Quiz: Which science major should you choose to study?

Once you’ve decided to study science, the next step is to choose a major, and the good news is there are a lot to choose from!

So you’ve decided to study science at uni — nice one!

Now to the hectic task of choosing which major – there are literally dozens on offer. Use this quiz to help narrow down your science study options based on your interests.

You can find more detail on many science study majors, along with course options in our latest undergraduate course guide, developed in partnership with Macquarie University.

It features Macquarie University graduates Steph Bagala and Sean Diprose on the cover. Steph chose marine science and Sean chose statistics, showing just how diverse science study can be!

And here’s a taster of the majors offered at Macquarie University, and what they involve.

Astronomy & Astrophysics

In this major you’ll:

• Learn about the large-scale structure of the universe via light, radio, x-ray and gravitational waves.
• Observe extrasolar planets, the life cycle of stars and galaxies.
• Apply astrophysics laws to astronomical phenomena to determine the origin, history and future evolution of the cosmos

Biology

In this major you’ll:

• Explore our living planet and the complexity of ecosystems, from genes to organisms, plants and animals, and life processes.
• Apply knowledge of biological principles in the lab and field.
• Assess ethical and societal implications of biological and environmental changes that impact life on Earth.

Biotechnology

In this major you’ll:

Discover how molecules form, interact and influence the structure and function of biological systems.
Apply this knowledge to solve theoretical puzzles and real-world challenges.

Chemistry

In this major you’ll:

• Explore the periodic elements and develop technical skills that are in-demand.
• Gain the innovative, creative thinking skills needed to contribute to groundbreaking solutions.

Earth & Environmental Sciences

In this major you’ll:

• Study Earth from its core to the living environment and atmosphere.
• Venture through billions of years to understand evolution and the human-environment relationship.
• Develop laboratory and fieldwork skills and discover solutions to secure the safety of our environment.

Human Biology

In this major you’ll:

• Learn about the intricacies of human biology, from cellular functions and organ systems to genetics and health.
• Delve into the complexity of the human body, its evolution, and the interplay of genetics and environment in shaping health and disease outcomes.

Marine Science

In this major you’ll:

• Study marine organisms through to Australia’s iconic marine megafauna to explore the links between biology, ecology and environmental science.
• Find solutions to manage, mitigate and resolve marine environmental issues.

Mathematics

In this major you’ll:

See how maths underpins all areas of STEM and is the universal language for innovation.
Engage with challenging and interesting mathematical theory.
Work on problem-solving projects that include computational tools, modelling and analysis of real-world scenarios.

Physics

In this major you’ll:

• Appreciate how physics underpins all natural sciences and is key to the development of technologies.
• Discover how it contributes to diverse fields through the application of the laws of physics, mathematical models, and computational techniques that seek to answer complex universal questions.

Psychological Science

In this major you’ll:

• Explore human behaviour and mental processes through scientific methods.
• Delve into cognition, emotion, development, and social interactions.
• Gain insights into the workings of the human mind and behaviour.

Statistical Data Science

• Gain in-demand skills in developing and applying methods for collecting, analysing and interpreting data
• Learn how to convert data into meaningful information that supports decision-making in all facets of industry and government.

This post was brought to you in partnership with Macquarie University, and first appeared in Careers with STEM: Study Science at Macquarie.