college students in classroom with other students, stem vs humms
STEM vs HUMSS: Which is Right for You?

Your senior high school (SHS) program lays the foundation for your future endeavors—no wonder why students often struggle to decide what to study. There are many tracks to choose from and many strands afterward, so how can you pick one?

You have three strand options if you’ve chosen the academic track: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM); Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS); and Accountancy and Business Management (ABM). This article focuses on differentiating STEM vs. HUMSS to help you pick the strand that’ll take you closer to your dreams.

college student in library

STEM vs. HUMSS: What’s the Difference?

Understanding each strand’s characteristics can help you identify which suits you best.

What is the STEM strand?

STEM immerses students in scientific inquiry and technological innovation. This strand delves into subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics, forming a robust foundation in the core sciences.

Career prospects in STEM

You won’t have trouble looking for opportunities. STEM professionals are in high demand locally and internationally. Whether aspiring to be a doctor or engineer, STEM provides foundational knowledge for whichever science-related degree you pick in college, such as a BS in Information Technology or Civil Engineering.

Ultimately, STEM will help you develop robust logical and problem-solving skills you could use to further your career. It also lets you contribute to advancing its fields and making the world a better place through scientific and tech progress.

What is the HUMSS strand?

HUMSS explores human behavior, social structures, and culture. Here, you’ll study liberal arts and social sciences, covering subjects like Philosophy, Sociology, Political Science, and Literature.

Career prospects in HUMSS

There’s a growing need for HUMSS professionals in the job market. As industries automate with artificial intelligence, more organizations value individuals well-versed in communication, critical thinking, and interpersonal dynamics. So, you’ll find fulfilling careers in public relations, human resources, social work, or law.

Picking HUMSS in SHS provides a solid foundation if you aspire to understand and contribute to society through avenues in public service, journalism, and the arts.

How to Choose the Right Academic Track

college students taking an exam in class

Are you still not sure about which strand to pursue? The following tips may help you nail down which option places you on a trajectory toward your goals.

  • Consider future career prospects

What’s your target career path? STEM and HUMSS have distinct routes. For degrees like a BS in Biology or a BS in Psychology, STEM is ideal, while HUMSS suits fields like law or anthropology. Researching job market demands and career development trends for each strand can guide your decision.

It doesn’t mean that taking STEM prevents you from pursuing a HUMSS-related degree or vice versa. However, aligning your SHS strand with your career prospects could make the path forward more manageable.

  • Assess your strengths and interests

Reflect on the subjects you excel in and enjoy learning about. Do you like solving math problems or exploring tech trends? If so, STEM might suit you better. Conversely, if you enjoy debating social issues and plan to take a liberal arts degree like BS in Communication, HUMSS may be more fitting. Assessing yourself helps you identify the option that resonates with your capabilities.

  • Reflect on your passion

Consider which subjects or activities make you eager to explore them further. Your passion is a powerful motivator to sustain your interest and commitment throughout your academic journey and career. Choosing a strand aligned with your passion increases your chances of fulfillment and success in your desired field. After all, no one wants to study something they aren’t interested in.

  • Think about your financial plans

While both HUMSS and STEM offer numerous opportunities, some are more lucrative than others. You should consider long-term financial plans in your decision-making. For example, computer science careers may provide higher earnings than social work, and legal professions may have different financial prospects than mathematics. Of course, this isn’t always the case, so research your future career’s profitability.

  • Consult with your mentors

Seek guidance from your parents, teachers, or counselors—they may have insights into the strengths and challenges of each academic strand. Share your concerns with them, using their expertise to understand your options better. You could also talk to people in your desired field and ask to immerse yourself in their work to help you decide whether their careers meet your expectations.

Which Strand Suits You Best?

Your choice between STEM and HUMMS will shape your high school experience and professional journey. So, think about where you see yourself in the long run. Reflecting on your strengths, interests, and long-term goals lays the groundwork for a fulfilling and successful career before college.

The school you pick is also a crucial consideration. If you want a top-notch institution that caters to a range of interests, consider choosing the Trinity University of Asia. With our help, you can set your future goals up for success!

Contact us today for more information and a list of our academic courses.