Career Profiles

Science

• Careers for Science Graduates

Careers for Science Graduates

What is Science? Why Study It?

A precise definition of ‘Science’ is hard to pin down, however broadly speaking, scientific activity can be characterised as ‘the observation of natural phenomena, and the subsequent understanding about the ways in which they work’. Scientists test and contribute to an evolving body of human knowledge about the natural world, and do so from systematic observation which can be used to formulate laws and principles. Another popular definition of Science is simply that ‘it is what scientists do’.

Studying Science both predicates and develops a number of important personal characteristics. Among these, a critical and inquiring mind is essential – Science often involves the generation of new knowledge, and this requires individuals with the courage to challenge existing views.

Strong numeracy skills are essential in most fields. Creativity is also an important attribute, as is attention to detail. Good communication skills are vital for many aspects of scientific endeavour, such as describing complex scientific ideas in clear and simple terms.

There are many reasons why the study of Science can be so rewarding, both personally and for the wider community. Principal among these is that scientific thinking is an essential part of daily life, and is the best method to acquire accurate information about the world. A Science degree develops your investigative skills, trains you in laboratory techniques and teaches you critical analysis – skills for lifelong learning. It is also an excellent foundation for further specialised study. Finally, using knowledge of technology or the natural environment to solve problems can be deeply rewarding.

On a grander scale, Science has never been so important to the development of the modern world and Australia’s global competitiveness, as it is in the early twenty-first century. The growth of investment in Science and Science-based industries, a greater social dependence on scientific research and heightening environmental pressures, mean that the need for skilful and innovative Science graduates is greater than ever before. In this context, a degree in Science can set you on the right path to an exciting, stimulating, challenging and immensely satisfying career.
 
Employers in government, industry and education need graduates who are trained to think, analyse and communicate. Science graduates have a unique blend of generic and discipline-related skills that give them the capacity to tackle problems with initiative and resourcefulness, to plan and execute projects and to work as part of a team.

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