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Students do not want to study science subjects at university. Why is this happening? (Band 9 Essay)

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.


Write about the following topic:


In many countries students do not want to study science subjects at university.

Why is this happening?

What will be the consequences of this for the society?


Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge and experiences.


You should write at least 250 words.


IELTS Band 9 Sample Essay - In many countries students do not want to study science subjects at university.

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Sample Essay 1

In a growing number of countries, there is a noticeable decline in students' interest in pursuing science subjects at the university level, a trend that raises concerns about its future impacts on society. This essay posits that this disinterest is rooted primarily in the perceived difficulty and lack of immediate career prospects associated with these fields, and argues that the long-term consequences could include a stifling of innovation and a shortage of skilled professionals in critical sectors.


The crux of the issue lies in the common perception among students that science subjects are inherently more challenging than their counterparts in the humanities and social sciences. This belief is compounded by the rigorous nature of scientific study, which often involves complex theories and extensive practical work. Moreover, the immediate applicability of skills learned in fields such as business or information technology, which offer clearer career pathways, makes them more attractive. As a result, students are increasingly shying away from the demanding science curricula in favor of disciplines with more straightforward and lucrative career prospects.


Furthermore, the implications of this trend for society are far-reaching. A decline in science graduates will inevitably lead to a deficit of qualified individuals in key sectors such as healthcare, engineering, and environmental science. This shortage could hamper innovation, as fewer minds are available to tackle the complex challenges facing our world, from climate change to technological advancement. Additionally, the lack of skilled professionals could strain public health systems, infrastructure development, and research institutions, ultimately hindering societal progress and economic growth.


In conclusion, the decreasing interest in science subjects among university students is a multifaceted issue with significant ramifications for the future. Addressing this challenge requires a concerted effort to demystify science education and highlight the diverse career opportunities it can offer. By fostering a culture that values scientific inquiry and innovation, we can ensure a steady stream of professionals equipped to address the pressing issues of our time.


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Sample Essay 2

Across the globe, a discernible shift is emerging as students increasingly eschew science subjects at the university level, a phenomenon that portends profound societal implications. This essay will explore the twin drivers of this trend—the allure of perceived less challenging disciplines and the immediate economic benefits they offer—while also considering the long-term repercussions, including a potential innovation deficit and the erosion of scientific expertise critical for societal advancement.


Central to understanding this shift is the perception among students that science subjects, with their rigorous demands and abstract concepts, present insurmountable challenges. This view is contrasted sharply with the appeal of disciplines like business and media, where the path to employment appears more direct and financially rewarding. The immediate gratification of securing employment soon after graduation often outweighs the potential long-term benefits of a science education, leading to a decline in student enrollment in these essential subjects.


Moreover, the societal consequences of this trend are significant and multifaceted. A diminishing pool of science graduates threatens to undermine the foundation of innovation that drives technological progress and economic growth. In fields ranging from medicine to environmental science, the shortage of skilled professionals could stifle the development of solutions to critical global challenges, such as pandemic response and climate change mitigation. Additionally, the erosion of scientific literacy in the general populace could exacerbate issues related to misinformation and public health crises.


In sum, the waning interest in science subjects at the university level is a complex issue with far-reaching consequences for both individuals and society at large. To reverse this trend, it is imperative to reform educational systems to better highlight the tangible benefits and exciting career opportunities provided by science disciplines. By doing so, we can ensure a resilient, innovative, and scientifically literate society equipped to face the challenges of the future.


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Sample Essay 3

Pupils in many nations prefer studying subjects other than science at universities. The primary reason for this is that students find these subjects to be difficult and the major consequences are that there will be a reduction in the number of innovative products coming to the market and there will not be any major break throughs in the field of medicine.


Physics, chemistry and biology exams are tougher than history or arts paper. Students who study science related subjects are supposed to be more committed to studies and smarter than the others. The level of difficulty of these subjects and the exams is what makes students think twice before enrolling in such courses. For example, majority of the youngsters agree that they do not prefer to start a science related degree because they doubt if they are able to face tough exams.


One of the main consequences of this trend is that people will have limited access to innovative products. This is because when students do not take engineering or other technical subjects, then they will not have the knowledge to engineer unique products. Another effect of this is the medical field will not see any improvements. When youngsters are not interested in following a medical profession, there will not be any new medical research or studies, and, as a result, no new medicines or treatment will be invented. To illustrate, many new medicines have been developed by students who undertake research as part of their course.


To conclude, like medical subjects, science discipline is difficult to study and pass for many students, which is the root cause of losing their interest in this field. This scenario has a far-reaching consequence, because it might lead to a lack of innovation in crucial areas like medical treatment and other scientific aspects.


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