STEM Skills

Preparing for the Future of Healthcare

Why STEM Skills Matter

STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. These skills are used in many healthcare careers—from doctors and nurses to lab workers and technicians.

You don’t have to be an expert in every subject, but it helps to understand the basics.

• Entry-level jobs use simple math and science skills (like measuring medication or checking a patient’s temperature).
• More advanced careers (like nursing, medicine, or physical therapy) usually require college classes in science and math.

Helpful Classes to Take in High School

If you’re in middle or high school and thinking about a healthcare career, these subjects will help you build a strong foundation:

• Algebra — Helps you solve equations and understand patterns.
• Statistics — Teaches you how to work with numbers and data.
• Biology — The study of living things. This helps you learn how the human body works, including organs, cells, and systems like the heart or lungs.
• Chemistry — Teaches you about matter and how substances interact. Important for understanding medications, lab tests, and how treatments work in the body.
• Physics — The science of motion, energy, and forces. Used in healthcare fields like radiology (X-rays), physical therapy, and medical equipment.
• Computer Technology — Builds skills in using digital tools and software. Important for keeping patient records, running lab machines, and using healthcare apps.

These classes will prepare you for many types of healthcare jobs.

Not Strong in Science or Math? You Still Belong in Healthcare!

Not everyone loves math or science—and that’s okay. You can still have a meaningful and respected career in healthcare by helping people in other ways.

Here are a few great careers that don’t require advanced STEM skills:

• Community Health Workers
  Teach people how to stay healthy and connect them to services.
• Substance Abuse Counselors
  Help people recover from drug or alcohol addiction.
• Medical and Public Health Social Workers
  Support patients with healthcare access and services.
• Mental Health Social Workers
  Assist people facing emotional or mental health challenges.

Find the Right Career for YOU

Everyone is different. The right healthcare career is the one that fits your interests, talents, and goals.

You can:

• Talk to a school counselor about your interests
• Take a career quiz to find out your strengths
• Research different jobs in healthcare

Updated: May 19, 2025