It brings together and makes use of many areas of science and encompasses all aspects of plant and animal biology including how they interrelate with each other and interact in and with the environment. The importance of the study of Biological Science cannot be overemphasised in a world where the environments, on which plants and animals depend, are under constant threat. People with training in the biological sciences work in many areas related to the conservation and understanding of the environment and natural resources. Biologists are employed in industries, companies and government departments involved in areas such as agriculture, animal care, horticulture, land and water conservation, fire management, aquaculture and pollution control. Other roles include policy advisors, journalists, waste managers and environment consultants. The School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences Masters by Research program requires a minimum of three academic sessions of full-time study and preparation of a written thesis. Once completed, the thesis is examined by members of the Australian and international scientific academic community. CAREER OPPORTUNITIES Biology is an extremely-broad discipline providing a bewildering array of career options and necessitating the matching of interests, skills and personality to the requirements of various occupations. Many of us like to work outdoors so may be attracted to jobs in agriculture, animal care (zoos, animal parks, veterinary nursing, aquaculture), botanic gardens, horticulture, forestry, etc. Biologists with good communication skills can work as teachers in schools, museums, zoos, nature centres or for the media. Environmental interests could lead to a career as an ecologist, marine biologist, plant or animal geneticist, or to employment as an consultant/advisor on the conservation and management of the environment and natural resources, both plant or animal. Biologists are employed by co-operatives, federal and state agencies, local government, business, non-profit organizations and universities. Alternatively, graduates may continue to study their chosen specialty as postgraduates which can lead to fulfilling careers in research.