"Elevate Your Scientific Understanding with Sci Assist"
Completing a science major showcases your aptitude for applying the scientific method within your chosen field. Regardless of your current skills and qualifications, having insights into some of the most sought-after and potentially rewarding college science majors can assist you in making informed decisions about your academic path. Familiarizing yourself with the key attributes of each science major through research is a valuable step in this process. In this article, we provide an overview of what a college science major entails and present a selection of these majors, along with concise descriptions for each.
College Science-related Majors:
College Science-related Majors:
- Astronomy: Explore the universe's evolution and phenomena, with an option for astrophysics.
- Aerospace Engineering: Design and operate aerospace vehicles for Earth and space.
- Biomedical Engineering: Apply engineering principles to healthcare challenges.
- Chemical Engineering: Combine biology, physics, and chemistry to create new substances.
- Computer Science: Learn software engineering and data analysis for various industries.
- Computer Software Engineering: Focus solely on designing and maintaining software applications.
- Environmental Science: Study the impact of human activities on the environment.
- Geology: Explore Earth's physical aspects and its evolutionary processes.
- Physics: Gain a deep understanding of the fundamental principles governing the universe.
- Psychology: Study human behavior, cognition, and psychological research methods.
- Neuroscience: Examine brain function, perception, and behavior through multidisciplinary study.
- Mathematics: Master algebra, calculus, and mathematical applications in various fields.
- Statistics: Collect, analyze, and interpret data for decision-making in diverse sectors.
- Criminal Science and Forensics: Analyze physical evidence to reconstruct crime scenes.
- Genetics: Investigate hereditary information and its applications in various fields.
What Do Science Majors Study in School?
While science majors may opt for specialized fields of study, they all acquire fundamental critical thinking and statistical skills. At the undergraduate level, a science degree emphasizes the overarching principles of the scientific method before delving into specific specializations. The evolving landscape of technology has led to an expanded array of college degrees across various specialties, including online science programs.
Early coursework for science majors primarily centers around the scientific method, involving the replication of experiments to test theories. As you progress in your academic journey, the focus shifts towards original research and the development of novel theories and solutions. At the graduate level, science students engage in direct collaboration with professors on critical research endeavors.
Hot Jobs in Science:
- Clinical Laboratory Technician: Chemistry and biology majors can pursue careers in this rapidly growing field. Clinical laboratory technicians examine blood, tissue, and other bodily substances to detect signs of disease, infection, or chemical reactions. They work in hospitals, private laboratories, research facilities, and various business settings. These careers typically require two years or less of on-campus or online training.
- Environmental Scientists: With climate change becoming undeniable, the demand for innovative environmental scientists is surging. Addressing issues like global warming, pollution, and depleting natural resources creates a strong and sustained demand for environmental scientists. Academic institutions, government agencies, and private businesses seek environmental science experts to foster innovations, enforce regulations, and promote responsible practices.
A science major offers exceptional career prospects in commercial research and development fields, enabling individuals to contribute significantly to society through scientific discoveries and breakthroughs. Unlike industries that frequently downsize or offshore jobs, the scientific sector continually generates opportunities, attracting talent from around the world. Science majors can anticipate competitive salaries, job security, and the potential for patent applications that garner acclaim and provide substantial royalty income for generations.
Qualities of Ideal Science Majors:
Do you have these qualities?
- Patience and Persistence
- Diversity of Thought and Background
- Strong Teamwork Skills
- Flexibility
- Curiosity
While mathematical proficiency plays a crucial role in science majors' studies, modern tools such as calculators and computers can assist those facing challenges in this area. Furthermore, many educational institutions actively promote diversity in scientific fields, reaching out to underrepresented groups through community outreach and substantial scholarships.
Science Majors by Subject:
- Biology
- Environmental Science
- Veterinary Science
- Biotechnology
- Fire Science
- Physics
- Chemistry
AI - Artificial Intelligence And The Future
35 Top-Paying Jobs for Those With a Science Degree
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35 Top-Paying Jobs for Those With a Science Degree
Content Courtesy: Indeed Editorial/Career
Careers in science boast some consistently high-paying salaries. Also, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth for the science field looks to be steady through 2030, with the bureau projecting jobs to grow by 8%.
The formal education a person needs to work in science varies, from an associate degree to a Ph.D. If you have a science degree or are hoping to earn a degree down the road, it may be helpful to know about the different types of careers you can pursue and what your education path might look like if you’re still in school.
In this article, we explain 35 high-paying science degree jobs and provide the national average salary for each.
1. Forensic science technician National average salary: $50,208 per year
Primary duties: A forensic science technician is someone who uses their scientific expertise to aid in criminal investigations. They collect evidence, analyze data and report their findings.
Read more: How To Become a Forensic Science Technician
2. Biochemical technician National average salary: $52,031 per year
Primary duties: Biochemical technicians support systems within biochemical laboratories. They prepare scientific instruments, ready samples and maintain lab equipment.
3. Nuclear technician National average salary: $58,498 per year
Primary duties: Nuclear technicians assist nuclear scientists and physicists in nuclear research. They monitor radiation levels and use and maintain special equipment.
4. Microbiologist National average salary: $63,591 per year
Primary duties: Microbiologists study microorganisms to find out how they interact with the environment. They work in research labs and use their findings to identify, control and combat infectious diseases.
5. Meteorologist National average salary: $64,425 per year
Primary duties: Meteorologists specialize in studying the weather. They use data gained from satellite imagery, radar, air pressure and humidity to inform others of weather patterns.
Related: 10 Popular Astronomy Jobs That Pay Well
6. Chemical engineerNational average salary: $65,976 per year
Primary duties: Chemical engineers are scientists who use principles in chemistry to create solutions to global problems. They work to transfer raw materials into useful products and conduct many laboratory studies.
Read more: Learn About Being a Chemical Engineer
7. Environmental scientist National average salary: $71,205 per year
Primary duties: Environmental scientists specialize in environmental and biological well-being for their community. They design and analyze systems to reduce waste and pollutants, and they regularly complete advisory plans for companies and institutions.
8. Geologist National average salary: $72,190 per year
Primary duties: Geologists are professionals who specialize in earth sciences. They study things like landslides, floods, earthquakes, volcanoes and plate tectonics. Their findings inform decisions about architectural development, buildings, public safety and insurance.
9. Laboratory manager National average salary: $72,566 per year
Primary duties: Laboratory managers are professionals with backgrounds in both science and management. They support systems within a lab to ensure smooth operations. They also handle scheduling, manage the disposal of hazardous materials and keep up to date with safety protocols and regulations.
10. CartographerNational average salary: $74,167 per year
Primary duties: A cartographer is a scientific mapmaker. They conduct studies, collect and store samples and design a wide variety of map types. These people often benefit from technical, creative and scientific skills.
11. Geographer National average salary: $74,755 per year
Primary duties: Geographers study the earth and its features. They use maps and cultural studies to make determinations on how land and environment can dictate human behavior.
Related: 20 Jobs You Can Pursue with an Environmental Science Degree
12. Molecular technical supervisor National average salary: $74,888 per year
Primary duties: Molecular technical supervisors are scientists who work in labs to interpret genetic testing results. They regularly publish their findings and offer consultation to physicians.
13. Ecologist National average salary: $75,848 per year
Primary duties: An ecologist is a scientist who specializes in the study of the relationship between living organisms and their environments. They often conduct field research and perform laboratory studies.
Read more: Learn About Being an Ecologist
14. Geotechnical engineer National average salary: $79,796 per year
Primary duties: Geotechnical engineers study soil in relation to infrastructure. They collect soil samples, assess construction sites and evaluate land conditions.
15. Hydrologist National average salary: $81,270 per year
Primary duties: A hydrologist studies water to substantiate the need for social programs and projects. They collect surface and groundwater samples, test chemical properties and write reports on their findings.
Read more: How To Become a Hydrologist
16. Molecular biologist National average salary: $81,353 per year
Primary duties: Molecular biologists study the function and cellular mechanics of life. They conduct research in labs and analyze matter at the cellular and molecular levels.
17. Computational biologist National average salary: $81,353 per year
Primary duties: Computational biologists are scientists who use theoretical principals to further study and understand biology and biological systems. These people use statistics, algorithms and computational management on a daily basis.
18. Epidemiologist National average salary: $83,035 per year
Primary duties: An epidemiologist studies the causes and implications of diseases, and their work involves learning how to control and prevent these diseases. Epidemiologists also identify the varying levels of risk among different populations.
Read more: How Much Do Epidemiologists Make?
19. Environmental engineer National average salary: $83,257 per year
Primary duties: Environmental engineers are scientists who develop solutions for environmental problems. They use their knowledge of biology, chemistry and human behavior to improve the overall health of the planet.
Read more: Learn About Being an Environmental Engineer
20. Regulatory medicine veterinarian National average salary: $83,781 per year
Primary duties: Regulatory medicine veterinarians conduct regulatory testing and inspections of animal products for human consumption. The scientific tests they complete check for livestock diseases and disease-causing pathogens that are transferrable to humans.
21. Research chemist National average salary: $84,620 per year
Primary duties: A research chemist is a scientist who specializes in studying chemistry and chemical compounds. They conduct research in labs to improve practices in a variety of industries such as pharmacy, technology, cosmetics and nutrition.
22. Biomedical engineer National average salary: $86,214 per year
Primary duties: Biomedical engineers are the scientists who design biomedical equipment and devices. They develop life-saving artificial organs and body parts. Biomedical engineers usually work in labs to innovate, conduct research and interpret bioelectric data.
23. Life science consultant National average salary: $95,062 per year
Primary duties: A life science consultant is a person who specializes in protecting life and improving human health. They work with health organizations, companies, schools and institutions to provide advice on best practices for a range of issues.
24. Oceanographer National average salary: $95,380 per year
Primary duties: Oceanographers are marine biologists. They study marine environments and the plants and animals that live within those environments. They observe and report on tides, sea levels and the impact that humans have on marine life.
25. Materials engineer National average salary: $98,138 per year
Primary duties: Materials engineers study the properties of various materials and apply their findings to the development of innovative products or devices. They primarily use metals, plastics, minerals and ceramics to design computer chips and biomedical devices.
Related: What Can You Do With an Engineering Degree?
26. Medical scientist National average salary: $98,529 per year
Primary duties: A medical scientist specializes in research dedicated to bettering human health. They investigate diseases and prevention methods in clinical settings and report their findings in medical journals. Often, this type of scientist will concentrate on one disease for long periods of time.
27. Aeronautical engineer National average salary: $102,255 per year
Primary duties: An aeronautical engineer designs and studies aircrafts for use within the earth's atmosphere. They work on airplanes, helicopters and military aircraft systems. They can sometimes work on satellites or robots in use in the outer realms of the earth's thermosphere.
Read more: Learn About Being an Aeronautical Engineer
28. Pharmacy Manager National average salary: $104,154 per year
Primary duties: Pharmacy managers support higher-level operations within a pharmacy. They manage inventory, develop efficiency plans, train and manage staff, ensure safe storage of pharmaceutical drugs and communicate with clients.
29. Geophysicist National average salary: $105,153 per year
Primary duties: Geophysicists are scientists who study the earth and its gravitational, magnetic, seismic and electrical properties. They work in labs and in the field to conduct research and solve global and environmental problems.
30. Pharmacist National average salary: $106,600 per year
Primary duties: A pharmacist is a dispensing chemist. They work in pharmacies and provide people with prescription and non-prescription drugs. They are highly knowledgeable about contraindications and develop prescription management plans for their clients.
Related: Learn About Being a Pharmacist
31. Medical research scientist National average salary: $111,691 per year
Primary duties: A medical research scientist is a professional who focuses on disease prevention and treatment. They use epidemiological findings to conduct research and clinical trials. They develop and substantiate the efficacy of pharmaceutical drugs.
32. Astronomer National average salary: $114,590 per year
Primary duties: Astronomers study the stars, the planets, outer space and the universe as a whole. They conduct research and view satellite images to postulate how the universe works.
Read more: Learn About Being an Astronomer
33. Nuclear physicist National average salary: $122,220 per year
Primary duties: Nuclear physicists study the uses for and effects of nuclear energy. They run tests and conduct studies to make innovations in nuclear science.
34. Biostatistician National average salary: $141,915 per year
Primary duties: A biostatistician is the person responsible for analyzing data collected during medical research. They observe statistics and data to draw scientific conclusions and make predictions about medical findings.
Read more: Learn About Being a Biostatistician
35. Neurologist National average salary: $200,302 per year
Primary duties: A neurologist is a medical scientist who specializes in the brain and nervous system. They are experts in identifying, treating and managing neurological conditions and disorders.
Content Courtesy: Indeed Editorial/Career
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