The Master of Science degree allows students to undertake independent research that contributes to knowledge in a specific area of science over a shorter period of time than a PhD. If you are unsure whether a PhD is right for you, a Master of Science can give you the experience of what studying for a doctorate might be like, while developing your skills and earning a degree that will enhance your employment prospects. Physics and Astronomy Research specialisations are available in the areas of astronomy and astrophysics, condensed matter physics, imaging physics, particle physics, quantum gases, theoretical physics and computational physics. Career opportunities Science graduates gain employment in genetic engineering, agricultural support and pharmaceutical science, banking and finance, environmental consulting, hospitals, medical institutes, mining, petroleum and engineering, research, and wine and food industries. Opportunities also exist in organisations including the Department of Sustainability and the Environment, CSIRO, the defence forces, road and water authorities, museums, local councils, education and the health sector. Depending on their areas of expertise, graduates can be employed as botanists, chemists, ecologists, astrophysicists, environment consultants, food scientists, palaeontologists, genetic engineers, marine biologists, materials scientists, medical scientists, metallurgists, molecular biologists, museum curators, nuclear physicists, financial analysts, communications specialists, forensic scientists, researchers, science journalists, geotechnical engineers, statisticians, teachers, and weather forecasters.