The clear division of the domestic labour market into female- and male-dominated professions means, among other things, that women continue to earn less on average and make careers in technical sectors less frequently. Admittedly, traditional role models and the supposedly poor compatibility of family and job still frequently stand in the way, but on closer inspection this is no longer true everywhere: women can contribute their skills in technical professions with great success and family and career can often be well organised today.
Students at IMC Krems are generally among those young people who want to maintain their future prospects by studying modern, cosmopolitan and practice-oriented courses. Four women in MINT degree programmes (mathematics, computer science, natural sciences, technology) are presented here as examples.Inte
Internationality, practical relevance and expertise
Maria Helen Stuetz (23) is in her sixth semester of the bachelor degree programme Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology. Her interest was sparked by her studies at the University of Applied Sciences in Hollabrunn, where she chose food technology as her major field of study. One year of work in the AGES laboratory with the analysis of pharmaceuticals and illegal drugs did the rest. Stütz is certain that one of the most important characteristics of the study programmes at IMC Krems is the practical relevance: "I really enjoyed the work experience I spent abroad. That's why the practical courses in my programme are the perfect counterpart to the theoretical ones - here I was actually able to put what I had learned to the test in class".
Raphaela Wagner (24) is currently studying for a master degree in Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology. She takes the same line: "In my course of studies, I profit a lot from the broad range of topics we learn about in theory and practice.
Lisa Rausch (29) appreciates in her bachelor degree in Applied Chemistry that current topics such as the environmental factor or ethical issues are always interwoven. Not only what is possible, but also what makes sense is discussed. "I also think the focus on analytical chemistry is great. Analytical methods are discussed and not only tried out in the laboratory, but also applied."
Sophie Geiger (21) has a lot to gain from her studies of Informatics. She particularl nfoy appreciates the fact that she can often decide for herself what she wants to concentrate on - whether web technologies or programming. "This allows us to be creative and find project ideas or solutions. This also increases motivation in the theoretical subjects," says Geiger. In the field of digitization and technology, the consulting firm McKinsey concluded in a study published in 2018 for the USA and Western Europe that the work requirements in this area are changing fundamentally. Increasingly important are creativity, data analysis, entrepreneurial skills and, above all, digital skills - from simple applications to programming. The demand for tech specialists continues to grow - a fact that IMC Krems is meeting.
Top future prospects - also for women
MINT studies can change the world and make a career out of it, is emphasised in MINT networks and campaigns. In fact, there is a great need for specialists in this field, and the income, job and career opportunities are impressive. And this also applies to women!
The experience gained during her professional internship encouraged Marie Helen Stuetz to pursue an independent career in academic research. A Master degree and more experience in the life sciences should pave the way. Raphaela Wagner is tending towards neurobiology and clinical studies. Due to the diversity of career options, she still leaves her path open, but she is convinced "that she will find a stable and secure job".
Promising for Lisa Rausch is the great demand for chemists on job portals. After her bachelor's degree, she is looking for experience in the laboratory, followed by a master degree. "I see myself more in the field of organic chemistry and am really looking forward to my Practical Training Semester, where I can gain initial experience in a research group," said Rausch.
Most important factor passion
"The most important factor in finding the right degree programme is passion. And if it consists of solving scientific puzzles, then go ahead! We can achieve anything if we really want to," Maria Helen Stütz encourages insecure young women.
Raphaela Wagner, currently in her second semester of the master programme in Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, worked as a kindergarten teacher prior to her studies, which is typical for women, but she is convinced that this does not have to be an obstacle: "I assure you that you can study natural sciences if you are interested," she addresses interested women. "Universities usually start with the basics before going into detail. The only qualities needed are interest in study and perseverance."
Lisa Rausch also worked in a classical "women's profession", as a social pedagogue, before she started her studies of Applied Chemistry at the IMC Krems. For her the most important keyword is enthusiasm. "Mathematics, physics and Co. are ultimately learnable. If the interest is there, the motivation comes naturally." Of course, there are also subjects that are not so important to you, but that is true of any education. With perseverance and bite everything can be achieved. "Follow your gut," advises the future chemist.
Sophie Geiger supplements these appeals with a special appeal to women: "Don't follow the path, but go where there is no path and leave a trace.
And finally, Raphaela Wagner also has an important tip, especially for women: "Reach for the stars! Don't be limited, because you can do whatever you want."
Submit your application now
Applications for many of our bachelor and master degree programmes are still possible until 30 June - even in the MINT programmes. However, it is important to be quick: Since our study programmes are already in the extension period, we reserve the right to close the application of individual study programmes early.
Especially convenient: This year, the entire admission process for our MINT programmes will be handled online. This means that applicants can also complete their admission interviews from the comfort of their own homes.
