New science students Taylor Stritzke and Isaac Burke consider the recent reduction in HECS as a boon, but not the deciding factor in their career choice.

Both Taylor, from Rockhampton High, and Isaac, from Rockhampton Grammar, started their undergraduate degrees together at CQUniversity Rockhampton this week.

New science students Taylor Stritzke and Isaac Burke meet up during Orientation Week

They were among the few from their cohort to hear about new national incentives designed to kick-start science enrolments.

The government has moved maths and science subjects from the middle to the lowest HECS band from 2009 (which means those programs are not as expensive to study as others) and will refund up to 50 per cent of HECS for students who pursue a maths or science-related career on graduation.

CQUniversity's Professor Kerry Walsh said the reclassification was a much-needed incentive after years of little or no growth in science enrolments and a shift from internal to flex mode for delivery of programs (given strong employment levels).

"This lack of growth in science enrolments has been in spite of an overwhelming demand for science graduates during our own region's resources boom and despite the clear need for science, not only to underpin our prosperity but also our very sustainability. We need to engage more bright young Australians in science," Professor Walsh said.

He said CQUniversity was able to offer top-class preparation for science careers and ongoing opportunities for research directly applicable to current and emerging regional industries.

"This is a great career path for young people as they are assured of being valued and having opportunities for advancement," Professor Walsh said.