EASYUNI Ultimate University Guide 2013 Issue 2 | Page 30

CO U R S E S & C A REERS

An overview of the career of a scientist
As a scientist, you can expect to advance knowledge in
your field by systematically observing, measuring and
testing hypotheses – in short, by applying the scientific
method. Scientists may work in the field or in a clinical
laboratory. In the field, you may be responsible for
collecting evidence, observing and measuring outcomes;
in the laboratory, you could conduct closely controlled
experiments and analyse data. Science offers a world of
specialties and sub-specialties:
Biology, including biotechnology and biochemistry
Chemistry and materials science
Physics
Computer science
Earth sciences, including environmental science
Social sciences
Depending on your chosen specialty, you might work
in an array of different sectors: pharmaceuticals,
medical devices, high-tech R&D, defence, aerospace or
government, to name a few.

How to train yourself for a career in science
A career in science requires at least an associate or bachelor’s
degree in a scientific field. If you think you got it what it
takes to be a scientist, you can start-off your studies here:
http://bit.ly/StudyScience
In addition to courses in the scientific specialty, students hone
their skills in math and statistics, lab research methods and
communication. These are the qualifications that you need to
prepare yourself as a budding scientist:

Diploma of Applied Science: The three-year diploma
in applied science leads to entry-level science technician
jobs. Science technicians assist a scientist in the lab or field,
collecting specimens, maintaining lab instruments and
recording experiment results.
Bachelor of Science (B.S.): The four-year college degree
is the minimum qualification if you want to develop
experiments, analyse results and publish findings. Bachelorlevel scientists often work in applied research with
engineers to develop products such as pharmaceuticals or
high-tech devices.
Graduate degrees: Scientists with master’s degrees or PhDs
have the clout and credibility to raise research grant funds
and establish independent research labs. Graduate-level
scientists may also teach at the college level.

The rise of online programmes in science has made it possible
to work your way up the career ladder while you pursue your
education. You can complete an online bachelor’s degree while
working as a science technician, and then continue on to your
master’s while building experience in the lab.

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easyuni Guide 2013

Issue 2