10 STEM Electives to Inspire Students
Science, technology, engineering, and math are at the forefront of some of the fastest growing careers that today’s students will pursue after graduation. But STEM isn’t just about computers and complex calculations, it’s about exploration, creativity, and discovery.
At VHS Learning, we recognize how important it is to nurture high school students’ curiosity and interests, so we offer dozens of online STEM electives that enable students to learn what they’re truly passionate about.
Our online STEM courses invite learners to dive into fascinating subjects that spark new ideas, introduce them to unique professions, and help them build foundational knowledge for college and careers.
Whether they’re passionate about animals, technology, or solving real-world problems, these courses can inspire students to experiment, think critically, and envision new possibilities for their futures.
Here are 10 exciting STEM electives designed to engage and inspire students:
For students who are fascinated by the natural world, this course helps answer some of nature’s most mysterious questions, like Why do whales sing? or How do butterflies migrate thousands of miles? Through virtual field trips and interactive projects, students explore the diversity of animal life and behaviors, gaining insights that can inspire careers in zoology, ecology, or veterinary sciences.
Architecture is a blend of art and engineering, making it a great pathway for creative students who enjoy a challenge. This course introduces students to the world of 3D modeling and design using Autodesk Revit, the real, industry-standard program used by architects and engineers. Students will create their own luxury cabin, experiment with materials, and learn the fundamentals of architectural design, sparking new interests in architecture, interior design, or civil engineering.
AI may be the future, but it’s also already shaping our lives today. Many students are curious about how the ongoing evolution of AI will change the world around them––and the future workforce. This course gives students hands-on experience with AI simulation tools as they learn how machines are trained and how ethical design impacts society. The final project challenges students to create their own AI prototype, inspiring a deeper understanding of one of the fastest-growing career fields.
As the world searches for sustainable energy solutions, companies need skilled professionals in environmental science, engineering, and chemistry. Students who take this course will explore solar, wind, geothermal, and other renewable technologies. Through the examination of real-world energy policies and innovations, students gain knowledge that not only informs their lifestyle choices but also may inspire them to get involved with renewable energy through activism or future careers.
In a time when data drives nearly every industry, so many of our daily activities result in the collection of our personal information and data. With this in mind, a foundational understanding of cybersecurity can benefit any learner, regardless of their future career or lifestyle goals. In this course, students investigate digital threats, practice using forensic tools, and even create public service campaigns to promote safer online behavior. Along the way, they explore one of today’s most in-demand career paths.
While cybersecurity is about protecting data, data science is all about uncovering the stories that data can tell. Data is everywhere—from social media to medicine to government—making data analytics an invaluable skill across industries. Through hands-on projects using real datasets, students in this course will learn how to clean, visualize, and interpret information. The course blends programming, statistics, and ethics, offering a strong foundation for fields ranging from manufacturing to healthcare.
For students who are intrigued by solving mysteries and true crime, forensic science offers a chance to step into the shoes of a crime scene investigator. From analyzing DNA to studying fingerprints and ballistics, students in this course use scientific reasoning and critical thinking to solve cases. The final mock crime scene project brings together science, collaboration, and problem-solving in a way that is both engaging and authentic.
Apps power many facets of our lives, helping us streamline tasks, manage information, and stay on schedule. This course lets students move from consumer to creator, encouraging learners to find creative solutions through app development. Using MIT App Inventor, this course has students design, build, and debug their own apps while learning the fundamentals of programming. The capstone project challenges learners to launch a fully functional app—an inspiring opportunity for future entrepreneurs or software developers.
Students passionate about caring for animals will find this course both inspiring and practical. Through real-world case studies, this course provides students with practice diagnosing and treating different species—from household pets to livestock to exotic animals. By combining science with compassion, students gain a realistic look at veterinary careers and the dedication they require.
Video game design gives motivated gamers an opportunity to turn their passion into a viable professional skillset. Using the Unity platform, students in this course will design and code their own games while learning the foundational principles of C# programming and world-building. Peer review sessions and iterative design mimic real industry practices, making this course an inspiring springboard for careers in game development, writing, design, or programming.
Inspiring Pathways for the Future
When students are able to leverage and expand upon their passions in the classroom, they become more excited about the opportunities the future holds for them. These ten courses are just the beginning––whether students dream of becoming entrepreneurs, researchers, innovators, or problem-solvers, VHS Learning’s rich STEM electives provide an inspiring place to start. By engaging with topics that matter to them, students become better prepared for college and careers, while uncovering new interests that may shape their futures in life-changing ways.
