The Data Gals

In the tech industry, a sector that’s reshaping every corner of our world, the gender gap remains a persistent issue that starts long before women even enter the workforce. It’s rooted in the degree gap—the underrepresentation of women in tech-related fields of study, from undergraduate programmes to advanced degrees.

As of recent statistics, women represent only 18% of new computer science degree holders. Even at the graduate level, just 30% of master’s degrees in engineering and computer science go to women. And in the classrooms themselves, women in tech courses face a higher dropout rate of 37%, compared to a 30% dropout rate in other programmes. These numbers reflect a systemic issue that could have wide-reaching impacts on the tech industry.

Why This Matters

The tech industry is booming. STEM occupations have grown by 79% over the past 30 years and are projected to increase by another 11% by 2030. Demand for qualified professionals has never been higher. Yet, without a concerted effort to address the degree gap, the diversity gap will likely only grow.

Here’s why that’s a problem: gender diversity in tech isn’t just a matter of fairness; it’s a matter of innovation. Research consistently shows that diverse teams perform better, produce more creative solutions, and better reflect a world in which half of the users are women. However, the talent pipeline is struggling to keep up due to the lack of diversity in STEM programmes at colleges and universities.

What’s Behind the Degree Gap?

Cultural Bias and Stereotyping

Many young women are discouraged from pursuing tech-related studies, often facing subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) messaging that tech is “a man’s field.” This is exacerbated by stereotypes and a lack of role models in schools.

Isolation and “Only” Syndrome

In classrooms where women are the minority, the experience can be isolating. They’re more likely to feel like “the only one,” which can create an intimidating environment that contributes to higher dropout rates. Feeling like an outsider in an already challenging academic environment often discourages women from continuing their studies in tech.

Lack of Institutional Support

For many women, the support from institutions—whether it’s mentorship, accessible resources, or tailored guidance—is insufficient. Without robust support systems and policies, women are more likely to leave tech fields than their male counterparts, especially when faced with challenges related to gender bias.

The Role of Colleges and Universities

Addressing these disparities requires action at the institutional level. Colleges and universities need to examine their STEM programmes through the lenses of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Here’s how institutions can make a difference:

Strengthening Mentorship Programmes

A strong mentor can make all the difference for students feeling isolated. Female students in tech benefit greatly from seeing examples of women who have navigated the same challenges and succeeded. Institutions that provide formal mentorship programmes specifically within their tech departments create a support network that can lead to lower dropout rates.

Creating Inclusive Curriculums

Tech curriculums can sometimes reinforce stereotypes, whether through the examples used in class, or the focus of certain projects. By implementing inclusive practices, tech educators can make women feel that they’re not just welcome in these spaces but that their perspectives are valued.

Incentivising Female Enrolment and Retention

Colleges and universities should consider scholarships, internships, and research opportunities targeted at women in tech. These incentives not only attract more female students but also give them valuable real-world experience, building confidence and skills that are crucial for success.

Moving Forward: An Industry-wide Responsibility

To truly close the degree gap, a collaborative approach is essential. Colleges and universities are on the frontlines, but companies, non-profits, and industry leaders can play a major role by partnering with educational institutions to support women in tech. Internships, sponsorships, and scholarships from tech firms can provide opportunities that might otherwise feel out of reach for female students. Furthermore, companies can work with universities to create pipelines for women in STEM programmes to enter the workforce, which makes the path to a tech career clearer and more attainable.

Conclusion

The gender degree gap in tech is more than just a statistical imbalance—it’s a call to action. By creating inclusive, supportive, and welcoming environments in our classrooms, we can build a stronger, more diverse, and innovative tech industry. With targeted support from institutions, stronger mentorship programmes, and partnerships with tech firms, we can help more women not only enter but thrive in tech fields. Let’s make sure the next generation of computer science grads, tech entrepreneurs, and engineering innovators reflects the diversity of the world they’re helping to shape.