About Careers in Science

Many people wonder about the different types of science careers. For those who are drawn to the sciences, a wide range of careers are available, such as teaching science, doing research, studying birds, or finding new forms of energy. Regardless of which area of science you choose, you have the potential to make the world a better place.

Identification

There are many careers in science, not all of which sound like your typical "science career." The categorization of a "science" career means that the job is technical in nature, explores its topic in depth and requires specialized knowledge of a particular area of science. Some careers in science require an advanced degree. Yet, for other careers, people typically develop their knowledge on the job without first obtaining a specialized degree.

Types

Careers in science cover a broad range of focus, from forensic science to library science. Any career in a life science can focus upon research, such as virology, marine science and equine science. Other science careers can focus upon teaching, such as biological science and exercise science. Some careers in science might not sound like your typical science career, but they fall under the umbrella of a career in science, such as mortuary science, political science or computer science.

Function

Each career in science makes its own contribution to the betterment of society. For example, the function of forensic science is to bring about justice for victims of crimes. The function of mortuary science is to lay bodies to rest in a way that is most comforting to the family left behind. The function of sports science is to enable professional athletes to perform at their very best and recover quickly from injuries while--at the same time--providing rehabilitation services for athletes of all ages and abilities.

Benefits

The benefits of working in a career in science are numerous. Those working in a science career have the ability to make a big difference in the world, whether it is finding a cure for cancer or saving an endangered species. Those working in environmental science are the ones seeking alternative fuel sources, which could have the effect of salvaging the economy and creating a greener planet. Through a career in science, one may make a global impact.

Misconceptions

Many people mistakenly believe that a person must earn an advanced degree as a science major in order to have a career in science. While this is true for some careers--such as a career in medicine, life science or health science--many other careers in science have no such requirement. For example, many people who practice mortuary science learn it as a part of the family business and have no need to obtain a degree in mortuary science.

Resources

• Science Careers