A recent study reveals that the percentage of Tennessee residents who have a bachelor's degree in scientific fields is below the national average, which has prompted the state's colleges to focus on increasing educational opportunities in these areas.

According to the Tennessean newspaper, the American Family Survey of 2009 reports that 31 percent of bachelor's degree holders in the Volunteer State majored in subjects such as engineering, mathematics, medicine or technology. The national average is 36 percent.

Tennessee is preparing to spend much of its $500 million federal grant funding on enhancing programs in these fields, which they hope will attract lucrative high-tech jobs to the state. The funds are part of President Barack Obama's plan to elevate the country's reputation as one of the top education providers in the world.

The survey also revealed that Tennessee saw a slight increase in its college-educated residents, as 15 percent of individuals 25 or older said that they held a bachelor's degree.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the number of employment opportunities for computer scientists will grow 24 percent over the next eight years, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. Professionals in this field will be in higher demand as organizations continue to adapt more sophisticated technologies.