LOST IN MATRICULATION

- Research shows science is a school favourite, but misconceptions block pupils' path to further study -

New research has revealed that in spite of common assumptions, sciences are among the subjects most enjoyed at school.  However, there is still a shortfall in numbers taking scientific subjects on to degree level.  The reason for this, the research suggests, is that there may be misconceptions about the careers to which science can lead.

The study of more than 500 students, aged 14-19, found that one in five A Level students say sciences are their favourite subjects – more than any other subject mentioned.  Science is also the fourth most popular subject among GCSE level pupils.

However, the research by NOISE (New Outlooks In Science & Engineering) – a group that encourages young people to pursue science and engineering beyond school – also revealed that just 15 per cent of those students are considering a career in this sector.

Despite the fact that nearly 80 per cent of those researched claim to want a career that benefits others, it seems students are put off by a perception that a role in science and engineering is demanding.

Nearly four in ten believe they would have to work long hours, and 35 per cent are concerned that they would need to study for longer in order to make progress in such a career.

For those who are keen to pursue a career in science or engineering, the top attractions are the intellectual challenge (74 per cent), the opportunity to be involved in ‘cutting edge’ research (62 per cent) and the opportunity to shape the future (54 per cent).

A question of money

Around 80% of all respondents to the survey said that salary was a major influencing factor in their career choice – the highest percentage of any influencing factor listed.  Interestingly, a further survey recently published by UCAS showed that science and engineering graduates tend to be the biggest earners, while arts students see the smallest premiums.  “Taken together, it seems if you want to be a high earner, science and engineering are for you,” said NOISEmaker Sima Adhya, who is an aerospace engineer and recently was named as one of SET’s Woman of the Year.

But a quarter of respondents to the survey feel that scientists are seen as ‘nerdy’ and worry that there is a lack of social interaction in such a role. 

“It’s great that science is so popular at school,” said Sima.  “But I think GCSE and A Level students simply aren’t aware of the wealth and breadth of opportunities open to science graduates.”

“We need to communicate the practical applications of science to students, and open their eyes to how the work of scientists and engineers really has an impact on everyday life.  That’s why the work of organisations like NOISE is so important.  If the UK is to stay at the forefront of industries such as pharmaceuticals, aerospace and biotechnology, we need to be inspiring the next generation of scientists.”

A previous survey of graduates, released by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) in late 2006, revealed that a third of all graduates believed they studied the wrong course at university, and that with hindsight they would have taken a more scientific or technical course.

“Students need to be better informed before they make important choices about A Level and degree subjects,” continued Sima.  

“Generally, you need at least two science A Levels and it's extremely helpful to have maths to take a science-based subject at degree level.  It may be that some of the A Level students surveyed, who voted science their favourite, are unable to take it further because they didn’t select the right mix of subjects - the best advice is to check what is needed for degree level courses that might interest you before making your A-Level choices.

“Science and engineering offer people great opportunities.  And for students who enjoy these subjects, but who aren’t yet sure whether they want to pursue a career in this sector, taking them on at degree level can still be worthwhile, as the research and analytical skills are transferable and in demand across a wide range of industries.”

Other interesting findings of the research include:

·         Boys are still much more likely than girls to consider a career in science or engineering, with 22 per cent of boys saying this was an option, compared to 12 per cent of girls

·         When asked about future career choices, 79 per cent of respondents rate salary as the most important factor when joining an organisation, with variety and excitement coming second (60 per cent).

·         42 per cent of respondents expect to earn between £15,000 and £20,000 in their first job, while 19 per cent expect to get between £20,000 and £25,000, and a quarter (25 per cent) expect to earn less than £15,000

·         Overall girls have slightly lower expectations of wages than boys, with 24 per cent of males believing they will earn over £20,000 in their first job, compared to just 16 per cent of females

·         Nearly 20 per cent of respondents would consider the environmental credentials of an organisation before taking a future job.

For further details on careers in science and engineering visit www.noisemakers.org.uk

- ENDS -

For more information or to interview one of the NOISEmakers contact Kate Woods or Emily Enright at Grayling on 0117 922 799 or e-mail kate.woods@uk.grayling.com

Notes to editors:

• NOISE (New Outlooks in Science and Engineering) is a UK-wide campaign funded by the Engineering & Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).  Initiated in 2000, it aims to raise awareness of science and engineering among young people.  www.noisemakers.org.uk 
• The NOISE survey 'You and Work' was conducted by Tickbox.net in December 2006.  A total of 560 14-19 year olds across the UK were polled in the research, in a bid to establish the motivators behind career choices and the perceptions of science and engineering.