What is is nursing a stem major?

Whether nursing is a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) major is a nuanced topic. While nursing heavily relies on scientific principles and incorporates technological advancements, it is traditionally classified as a health science or a professional discipline rather than a pure STEM field.

However, aspects of nursing strongly align with STEM principles. Nurses use critical thinking, problem-solving, and data analysis in patient care, reflecting STEM skills. Furthermore, advancements in medical technology and informatics are increasingly integrated into nursing practice, making it more STEM-focused.

Here are some important subjects in nursing that have strong ties to STEM:

  • Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding the structure and function of the human body is fundamental.
  • Microbiology: Knowledge of microorganisms and their role in health and disease is crucial.
  • Chemistry: Understanding chemical processes in the body and drug interactions is essential.
  • Pharmacology: Nurses must understand how medications affect the body.
  • Statistics: Analyzing data and research findings is important for evidence-based practice.
  • Medical Technology: Operating and understanding various medical devices.