Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math

Gain a Robust Foundation for Exciting Opportunities in Science and Technology

Two STEM students wearing white lab coats and safety goggles in a lab

Program Overview

Are you interested in the ever-evolving world of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM)? College of Western Idaho (CWI) offers a comprehensive STEM Associate of Science degree, designed to develop strong problem-solving and scientific thinking skills. Whether you are planning to transfer to a bachelor's degree program in a STEM discipline or looking to build upon existing technical certifications, this degree provides a flexible and robust foundation.

The STEM degree culminates in a capstone project, allowing you to reflect on your learnings and clarify your path to achieving your academic and professional goals in STEM. This program is an excellent choice for students seeking a diverse sampling of STEM disciplines, enhancing both personal and professional growth. By participating in this program, you will gain interdisciplinary problem-solving skills, a portfolio showcasing your STEM-related knowledge, and a pathway to exciting career opportunities in high-demand fields.

Degree or Certificate Type

Associate of Science

Time to Complete

2 years

Science student studying in lab

Learning Opportunities

  • Exposure to Multiple STEM Disciplines: Explore a variety of STEM fields, broadening your academic and career options.
  • Development of Problem-Solving Skills: Gain critical skills in scientific, mathematical, and technological problem solving.
  • Portfolio of STEM Skills & Knowledge: Build a comprehensive portfolio that reflects your growth and learning in STEM disciplines.
  • Enhanced Career Opportunities: Prepare for a wide range of high-demand careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
  • Flexibility for Transfer & Career Advancement: Use this degree as a stepping stone for transferring to a four-year program or advancing in your current career.

Area of Study

Degrees & Certificates

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) – Associate of Science Degree

STEM instructor teaching students in a lab

Career Opportunities

  • Agricultural Inspectors

    Inspect agricultural commodities, processing equipment, and facilities, and fish and logging operations, to ensure compliance with regulations and laws governing health, quality, and safety.

    23

    Annual Openings*

    $18.39

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $38,251

    Annual Median Salary

    -10.61%

    Growth (2021 – 2031)*

  • Life, Physical, and Social Science Technicians, All Other

    All life, physical, and social science technicians not listed separately.

    22

    Annual Openings*

    $18.20

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $37,856

    Annual Median Salary

    20.05%

    Growth (2021 – 2031)*

  • Agricultural Technicians

    Work with agricultural scientists in plant, fiber, and animal research, or assist with animal breeding and nutrition. Set up or maintain laboratory equipment and collect samples from crops or animals. Prepare specimens or record data to assist scientists in biology or related life science experiments. Conduct tests and experiments to improve yield and quality of crops or to increase the resistance of plants and animals to disease or insects.

    21

    Annual Openings*

    $18.24

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $37,939

    Annual Median Salary

    8.72%

    Growth (2021 – 2031)*

  • Dietitians and Nutritionists

    Plan and conduct food service or nutritional programs to assist in the promotion of health and control of disease. May supervise activities of a department providing quantity food services, counsel individuals, or conduct nutritional research.

    20

    Annual Openings*

    $28.20

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $58,656

    Annual Median Salary

    20.53%

    Growth (2021 – 2031)*

  • Food Science Technicians

    Work with food scientists or technologists to perform standardized qualitative and quantitative tests to determine physical or chemical properties of food or beverage products. Includes technicians who assist in research and development of production technology, quality control, packaging, processing, and use of foods.

    9

    Annual Openings*

    $22.71

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $47,237

    Annual Median Salary

    22.98%

    Growth (2021 – 2031)*

  • Food Scientists and Technologists

    Use chemistry, microbiology, engineering, and other sciences to study the principles underlying the processing and deterioration of foods; analyze food content to determine levels of vitamins, fat, sugar, and protein; discover new food sources; research ways to make processed foods safe, palatable, and healthful; and apply food science knowledge to determine best ways to process, package, preserve, store, and distribute food.

    8

    Annual Openings*

    $31.56

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $65,645

    Annual Median Salary

    16.7%

    Growth (2021 – 2031)*

  • Dietetic Technicians

    Assist in the provision of food service and nutritional programs, under the supervision of a dietitian. May plan and produce meals based on established guidelines, teach principles of food and nutrition, or counsel individuals.

    5

    Annual Openings*

    $13.63

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $28,350

    Annual Median Salary

    5.04%

    Growth (2021 – 2031)*

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*Data sourced from Lightcast™ (2023), a global leader in labor market analytics, and limited to the state of Idaho. Contact CWI Institutional Research for questions regarding this data.

Admissions

Step 1

  • Apply to CWI.
  • Choose Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math as your major.

Step 2

  • Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
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