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You might find the answer to your question in our Agony Archive. Take a look...  To: Agonyteam Subject: Science careers I heard that more boys than girls choose science careers after high school, is this true if so can you please tell me why? Thanks, Troy This question was one for our Planet Science resident expert, Jenni French, who has been reading a lot of research into this very question as part of her job here. Here's what she said…. Troy There has been lots of research, all of it fairly inconclusive, about why girls don't chose science. Some of the suggested reasons are lack of role models or girls feeling it's not very 'human' (the numbers of women in biological sciences is much greater than in physical sciences). Once girls choose science some people think that it is very difficult for them to continue careers. The recent report by Susan Greenfield (Director of the Royal Institution) looks at all sorts of reasons why that might be. From your email address is looks like you're in Australia, so I'm afraid I don't know about the all the statistics there - but my guess is that figures are similar to the UK. However, as you will see from the Girls section of Next Steps, there is absolutely no good reason why girls can't be as good, if not better than boys at science. In fact the reason that people are trying so hard to make girls understand that science is interesting, rewarding and can have that 'human' element is that science needs girls. It needs people to look at it from other perspectives so that science can continue to progress. Jenni To: Agonyteam Subject: How to become either a government vet or an equine specialist. Hello, I'm 14 years old and ever since being a child it has been my dream to become a vet. I have researched into the qualifications needed to have a chance of studying at university and I'm not sure whether I will pass in chemistry as I am finding yr 10 tricky at the moment. Could you tell me what courses you can study if I do get to 1 of the 6 universities offering this in the country. Also, if I do qualify as a vet I am interested in becoming either a government vet or an equine specialist. Could you tell me how I would achieve this? Thank you for letting me pick your brains, Claire Dear Claire, Competition for courses is intense and academic requirements are high. The qualifications required by the various university schools differ slightly. Three A' levels are normally needed at grades AAB. They must include "chemistry" and one or two from biology, physics or math's. Where only one of these is specified you may offer a non-science subject, but this must be accepted as academically sound. You will also need a wide range of subjects at GCSE (A-C) including English language. If you do not study A' level biology or physics, you must have GCSE biology, physics or a double award in science. GNVQ's are not accepted. The degree course lasts 5 years except Cambridge this is a six year course. A Veterinary degree will be sufficient to work as a government Vet. For the Equine specialist you can learn on the job, or you can consider taking a post-graduate course. Please consider the fact, that by the time you come to take A' levels the above information could change. To: Agonyteam Subject: Forensic Science. Hi, My name is Annabel and at the end of this academic year I will take my GCSEs. If I pass them all (which I should do), I hope to come out with Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Maths, Eng lit, Eng. lang, IT. RE. French, German, Latin and Art. With these I hope to stay on and take Biology, Chemistry, French and Art A levels. I am aware that you can take a forensic science degree at Uni, but, to be a forensic scientist, are there other possible routes to take and is a forensic scientist well paid? Thank you for contacting the Agony Team Annabel In answer to your question, where you have expressed an interest in pursuing a career as Forensic Scientist. In England and Wales, the exact entry requirements vary between employers. Entry as a forensic scientist requires a good honours degree in a scientific or mathematical subject (including forensic science), or an appropriate technology or equivalent professional qualification. Many laboratories look for applicants with an MSc in forensic science, and some might ask for relevant laboratory experience. The Forensic Science Service (FSS) mainly recruits assistant forensic scientists, for which the minimum qualifications are four GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3) including English and either chemistry, biology or maths, and at least one A level/two Highers in science subjects. Equivalent qualifications will be considered. In Scotland, the basic grade forensic scientists need at least an honours degree (class I or II) in chemistry, biology or a related subject, or an equivalent professional qualification. Laboratories may look for applicants with an MSc in forensic science and some might ask for relevant laboratory experience. Forensic technicians or assistant forensic scientists need at least a higher national award in chemistry or biology, or an equivalent qualification. Course entry requirements Entry to degree courses requires two or three A levels/three or four Highers, including science subjects, and three GCSEs (A-C)/two S grades (1-3) in other subjects including maths and English. Equivalent qualifications include relevant vocational A levels/GSVQs level III or a BTEC/SQA national certificate or diploma. Some institutions offer a foundation year before a degree course if the A levels/Highers are not in science subjects. Not all courses are recognised by certain employers, so you will need to check with employers before applying for a course. There are current changes in the qualification systems including:
ADULT ENTRY There is no upper age limit, and the entry requirements are the same as for younger applicants, though previous relevant laboratory experience may be required. Adults may be considered for degree courses without the normal entry requirements, or they may enter after completing an Access course. Training Most training is on the job, supplemented by formal training courses such as fire investigation, courtroom skills, statement writing, interpretation skills, executive reporting and expert witness courses. The FSS may offer day release to their assistant forensic scientists to gain additional relevant qualifications to advance their career prospects. Opportunities In England and Wales, the Forensic Science Service (FSS) employs staff in six operational laboratories and one research laboratory. In Scotland, forensic scientists are employed mainly by the Police, and are based in one of four laboratories in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen or Dundee. There are also a number of independent forensic science laboratories, which cover all types of forensic examination. Most employers in England and Wales are small with limited opportunities for promotion, apart from the Forensic Science Service (FSS), which has a promotion structure ; assistant forensic scientist, to forensic scientist and then to senior forensic scientist. In Scotland, technicians who obtain a relevant degree can become forensic scientists. Promotion is on merit and forensic scientists can be promoted to section leaders; then to deputy head of forensic services; and on to head of forensic services/principal scientist. There are opportunities for forensic scientists to move into education as lecturers in universities or on training courses. There are also opportunities for self-employment as private forensic science consultants. ANNUAL INCOME The annual income section is intended as a guideline only. The actual rates of pay may vary. Assistant forensic scientists (technicians) earn from £11,000 to £22,000. Forensic scientists earn from £17,000 to £28,000. Senior forensic scientists or principal scientists earn £22,000 to £45,000. Head of department earns £35,000 to £45,000. Further information The Forensic Science Service (FSS) Priory House Gooch Street North Birmingham B5 6QQ Tel: 0121 607 6800 www.forensic.gov.uk To: Agonyteam Subject: The best universities to study science. Hi, I'm hoping to study maths chemistry and biology as full A levels next year and would like your opinion on the best universities to study the science at. I'd also like some ideas on things I could do to build up my UCAS form for next year. I am interested in disease and drug research and would like to know which degree courses would be best for a career in this field as I'm not sure if there is any point studying medicine as I don't want to work in the clinical side of it. Thanks Lindsey Dear Lindsey, Firstly due to impartiality we cannot comment on the "best" university to go to, however websites such as "Times online" provides a league table of universities. www.timesonline.co.uk , go to the section on "quick clicks"- education, then go to "Good University Guide", there you'll find all the information you require. Secondly, we're not entirely sure what you mean by "I'd like ideas to build up my UCAS form". The UCAS website www.ucas.com is very useful in providing advice to potential applicants, there is a section called "before you apply". The website is also excellent for searching for degree courses. The personal statement on the UCAS form is the most important section, if your wanting to add or build more to your application, then alongside your academic qualifications, evidence of work experience will enhance your application. It might be worth your while either speaking to a teacher or a careers advisor at school/college to see if they can arrange work experience with a local employer. Maybe you could gain experience in a hospital laboratory. Finally to answer your last question on degree courses related to disease and drug research. You could consider taking a biomedical science degree, this allows you to become a biomedical scientist, they are responsible for analysing and detecting diseases. The institute of Biomedical Science has a list of degree courses, e.g. Bsc (Hons) Biomedical Science. We wish you every success for the future. Yours sincerely Learndirect. To: Agonyteam Subject: Further Education in Science I am writing to ask for advice about further education in science, as I am in my last year of secondary school and I'm not sure about what I should do next? Could you give some advice about what subject's I should take, and also some information about careers in science. Thanks Natasha Gonsalves Dear Natasha Many thanks for contacting us at Planet Science. Whilst I am happy to respond to your query, nothing beats sitting down with an adult face to face to discuss your ideas, interest and concerns, at this stage. I do sincerely hope that you are making best use of your form tutor and the Connexions Personal Advisor plus Learning Mentors available in most schools. Schools and colleges work closely this time of year and organize workshops, information session and seminars for young people. These activities normally run during the day and in the evening and involve Careers Guidance teams and advisors from the relevant College who will talk to you about their learning institution. Parents are also encouraged to attend. It would be helpful to have more information about yourself. I am keen to find out about your interests and hobbies and your heroes and heroines out of school and programs you like to watch and TV, it all helps me to appreciate what you enjoy. Working in Science is a brilliant career path and there are a number of organisations who are particularly keen for young women like yourself to study and develop rewarding careers in this field. Why not consider getting in touch with the following organizations: AWISE Association of Women in Science and Engineering Information and mentoring scheme. http://www.awise.org The Promoting SET for Women unit at the DTI has a dedicated website with some good information and useful links. http://www.set4women.gov.uk then click on 'Careers & training' Other sites that encourage young people to study science: The Royal Society in London has an active education programme aimed at 11-19 year-olds Information and mentoring scheme. http://www.royalsoc.ac.uk/education including a website specifically for students (aged 16-19) http://www.sc1.ac.uk The Royal Institution similarly has a programme called Inside Out. Its site is http://insideout.rigb.org/insideout and includes a students' message board. http://www.noisenet.ws is a website aimed at bringing science to life (it's part of the National Grid for Learning) WISE gov sponsored activity body budget for developing initiatives. I do hope that you feel further encouraged, as to the great possibilities and options that having a good standard of education. For example, employers and further education institution are always keen to recruit students with English, Math, Science, IT and a second (EU) language ideally in good grades. So get your head down work hard and more importantly enjoy your learning opportunities. Science can be a very useful tool which will help you enormously to do other kinds of jobs. Choosing a Science qualification it is said by industry specialist to be a good lever to other occupations. Broaden your horizons and pop over to the Science Museum maybe you might want to go and see their new Bond Installation to coincide with the new film Die Another Day. Museum of London new World Galleries is also worth considering so that you can appreciate early scientific endeavors. Maybe you can spend some time with friends and or parents surfing on the net. Consider spending some time with your parents and the TV guide and take advantage of the wonderful Radio and TV programs on offer with a touch of the hand. Why not try keeping a journal/scrap book with interesting articles and summary of scientific innovations. It maybe something that you can give to your school when complete for your NRA folder (National Record Achievement). Do keep in touch with your developments, we always love hearing from young people out there in Planet-Science land. Carpe Diem (Go for it!) Aunty Mia To: Agonyteam Subject: Maths and Accounting Is it possible to get a career in accounting after doing a maths degree? I want to know because I want to do a Maths degree, as opposed to doing an Accounting degree. But I still want to be an accountant. I've heard about the professional exams trainee accountants have to take. So would I be able to study for the professional accounting exams after doing my Maths degree? I would probably do a Masters in Maths. Also, how well paid are people with PhDs in Maths who go into mathematical reasearch or lecturing? As this would probably be another possible career path for me. Thanks Gavin Dear Gavin Part 1 - Reference to entering a career into Accountancy The most common entry route to accountancy training is with a degree. Usually around of half entrants for the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) and the Association of Chatered Certified Accountants (ACCA) are graduates with a first or second class degree in any academic subject. You will need to check with the Board of Accreditation of Education Courses who may exempt you from certain parts of the professional exams or you may contact the recognised qualifying bodies which I have attached below, for further information on their entry requirements and their exemption policy:- Association of Chartered Certified Accountants 020 7396 5800 http://www.acca.org.uk Chatered Institute of Public Finanace and Accountancy 020 7407 9010 http://www.cipfa.org.uk The Chatered Institute of Management Accountants 020 7637 2311 http://www.cima.org.uk The Chartered Institute of Chartered Accoutnants in England and Wales 01908 248108 http://www.icaew.co.uk/careers Part 2 - Reference to entering a career as a lecturer or mathematical researcher The salaries scales for the above postions do vary. I have done some research and have attached a website for the Research, Science, Academic, Teaching and Management jobs and studentships in the public and private sector. This website will give you information on the salary scales you are expected to earn if you were to pursue a career as a lecturer or as a mathematical researcher: The contact number if you want to speak to a member of staff is 024 7657 2839 http://www.jobs.ac.uk Thanks Rajesh To: Agonyteam Subject: Not so recent a graduate Good afternoon, I graduated with an environmental studies degree majoring in energy management back in 1995. I worked as a senior air quality technician with two different environmental consultancies for 2 years. I then moved into publishing and have for the last 3 years been working in sales. I am currently an advertisement manager and am responsible for a number of staff members. My current role involves business development, budget forecasting, key account management of numerous blue chip FMCG companies, project management etc. all publishing focused. My request for advice is based on a desire to amalgamate the two key areas of my career to date, environmental issues and sales. Where do you feel would be the best place to start as though there are a number of jobs aimed at recent graduates (I remember using them myself) or the very experienced but there appears to be little out there for the ‘change of career’ individual who has a lot of experience which would be easily transferable to this sector. Any info would be much appreciated as I feel my management, technical and sales experience gained to date would be extremely beneficial to a number of companies. Kind regards John Dear John, I have thought long and hard in the last week about your dilemma (dilemma? or, from where I am sitting, I think you should see it as a lot of opportunities and options!) from your current position. For example, you can visit the various Graduate fairs now, and make the best of all the employers you have possibly been trying to contact as they all could be available to you under one roof. These are just a few coming up The Autumn Graduate Fair Olympia 3rd -4th November www.jarvis-exhibitions.com Tel - visitor hotline: 0208 315 7430 Graduate Fair New Engineering & Science Zone B11&12th December 2002 Business Design Centre 52 Upper Street N1 www.careers.lon.ac.uk/tgfl Undergraduate, Graduate andd Professional Careers fair organised by African Caribbean Finance Forum Paragon Hotel 47 Lillie Road SW6 6th November Register at www.acff.org Science and Engineering Fair GMEX Manchester 31st October www.graduatecareersonline.com/fairs Register - 0161 275 4019 - you may want to go on line first to pre register and do your research before attending. Or you may feel that you have sufficient information beforehand to make another approach. If your heart lies in combining your love for Environmental Science and Sales, try looking in the Wednesday Guardian as there are more and more jobs being advertised for work especially with local Government. For example, councils are recruiting for Environmental Coordinators: the main focus of these types of jobs is to encourage businesses to be more environmentally friendly and in turn advise councils on being more environmentally focused. These jobs call for you being an efficient administrator with first class communication skills. Thinking green, Croydon Council are looking to recruit for their Planning and Transportation Traffic Management Assistant Engineer (Cycling Officer) ring 020 88686 4433 x 2217 reference PT/177 closing date 7th November. They are looking for someone experienced and self motivated to work with Traffic Management on the investigation, design and implementation of a whole range of cycling issues and measures. I hope you are able to go through the Guardian on a regular basis. Looking just at the 12th October 2002 (sorry I don’t know where you are living) for example, you might want to work in Sheffield, working for their Environment and Leisure Department part of the Parks, Woodlands and Countryside or maybe you might want to work in Derby as a Landscape and Development Officer, and there are a fair amount of charities and voluntary sector environmental projects recruiting now. There has really been a steady increase of jobs advertised every week in the Wednesday Guardian, so take a look, apply, and stay in touch with us as Planet-Science so we know how you get on. Regards, Mia Hello my name is Paul. I have recently graduated with a 2:2 technological physics degree and have a HND applied physics. Job searching is really starting to get to me now. I do not want to get a job in London as cost of living is too high with student debts. I am also sick of agencies phoning me up and never phoning me back! I was wondering if you could give me any advice, perhaps something I am doing wrong? I would be interested in getting a job abroad anywhere but Europe. Could you give me some advice on how to do this? I don't seem to be having any luck on the web. Thanks for any help! Paul Dear Paul Comment on CV: useful to write a short profile about yourself so that employers are able to immediately understand how they can help you. 3/4 sharp sentences will do it. Look out for jobs in Nature, New Scientist, Guardian Thursday Science and IT vacancies Companies to look out for (not listed in any particular order): Health and Safety Executive always need Technological and Scientific specialists. Check out www.hse.gov.uk If you are thinking of say becoming an inspector you will normally be expected to have a degree and for specialist roles membership of a professional body……( Institute of Physics) Together with a current driving license you will either carry out site specific duties or strategic work. AstraZeneca plc www.astrazeneca.com This is a leading international pharmaceutical company active in over100 countries. Main UK office South East North West North and the Midlands. If you get in they have a very good relocation package deadline for applying 1st December. They are always on the look out for people with enthusiasm and drive who work well as part of a team. AstraZenecca provides rewards interest and ease of working in a friendly and modern scientific environment Look out in trade press for vacancies with Biotechnology and Biological Research Council, their work is geared t o advancing knowledge and improving national economic competitiveness. They do not run a scheme for graduates (no offices in London) Bedford, Midlothian ,Cambridge and Suffolk Tel 01793 413338 Email career.info@bbsrc.ac.uk British Energy operates 8 modern nuclear power stations in the UK. Deadline 31.12.02 They run a very well thought of Professional development scheme. Operating centres in Gloucester and East Kilbride always keen to recruit for the following areas; Engineering Sciences Information technology Business Area 25 vacancies year Tel: 0800373445 Esso and Exxon Mobil Group has the largest UK market share for petrochemical products . South East England including London and Scotland All vacancies require comfort with numbers and detailed analysis, good structured program with personal development plans including foreign assignment for high performing people. Email: euk@esso.com Tel: 0845 120 0292 Hewitt Associates Global Management Consulting firm specialise in Human Resource Solution Amea.koziol@busygirl.com auroravoice.com Phil I hope you are thinking of joining the Institue of Physics who have a very comprehensive and informative website which is very easy to navigate. www.ip.org I will not exactly say that your job searching days are over but hopefully you will be able to take those first steps firmly. Hopefully you will also be inspired by reading the comprehensive case studies written by members from across the spectrum. Jobs are primarily in Marketing, Retailing, Distribution , Consultancy and Teaching. I’m also including some information on volunteering below as this would involve experience but not in Europe: World Service Enquiry Website: www.wse.org.uk Email: wse@cabroad.org.uk Tel: 0870 7703274 VSO (Voluntary Services Overseas) Website: www.vso.org.uk Email: enquiry@vso.org.uk Tel: 0208 780 7500 UNAIS (United Nations Association International Service) Website: www.internationalservice.org.uk Email: unais-uk@geo2.poptel.org.uk Tel: 01904 647 799 IVS (International Voluntary Services) Tel: 01206 298 215 Voluntary Work Information Service Website: www.workingabroad.com Email: info@workingabroad.com Tel: 01273 711406 Useful website: www.oneworld.net Your quest to wanting to work abroad but not in Europe… could possibly lead to Japan.. have a go and don’t forget that we at Planet-Science would be keen to hear your news and would like you to consider registering on our database so that you can encourage another young person pursue this field of work. Good luck…… Mia JOB DETAILS Toshiba Fellowship Programme 2003 – Japan Toshiba of Europe Ltd London United Kingdom Closing date: not specified Job reference code: N/A Salary: not specified Qualification: Not specified Toshiba, in association with EPSRC, is offering outstanding European scientists the opportunity to join one of its high-technology research teams in Japan for up to two years. Toshiba seeks applications from outstanding a PhD-level researchers currently working in UK academic or government institutions. For a list of research topics, full details of the Toshiba Fellowship Programme 2003 and to register to apply, visit Toshiba’s website: www.toshiba-europe.com/eur/fellowship Contact: Audrey House, Toshiba of Europe Ltd, Ely Place, London, EC1N 6SN, United Kingdom I am a recent graduate from the University of Wolverhampton, where I studied BSc Environmental Science. I am finding it difficult to get employment within this sector, and was wondering if you could help me with alternative career options relevant to my degree. I am willing to be flexible and to be trianed in new areas if needed. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Yours sincerely Rosita Hamilton Dear Rosita, I hope I am not too late to congratulate you on completing your course, and taking steps to take charge of your career by doing some voluntary work and then making yourself available to relocate to paid work. Here is the tricky bit! Environmental Science is clearly an area you enjoy and know a lot about. So how do you nail that job? And at what point do you combine it with part time study. A question that only you can answer at this stage. Job Hunting Worth looking at the Thursday edition of the Guardian which concentrates on Science and Technology and also Wednesday which has a specific section covering Regeneration and Environment in the Society Section. For example in last week's edition there was a vacancy for an Assistant Development Manager's position going in London for Cory Environment Limited (waste management company). Closing date 6th September - forward your cv to Claire Dale. Cory Environment Ltd 2 Coldbath Sq EC1R 5HL Hounslow Council are recruiting now for a Community Environment Officers. Areas worth looking and considering once you have exhausted your job search would be the following;- Teaching Take advantage of opportunities to teach Science and consider going on to a PGCE course now. You might also want to take advantage of the fact that Science, Maths and IT now have training salaries attached of £6,000. You might also want to look at postgraduate initial teacher training routes, where a consortia of schools organised school based training called School Centred Initial Teachers Training which lead to QTS Qualified Teachers Status. Why not contact the Teachers Training Agency on 0845 6000 91 who will be in a position to give you up to date information. FENTO 020 74212362 www.fento.org.uk can assist you if you decide that you want to Tutor young people and or adults at Higher of Further education Graduate teachers website availability www.gttr.ac.uk get in touch with them first or contact colleges now if you decide you want to go for it this side of the Autumn. National Health Service Graduates Programme The NHS are always on the look out for people like yourself for their NHS Management Training Scheme, the training which normally last 2 years combines work placement with formal management training. Should you wish to proceed further contact the Institute of Health Management 7-10 Chandos Street London W1G 9DE www.ihm.org.uk Building your own network of contacts and information: Recruitment fairs If you could face getting into London this weekend you may want to attend the Forum 3 6-7 September www.forum3.co.uk free tickets available now 020 7636 7622 it also has a good informative guide which would be useful for your job search. This is one of the largest recruitment and volunteering fair at the Business Design Centre Islington London . Networking Being visible attending conferences, seminars those that are free are best. Are you a member of the Women into Science and Engineering www.awise.org they run informative workshops , information sharing activities . I have been scouring the internet and newspapers for graduate jobs and jobs relating to physical geography but have had little luck in finding one. I am a graduate in Geography (BSc Hons) and specialize in physical geography. I am really looking for a career with some excitement in terms of travel and adventure as I am also a keen outdoor enthusiast. I am not too keen on an office job or anything customer related or academic. I would like to work in conservation, especially abroad and would like to mix in my outdoor skills. I am very interested in becoming an expedition assistant or leader with a company like trekforce expeditions but this is something to build up to. I realize that everything I have told you has made the search ever more narrower but this is the scale of my dilema! As you have a BSc Hons in Geography and would now like a career in Conservation, especially overseas where you can incorporate becoming an expedition assistant or leader, it is essential that you undertake some form of voluntary work. This will be an ideal way of gaining appropriate experience and contacts. To do this you can contact the BSES Expeditions at The Royal Geographical Society on 020 7591 3141, www.bses.org.uk . They plan expeditions to remote wilderness environments for scientific research and conservation work and they provide mountain and wilderness training. If you are aged over 21yrs (with previous experience) you can become an Assistant Leader or Leader. There are many other organisations that provide the same opportunities see the books "International Voluntary Work" by Louise Whetter & Victoria Pybus and "Working with the Environment" 2nd Ed, by Tim Ryder & Elisabeth Roberts. You should be able to obtain a copy from your local library. To become involved in voluntary Conservation work in the UK you need to contact The British Trust for Conservation Volunteers on 01491 839766, www.btcv.org.uk and the Wildlife Trust on 0870 036 7711 www.wildlifetrusts.org There may be an element of retraining required which you would have to consider. Your main options are either a BTEC (EDEXCEL) National Diploma course contact or alternatively as you already have a degree you may wish to consider a postgraduate level course to help you qualify as a Conservation Officer (although this is not essential). For more information on local courses contact Learndirect on 0800 100 900. For more information on National Diploma courses you can contact LANTRA on 0845 707 8007. I hope this information is of use and if you need to speak to someone about exploring your career options you could contact the Lifelong Learning Team at learndirect free on 08080 100 333. They can perform a free career planning interview over the phone. This will take approximately 30 minutes and is on a freephone number. They will try to look at your skills, interests, experience and values to help you identify your own ideas on what sort of career you want to do. Hi I was wondering if you could help me. I am 12 and in my second year of high school I was wanting more information on being a vet and if you could help me it would be appreciated. Thanking you Thank you for your e-mail. I hope this information will help you. Candidates need a wide range of subjects at GCSE (Grades A-C) including English Language. When you are choosing the subjects you want to study at GCSE you should also look at science subjects such as Chemistry, Biology and Physics. You need good grades at GCSE because you will need to study A-Levels to eventually get on a Degree course. All vets must have a Degree in Veterinary Science that is approved by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS). Three A levels are normally needed at grades AAB to get on the Degree course. They must include chemistry and one or two from biology, physics or maths. Most universities will accept two AS levels instead of one A level, but you do need to have a good Chemistry A-Level, Chemistry AS Level will not be sufficient. All veterinary schools require candidates to show evidence of interest and commitment by having done work experience in a veterinary practice and having worked with and handled animals, including livestock. You may be able to speak to your local Careers Officer to arrange some work experience now or you could look at volunteering in the holidays. For further information you can contact: The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS). Tel: 020 7222 2001. Web site: www.rcvs.org.uk I hope this information helps you and good luck with your studies to become a vet. Hi, I am going to do A-Levels in Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Maths (depending on my GCSE results!), and I really want to do a degree in physics. However, I quite like the idea of working in a hospital - what type of jobs are there available for people with a physics degree inside a hospital? Would I have to do a masters to specialise in something medical to help me get the job? Thank you for your e-mail. I hope you will find the following information useful. The career of Medical Physicist would combine your wish to work in a hospital with a degree in physics. The profession grew with the use of x-rays in radiotherapy. In modern radiotherapy physicists are responsible for delivering the correct dose of radiation to treat a tumour without damaging healthy tissue. For further information please contact: The Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine Tel: 01904 610821 Web site: www.ipem.org.uk NHS Careers Tel:0845 606 0655 Web site: www.nhscareers.nhs.uk Health Professions Council Tel: 0207 582 0866 Web site:www.hpcuk.org The IPEM also accredits postgraduate education and training through departments. There is a link on the IPEM web site you can use to get more information on postgraduate training, but in general the information you need is as follows. Medical physicists are employed in both the NHS and the healthcare industry. Employment within the NHS is structured such that new graduates, who usually have a good honours degree in science or engineering, enter the professional grades at Grade A as Trainees or as Associates. The training scheme is a two year programme which usually involves training in three major subject areas. Training takes place in accredited departments. In addition, trainees must complete an accredited M.Sc. Successful completion of the training programme results in the award of the Diploma of the Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine (IPEM) and allows the trainee to compete for posts in a particular speciality at Grade B. It is also possible to enter at Grade A after completing an MSc in a University department. The duration of the Grade A training scheme is reduced if the degree is accredited by IPEM. Grade B is the main professional grade covering a wide range of responsibilities. Posts at the lower end of the grade have a large element of higher training in a particular subject area with individuals working towards corporate membership of IPEM and, in some cases, registration as Chartered Engineers with the Engineering Council. This programme will take at least 4 years. At the upper end of the grade, appointments carry a high level of individual responsibility. Although further academic qualifications are not mandatory, many individuals study for a Ph.D. degree. You may wish to visit the official graduate careers website to check out other options using a degree in physics. The address follow: www.prospects.ac.uk I have wanted to become a Vet ever since early childhood, but had fears about certain aspects of the career and so headed into a different field. [Background] I complete a engineering foundation at Middlesex University, from which I went to study Computer Science at Queen Mary and Westfield University, which I found lacking in challenges, and transferred to Southbank University to study Special Effects, and although currently still on the course I am more active in the Special effects field than in the uncompleted studies. [Summarised CV] I have written software professionally, worked (and currently (if sporadically) still do) as a rock climbing instructor, designed websites, run events and conferences (both here and in the US), worked as a theatrical consultant and lighting technician, and worked on Films as a special effects technician. [Secondary School Qualification] I have no A-levels (although I did study the first year of Chemistry, Physics and Maths) A grade in Computer Science (now defunct, superceded by IT), B grade in Chemistry, and Physics, Mathematics, C grade in Biology, English Language, English Literature, I must apologise about the inordinate amount of background information, now to my point. Now 24 years old I have recently decided to go for a Veterinary career, and am currently researching the viability. Although I'm highly motivated, dedicated, and extremely persistent, with no A-levels, do I have any chance of getting a university place? Any opinions, additional advice, or comments would be much appreciated. Thank you for your email enquiry about training to become a Veterinary Surgeon. You may like to consider the following points. There are 6 veterinary degree courses in the UK: at Bristol, Cambridge, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Liverpool and London. Courses are usually five years long except for Cambridge which is six. Entry after the age of 25 is extrememly rare and before that age is very competitive. A small number of mature (i.e. over 21) graduates with relevant degrees are admitted to these degree courses, but only about 20 each year in the whole of the UK. Again there is fierce competition for these places. Given your current circumstances it will undoubtedly be difficult to gain a place on one of these courses. The schools generally look at the relevance of your degree if you are a mature student. As your degree is not in a related field (Biology, Chemistry, Physics would be preferred), it will be difficult to gain entry onto a Veterinary Degree programme. You are of course right to be concerned about your A levels. But the chief interest of veterinary schools for a mature candidate (as you would be) would be in their most recent course of study and their work experience and the relevance of each to veterinary work. In your case the courses of study you have embarked are not related to veterinary science and nor is the work you mention in your CV summary. Having said this, it would be extremely useful to check out this information with veterinary schools directly, since Universities make decisions about admissions on an individual basis. The information provided above are general rules. Each school will make it's own decision and they may be able to tell how you could increase your chances of becoming one of the chosen mature students. You should remember that you have time on your side, so after contacting the schools you could put an Action Plan together to try to meet their requirements. Also, the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons produces a leaflet entitled "How to be a veterinary surgeon" and they will send you a copy. Their telephone number is: 0207 222 2001, website www.rcvs.org.uk. You may also like to look at the learndirect futures website application, which has a great deal of information about careers involving animals. If you would like a free subscription to this website please contact one of the Lifelong Learning Team on freephone 08080 100 333 (lines are open 9am to 9pm weekdays and 9am to 5pm weekends). The Lifelong Learning Team can discuss your action plan with you or if you decide you wish to look at other related careers they can also discuss these with you. I hope this information is useful. Please do not hesitate to contact the service again if we can be of any further help. I’m about to sit my GCSE’s and I don’t think I’ll do as well as I should. I wanted to do Chemistry, Physics and Biology at A-Level. I wanted to study to become a vet but I'm worried I won't be able to do the A-Levels I need to? I’m sorry to hear you are concerned about your GCSE’s. Everyone experiences nerves and some self doubt before they sit exams. You may find you do better than you think. Have you discussed your concerns with your form tutor? They may be able to help. If you do not get the results you need it isn’t the end of the world. Why do you not think you will do well? Could you do better with some additional revision? If so you may want to think about re-sitting your exam. If you think you are too far behind you could re-take the course at a local sixth form college. This will normally take a year and it shouldn’t affect your chances of studying to become a vet. To become a vet you will need normally need to have Chemistry and either Biology, Physics or Maths A-Levels and you will usually need to get two A grades and one B, although you will need to check with the University for their entry requirements. For more information on becoming a vet you could go to www.learndirect-futures.co.uk then click on Explore Job Profiles. I have heard that more boys enter science careers than girls do. Is this true and does it mean I will be at a disadvantage? Not at all. Science is the same as any career; women and men can compete on an equal basis. It is true that science and engineering had previously been thought of as male jobs but this was never really the case and never will be. Women have made some of the most important scientific discoveries. It is true that there are still more male applicants to higher education but did you know that the number of women applicants to engineering degree courses has doubled in the last 15 years? A career in science can be very rewarding and if that is the area that interests you then you should take that interest forward. If you have a career that interests you, you will be more motivated, which will put you at a significant advantage. There are so many different careers within the science field you will be able to find one that is right for you. I want to work with dolphins for a living - where is a good place to study marine mammals? You do not say what qualifications you have already so I will go through all the options you have. Marine Biology is a very competitive area, there are always more people applying for jobs than there are jobs available. So you need to do all you can to make sure you have the best chance. Have you already chosen your GCSE options? If not you should choose biology and possibly geography but then do not limit yourself too much. There is plenty of time to specialise later. When you are choosing A-Levels look at courses like biology, geography, environmental science, other science subjects or Maths. You should now have an idea of whether marine biology is the career for you. You need good grades at A-Level because the competition for places will be intense. A degree in Biology, Marine Biology or Biochemistry is the usual requirement for entry to this type of work. There are 33 full time Marine Biology degree courses in the UK. To find out more visit www.ucas.ac.uk In addition to this study you may want to think about undertaking some voluntary work. This is a good way of increasing your skills and knowledge and showing employers and Universities that you are serious about a career working with Marine mammals. Contact the Whale & Dolphin Conservation Society www.wdcs.org.uk for information. I'm not sure what I want to do but I'm very interested in Green issues. What should I study to leave lots of doors open in this field? Green issues are of concern to all areas of society, they impact on every industry. So you would have a vast range of industries and careers to choose from. It is likely that you would not need to choose which area you will go into until you choose a degree course and possibly not until you have finished. If you do not have an idea what area you want to go into yet you could think about courses such as environmental science or geography. Any science subject such as biology, ecology, zoology or a Maths subject will be of use to you and should allow flexibility to move into your chosen field later on. However if you want a specific career in any area you do need to plan for it, so it may be worth looking into it your career choices further. For more information on green issues you could go to www.foe.co.uk Got a question of your own? It's easy to get in touch: just email agonyteam@planet-science.com Go Back |