New Year, new career?
With the closing date for CAO applications just around the corner on February 1st, why not take a few minutes to think outside the box.
We've teamed up with
Smart Futures to bring you ten alternative career paths to consider before completing that all-important CAO form.
The fields of science, technology, engineering and maths will hold some of the best opportunities for graduates in the coming years, so take a look at just some of your options below. You could really make a difference in a job you love following these fields!
1. Food scientist
As a food scientist, you would be responsible for ensuring the nutritional value and safety of food.
A food scientist studies the microbiological, physical and chemical properties of food, ingredients and processes within manufacturing companies, or as part of a research laboratory. They also look at how consumers behave in relation to buying food and trends in eating habits.
Typical qualifications: A degree in agricultural or food science. Courses may include food processing and packaging, agricultural analysis and chemistry, dairy biology, nutrition and legal issues. These programmes often offer the chance to gain hands-on, industry experience through internships.
2. Geneticist
A geneticist is a biologist who studies the science of genes. Genetics is a branch of biology that studies the inheritance of physical traits of living things and how they are passed down through generations. It is a fascinating, rapidly evolving and hugely rewarding branch of science and medicine.
Typical qualifications: A bachelor’s degree focused on genetics and/or biology. Other areas of study such as microbiology, biochemistry, biotechnology, forensics and bioinformatics/biostatistics may also be relevant.
3. Sports scientist
If you’re passionate about sports and the application of science to improve performance and fitness, then a career as a sports scientist could be for you.
A sports scientist investigates different ways to improve sporting performance through applied science. Some invent new equipment to help athletes get the most out of their training or competition. Some design and test nutritional products that might improve performance.
Typical qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in sports science. Alternative routes to a bachelor’s degree in this area may apply to students that have a PLC qualification in a related course or general science certification or diploma.
4. Animator
The animation industry in Ireland is currently gaining a world-wide reputation for excellence and is growing rapidly with Irish studios producing and owning rights to more and more of their own original material.
Animators are artists who use old and new technology to produce animated films that stand alone or are for commercials, computer games, pop music videos and websites. They create films or visual effects for production companies, major animation studios and computer games companies, and use various computer animation programmes and tools to improve light, texture and shadow.
Typical qualifications: Usually a degree level 8 NFQ. A primary degree in a relevant subject such as illustration, 3D/graphic design or computer/computer-aided engineering is an alternative gateway in the profession. A Masters in animation is also beneficial.
5. Web designer
With a mix of creativity and technology, web designers are the ones who give websites the look and “feel” that makes people want to visit them.
With a mix of skills from different backgrounds like IT, design and business, web designers design, test and maintain the websites and of companies and other organisations. They are familiar with programming languages such as HTML, ASP, Javascript, C++, SQL and Visual Basic.
Typical qualifications: Degrees in computing/IT or web development are common gateways to the profession.
6. Actuary
An actuary is someone that analyses data and works with statistics, using mathematical skill to predict the probability of an event happening and its financial consequences.
The decisions of actuaries can affect thousands of people so it is a well-paid job, with a lot of responsibility. Wherever there is risk, there are opportunities for actuaries.
Typical qualifications: Qualifying as an actuary is academically very demanding with a wide range of certifications and courses necessary. Many employers pay for these courses while an actuary is training. Degrees involvoing numbers are what employers are looking for, so those with degrees in mathematics, statistics, actuarial science, economics, business degrees, engineering and physics are on the right track.
7. Programmer
A programmer writes code – but that’s not all there is to the job. Programmers must have a range and depth of skills and a strong knowledge of related areas to create “good” code.
Typical qualifications: Degrees in computer programming, computing, information technology, software development and software engineering are common gateways to the profession.
8. Biomedical engineer
Biomedical engineering has a huge impact on the world we live in today. There is now a variety of medical devices and machines that can both improve health and save lives, thanks to biomedical engineering.
Biomedical engineering is the combining of engineering expertise with the world of clinical medicine, developing technologies such as laser systems used in corrective eye surgery and systems for analysing blood. It is key in the development and creation of artificial organs, limbs and skin. The biomedical engineer will work with healthcare professionals including physicians, doctors, nurses, therapists and technicians.
Typical qualifications: A science or engineering degree is the usual entry point. The following degrees are the most common: biomedical, applied science, computation, mathematics, life/medical science, mechanical or chemical engineering
9. Electronic engineer
Electronic engineers create, design and develop everyday devices like mobile phones, portable music devices and computers. Electronic engineering offers a broad range of exciting career challenges including producing new innovations and developments in telecommunications, robotics, computing hardware and power and electrical equipment.
There is currently a shortage of electronic engineers in Ireland and around the world – a situation likely to continue for some time to come.
Typical qualifications: Engineers who graduate after 2013 and wish to become chartered engineers will need to hold an accredited masters degree (level 9), or equivalent. Level 8 bachelor degrees will satisfy the requirements for Institution of Engineers Ireland membership only. Gateway degrees for the profession include: electrical engineering, communications engineering and telecommunications engineering.
10. Data scientist
A data scientist turns raw data into valuable insights that an organisation needs in order to grow and compete. He or she is part statistician, part artist – interpreting and analysing data from multiple sources to come up with imaginative solutions to problems. It’s a rapidly evolving role in a fast-changing sector and one that is in big demand.
Typical qualifications: Entry level can be gained through courses in computer science, data management, statistics, and specific software applications. However, a four year degree course is recommended for this career path. These are usually in the area of statistics, maths, business administration, or computer science. Job candidates frequently complete master's degrees to gain a competitive edge.
To learn more about each of the careers listed above and many more visit SmartFutures.ie
Check out the short video below to find out more about starting a career in STEM.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YfrAl1cXIqs
