University — Bachelor's in Cybersecurity and Networking</h3>
<p>DeVry University offers a bachelor's in cybersecurity and networking. This program helps students build programming, cloud computing, and ethical hacking skills. The school provides the Women+Tech and Future Cyber Defenders Scholars communities with valuable resources and mentorship opportunities.
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<h3 id="section---11.AtlanticInternationalUniversityMdashBachelorSInChemicalEngineering">11. Atlantic International University — Bachelor's in Chemical Engineering</h3>
<p>Atlantic International University is home to a bachelor's in chemical engineering. This degree explores reaction engineering, process design, and more. Busy students can enjoy flexible online scheduling. Enrollees who complete the university's Summer of Innovation and Growth could earn up to $5,000 in tuition credit.
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<h3 id="section---12.LouisianaStateUniversityOnlineMdashBSInBiology">12. Louisiana State University Online — BS in Biology</h3>
<p>Louisiana State University's BS in biology with a concentration in modern biology helps students build a strong foundation in the discipline. Coursework is delivered fully online. However, students must participate in a one-week summer lab course on campus to learn valuable lab skills. Graduates can find great jobs as lab managers and medical technologists.
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<h3 id="section---13.UniversityOfWisconsinMdashBSInInformationScienceTechnology">13. University of Wisconsin — BS in Information Science & Technology</h3>
<p>Students who want to become web developers and systems administrators can benefit from the BS in information science and technology from the University of Wisconsin. This degree explores data science, project management, and web design. Enrollees can take advantage of the program's flexible option which offers a competency-based format.
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<h3 id="section---14.EvergladesUniversityMdashBachelorSInAviationScience">14. Everglades University — Bachelor's in Aviation Science</h3>
<p>Everglades University offers a BS degree with a major in aviation/aerospace. This program explores in-depth aviation technical concepts. Students can build their existing knowledge of air traffic control and aviation maintenance. Enrollees without an FAA background can become highly knowledgeable in aviation and management.
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<h3 id="section---15.UniversityOfFloridaMdashBAInGeology">15. University of Florida — BA in Geology</h3>
<p>The University of Florida's Bachelor of Arts (BA) in geology explores issues associated with the physical earth. Coursework examines climate change and how humans impact the environment. Graduates of this program will be ready for education and policy-making careers.
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<h2 id="section---FAQsAboutSTEMDegreesForMinorities">FAQs About STEM Degrees for Minorities</h2>
<p>According to the <a href="https://ncses.nsf.gov/pubs/nsf23315/report">National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics (NCSES)</a>, Hispanic workers made up 15% of the STEM workforce in 2021. Asian and Black/African American workers were at 10% and 9%, respectively. American Indians and Alaska Natives together made up less than 1%. More opportunities in STEM can help minorities increase their presence in the field. The following FAQs provide more insight into STEM education for minorities.
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<h3 id="section---HowCanMinoritiesOvercomeBarriersInSTEMEducation">How Can Minorities Overcome Barriers in STEM Education?</h3>
<p>Many barriers to STEM education exist. For example, limited funds can impact students' abilities to attend STEM events outside of school. Also, students' self-perceptions can make them struggle to identify with people who participate in STEM activities.
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<p>Placing more STEM programs in underserved communities can help increase enrollment in STEM programs. Training teachers to use culturally responsive teaching methods can help students connect with STEM concepts. More STEM scholarships for Hispanic, Asian, Native American, Alaska Native, and Black students can also increase their presence.
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<h3 id="section---WhatFinancialAidIsAvailableForMinoritiesPursuingASTEMDegree">What Financial Aid Is Available for Minorities Pursuing a STEM Degree?</h3>
<p>Numerous financial aid options are available for college students interested in STEM education. Some include:
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<ul><li>Tribal Colleges and Universities Program (TCUP)
</li><li>NSF Scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (S-STEM)
</li><li>STEM Access for Persons with Disabilities (STEM-APWD)
</li><li>Rural Girls Engaged in Math and Science Plus Technology Project
</li><li>Historically Black Colleges and Universities - Undergraduate Program (HBCU-UP)
</li><li>Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation (LSAMP)
</li><li>Howard University's Karsh STEM Scholars Program
</li></ul><p>STEM students can also benefit from federal financial aid like federal grants (Pell, FSEOG), the Federal Work-Study program, and student loans.
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<h3 id="section---WhatAreTheBenefitsOfPursuingASTEMDegreeForMinorities">What Are the Benefits of Pursuing a STEM Degree for Minorities?</h3>
<p>Earning a degree in a STEM field can help decrease economic gaps among ethnic, racial, and gender minorities. The <u>U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</u> shows the median annual wage for STEM graduates was more than double that of non-STEM occupations in 2023.
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<p>The STEM field also benefits from increased minority representation. Diversity brings new perspectives, experiences, and questions to help strengthen the field and bring about greater innovation.</p>