Is becoming a scientist right for me?
The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:
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How to become a Scientist
The educational requirements of scientists are very broad as are the areas in which they study. Depending on the chosen scientific field, a doctorate degree is often required. Getting an internship during school is certainly recommended, as it will provide needed experience with gathering data and using equipment that will be used in future work.
Some scientists will want to become professors. It typically takes four years for university, five years for a doctorate, and three years of post-doctorate research for a total of twelve years to become a professor. Many research scientists and professors will regularly publish their findings which adds to their credentials.