Whether you choose to become a highly credentialed scientist or prefer a science-related job with a lower barrier to entry, there are plenty of options to consider. Here’s a look at six science-related career options.
1. Epidemiologist
Epidemiologists are public health professionals. They collect and analyze data regarding incidences, patterns and causes of medical conditions, including diseases and injuries. Their mission is to work toward health promotion and preventive wellness by influencing public health policy and educating the public about the causes of health problems.
If you’re interested in becoming an epidemiologist, you’ll first need to earn a bachelor’s degree, such as a Bachelor of Science in Public Health. Epidemiologists will typically need to complete their master’s degree to enter the field, such as a Master of Public Health (MPH). Those who wish to teach epidemiology at the university level or direct research projects will generally need a PhD or a medical degree.2
2. Forensic Science Technician
Not all careers in science require an advanced degree. If you’d like to get started with just a bachelor’s degree, you might consider becoming a forensic science technician.3Forensic science technicians help law enforcement agencies solve crimes and bring criminals to justice.
They travel to crime scenes and follow strict protocols to collect and analyze evidence. At the crime scene, they may take samples of hair and bodily fluids, dust for fingerprints and collect other types of evidence, as well as take photographs and make sketches of the scene. In the lab, forensic science technicians perform laboratory tests on collected evidence, consult with other subject matter experts as needed and develop reports on their findings.
Typically, an aspiring forensic science technician needs a bachelor’s degree to apply for the job, such as a Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science.3 Then, they usually undergo a period of on-the-job training, working while under the close supervision of a seasoned professional. Some may decide to continue their education by pursuing a Master of Science in Forensic Science as it may help you position yourself for employment opportunities or career advancement.
You might consider earning an optional certification or license in a particular area of specialization.3 The Graduate Certificate of Completion in Forensic Psychology at GCU may be a good option if you’re looking to blend together law, criminal justice and psychology.
3. Environmental Scientist
If you're passionate about being a good steward of the Earth and preserving it for future generations, then you may wish to consider science careers related to conservation. As an environmental scientist, you would collect samples of water, soil, food, air and other substances for analysis to identify and assess environmental threats like pollution and climate change.
You would compile your findings in technical reports, which may be shared with the general public and with businesses and governmental agencies for the purpose of raising awareness about environmental problems and influencing public policy. Environmental scientists also develop and implement plans or programs intended to remediate or alleviate environmental problems.
Unlike many research scientists, environmental scientists may only need a bachelor’s degree to get started, such as a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science with an Emphasis in Environmental Chemistry degree. However, a related master’s degree might be required or beneficial when seeking to position yourself for advancement opportunities. Some environmental scientists earn a PhD to qualify for postsecondary roles or certain research positions.4
4. Medical Scientist or Biological Scientist
Are you interested in the types of science careers that may allow you to work toward medical breakthroughs that could potentially save lives? If so, you might consider becoming a medical scientist. Medical or biological scientists use investigative methodologies, such as clinical research trials, to study diseases and how to best treat and prevent them.
There are different types of medical scientists. Some of them specialize in developing new drug therapies for various health problems — from Alzheimer’s disease to eczema.
Others, like medical pathologists, specialize in studying the human body and its various components. For example, they might investigate whether a particular disease is linked to genetics or how a disease progresses through the body. Some medical scientists specialize in evaluating how exposure to chemicals, such as pollutants, affects human health.
Becoming a medical scientist involves many years of schooling. You can typically start with a bachelor’s degree, such as a Bachelor of Science in Biology with an Emphasis in Pre-Medicine. Most medical scientists need a PhD in biology or another life science, although some go to medical school and earn a medical degree instead.5
5. Clinical Laboratory Technologist or Technician
If you’re interested in science careers that don’t require a graduate degree, you might consider becoming a clinical laboratory scientist or technician, also known as medical lab technicians. These professionals help patients by analyzing samples in the lab, interpreting the findings and recording the data in reports that are then sent to the ordering physician or specialist. The work that medical lab specialists do is vital for diagnosing all types of diseases — ranging from bacterial infections to cancer.
Typically, these STEM professionals need a bachelor’s degree, such as a Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science. It’s important to note that some states may require medical lab staff to obtain certification or licensure. Research the requirements for the state in which you plan to work to ensure that the degree program you choose allows you to meet any specific requirements.6
6. Pharmacist
Do you enjoy the thought of helping people learn how to better manage their health? As a pharmacist, you would dispense prescription medications and consult with patients to help them learn about proper dosage instructions and potential side effects and interactions. You would also help patients in your community stay healthy by administering immunizations — ranging from seasonal flu shots to tetanus vaccines and many others.
The career pathway may start with earning a relevant bachelor’s degree, such as the Bachelor of Science in Biology with an Emphasis in Pre-Pharmacy. While this degree provides a solid foundation, pursuing a career as a pharmacist requires additional steps, including completing an accredited pharmacy program and earning a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree.7 Licensure is required in all states, although specific requirements can vary. Be sure to research the licensure requirements for the state in which you plan to work.7
