Selecting an appropriate Senior High School track for Filipino students who are embarking on their academic and professional path is a critical choice. In the Philippines, there are various strands (subjects) available in grade 11 and 12, one of which is STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and could be one of the most sought after subjects for students who are interested in science or innovation-related fields like health care to technology.
On the other hand, for students who aim to study in Australia from Philippines, these four subjects of STEM strand – can give you surest academic foundation. It builds skills such as analytical, research and problem-solving that are sought-after essentials for universities and employers globally.
Australia is one of the top choices for international students due to a world-class education system, great research ecosystems, and excellent job prospects for STEM Graduates.
What is the STEM Strand?
STEM — this strand covers subjects such as science, technology, engineering and mathematics. It provides students with the skills necessary for university programs requiring strong logical thinking, analysis and scientific knowledge.
Those who take this strand typically go on to careers in:
- Engineering
- Information Technology
- Data Science
- Medicine and Health Sciences
- Environmental Science
- Architecture
- Robotics and Artificial Intelligence
STEM education is vital for innovation and technology development globally. Scientific and technological fields are showing such strong demand that, according to the Australian Government’s Study Australia portal, more than 2 million people have jobs in STEM occupations in Australia.
STEM Strand Subjects in the Philippines
Students enrolled in the STEM strand take advanced courses which develop their scientific and mathematical abilities.
Core Science Subjects
- General Biology
- General Chemistry
- General Physics
- Earth and Life Science
These courses provide a good foundation of scientific knowledge and laboratory techniques.
Mathematics Subjects
- Pre-Calculus
- Basic Calculus
- Statistics and Probability
Mathematics is an essential part of the fields like engineering, computer science and data analysis.
Applied and Research Subjects
- Practical Research
- Disaster Readiness and Risk Reduction
- Capstone or Research Projects
Students are prompted to develop research tools, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Global Demand for STEM Professionals
In the modern world, the demand for more STEM professionals has only been rising. Technology, scientific research, and data analysis are critical to many different industries.
Here are a few key stats highlighting the significance of STEM careers:
- In Australia, STEM jobs have been growing at almost double the rate of other occupations.
- STEM is responsible for about 11% of Australia’s workforce.
- Over 82% of employers think that STEM qualifications are important within the workplace.
While these figures demonstrate a strong employment market and career growth for students with STEM degrees.
Popular STEM Courses to Study in Australia
Australia has such a great many STEM courses, which perfectly combine theory with practical training.
The most sought after courses to apply for are:
Engineering
Engineering is about purposeful, tangible solutions to problems of the infrastructure, technology, and industry.
Common specializations include:
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
Engineering is the backbone of any nation, and engineering graduates lay the foundation for building infrastructure such as roads, bridges, buildings etc.
Information Technology and Computer Science
Across the world, technology is revolutionising industries. One of the most sought-after courses in the world is IT and computer science.
Popular programs include:
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Cybersecurity
- Artificial Intelligence
- Data Science
These courses build the foundation for careers in software engineering, data analytics, and digital innovation.
Health and Medical Sciences
In every country, healthcare careers are very important; that is why a lot of Filipino students choose to study medicine and other health programs abroad.
- Common programs include:
- Nursing
- Biomedical Science
- Pharmacy
- Medical Laboratory Science
- Public Health
These professions create meaningful jobs at hospitals, research facilities and medical organizations.
Environmental and Natural Sciences
Environmental scientists and researchers in various disciplines have seen an increasing demand given the environmental challenges like climate change, sustainability.
Students may study:
- Environmental Science
- Biotechnology
- Marine Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
Australia has a legacy of advanced environmental investigation and preservation programs.
STEM Courses and Career Opportunities in Australia
The STEM strand in the Philippines has a number of different degree programs offered at university. Below is a table that summarizes career opportunities associated with specific STEM courses.
| STEM Course | What You Study | Possible Careers |
| Civil Engineering | Infrastructure design, construction, structural analysis | Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Construction Manager |
| Mechanical Engineering | Machine design, thermodynamics, manufacturing systems | Mechanical Engineer, Automotive Engineer, Robotics Engineer |
| Electrical Engineering | Electronics, power systems, telecommunications | Electrical Engineer, Systems Engineer, Electronics Specialist |
| Computer Science | Programming, algorithms, software development | Software Developer, Systems Analyst, App Developer |
| Information Technology | Network systems, databases, IT management | IT Specialist, Network Engineer, IT Consultant |
| Cybersecurity | Digital security, ethical hacking, risk management | Cybersecurity Analyst, Security Consultant |
| Data Science | Data analysis, machine learning, statistics | Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Analyst |
| Biomedical Science | Human biology, medical research | Medical Researcher, Laboratory Scientist |
| Nursing | Patient care, clinical practice | Registered Nurse, Healthcare Specialist |
| Environmental Science | Sustainability, climate science | Environmental Scientist, Sustainability Consultant |
Comprehending the connections between different courses and their corresponding careers allows learners to discern which program at a university is ideal for them.
Why Study STEM in Australia?
Australia has emerged as one of the most chosen countries for international students applying to STEM programs.
Globally Recognized Universities
There are a number of universities in Australia that offer the top ranking institutions for science, engineering and technology programs globally.
Practical Learning Opportunities
Internships, laboratory work and industry projects provide applied learning opportunities for students.
Advanced Research Facilities
Australian Universities offer access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities.
Strong Career Opportunities
STEM graduates frequently go on to work in fields like technology, engineering, healthcare, and environmental science.
From Study Australia, people who work in the fields of science and mathematics may earn between AUD $41,600 and over $104,000 per year depending on their area of study and experience.
How APG Helps Filipino Students Study in Australia
Choosing the right courses, preparing the applications, and applying for student visa are some of the most important steps in studying abroad.
Our education consultants at APG work with you every step of the way with all things, including:
- Accepting an offer — selecting the ideal college and STEM program
- Understanding admission requirements
- Assistance with university applications
- Student visa guidance
- Pre-departure preparation
We want students to be informed and make the right decision before embarking on their journey as students in Australia.
Conclusion
STEM strand in the Philippines provides a strong foundation for those wishing to study careers in science, engineering, technology and other healthcare professions. STEM subjects at A-level provide students with important problem-solving, research and analytical skills needed to study at university.
With Australian institutions known for their world-class facilities, progressive programs that keep up with rapid change, and the opportunities it opens for STEM graduates in the post-grad job market, students from the Philippines looking to study abroad will not go wrong with Australia.
If you are not sure yet if this is for you, and if you want to make the most out of studying abroad with professionals and experts, study in Australia with professional study abroad consultants in Makati. APG’s expert guidance can help you select the right STEM course, prepare your application and confidently take the next step towards your international education journey.
