To STEM or Not to STEM? Analyzing Socioeconomic and Demographic Factors of STEM Degree Attainment in Ecuador With an Emphasis on the Gender Gap

Abstract

Despite the importance of STEM careers in nations’ development, they are not the preferred careers to study in Ecuador. Although the decision to pursue a STEM career has been analyzed, most studies use data from developed countries. This article analyzes the factors that characterize Ecuadorian STEM professionals using socioeconomic and demographic variables. Results show that women and individuals from households in the lowest quintile of per-capita income are less likely to have a STEM degree.