STEM in Higher Education: Examining Why the "M" (Mathematics) Matters

From grade school to grad school STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) is a hot topic in education. According to the Department of Commerce, STEM-related jobs are expected to grow by 17 percent by 2018, whereas non-STEM related jobs are only expected to grow by 9.8 percent. The Department of Commerce also states that those with STEM-related degrees earn more money than those with non-STEM related degrees, even if they work in a non-scientific field. But, currently only one-third of college degrees earned are in STEM fields, and the numbers are even lower for women and minorities. In this month's interview we talk with Dr. Mary Gray of American University about the importance of STEM education, what sorts of jobs those with STEM related degrees are taking, and how to attract more women and minorities to the field. 

(Source: https://www.higheredjobs.com/HigherEdCareers/interviews.cfm?ID=653)