Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM)

With this endorsement you’ll take classes in science, math, or Career Technology Education (CTE). Review the related careers and talk to your counselor to find the right endorsement for you.

What to expect

Endorsements and career paths help you see what it's like to study this subject in college or work in this career field. If you select the STEM endorsement, here’s a bit about what you can expect.

Classes you might take

The STEM endorsement includes classes like statistics, AP chemistry, computer science, drafting, and more.

Skills you could learn

During your classes you’ll learn skills like critical thinking, problem solving, and data analysis to set you up for success.

Careers you can pursue

With the STEM endorsement you explore careers like data scientist, computer programmer, or environmental scientist.

Planning for high school graduation

Take some time to learn about endorsements and related careers. Talk to your friends, family, or counselors to find what matches your interests. When you’re ready, build a plan to graduate with this endorsement.
Want to learn more about graduating with an endorsement? Explore the graduation toolkit.

Endorsements and graduation requirements

Core classes

All students need to take core classes to graduate high school. These include science, math, social studies, and English. You’ll also take fine arts, foreign language, and physical education. Learn more about core graduation requirements.

Classes required to earn this endorsement

In addition to your core classes, you’ll complete additional classes to earn an endorsement. These classes focus on a specific subject or skill set. Check with your counselor or use the MapMyGrad to find the right classes at your school.

Career and tech

Careers like car mechanic, architect, or electrician. With this career path you need to complete a series of Career and Technical Education (CTE) classes.

Computer science

Careers like software engineer, IT analyst, or cyber security specialist. With this career path you need to complete a series of computer science classes.

Science

Careers like chemist, environmental scientist, or nurse. With this career path you need to complete a series of science electives.

Math

Careers like statistician, surveyor, or data scientist. With this career path you need to complete a series of math electives.

Now that you have a better idea of the requirements, you may be ready to pursue this endorsement. Use MapMyGrad to map out classes you’ll need to graduate with this endorsement. You can switch your endorsement later by talking to your counselor.

Student stories

These students were in your shoes. See what made them decide to choose the STEM endorsement.

Meet Sandra

Sandra is a senior at her high school in El Paso. Her uncle runs an auto shop, where she’s had a job throughout high school, learning how things work. She chose the STEM endorsement because she’s interested in developing more fuel-efficient cars.

Meet Adam

Adam has always been interested in knowing how things work. He loved physics in high school and even though his friends told him it was nerdy, he was in a robotics club. In college, Adam majored in mechanical engineering. He’s now a successful engineer at a large company in Austin and leads an after-school engineering program for high schoolers.

Related career clusters

If you’re interested in this endorsement, these career clusters may be a good fit for you. Select a career cluster to see relevant careers.

Explore Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) careers