10 Careers for Science Majors

1. Biologist

Biology majors have a huge variety of options for entering the workforce or pursuing additional education. Many choose to become biologists and conduct research. This work takes place in private and national laboratories and it provides valuable information that can improve processes in medicine, the environment, and most other science disciplines. 

2. Pharmacist

You'll need a Doctor of Pharmacy degree to pursue a career as a pharmacist, but the hard work can quickly pay you back. If you are looking for a career in medicine, but don't want to become a doctor or nurse, then this may be an option. Many pharmacists find work in community pharmacies and stores, although some also work in hospitals or clinics. Others may choose to work in research, although that is often the domain of pharmacologists instead. 

3. Conservationist

If your interest in science lends itself more to the outdoors and ecology, a career as a conservation scientist could be a good fit for you. These folks help ensure that regulations are followed correctly, develop and execute plans for land management and stewardship, and work to ensure forests and managed lands are properly maintained. 

4. Physicist

For science majors who prefer abstract thought and studying the properties of matter, a career as a physicist may be perfect. Not all physics work is theoretical, however. Some physicists work with very real-world and tangible subjects. Consider, also, that the field is highly compartmentalized into subfields like astrophysics, nuclear physics, and liquid dynamics. Jobs are often found in universities and research facilities. 

5. Forensic Science Technician

This is a specialized position that works to examine, study, and reconstruct crime scenes to determine what happened. Entry-level positions can be obtained with an Associate degree, although many employers expect a four-year degree. You should expect to deal with some disturbing subject matter in this line of work, and there is the potential for long and non-traditional hours. However, you will definitely know that what you do is making an impact on the victims of the crimes you work on and their families. 

6. Astronomer

Do you often find yourself lost in the stars? Then it might be your choice to use your science degree to study astronomy. In this field, you will contemplate the heavens to gain a better understanding of the basic principles of physics, the creation of our world, and how it all ties together. You should expect to study huge amounts of data and conduct research or develop computer models to generate more. Writing research papers to explain findings is also commonplace for an astronomer.  

7. Geneticist

Geneticists get down to the basic building blocks of all life - its DNA. They conduct research that can have far-reaching implications in medical treatments and environmental conservation. There is no lack of subspecialties to choose from. Geneticists can choose focus on areas such as genetic archeology, agricultural applications, or even forensics

8. Meteorologist

Contrary to what many people believe, there is a lot of work that goes into predicting and analyzing the weather. Meteorologists are specialists who study weather patterns to develop short and long-range forecasts, design new tools for measuring and predicting the weather, and study how weather patterns have changed throughout history. 

9. Geologist

Some science majors choose to study geological processes -those concerning the earth. These geologists can work with rock formations and land masses, marine environments, or even advise on the suitability of development projects. 

10. Educator

Don't underestimate the importance of educators in the sciences. From secondary school teachers all the way through leaders who can train the next generation of top physicists, educators make a difference by imparting a love of science to others. 

No matter what your specialty or passion, science careers abound. This sampling should show the diversity and range of choices you will face when selecting a career in science.