Is Science the only route to getting into high-growth careers these days? Contrary to popular belief, it is not. The world isn’t divided into science vs. everything else anymore. From apps that track climate change to the psychology behind user-friendly design, today’s problems need minds that are creative, analytical, and tech-aware — regardless of whether they studied physics or not.
Fields like engineering and medicine still require a strong foundation in core sciences. But many new fields— including data science, sustainability, UX design, and cognitive science — are now open to students with backgrounds in business, psychology, math, economics, or visual art.
Related Article: Best STEM Majors for Non-Science Students
Here are seven popular fields that don’t require physics, chemistry, or biology — but still lead to strong STEM careers.
Data Science & Business Analytics
If you’re good with numbers, enjoy spotting patterns, and like solving real-world problems, this field could be for you. It involves using data to make smarter decisions — in business, sports, marketing, health care, and more.
You’ll learn:
- How to work with spreadsheets, data visualisation tools, and statistics
- Basics of coding and storytelling with data
- Strategic thinking in business contexts
Careers: Data analyst, market insights specialist, business intelligence consultant
Information Systems & Technology Strategy
Not every tech role requires hard-coding. This field focuses on how businesses use technology to improve efficiency — from project tracking software to customer databases.
You’ll learn:
- How systems are designed and managed
- Basics of digital transformation
- Project management and technology planning
Careers: Business systems analyst, IT strategist, operations technology manager
UX/UI & Human-Centred Design
If you love design, psychology, or understanding how people interact with technology, this might be your path. This field focuses on creating user-friendly websites, apps, and interfaces.
You’ll learn:
- Interface design and layout
- Research methods for understanding users
- How to prototype and test digital products
Careers: UX designer, product designer, digital experience strategist
Cognitive Science
Ever wondered how people learn, make decisions, or interact with machines? Cognitive science combines psychology, linguistics, and computer science to explore these questions.
You’ll learn:
- How the brain processes information
- The science of memory, attention, and decision-making
- The foundations of AI and human-computer interaction
Careers: Behavioural researcher, AI interface designer, UX researcher
Sustainability & Environmental Studies
If you’re passionate about climate, urban life, or policy-making, this field explores how human behaviour intersects with the environment — no lab work required.
You’ll learn:
- Environmental planning and policy
- Systems thinking and sustainability models
- Urban development and public behaviour
Careers: Sustainability consultant, urban planner, environmental project coordinator
Game Design & Interactive Media
A dream path for creative students who also love tech. This field is all about crafting immersive experiences — from mobile games to VR worlds.
You’ll learn:
- Game mechanics, storytelling, and animation
- How to build interactive environments
- Introduction to visual programming and design tools
Careers: Game designer, AR/VR content developer, digital media producer
Applied Math & Statistics (in Interdisciplinary Programs)
If you took math in high school but didn’t opt for physics or chemistry, some liberal arts universities will still allow you to major in mathematics, data modelling, or quantitative economics.
You’ll learn:
- Logical reasoning, algebra, calculus, and statistics
- Real-world applications like financial forecasting and risk modelling
Careers: Statistician, data consultant, financial analyst
Final Thoughts
Don’t let your subject choices in high school limit your vision for the future. As education evolves, more and more universities are opening up STEM opportunities that balance logic with creativity, and data with design.
Whether you love analysing trends, designing intuitive apps, or building greener cities, there’s space for your interests within STEM — even if you didn’t take the traditional science route. Read how to build a profile for STEM majors at top colleges abroad.
The writer is Founder and CEO, Inomi Learning, a Gurugram-based career and college guidance firm. info@inomi.in
The original article was first published in ‘The Hindu’ , on September 14th, 2025.
With inputs from Kritika Malhotra, Lead Counsellor at Inomi Learning.
Richa Dwivedi Saklani is a certified coach from UCLA and is an accredited MBTI trainer who has worked with over 10,000 people across career planning and as a behavioral trainer in companies. She is the CEO & Founder of Inomi Learning and author of “The Ultimate Guide to 21st Century Careers”.