Best STEM Courses in Australia & New Zealand in 2025: Top Degrees & Career Scope

August 4, 2025


Planning to study STEM in Australia or New Zealand in 2025? You’ve made a good choice.

Over the past few years, both nations have seen an increase in the demand for skilled graduates in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. And universities across both countries are preparing students to meet that demand with strong industry connections and future-focused programs.

But with so many options alike, it’s easy to get confused. That’s why we’ve prepared a detailed guide outlining the top Universities in Australia and New Zealand for STEM Courses, along with their career prospects.


Why Choose STEM in Australia And New Zealand?


Why Choose STEM in Australia And New Zealand?

Check out some reasons as to why study STEM Courses in Australia and New Zealand as an international student:

Global Recognition of Degrees

Australian and New Zealand universities are always ranked among the top in the world for STEM education. The University of Melbourne, the Australian National University, and the University of Auckland are frequently featured in QS World University Rankings for engineering, computer science, life sciences, natural science, and so on. A degree from these colleges will naturally give you an edge in the job market.

Strong Industry Connections

The majority of STEM programs in both these countries are designed with input from industry leaders. Universities have integrated internships, capstone projects, and lab work with explicit connections to top companies in the world.

Long-Term Settlement

Australia offers up to 4 years of post-study work rights for STEM graduates (depending on location and qualification level). New Zealand allows up to 3 years. You can apply for jobs and gain valuable local experience during this time.
And guess what? STEM graduates also qualify under various skilled migration lists, which can open up pathways to permanent residency.

High Return on Investment

STEM qualifications lead to lucrative careers within industries that are still expanding. If you have the right skills, you can easily attract employers from growing industries like tech, clean energy, advanced manufacturing, etc. You will have strong career growth as you’re one of the first to pursue these innovative fields.

Scholarships for International Students

Most universities provide specific scholarships for international students pursuing STEM courses in New Zealand and Australia. Let’s take a look at some of them:

Scholarship Name Country Benefit Qualification
Deakin STEM Scholarship Australia 20% tuition fee reduction Entry into STEM UG/PG at Deakin with specific academic criteria
Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships Australia Stipend For research-based Master’s/PhD based on academic merit
Australia India Maitri Scholarships Australia Full tuition, stipend, travel, health cover Top Indian students in STEM fields
Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships New Zealand Full tuition, living allowance, flights, insurance Undergraduate or postgraduate students from developing nations, along with strong academic records
New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA) New Zealand NZD5,000–10,000 tuition grant Offered to Indian students with strong academics
University of Auckland International Student Excellence Scholarship New Zealand NZD10,000 for tuition fees New international students in UG, PGDip, or Master’s programmes

Top STEM Degrees in Demand


Top STEM Degrees in Demand

Demand for skilled professionals is rising in both countries. But to make the most out of it, you need to pick a course that aligns with the industry’s needs. Below are the top STEM Courses in Australia and New Zealand:

Computer Science and Software Engineering


Computer Science is obviously one of the most future-oriented options you have. It gives you a clear-cut knowledge of how to write effective code, work with big databases, and create secure programs. All these give you an edge in many fast-growing industries like AI, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and so on.

What You Will Study

Course content differs slightly between universities, but nearly all courses cover theory and practice. You can expect to learn:

  • Programming (Python, Java, C++)
  • Algorithms and Data Structures
  • Software Development
  • Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
  • Cybersecurity
  • Cloud Computing
  • App Development

Many universities also include a final-year capstone project or industry-based internship.

Why Computer Science and Software Engineering are in Demand in 2025?

Both nations are presently experiencing a shortage of competent IT professionals.

  • The Australian National Skills Commission reports that Software and Applications Programmers are among the fastest-growing occupations. Employment is projected to increase by 27% (around 42,200 jobs) between 2021 and 2026.
  • The Tech Council of Australia expects the broader tech sector to grow from 935,000 workers in 2023 to 1.2 million by 2030.
  • Computer Science is part of New Zealand’s Green List of Tier 1 jobs. It is simpler for international students to have eligibility for fast-tracked residency if they secure a job in a related field after graduation.
  • The growth in these fields would be solid. You can be a part of fast-growing industries like AI that are likely to boom in the coming years.

Job Roles And Average Salary

Job Role Avg. Annual Salary in Australia Avg. Annual Salary in New Zealand
Software Engineer AUD 100,000 NZD 88,000 – NZD 100,000
Full Stack Developer AUD 75,000 – AUD 100,000 NZD 70,000 – NZD 100,000
Cybersecurity Analyst AUD 73,000 – AUD 100,000 NZD 75,000 – NZD 100,000
AI/ML Engineer AUD 83,000 – AUD 100,000 NZD 80,000 – NZD 200,000
Data Engineer AUD 100,000 NZD 80,000 – NZD 100,000

2. Data Science And Analytics


Data Science is an interesting field of study that has gained traction over the past few years. It gives you an idea of how to collect data, clean it, analyse patterns, and make clear strategies from them through tools like Python. The influence of data analytics is expanding rapidly to many industries.

What You Will Study

Most programs combine mathematics, computing, and domain knowledge. Core areas are as follows:

  • Statistics and Probability
  • Data Cleaning
  • Machine Learning
  • Data Visualisation using Tableau, Power BI, or Python libraries
  • Big Data tools
  • Domain electives (e.g., finance, healthcare analytics)

Why Data Science and Analytics is in Demand in 2025?

  • Globally, official reports of the Australian government predict a 30-35% increase in crucial roles like data analysts in the next few years. When it comes to Australia specifically, the job growth of digital workers is expected to rise by up to 13.9% by 2030.
  • As per SEEK, data scientist jobs are expected to increase by 11% in the next five years.
  • Western Australia alone expects around 3,000 new data science roles in the coming decade.
  • In New Zealand, the demand for data analysts and scientists is also increasing steadily. While not on skilled shortage lists like software engineering, data positions are still being acknowledged in public sector recruitment strategies.

 

Job Roles And Average Salary

Job Role Avg. Annual Salary in Australia Avg. Annual Salary in New Zealand
Data Analyst AUD 82,000 – AUD 100,000 NZD 75,000 – NZD 95,000
Data Scientist AUD 100,000 NZD 76,000 – NZD 100,000
Business Analyst AUD 90,000 – AUD 100,000 NZD 84,000 – NZD 100,000
Analyst Consultant AUD 90,000 – AUD 100,000 NZD 55,000 – NZD 100,000

3. Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics)


A degree in engineering is a strategic choice with many practical benefits. It gives you an in-depth understanding of how to build and improve the systems and infrastructure that keep society moving.

What You Will Study

Depending on your specialisation (civil, mechanical, electrical, mechatronics), you’ll study:

  • Structural analysis, geotechnical engineering, transportation systems, and water resources (civil)
  • Thermodynamics, materials science, fluid dynamics, and robotics (mechanical)
  • Circuit theory, electronics, power engineering, communications, control systems, and renewable energy (electrical)
  • Sensors, actuators, and microcontrollers (Mechatronics)

Most programs include group design projects to prepare you for hands-on roles in engineering.

Why Engineering is in Demand in 2025?

  • Governments are implementing colossal infrastructure investment programs in the coming years. In Australia, the Brisbane 2032 Olympics depend largely on professional civil and electrical engineers.
  • As per Capital Markets report, New Zealand is expected to spend over $129 billion on infrastructure development in the next 10 years. Skilled engineering professionals are required to design and maintain the structures effectively.
  • Civil, structural, geotechnical, and mechanical engineers are officially recognized on New Zealand’s Long Term Skill Shortage List and on the Green List for skilled migration.
  • Australia anticipates that demand for mechanical and electrical engineers will increase sharply as part of the push into renewables. Power system specialists and electricians are particularly needed to achieve 2030 emissions targets.

 

Job Roles And Average Salary

Job Role Avg. Annual Salary in Australia Avg. Annual Salary in New Zealand
Civil Engineer AUD 82,000 – AUD 100,000 NZD 70,000 – NZD 90,000
Mechanical Engineer AUD 83,000 – AUD 100,000 NZD 68,000 – NZD 90,000
Electrical Engineer AUD 80,000 – AUD 100,000 NZD 74,000 – NZD 100,000
Project Engineer AUD 100,000 NZD 84,000 – NZD 100,000

4. Environmental Science


Do you love nature and want to protect it scientifically? Then Environmental Science might be the right path for you. It gives you the right skills to address environmental issues effectively with hands-on competence in research methods and fieldwork.

What You Will Study

  • Environmental chemistry
  • Ecology and biodiversity
  • Soil, water and air quality monitoring
  • Environmental impact assessment (EIA)
  • Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
  • Climate change science
  • Sustainability Strategies

 

Why Environmental Science Is in Demand in Australia & New Zealand

  • The Australian government is actively trying to protect the nation’s biodiversity and energy reserves. Initiatives like the Nature Positive Plan are introduced as a part of this vision. Qualified environmental experts are needed to give life to such plans.
  • The Australian Labour Force Survey reports approximately 7,800 job openings per year for environmental scientists and related professionals over a ten-year period.
  • In New Zealand, recent changes, such as the Natural and Built Environment Act 2023, necessitate new environmental planning and impact assessments. This naturally pushes the demand for trained environmental scientists.

Job Roles And Average Salary

Job Role Avg. Annual Salary in Australia Avg. Annual Salary in New Zealand
Environmental Scientist AUD 70,000 – AUD 90,000 NZD 72,000 – NZD 85,000
Conservation Officer AUD 60,000 – AUD 97,000 NZD 55,000 – NZD 64,000
Environmental Consultant AUD 67,000 – AUD 90,000 NZD 69,000 – NZD 89,000
Policy Analyst AUD 80,000 – AUD 100,000 NZD 69,000 – NZD 80,000

5. Mathematics And Statistics


A degree in Mathematics and Statistics will be relevant to all nations and all times. In Australia and New Zealand, these subjects are tightly integrated into critical industries like defence, finance, climate science, and biotech, further increasing the scope of the course.

What You Will Study

  • Algebra, calculus, topology, and other pure mathematical subjects
  • Statistical inference
  • Probability theory
  • Data Science and Machine Learning methods
  • Bayesian and Multivariate Statistics

Why Mathematics And Statistics Are in Demand in Australia & New Zealand

  • Australia has a booming finance sector worth $360.6 billion. The industry is actively recruiting mathematics and statistics experts to keep up with rapid digitalisation.
  • Many job roles under Mathematics and Statistics are officially listed on both long-term skill shortage and Green List occupation rosters. Students have higher chances of becoming permanent residents.
  • Over 80% of the fastest-growing future careers require strong maths and statistics, and the demand is only expected to rise.

Job Roles And Average Salary

Job Role Avg. Annual Salary in Australia Avg. Annual Salary in New Zealand
Statistician AUD 83,000 – AUD 100,000 NZD 87,000 – NZD 100,000
Quantitative Analyst AUD 90,000 – AUD 100,000 NZD 100,000
Risk Analyst AUD 74,000 – AUD 100,000 NZD 70,000 – NZD 96,000
Data Analyst AUD 82,000 – AUD 100,000 NZD 75,000 – NZD 95,000

Top Universities in Australia and New Zealand for STEM

Top Universities in Australia and New Zealand for STEM

Have a look at the top universities in Australia and New Zealand for STEM Courses:

University of Melbourne


The University of Melbourne is always ranked among the world’s top institutions for science and technology. What makes the university even more appealing is the strong industry collaborations that let students easily set a career foundation.

Why Choose It?

  • As per QS University Rankings (by subject) 2025, the University of Melbourne is ranked #1 in Australia in STEM subjects like Data Science, Life Science, Statistical and Operational Research, etc.
  • Students get access to highly advanced labs and professional internship opportunities.
  • Extensive scholarships for international students pursuing STEM

University of Auckland

It’s New Zealand’s top-ranked university with a multicultural campus and diverse STEM programs.

Why Choose It?

  • As per QS University Rankings 2026, the university ranks first in New Zealand and 65th globally.
  • The institution collaborates with local governments and industries to give practical research exposure to students.
  • According to their Graduate Destination Survey 2023, 96% of Auckland graduates were able to secure employment.

Australian National University (ANU)


ANU in Canberra is a research powerhouse, particularly in Physics, Earth Sciences, and Computer Science. Its academic flexibility permits students to combine disciplines.

Why Choose It?

  • ANU has 6 Nobel Laureates and heads national research in STEM fields.
  • Located in the capital of Australia, it provides students with access to policy-driven science opportunities.
  • ANU has one of the highest research funding per student ratios in the country.

University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney)

UNSW is a tech-forward industry that strongly focuses on innovative areas like AI, renewable energy, cybersecurity, etc. And the university is well-known for having tie-ups with some leading international companies.

Why Choose It?

  • Strong STEM research output and industry partnerships.
  • UNSW built Australia’s first solar cell development and world-class robotics labs. You can be a part of such pioneering initiatives from the university.

University of Canterbury


It’s a Christchurch-based university that’s specifically famous for Engineering, Earth Science, and Environmental Studies.

Why Choose It?

  • Offers high field-based learning exposure and involvement with national science research centers like the Gateway Antarctica program.
  • Many of the STEM programs here are on New Zealand’s Green List, so international students can stay and work here after graduating.

Massey University

Massey University is a leading institution with a special reputation in practical STEM programs. It has campuses in Auckland, Wellington, and Palmerston North.

Why Choose It?

  • QS awarded Massey University five-star for the third consecutive time and ranked 230th globally.
  • The only university in New Zealand that offers degrees in aviation, nanoscience, and veterinary science.
  • The institution actively collaborates with the Government in sustainability initiatives. Most of them offer actual project opportunities for students.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is it possible to work part-time in Australia or New Zealand while pursuing a STEM degree?

Yes. During the academic year, international students are typically permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight in Australia and 20 hours per week in New Zealand.

2. Is the TOEFL or IELTS required for admission?

Yes, most universities require an English language test. The most popular test is IELTS, and depending on the course, the required score typically falls between 6.0 and 7.0.

3. Will my STEM degree be recognised globally?

Of course. Many degrees from prestigious Australian and New Zealand universities are accredited by international boards and are recognised throughout the world.

4. How soon after graduation can I submit an application for permanent residence?

If your job is on the Green List or Skilled Occupation List, particularly if you work in a highly demanded STEM field, you might be eligible for permanent residence in two to three years.

Conclusion

No doubts. There are many bright career prospects and opportunities after STEM programs in Australia and New Zealand. But all that potential only matters if you choose the right path.

That’s where The Chopras – TC Global can help you. We’ve expert career counsellors to help you figure out everything, right from course selection to picking the best university.
Book a free session with the experts now!

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