Introduction
Students usually find themselves in a period of confusion, pressure, and indecision, especially after graduating from school. During this transition period, most discussions focus on whether to pursue a STEM or non-STEM course, especially in the case of Indian students.
Many peers encourage pursuing courses in STEM based on the common belief they are more stable and pay higher salaries; however, many believe that pursuing non-STEM paths will lead to less success, as they are often misinterpreted or undervalued.
In reality, the job market is simply much more balanced today; the opportunities to have successful careers exist in both STEM and non-STEM fields. If you make your decision regarding your career based on your interests & life goals.
In this blog we break down the differences between Stem vs Non Stem courses in India and how students can decide which path suits them best. For full information, check out our latest blog Career Options After 12th in India
Let’s get started with a basic understanding of courses.
What Are STEM Courses?
STEM is an abbreviation for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. STEM education includes classes that emphasize the analytical abilities and problem-solving, technical knowledge, and innovativeness of the students.
Popular STEM Courses in India
>>Engineering
>>Medical and Allied Health Sciences
>>Data Science & Artificial Intelligence
>>Biotechnology and Life Sciences
>>Mathematics and Statistics
>>Information and Cyber Security
Important Skills for STEM Careers
>>Reasonable and analytical reasoning
>>Strong mathematical basis
>>Problem-solving skills
>> Technical skills
>>Curiosity and innovation
The alumni of the field of STEM are commonly thought to relate to occupations in the technology sector.
What Are Non-STEM Courses?
Non-STEM courses cover popular courses apart from science and technology. They help students develop skills like creativity, communication, critical thinking, leadership, and social understanding.
Non-STEM Courses in India
>>Arts and Humanities
>>Commerce and Management
>>Economics and Finance
>>Law
>>Journalism and Mass Communication
>>Psychology and Social Sciences
>>Design, Fine Arts, and Performing Arts
Key Skills Required for Non-STEM
>>Communication and interpersonal skills
>>Creative and critical thinking
>>Leadership and decision-making
>>Strategic and analytical reasoning
These days, students are opting for Non-STEM careers, as these are easy to adapt to and have multiple creative industries.
Key Differences: STEM vs Non-STEM Courses in India
| Aspect | STEM Courses | Non-STEM courses |
| Focus | Technical & Science related | Creative and social |
| Learning Style | Practical & analytical | Conceptual & interpretative |
| Career Fields | Engineering, Healthcare, IT and more | Arts, Law, Media |
| Skills Required | Technical Expertise | Communication & leadership |
| Job | High demand & Competitive | Expanding & diverse |
When comparing STEM vs non STEM courses in India, it’s important to understand that neither is superior; the right choice depends on individual strengths and interests.
Career Opportunities After STEM Courses
After completing a STEM course, graduates can expect great career opportunities in India because of the country’s increasing need for technology and innovation.
>>Software Engineer
>>Data Scientist
>>AI and Machine Learning Engineer
>>Doctor and Integrated Health Care Professional
>>Research Scientist
>>Robotic Engineer
>>Environmental Scientist
Salaries for initial positions in STEM occupations are usually higher than salaries for other occupations.
Career Opportunities After Non-STEM Courses
After completing a non-STEM course, graduates can look forward to a wide variety of career opportunities due to the opportunity that new startup companies offer.
>>Business Manager or Entrepreneur
>>Lawyer or Legal Advisor
>>Journalist and/or Content Development Strategist
>>Economist and/or Financial Analyst
>>Psychologist or Counsellor
>>Policy Analyst and/or Public Administration Professional
>>UX Designer and/or Creative Director
How to Choose Between STEM and Non-STEM?
Selecting the best path is a reflection of your own thoughts and ideas; it is not based purely on what society thinks is best.
Ask Yourself:
1Do I like to solve problems using numbers and technology?
2Do I like to work with people or do I prefer working with ideas and creativity?
3Do I prefer to work in a structured learning environment or have the ability to think about things flexibly?
4What type of work environment can I work in?
If you enjoy trying out things and overcoming obstacles you have learned to solve, you can do well in STEM careers, while if you are good at communicating your messages, strategising, or expressing your creative ideas, you will do well in non-STEM careers.
Future Scope of STEM vs Non-STEM in India
The future of education & jobs in India has interdisciplinary applications. Various organisations require professionals who have both technical & soft skills.
STEM individuals with management or communication skills are few. People who lack backgrounds in STEM but have data literacy or digital, Such an increasing trend is set to give a completely new dimension to the debate between pursuing STEM and non-STEM areas of study in the country of India.
Guiding Your STEM and Non-STEM Journey at Takshashila University
Takshashila University has taken it upon itself to provide students with quality education in both STEM vs non STEM courses in India hence specialising in educational programmes that match market demands.
Our university has a major focus on enabling students with the necessary knowledge and skills. We aim to provide a learn-through experience that inspires innovation.
In a scenario where Takshashila University needs to ensure that its students are confident while choosing courses under STEM and related fields, the university offers a range of advantages, such as expert faculty, modern facilities, and a career-oriented curriculum. For events & more, follow @TakshashilaCollege.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to the choice between STEM vs non STEM courses in India, the choice is not about what is better; it is simply about what is right for you.
These two fields will offer you a good career path and growth if you can incorporate them into your areas of interest and skills.
These qualities have nothing to do with choosing a stream after you finish with your schooling.
Regardless of whether you choose the STEM or non-STEM courses, the most important part is to put the full implementation of yourself into creating skill sets that are aligned with your personal long-term goals.
FAQs About Stem vs Non Stem Courses in India
1. In what ways are STEM and non-stem courses different in India?
STEM courses include science, technology and engineering disciplines. While non-STEM courses cover arts, commerce, humanities, and social sciences disciplines.
2. Are STEM courses preferable to other courses in India?
No. Whether a student should pursue STEM education or non STEM education in India is based on his or her interest and skills. There are good opportunities in both fields.
3. Which one has better salary prospects, STEM or non-STEM?
A beginning salary for professionals employed in fields such as science, engineering, or mathematics can be higher, though highly experienced professionals in administration, law, or media can earn similar or even higher salaries.
4. Can Non-STEM Students Pursue Tech Career Paths?
Yes. Many non-STEM graduates alter courses by learning new skills for technology-enabled areas of interest.
5. In what ways does Takshashila University help STEM and Non-STEM students?
Takshashila University offers industry-oriented courses and learning and development opportunities that help build student employability in STEM and non-STEM disciplines.
