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STEM Strand: Courses, Subjects & Jobs in the Philippines

STEM-Courses-List-STEM-Strand-Subjects-Universities-Jobs

What Is the STEM Strand?

STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
In the Philippines, it's one of the four senior high school (SHS) academic tracks under the K–12 curriculum. It prepares students for science- and tech-driven careers by focusing on advanced math, research, and analytical thinking.

STEM Strand Subjects (SHS)

Here are the core and specialized subjects covered under the STEM strand in Grades 11 and 12:

Core Subjects Specialized STEM Subjects
Oral Communication General Biology 1 & 2
Reading & WritingGeneral Chemistry 1 & 2
21st Century LiteratureGeneral Physics 1 & 2
Media & Information LiteracyPre-Calculus & Basic Calculus
Understanding Culture, SocietyResearch in Daily Life & Capstone

This strand builds the foundation for STEM-based degrees in college.

List of Popular STEM Strand Courses in College

After SHS, students often pursue the following degrees:

Course Name Common Careers
BS in Civil Engineering Structural Engineer, Site Engineer
BS in Computer ScienceSoftware Developer, AI Specialist
BS in NursingRegistered Nurse, ER Staff
BS in BiologyLab Analyst, Research Assistant
BS in Information TechnologyIT Specialist, Systems Admin
BS in ArchitectureArchitect, Urban Planner
BS in MathematicsData Analyst, Statistician
BS in PharmacyPharmacist, Clinical Researcher

Interested in fields like tech and healthcare? Explore in-demand courses in the Philippines to align with future-ready jobs.

Top Jobs for STEM Strand Graduates (PH + Abroad)

  •  Medical Professional (Nurse, Med Tech, Pharmacist)
  • Software Developer / Web Engineer
  • Chemical / Biomedical Technician
  • Civil / Mechanical / Electrical Engineer
  • Data Analyst / Statistician
  • Aerospace Engineer
  • Environmental Scientist
  • Research & Laboratory Assistant

Tip: If you're planning to work or study abroad, you'll likely be asked for your Transcript of Records and English proficiency scores (like IELTS).

 Is STEM Strand Hard?

Yes — but it's worth it.

The STEM strand is considered the most academically demanding SHS track because of:

  •  Higher-level math (Calculus, Statistics)
  •  Rigorous science subjects (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
  •  Research-based assessments

If you love solving problems and exploring how things work, STEM can be your best-fit strand.

STEM Strand vs Other SHS Tracks

Track Focus Ideal For
STEM Science, Math, Engineering Future scientists, engineers
ABMBusiness & AccountingEntrepreneurs, bankers
HUMSSSocial Sciences, CommunicationTeachers, writers, public servants
TVLPractical Tech SkillsEarly employment, tech-voc work

Can You Shift to STEM From Another Strand?

Yes — but it's challenging. You'll need to catch up on:

  • Specialized science & math subjects
  • Research and technical writing skills
  • Lab work & logical reasoning tasks

AECC offers student support services if you're planning to shift or study STEM abroad.

Conclusion

What is STEM strand in SHS?

It's an academic track focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics for Grades 11–12.

What are examples of STEM strand courses?

Civil Engineering, Computer Science, Nursing, Biology, Pharmacy, Architecture, and more.

What jobs can I get from STEM strand?

The main reason is the return on investment. Doing STEM courses abroad may mean paying more than domestically, but it will also open up more career opportunities with higher earning potential. 

Is STEM a Course or Strand?

Engineering, IT, Healthcare, Research, Data Science, and Environmental jobs.

Is STEM strand only for future engineers?

No. STEM leads to careers in medicine, analytics, research, and even design (e.g., Architecture).

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