Science Careers for Women

Women have historically, and remain to be largely underrepresented in science careers such as physics and chemistry, however, there are several scientific careers that are highly lucrative and appeal to women. Women seeking a career in math and science will have very good odds of landing a job due to this factor.

Veterinarians

According to a May 2010 "American Veterinarian Medical Association" article, nearly 80 percent of veterinary students are women. In order to become a vet, you must obtain a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from an accredited college of veterinary medicine and obtain a state license to practice. Students must prepare for veterinary school by completing college coursework in organic and inorganic chemistry, physics, biochemistry, general biology, animal biology, and animal nutrition. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the veterinary field is likely to grow much faster than average between the years of 2008 and 2018, compared to other professions. The median annual wage for a veterinarian in May 2008 was $79,050.

Pharmacists

According to a U.S. Department of Labor Women's Bureau 2008 analysis reported by "Forbes" women accounted for nearly half of all pharmacist positions and was the highest paying profession for women, with a median annual wage of $86,000. Also, the career reported the smallest gender gap when it came to pay with women making 85 percent of a man's salary in a similar position whereas, for example, a female medical doctor only made 59 percent of a man's salary. In order to be a pharmacist, you must obtain a state license after earning a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from a college of pharmacy and pass several examinations. In order to be admitted to a college of pharmacy undergraduate coursework in mathematics chemistry, biology, and physics must be taken.

Computer science

A career as a computer scientist is particularly attractive to a women with a family as it both pays (The median salary in May 2008 was $97,970, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor) well and allows flexibility. Many computer science positions offer the ability to telecommute or work non-traditional hours making it easier for a women raising children to work full time. Job prospects for this field are expected to be excellent in the future, especially for women who are currently under represented in the field. Those seeking a degree or career in computer science should have an aptitude for math and be able to think logically and creatively.

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Bureau of Labor Statistics: Veterinarians
Bureau of Labor Statistics: Pharmacists
Bureau of Labor Statistics: Computer Scientist