You’ve often heard the term “MINT,” but you’re not sure what to make of it?Today, the University of Europe for Applied Sciences will clear it up for you.
What Does “MINT” Stand For?
MINT is derived from the German words Mathematik (Mathematics), Informatik (Computer Science), Naturwissenschaften (Natural Sciences) and Technik (Technology).
With digitalisation reshaping industries, MINT subjects have grown to introducing exciting new areas like Structural Science, creating new opportunities for today’s students.
In Germany, MINT covers everything from school subjects and MINT degree programmes to hands-on vocational training and careers spanning countless industries.
MINT vs STEM: What’s the Difference?
MINT is the German equivalent of the internationally recognised acronym STEM — Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Both represent the key fields driving innovation, research, and economic growth.
While STEM is widely used in the United States and other countries, MINT is the term used in Germany. These fields cover a broad spectrum, from life and physical sciences to information technology, chemical engineering, and, in some cases, data-driven social sciences.
The aim is the same: to inspire interest in these disciplines, nurture talent, and strengthen expertise in areas vital to the future. The difference lies only in geography and language — the core subjects remain identical.
Why Study MINT Subjects in Germany?
Germany has become a leading destination for students pursuing MINT subjects. This is thanks to a strong education system that introduces STEM early and combines solid theory with practical, real-world experience.
The country’s commitment to research and innovation is clear through initiatives like the Excellence Initiative and close ties between universities and industry leaders. These partnerships enhance academic programmes and create opportunities for internships and careers in fields like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and engineering.
Affordability is another major advantage. Many universities offer tuition discounts to support MINT degrees, making education accessible.
Lastly, Germany is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion within MINT fields, encouraging more women and underrepresented groups to pursue STEM careers through targeted programmes and financial support.
MINT for Girls
In this realm, the focus is on innovation, which stands for transformation and future-oriented thinking. MINT professionals drive growth and offer additional value to the national economy.
At the moment there is a shortage in these fields, since qualified employees are getting older and the younger generation still needs to advance. Therefore, the career prospects in this sector are better than they have ever been!
In the meantime, there are several options for programs of study directed specifically at women. Their potential has been neglected for decades, since women were more often directed towards the humanities or social sciences.Despite this neglect, many women number among the best scholars and engineers in the MINT fields.
Benefits of Studying MINT Subjects
Pursuing MINT subjects opens the door to future-focused careers with strong demand and attractive salaries. More importantly, MINT professionals play a vital role in driving innovation to solve pressing global issues like climate change and digitalisation.
Here are some advantages of a MINT education:
- Strong Career Prospects: There is a growing demand for skilled professionals in MINT fields, offering excellent job security and typically higher salaries compared to many other sectors.
- Driving Innovation and Growth: MINT professionals lead the way in technological advances and research, tackling global challenges like climate change, digitalisation, and healthcare.
- Building Essential Skills: MINT education develops key abilities such as problem-solving, analytical thinking, critical reasoning, and data interpretation — skills that are valuable across many areas.
- Understanding Today’s World: Knowledge of MINT subjects helps students make sense of the scientific and digital world around them, enabling them to keep pace with rapid technological change.
- Encouraging Diversity: Promoting MINT aims to boost participation from underrepresented groups, including women, so there is a wider range of talents and ideas driving progress.
Top-Paying Jobs for MINT Graduates in Germany
Germany’s MINT field provide some of the highest-paying and most in-demand careers available today. From software development to biotechnology, these roles offer excellent salaries and put graduates at the cutting edge of innovation in industries such as AI, manufacturing, cybersecurity, and life sciences.
Here are some of the top-paying jobs for graduates with a MINT degree in Germany, with average salary ranges based on recent data:
- Software Developer/Engineer: Highly in demand due to Germany’s rapidly growing digital economy, with average salaries ranging from €55,000 to €85,000 per year.
- Data Scientist & AI Specialists: With Germany heavily investing in AI research and data-driven decision-making, these roles offer salaries between €60,000 and €90,000, and potentially up to €100,000 for AI/ML Engineers.
- Engineers (Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, Civil): Germany’s strong manufacturing, automotive, and energy sectors drive demand for various engineering disciplines, with salaries typically ranging from €45,000 to €85,000, depending on the specialisation and experience.
- IT Security Experts: The increasing focus on cybersecurity has created a strong demand for IT security analysts and consultants, with salaries ranging from €65,000 to €100,000.
- Biotechnologists & Bioinformaticians: Driven by innovation in the pharmaceutical and life sciences industries, these roles command salaries between €50,000 and €75,000, or higher for specialised positions like Bioinformatics Specialists (€107,085 average).
What Are the Advantages of a Job in a MINT Field?
You’d rather have a steady job and avoid jumping from employer to employer?As a MINT professional, you’ll have good chances of finding permanent employment. Your extensive knowledge will make you a valuable employee, who companies will not want to miss out on.You’ll find a few career paths in the MINT fields here.
Some other advantages of full-time employment include the pay and the career prospects. Compared to other employees, MINT professionals end up in leadership positions more often and earn more, on average, than other professionals.This is especially exciting when Business 4.0 and MINT come together. Management strategy development, combined with programming apps and social media management, is an important component of the program in Digital Business & Data Science.
A position as MINT professional means a stable, well-paid job. Your work will be highly valued and you’ll drive the national economy forward.Whether you’re a woman or a man, many companies are looking for you, the next MINT Expert!