The demand for graduates with Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) degrees continues to rapidly increase. By 2018, the majority of positions that require a minimum of a bachelor degree will necessitate considerable mathematics and/or science training. In order for students to access, persist, and complete STEM majors, they must have a sufficient academic background to meet the demands of college STEM courses. The National Mathematics Advisory Panel recommends that students complete an authentic algebra course by grade 8 and have an understanding of Algebra II concepts by high school graduation. This investigation explored characteristics (e.g. grade Algebra 1 completed, gender, ethnicity, disability status, socioeconomic status, district locality) that influence the likelihood of Texas students succeeding in advanced coursework in high school, gaining admission to college, and earning STEM degrees. Study findings suggest that several demographic factors influence the likelihood that students obtain admission to Texas public universities and complete STEM degrees.