Benefits of Studying STEM Courses in the UK

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Mrunmayai Bobade
Updated on Feb 10, 2023 05:24 PM IST

STEM graduates have their own perks on the job market because STEM education has its own teaching methodology. STEM graduates are more likely to find employment after graduating from an international university than non-STEM graduates. Scroll through the article to know the benefits of studying STEM courses in the UK.

Benefits of Studying STEM Courses in the UK

You should undoubtedly consider the UK as your preferred study abroad destination if STEM is what interests you. With thousands of international students, the UK provides a learning and teaching environment that is innovative. Many of the UK's universities offer world-renowned STEM courses. Universities like these are internationally recognized for their outstanding research work and teaching, which help individuals shape their futures.

Apart from quality teachings and learning, there are several other advantages of pursuing a STEM course in the UK. Students have a higher chance of earning higher packages, finding better jobs, and getting higher immigration opportunities as compared to other graduates. Undoubtedly, every aspect of a professional's life is influenced by these benefits in a twofold way. Check why you should consider the UK as a preferred destination to pursue a STEM course.

Find Out the Best Career Changing Opportunitiesin the Uk!

Also Read:

Eligibility to Pursue STEM Courses in the UK

Best Universities in the UK to Pursue STEM Courses

All About Pursuing a STEM Degree Abroad: Scope, Advantages, Job Prospects

STEM Scholarships in the UK for International Students

Benefits of Studying STEM Courses in the UK

As one of the top study abroad destinations, the UK offers everything from world-beating facilities, renowned faculty, and high-rise placements to prestigious campus life and overall personal growth. Students in UK universities are highly sought after for the practical and excellent course curriculum that is industry-relevant and assists them in securing work.

Known for its creative, conducive, and innovative learning environment, UK universities rank among the top 100 universities in the world. In top British universities, there are highly experienced faculty members who can help students develop scientific thinking skills and innovative learning. Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics are taught at colleges and universities throughout the UK, and the courses and degrees offered to reflect the hopes and dreams of countless students. Having a STEM degree from a UK university gives STEM graduates a competitive edge in the job market. Explore other benefits of pursuing a STEM course in the UK here:

Valuable Degree Program

Survey shows that the STEM degree programs offered in the UK are highly valuable and hold a high reputation among employers. One has the option to pick up from a wide range of STEM courses offered in different universities including top universities of the world like Oxford University, Cambridge University, Imperial College London, etc.

Enhance Skills and Abilities

While pursuing a STEM course in the UK, you get an opportunity to enhance your critical thinking abilities, innovative thinking, and academic skills to showcase to employers. You get ample options in terms of internships, work placements, volunteer work, and dissertations.

Involve in Internships and Work Placement

Most universities in the UK offer work placement opportunities for STEM students that give an advantage to a student in the competitive graduate job market. Some STEM courses also come with work placements that provide hands-on experience in a specific field.

Career Opportunity

Professional career advisers at UK Universities and Colleges help students in building a strong CV and preparing for interviews. STEM Students can help professionals who can help them decide whether to take higher education or get into a job. Career advisers help students succeed in a particular field and find the most suitable employment.

Links with Industry

The UK is the home to many multinational companies. Most of these MNCs collaborate with institutions in the UK to offer employment opportunities to deserving candidates. The teaching methodologies incorporated at institutes help students acquire practical skills and knowledge that are required in industries.

Increasing Job Demand

Did you know that jobs in the field of STEM are anticipated to expand by 142,000 between now and 2023? This is more than double the rate for other occupations (Social Market Foundation, EDF). As businesses such as technology and engineering continue to grow at a rapid pace, there is a greater demand for positions such as AI Specialists and Data Scientists.

With increasing emphasis being placed on themes such as sustainable living, electric vehicles, and AI technology, job demand in these fields is expected to rise in the coming years. Many industries involving STEM will continue to flourish as government goals such as the prohibition on selling petrol and diesel automobiles by 2030 (helping the UK achieve its aim of net zero carbon emissions by 2050) are set.

Excellent Salary Offer

According to Korn Ferry Hay Group research, graduates in science, technology, engineering, and math can earn approximately 20% more than their peers. In the United Kingdom, the average salary for a STEM employee is a little more than GBP 26,000 per year (Inside careers). Engineers and computer scientists are among the highest-paid jobs, and as billion-dollar firms expand, the average income in these fields is expected to rise as well. Furthermore, job security is excellent in many areas.

Wide Range of Job Prospects 

The rapid expansion of STEM industries has resulted in a broader spectrum of job categories across several sectors:

  • Technology: Initially, technology was employed in work roles to support data or computer programming, but as technology advanced, other job positions were formed. Most industries now incorporate a technological component, and some of the highest-paid industries for IT employees include transportation, education, retail, and healthcare.

  • Engineering: It is one of the UK's most diverse industries, employing 5.7 million people and accounting for 19% of total UK employment (Prospects). The industry collaborates with the scientific and technology sectors to design and develop a variety of products. Aerospace, electronics, robotics, and laser instruments are only a few examples.

STEM Graduates Enjoy Higher Remuneration

STEM graduates will more likely get hired at brands that pay higher salaries since they have the appropriate knowledge and skills that established businesses require. The return on investment (ROI) of jobs of this type is usually made in less than a year.

Eligibility for STEM Courses in the UK

STEM courses are extremely competitive in the UK, and it is imperative that applicants meet the eligibility requirements to get into the course of their choice. Different universities and courses in the UK have different eligibility criteria for STEM courses. We've listed some of the common entrance requirements for STEM courses in the UK here:

  • To be eligible for a PG degree, applicants must have graduated from one of the STEM subjects.

  • A high school student's curriculum must have included mathematics, chemistry, biology, and physics.

  • The statement of purpose and letters of recommendation from professors, along with relevant work experience, is required for all applicants.

Impact of the Post Study Work Visa on STEM Graduates Studying in the UK

The UK Government has reduced work visa requirements for PhD researchers and highly qualified individuals interested in studying or working in the UK. The cap on the number of work visas issued to researchers and PhD level academics for work and research in the UK was removed. This, along with the establishment of a fast-track route for scientists, cleared the ground for a smooth transition of highly trained individuals to Tier 2 UK work visas.

However, beginning in 2020, work visa relaxation will be available to graduate-level students under the new post-study work visa in the UK in an effort to solidify the UK's standing as a STEM superpower. The UK is eager to welcome students from India and around the world to study science, technology, engineering, and mathematics at UK universities, and to continue working and researching in the sector to contribute to the UK's economic growth and stability.

The number of Indian students in the United Kingdom has steadily increased, reaching about 22,000 in June 2019. Almost half of the students have enrolled in STEM courses, illustrating the vast opportunities available to STEM graduates in the country. Previously, STEM graduates could only stay in the UK for 4 or 6 months after finishing their degree; now, they will be permitted to work in any capacity for up to 2 years after finishing their degree and afterwards apply for a general work visa under the Tier 2 category.

Salary Package of STEM and Non-STEM Graduates

STEM graduates are paid at least 20% more per year than their peers in non-STEM fields, according to the STEM Connect Report. In contrast to their non-STEM graduate counterparts, STEM graduates are still benefiting from higher salaries even when not working within their field of study. This is due to the fact that they receive valuable training at universities.

Employment Level

STEM Graduates

Non-STEM Graduates

Entrance Level

USD 54,745

USD 40,505, or 26% less

Average Level

USD 81,011

USD 60,828

Higher Level

26% increased than non-STEM

26% decreased than STEM

Doctoral/Professional Level

24% increased than non-STEM

24% less decreased than STEM

Fields outside of STEM

USD 71,000

USD 60,000

Note: Studying at lower or higher-tier international institutions can also lead to a difference in the annual salary package.

Let Us Help You Find the Right Study Destination in the UK!

Job Opportunities After STEM Courses in the UK

After pursuing a STEM course in the UK, you can find a job in the UK or choose to work in your home country or some other country. The STEM degree from the UK is recognised everywhere. You can expect a handsome salary package after pursuing a STEM course in the UK that ranges between Rs 35 Lakhs to 55 Lakhs per Annum. Popular sectors or industry for STEM graduates in the UK is given below:

Sector/ Industry

Job Roles

IT Sector

Programmer

Software Developers

Software Testers

Design & Construction

Construction Engineer

Design Engineer

Civil Engineer

Biotechnology Sector

Medical Scientists

Biological Technicians

Biomedical Engineers

Biotechnologist

Research Centers

Researcher

Scientists

Robotics

Robotics Engineers

Robotics Programmer

Product Design Engineer

Tester

Artificial Intelligence

AI Engineer

Data Scientists

AI Programmer

Big Data Engineer

Machine Learning Engineer

AI Data Analyst

Energy & Conservation

Production Engineer

Mechanical Engineers

Civil Engineer

Top STEM Courses to Study in the UK

Different universities in the UK offer a wide range of STEM courses to choose from. Here you can check the list of popular STEM courses you can think of studying in the UK. Click links to explore the list of UK universities that offer the course.

Computer Science & Engineering in the UK

Mechanical Engineering in the UK

Electrical Engineering in the UK

Biology in the UK

Mathematics in the UK

Information Technology in the UK

Bio & Biomedical Engineering in the UK

Aerospace Engineering in the UK

Environmental Engineering in the UK

Microbiology in the UK

Chemical Engineering in the UK

Civil Engineering in the UK

Top Universities for International Students to Study STEM Courses in UK 

In the UK there are several universities that offer STEM courses. Each university has a different degree programme to offer. Here you can check the list of popular universities in the UK that offer STEM courses, along with the QS World Ranking of STEM program.

University

Subject-Wise QS World Ranking 2022

QS World University Rankings 2023

University of Oxford

Engineering & Technology: 2

Mathematics: 6

4

University of Cambridge

Engineering & Technology: 3

Mathematics: 3

2

Imperial College London

Engineering & Technology: 8

Mathematics: 11

=6

The University of Manchester

Engineering and Technology: =21

Mathematics: 69

28

University College London

Engineering and Technology: =37

Mathematics: 39

8

The University of Edinburgh

Engineering and Technology: =66

Mathematics: =37

15

University of Southampton

Engineering and Technology: 85

Mathematics: 151-200

78

University of Leeds

Engineering and Technology: =108

Mathematics: 151-200

86

The University of Sheffield

Engineering and Technology: =110

Mathematics: 301-350

=96

University of Bristol

Engineering and Technology: =110

Mathematics: 81

=61

King's College London

Engineering and Technology: =118

Mathematics: =72

37

University of Nottingham

Engineering and Technology: =118

Mathematics: 201-250

114

University of Birmingham

Engineering and Technology: =126

Mathematics: 151-200

91

The University of Warwick

Engineering and Technology: =134

Mathematics: 23

64

University of Glasgow

Engineering and Technology: =156

Mathematics: 151-200

81

Increased Scope of Employment in the Research Cell

Several countries provide exciting research opportunities in STEM fields, such as Australia, Europe, and the United Kingdom. This research wing covers areas such as:

  • Research in Clinical Practice

  • Achieving Quality and Production

  • Managing the supply chain

  • Development and Research

  • Finance, human resources and other administrative functions

Further, it is estimated that the global market for STEM cells will reach USD 17.9 Billion by 2027. Consequently, international scientists trained in a diverse range of scientific fields will have great opportunities to conduct research. Indian researchers are working hard to become global leaders in STEM research, even for those who wish to stay in the country.

Things to Keep in Mind While Choosing STEM Courses in the UK

As you are now aware of the scope and reach of the benefits of studying STEM courses in the UK for international students, your STEM programmes must assist you in exploring a purpose-driven career in science, medicine, or research, while also adding valuable resume-building experience and keeping you on track for graduation. The following are some specific aspects or factors to consider when researching STEM programmes in the UK.

  • Strong and Renowned Academic Partners: Ensure that the programme provider has a long history of working with reputable academic/research organisations. If you can enrol immediately in a college or university and take specialised classes that will enrich your international experiences, it is great.

  • Choose Options that Match your GPA: Choosing options that match your GPA can be difficult for students enrolled in STEM programmes. You can learn about epidemiology, bioinformatics, and the political aspects of healthcare.

  • Hands-On Learning: Make sure you have opportunities to work with well-known professors and scientists in field research. It allows you to see theoretical knowledge come to life and helps you narrow down your career options while earning credits.

  • Provide Internship Programmes: You can use your time abroad to advance your career by interning in company development, marketing, or psychological research. Internships are a great method to get corporate experience that will help you stand out after graduation. In addition to earning credits, you will learn cultural skills by dealing with people from various backgrounds.

Offer STEM Scholarships: Most STEM providers provide scholarships and grants to overseas students in order to make the international experience more affordable. Some institutions provide scholarships or travel subsidies to STEM students, allowing them to continue their research in the UK.

Connect with our study abroad counsellors if you would like expert guidance on universities offering globally recognized STEM degrees. Kindly email us at abroad@collegedekho.com to receive help at every step of the way, from shortlisting universities to booking your flight tickets. In collaboration with our study abroad experts, we have placed many students at the best academic institutions for STEM courses in the UK. We are thrilled to know that many of our students are now enrolled at prestigious UK universities.

Want to Give Your Career a Boost by Studying in the UK? Get FREE Expert Guidance Now!

FAQs

Why study a STEM course in the UK?

The United Kingdom is a top study-abroad destination for overseas STEM students. While studying in the UK, you can discover everything from world-class facilities, exceptional education, and high-class placements to outstanding employment chances. According to records, a large number of Indians studying in the UK over the last 10 years have chosen STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) undergraduate and postgraduate studies.

How has the post-study work visa in the UK changed?

The most recent revisions to the UK post-study work visa (PSW) have increased its popularity among overseas students, particularly those studying STEM in the UK. The most recent PSW policy changes reflect the UK government's aim to foster STEM-related expertise in the country and recruit global talent in these sectors, for which it has reduced post-study work visa regulations for all overseas graduates and postgraduates studying in the UK.

What are the best STEM courses to study in UK?

STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) are imperative components of today's global civilization. Petroleum engineering, atomic or molecular physics, management science, information technology, water resources engineering, computer engineering, chemical engineering, biological sciences, network and system administration, and palaeontology are among the top STEM courses.

Why one must choose to study at a UK University for a STEM course?

You may select the top UK University for STEM studies by considering a few key factors. Check the ranking, specialisations, available facilities, fee structure, entrance requirements, eligibility, and placement records. STEM courses in the United Kingdom are in high demand among both students and businesses, particularly those offered by top-tier universities. Furthermore, salaries for STEM courses in the UK are higher than for non-STEM courses.

Are STEM jobs in demand UK?

For a long time, industries requiring STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) capabilities have prioritised recruitment. STEM abilities are in high demand. Attracting, retraining, and developing enough young talent can be difficult for firms trying to fill high-level positions.

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