Machinedesign Com Sites Machinedesign com Files Uploads 2013 11 Se Degree Graph

More science & engineering degrees granted, but look behind the figures

Nov. 19, 2013

The number of students earning science and engineering (S&E) degrees is growing. According to a study by the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, between 2009 and 2013, students over the age of 26 showed a 25% growth rate in S&E bachelor’s degree completion. There was a 19% growth rate in S&E degrees among traditional-age students (those age 26 or under). And over the last five years, the overall number of S&E bachelor’s degree completions has grown by 19%, compared to 9% growth for non-S&E disciplines.

So you might think from this that more students are completing engineering degrees. But a close look at the figures reveals this might not be the case: NSCRC's definition of S&E includes social sciences and psychology, as do classifications followed by the National Science Foundation.

It turns out that in 2012-13, the largest share of S&E bachelor’s degrees were in social sciences and psychology: 47% of the degrees completed by traditional-age students, 53% of the degrees completed by students over the age of 26. NSCRC says over the last five years, the percentage of S&E bachelor’s degrees accounted for by social sciences and psychology has dropped by 3% for traditional-age students, while increasing slightly for the older students.

Biological and agricultural sciences was the second most common S&E category for traditional-age students, accounting for 23% of their S&E bachelor’s degrees in 2012-13. Mathematics and computer science was the second most common S&E category for students over 26, accounting for 19% of their S&E bachelor’s degrees in 2012-13.

About the Author

Lee Teschler | Editor

Leland was Editor-in-Chief of Machine Design. He has 34 years of Service and holds a B.S. Engineering from the University of Michigan, a B.S. Electrical Engineering from the University of Michigan;, and a MBA from Cleveland State University. Prior to joining Penton, Lee worked as a Communications design engineer for the U.S. Government.

Sponsored Recommendations

June 27, 2025
Ensure workplace safety and compliance with our comprehensive Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) Safety Training course. Learn critical procedures to prevent serious injuries.
June 27, 2025
Join our expert webinar to discover essential safety control measures and best practices for engineering a truly safe and compliant industrial environment.
June 25, 2025
An innovative aircraft with electric drives combines the best of both worlds. The cross between drone and helicopter could mean significantly faster and more efficient air emergency...
June 25, 2025
Effective when other materials fail, ceramics are particularly suitable for applications requiring wear and chemical resistance, sliding characteristics or biocompatibility. Discover...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!