Major of the Month: Science, Engineering & Mathematics at Carroll

Science, engineering, and mathematics (SEM) are behind life-saving medications, clean energy solutions, cutting-edge technologies, safer infrastructure, and smarter systems that shape our everyday lives. What do these advances have in common? They all begin with curiosity, a desire to understand how the world works and how to make it better.

Carroll Community College’s Science, Engineering, and Mathematics programs help students turn that curiosity into the skills and confidence needed for careers in some of today’s most exciting and impactful fields. Carroll’s approach emphasizes hands-on lab experiences, real-world applications, and personalized support to help you explore where your interests can take you.

Sought-After Skills

Employers across industries are seeking professionals who can think critically, analyze data, communicate clearly, and solve complex problems.

Carroll’s Science, Engineering, and Mathematics programs help students build abilities that matter in both technical and broad career contexts, including:

• Scientific reasoning & experimentation
• Mathematical analysis & quantitative problem-solving
• Engineering design, modeling, and systems thinking
• Data interpretation, visualization, and computational thinking

These foundational skills prepare students for work environments that value innovation, accuracy, and adaptability.

Explore SEM Pathways at Carroll

Carroll’s Science, Engineering, and Mathematics tracks span a range of SEM disciplines, with options that support both career readiness and transfer to universities.

Programs include:

• Biology, A.S.: Study life from organisms to ecosystems; useful in healthcare, research, education, and biotechnology.
• Engineering, A.S.: Build a strong foundation in mathematics and physics while preparing to transfer into Bachelor’s programs in Engineering.
• Chemical/Biomedical Engineering, A.S.: Learn how engineering principles apply to medicine, pharmaceuticals, food science, and environmental solutions.
• Electrical Engineering, A.S.E.: Explore electrical systems and prepare to transition into electrical and computer engineering fields.
• Mechanical/Civil Engineering Concentration, A.S.: Dive into how infrastructure and mechanical devices are designed, from roads & bridges to rockets & robots.
• Physical Sciences (Chemistry, Geology, or Physics Concentrations), A.S.: Gain lab experience and critical thinking across physical science specializations.

Students often pair these majors with electives or certificates in complementary areas such as computer programming, data analysis, environmental technology, or teacher preparation.

“I absolutely loved the Geology program at Carroll Community College,” said Carroll graduate Rebecca Molkau. “Before I started my Geology classes with Dr. O’Neal, I was really struggling to find a major I was really passionate about. The professors in the Geology program were extremely helpful to me in my college career, and Dr. O’Neal gave me some great advice on which schools to transfer to.”

Outcomes & Opportunities

Science, engineering, and mathematics careers play a central role in regional and national economies.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, STEM occupations as a group are projected to grow faster than the overall job market, with many offering median wages well above the national average and opportunities across industry sectors.

Graduates with SEM skills can pursue roles in areas such as:

• Biotechnology & pharmaceuticals
• Environmental regulation & remediation
• Research & development
• Healthcare & life sciences
• Quality assurance & computational science
• Engineering (aerospace, civil, mechanical, electrical)

These careers reflect the breadth of options for students who enjoy inquiry, problem solving, and practical impact in their work.

“I am pursuing a Mechanical Engineering degree,” said Carroll student Nick Wolfe. “I believe engineering is the career that can have the most positive impact on the most number of people. So it is my hope that one day I will be able to tackle the most urgent issues in the world head-on and make the world a better place.”

Strong Regional Connections

Graduates of Carroll’s Science, Engineering, and Mathematics programs find employment opportunities in our region across healthcare, manufacturing, environmental science, and advanced technology.

Local organizations that hire SEM talent include:

• Thermo Fisher Scientific
• Flowserve Corporation
• Maryland Department of Natural Resources
• Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory
• Carroll County Health Department
• EVAPCO
• WES Pharma Inc.
• Tonix Pharmaceuticals
• Maryland Chemical Company
• Knorr Brake
• Lehigh Cement
• And many others

These connections help students see the direct link between classroom learning and real opportunities in the region.

Making an Impact

Science, engineering, and mathematics aren’t just subjects; they’re the foundation of innovation, safety, sustainability, and discovery.

Whether you want to design the next generation of technology, protect natural resources, improve human health, or teach future generations, Carroll Community College’s Science, Engineering, and Mathematics programs give you the building blocks for both career paths and transfer to 4-year Bachelor’s programs.

If you’re ready to turn curiosity into capability, explore Carroll’s programs and see where your interests can take you!