Science & Research

Ask questions. Find answers. Push the boundaries of knowledge.

Science and research careers are for the deeply curious — people who want to understand how the natural world works, discover new phenomena, and apply that knowledge to solve real problems. From studying climate systems to sequencing genomes to exploring the cosmos, scientists drive the discoveries that shape civilization.

Majors & Career Paths

Biology

The study of living organisms. Biology is one of the most versatile science degrees, leading to careers in medicine, research, biotechnology, environmental science, and education.

Chemistry

Study the composition, structure, and reactions of matter. Chemists work in pharmaceuticals, materials science, energy, food science, and forensics.

Physics

Study the fundamental laws governing matter and energy. Physics graduates work in research, engineering, data science, and technology.

Environmental Science

Study the interactions between humans and the natural environment. Careers in conservation, sustainability, climate policy, and environmental consulting.

Marine Science

Study ocean ecosystems, marine organisms, and coastal processes. Careers in marine research, conservation, aquaculture, and policy.

Geology

Study Earth's structure, composition, and history. Geologists work in mining, energy, environmental consulting, and natural hazard assessment.

Data Science

Apply statistical and computational methods to extract insights from data. Data scientists are in demand across every industry.

Meteorology

Study weather and atmospheric phenomena. Meteorologists work for the National Weather Service, media, aviation, agriculture, and private consulting.

Astrophysics

Study the universe — stars, galaxies, dark matter, and the origins of the cosmos. Careers in research, space agencies, and aerospace.

Conservation Biology

Study biodiversity and develop strategies to protect endangered species and ecosystems.

Climate Science

Study Earth's climate systems and the impacts of climate change. One of the most important and fastest-growing scientific fields.

Career Outlook

Science careers span a wide salary range depending on the specialty and whether you pursue graduate education. Research scientists with PhDs earn $80,000–$120,000+. Environmental scientists and geoscientists earn a median of $75,000. Data scientists earn $100,000+. Many research positions require a master's or doctoral degree, but bachelor's-level positions exist in lab work, field research, and technical roles.

Who Is This For?

Students who are driven by curiosity, enjoy lab work or fieldwork, and like digging into questions that don't have easy answers. If you're the person who reads about a discovery and wants to know how they figured it out, science might be your path.

Virtual Fairs Featuring Science & Research

These fairs are specifically focused on science & research programs. Each one pairs this area of interest with a different U.S. region, so you can find schools in the part of the country that interests you.

• #10 Explore the World: Science & Research — Oct 5–9, 2026 (Global / International)
• #23 Science Frontiers — Jan 25–29, 2027 (West)
• #39 Year-End Science Showcase — May 17–21, 2027 (Northeast)

The Summer Spectacular (#40, Jun 7–11, 2027) also features all 15 areas of interest, including science & research, in a single mega fair.

Browse the full 2026–2027 fair schedule to see all 40 fairs.

Next Steps

1. Pick a fair from the list above that matches your region of interest.
2. Register for free — it takes about two minutes.
3. Explore exhibitor booths during fair week, chat with admissions reps, and request more info from programs that interest you.

Not sure science & research is right for you? That's okay. Browse all 15 areas of interest to see what else is out there. You can attend as many fairs as you want.

This page is part of the College Fairs Online explore hub, helping students discover careers and connect with programs across 15 areas of interest.