Science forms an integral part of everything we do. It represents an exciting and rapidly expanding subject area crucial to all walks of human life – from food and sport, to medicine and transportation. New products and technologies we could not dream of living without were born in scientific laboratories, while new waves of research are allowing us to better understand the complex nature of life and existence. Investment into science and technology is at an all-time high, driving the development of these new theories and ideas.
The world is currently witnessing a golden era in scientific discovery, with global projects consistently uncovering ground-breaking secrets that reshape the future of our world. Recent successes of space exploration programmes have confirmed the existence of ripples in space-time; discovered a nearby planet, Proxima B, where conditions are ripe for human life to survive; while NASA’s Juno spacecraft has entered into Jupiter’s orbit, relaying back vital new information and images on the planet.
Progression in the field of medicine has led to breakthroughs in combatting destructive diseases, while a successful trial has been completed in which stem cell therapy was used to repair previously irreparable damage caused by strokes.
Universities are often the frontrunners of science-based research, harbouring the brightest young brains the planet has to offer. Home to state-of-the-art scientific equipment and facilities, they present students with opportunities to work alongside some of the best researchers and professors, developing the latest scientific advancements that make a difference to the world and all its inhabitants.
A degree in Science builds expertise in planning and conducting investigations and experiments, gathering and analysing information, teamwork and precision – a skillset that’s applicable to almost every field. Studying Science can take you to all corners of the Earth and beyond, with an abundance of employment and research opportunities on every global continent.
Here are 5 universities that are leading lights in the world of scientific research and discovery…
FACULTY OF SCIENCE, UNSW SYDNEY – AUSTRALIA
One of only eight global universities to receive the prestigious 5 Star+ badge for excellence award from the QS Intelligence Unit, the UNSW Sydney strives to be a world leader in cutting-edge research and technology.
UNSW’s Faculty of Science boasts some of the finest teachers and researchers the world has to offer, accompanied by state-of-the-art facilities and resources to match – including the new $143 million Materials Science Building and the $125 million Biomedical Precinct extension. High entry requirements leave students in the company of the best and brightest brains, all of whom come together to research and develop the next wave of Science progression.
A Top 50 university, UNSW Sydney was again awarded in 2017 the maximum QS Five Star Plus Rating across teaching, research, employability, facilities and innovation categories. Of the world’s Top 50 subjects, 23 are offered at UNSW Sydney; with more than 100 degrees to choose from across all study levels, you’ll be sure to find the course that’s the perfect fit for you.
FACULTY OF SCIENCE, UNIVERSITY OF BRISTOL – UK
The Faculty of Science at the University of Bristol is not short of accolades, with some of the most significant scientific discoveries being associated with research undertaken here. In addition to its six Nobel Prize winners, 29 of Bristol University’s researchers are among the Fellows of the Royal Society.
“In research, the Faculty offers a potent combination of world-class people and outstanding facilities” says Tim Gallagher, Dean of the Faculty. Comprising of seven schools covering mathematical, physical biological and environmental sciences, the University is a beacon for scientific revelation.
Ranked within the top three UK institutions in the Research Excellence Framework, Bristol’s Faculty of Science features a brand new £56 million Life Sciences building, as well as the Centre for Nanoscience and Quantum Information, where the quietest laboratories in the world reside.
Home to more than 4,000 students studying a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, the Faculty boasts an impressive 87 percent employment rate for graduates securing a role within the first six months of graduation.
EBERLY COLLEGE OF SCIENCE, PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY (PENN STATE) – USA
Founded in 1855, the Penn State offers 100,000 students an experience rich in diversity and academic expertise. Over the course of the past five years, the Eberly College of Science has expanded and improved its undergraduate portfolio through new methods of teaching and learning, enhanced career information and guidance, and boosting the number of available scholarships.
The College was last year selected to lead NASA’s next-generation $10 million planet finder programme following an intense national competition, demonstrating the School’s distinguished reputation. Upon its 2019 completion, the project will form the centrepiece of a partnership between NASA and the National Science Foundation.
The College is made up of seven departments, offering an array of bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral and professional degrees. Penn State regularly ranks among the top 10 academic institutions in the US for its basic science offerings, presenting students with the perfect platform for success.
FACULTY OF SCIENCE, UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG – CHINA
As a melting pot of Eastern and Western cultures, Hong Kong has grown to become a global leader in education and research. The University of Hong Kong (HKU) embodies this assertion, striving to develop the intellectual and personal strengths of its students to produce graduates committed to integrity and professionalism.
The Faculty of Science at HKU boasts an impressive list of researchers and exceptional facilities at the forefront of science discovery. The Faculty features three Areas of Excellence in research: Theory-Modelling and Simulation of Emerging Electronics, Institute of Molecular Materials, and Marine Environment and Innovative Technology.
The aim of the Faculty is to “train the next generation of science and scientifically aware graduates and through its teaching and research to add significantly to scientific knowledge and practice”. The University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, providing students with an opportunity to work in some of the best-equipped modern research labs in the region.
DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL SCIENCES AND MATHEMATICS, ETH ZURICH – SWITZERLAND
Consistently ranked as the top university in continental Europe and reaching eighth in the QS World University Rankings for 2016, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) inspires students and teachers alike to research and develop ground-breaking solutions to challenges faced by the world.
The Department of Natural Sciences and Mathematics at ETH offers students the perfect conditions to become a key part of sustainable science development. The FIRST-Lab is just one of many labs at the institution, featuring a cleanroom and 400-square metres of processing environment with controlled parameters for micro- and nanoscience experiments.
Located in the heart of Europe, Zurich is a hub for international business and industry – offering some of the best employment opportunities worldwide. ETH is ranked number 16 in the world for graduate employability, delivered through an extensive network of support relationships and research groups.
*Some of the institutions featured in this article are commercial partners of Study International
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