As work in different sectors is changing through automation, globalisation and the explosion in the digital ecosystem, employers are now searching for individuals who match their skills. Career opportunities in future will mostly rely on skills such as creativity, critical thinking, awareness and problem-solving. In fact, it is predicted by various surveys that future workers will spend most of their time on job tasks that require science, maths and business. This is where STEM is so important.
Pursuing a STEM career can make a difference in your chosen field through innovation and discovery. STEM Australia helps you with the combination of practical skills and experience, with in-depth theoretical knowledge and confidence with creativity to apply in real-world scenarios. To learn more about STEM courses in Australia, we have discussed the top STEM institutions in Australia along with the types of programs, requirements, cost, career prospects and much more.
Why Study STEM Courses in Australia?
Employment in the STEM field is continuously emerging, and today's graduates need to be agile and be able to adapt the skills in this fast-changing global economy. Here are some reasons why pursuing STEM courses Australia are inclined with major enrollment:
- STEM Qualifications: In Australia, Engineering and Science subjects tend to be the most studied areas of STEM. Based on some universities data, it is estimated that 28% or around 436,000 international students are currently studying STEM degrees in Australian universities. The largest among the fields is Natural and physical sciences (8.6%), engineering (7.8%) and information technology (7.5%).
- Jobs: STEM Jobs Australia are predicted to thrive well in the coming future, with STEM qualified professionals favoured by employers. As per the research, around 75% of fastest growing career paths will in future require STEM capabilities, with the right skills which they may give valuable to almost in every industry. Over 100k+ technology related professionals are required in the next 5 years.
- Salary: STEM qualified professionals are among the highest earners in Australia. Every year more and more STEM careers are going to sit in the top income brackets than any other industry in Australia, and the salary alone shows how in-demand professionals are. Around 150,000 business and analysts and programmers would see a wage increase from an average of 100,000 AUD in 2015 to almost 150,000 by the end of 2035.
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List of STEM Courses in Australia
STEM is an acronym incorporating research and learning in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Some of the universities in Australia refer to it as STEM, which includes the study of medicine as well. Studying these courses will help you to develop skills that employers look for every now and in future. Being a broad and diversified field, the range of careers of STEM is from biotechnology engineering and software development to psychology and accounting programs. Take a look at the top STEM degree list Australia to pursue:
- Software Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Environmental Studies
- Food Science
- Mechanical Engineering
- Architectural Engineering
- Astronomy
- Biochemistry
- Plant Sciences
- Statistics
- Human Biology
- Physics
- Botany
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Top STEM Colleges & Universities in Australia
As the technologies are evolving faster than we would have ever thought about. Australian universities meet future challenges through cutting-edge research and education of future professionals. Here we have curated a list of some best universities offering STEM degrees Australia:
- Australian National University
- University of Melbourne
- The University of Sydney
- University of New South Wales
- University of Queensland
- University of Adelaide
Let's discuss each university in detail below:
1. Australian National University
ANU is the number one university in Australia and ranked 31st across the world. Studying in the universe gives you the opportunity to learn from the world's top researchers and be a part of one of the diverse academic communities. The country also boasts nine science subjects ranked in the Top 50 worldwide, with Earth & Marine sciences and geography ranked in Top 10 globally.
|
QS World University Rankings 2023 |
30 |
|
Type of University |
Public |
|
Average Annual Fees |
43,680 AUD |
|
Courses Offered |
Astronomy & Astrophysics Earth & Marine Sciences Biology Environment & Sustainability Science Communication Physics Engineering & Computer Science |
2. University of Melbourne
University of Melbourne is a leading university in Australia and ranks 8th in graduate employability rankings. The university provides a distinctive curriculum giving students a wider information beyond the degrees. It offers over 270 degrees in a vast range of study areas and specialisations. Its Arts, language and STEM courses provide a vibrant community and educators prepare you to take your skills into the workforce.
|
QS World University Rankings 2023 |
33 |
|
Type of University |
Public |
|
Average Annual Fees |
31,870 - 50,450 AUD |
|
Program Offered |
Biological sciences Computer science Data and analytics Mathematics and statistics Veterinary, agricultural and food sciences Physics Earth and environmental sciences |
3. The University of Sydney
The University of Sydney STEM programs are recognised with its purpose-built labs, teaching and learning hubs and home to the latest technology and equipment that provides you an engaging and hands-on educational experience. The university offers a Bachelor of Advanced Studies program that allows you to graduate with two degrees.
|
QS World University Rankings 2023 |
41 |
|
Type of University |
Public |
|
Average Annual Fees |
31,000 - 53,500 AUD |
|
Program Offered |
Agriculture and food Animal health and veterinary science Engineering and computing Mathematics and statistics Medicine Science Technology |
4. University of New South Wales
UNSW is home to eight different schools that equip you with the right skills and knowledge required to innovate and expand your knowledge of the world. It focuses on delivering the optimal balance of theory and practical work to provide you with a well-rounded exposure to science, and as a fast-track your career in diverse fields such as information technology, aviation, health, finance and more.
|
QS World University Rankings 2023 |
45 |
|
Type of University |
Public |
|
Average Annual Fees |
22,800 - 49,040 AUD |
|
Program Offered |
Aviation Biotechnology Chemical & materials processing Cybersecurity Data Science & statistics Information Technology |
5. University of Queensland
University of Queensland STEM Education Australia inspires new generations of innovative pioneers by providing hands-on access to all learners to world-class equipment and expertise in areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Its extensive range of specialist fields enables you to develop an interdisciplinary scientific knowledge and practical skills, while pursuing studies that suit your interests and ambitions.
|
QS World University Rankings 2023 |
50 |
|
Type of University |
Public |
|
Average Annual Fees |
23,180 - 44,960 AUD |
|
Program Offered |
Applied Mathematics Archaeological Science Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Computer Science Earth Science Food Science and Nutrition Mathematics Plant Science |
6. University of Adelaide
University of Adelaide ranks highest across engineering, science, mathematics and computer science in South Australia. It focuses on applying proven values in the pursuit of contemporary educational and research excellence. The university also has a STEM academy outrage program encouraging the students to study its courses through a range of interactive workshops, activities and events.
|
QS World University Rankings 2023 |
109 |
|
Type of University |
Public |
|
Average Annual Fees |
18,480 - 49,730 AUD |
|
Program Offered |
Agriculture, Food and Wine Animal and Veterinary Sciences Architecture Biomedical Science and Biotechnology Energy, Mining and Resources Engineering Mathematical Sciences |
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Eligibility Criteria for STEM Programs in Australia
The basic requirements to be eligible for the STEM programs in Australia are discussed below. However, your GPA scores and test scores of entrance tests can vary with the type of university and the level of study. Some of the eligibility criteria are:
- Academic Qualifications
- Standardized Tests
- Language Proficiency Test
- Work Experience
- Passport & Student Visa
Let's discuss each requirement in detail:
1. Academic Qualifications
To get into bachelor's in STEM programs you must have a higher secondary certificate in a related subject. For admission to postgraduate STEM subjects, a bachelor's degree in any relevant stream from a recognised university is required. The minimum GPA score for STEM-approved universities in Australia is 3.0 on a scale of 4.0 or above.
Also, students are required to have post-secondary qualifications at the Certificate level of III or above in any one of the following fields:
- Information Technology
- Natural and Physical Sciences
- Engineering and Related Technologies
- Agriculture, Environment and Related Studies
- Mathematical Sciences
2. Standardized Tests
The entrance scores can be SAT or ACT for bachelor courses and GRE or GMAT for the masters courses are required. However the exact scores vary with the level of study. GMAT scores are mandatory if applying for a masters in engineering or professional degrees.
3. Language Proficiency Test
English Language Proficiency scores are a must for seeking admission to any STEM degree program in Australia. If you are from a non-native English nation, it is mandatory to submit the scores. You can submit either a TOEFL or IELTS score to the program. The minimum scores are
4. Work Experience
Although it is not a mandatory requirement for universities, some prior experience in a relevant industry is highly recommended for studying any STEM programs in Australia. It also gets you an edge over other applications.
5. Passport & Student Visa
A copy of your passport and Australia student visa is the most important requirement for admission as an international student in Australia. You can apply for the visa after receiving the letter of acceptance. Make sure to apply at least three months before the date of travel.
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Documents Required For STEM Courses in Australia
Some additional documents are required at the submission process. These documents are essential but may vary with the university. Here is a list of documents you can submit:
- Official High School Transcripts
- Higher Secondary Certificate
- Bachelor's Degree (for masters)
- Language test scores
- GRE or GMAT scorecards
- Personal Essay
- Statement of Purpose
- A letter of recommendation
- Resume or CV
- Work experience certificate (if any)
- Proof of your financial resources
- Student Visa
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Admission Process for STEM Programs in Australia
The application form of STEM programs are mostly accepted in February and July intakes. However, the master's and some bachelor's degrees have their own specific application deadlines. This may vary with the type of your course. You must check it on their official website. Here is a step by step process you can follow to apply for admission in Australia:
- First make a list of your best universities or refer to the above mentioned ones.
- Browse their official website and check out the entry requirements of the course.
- Fill up the online application form and pay the required application fees.
- Submit all asked documents in scanned format.
- Wait for the decision or you can check the admission status on the university website.
- If accepted, you will receive a letter of acceptance from the university.
- Acknowledge the letter by paying the required depository fees to confirm your seat.
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Scholarships for STEM Courses in Australia
Scholarships are the best way for international students to study any STEM subjects Australia. These scholarships can be university specific or offered by some external sources. Many of them are given by the Australian government as well. Some of these scholarships to study STEM degrees in Australian universities are given below:
|
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Benefits |
|
Deakin STEM Scholarship |
Students must be enrolled into a STEM program at the university and have maintained a weighted average mark (WAM) of least 65% during each previous year of study. |
20% of tuition fees |
|
Southcott Undergraduate Engineering Scholarship, UNISA |
Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronic Engineering, Advanced Manufacturing Engineering, students are eligible for the scholarship. |
Upto 30,000 AUD |
|
Sydney Achievers International Scholarships, University of Sydney |
Must have good academic records and achievements in the previous year if study. |
10,000 AUD |
|
Swinburne International Excellence Scholarship |
Undergraduate students admitted to the university are eligible |
3500 AUD |
|
Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarships |
Students pursuing an undergraduate degree based on academic excellence. |
14,000 AUD |
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Career Opportunities After STEM Courses in Australia
STEM careers Australia isn't restricted to only a few areas. There are plenty of career paths one can follow which are in need of talented and skilled professionals. Industries like maths aren't much well known, but getting a qualification in this area will open up a lot of careers in methodology, surveying and research fields.
Post completing a masters in STEM courses you can expect a lucrative career package in between 75,000 AUD to 107,000 AUD in many sectors. Also, there's a huge scope to grow both financially with an increasing number of years of experience. Some of the top job profiles are given below:
|
Job Profile |
Average Salary |
|
Computer Engineer |
78,817 AUD |
|
Mechanical Engineer |
74,135 AUD |
|
Statistician |
70,076 AUD |
|
Biochemist |
68,605 AUD |
|
Architect |
68,814 AUD |
|
Production Operator |
65,000 AUD |
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Australian universities are ranked high because of their practical and experiential learnings and the quality of education they offer. Studying any of the STEM courses in Australia will put your skills to the test at the entry-level level and transform you into a qualified professional. A degree in STEM from a top university will be a gateway for you to a number of career opportunities. You can also connect with our Yocket Counsellors to get more information about STEM-related courses and the top universities in Australia to pursue a career in this field.
