What do most people mean when they say "science"? Most of the time when I hear "oh ya, science says..." or some such, it's like the retard picked who he thinks is the biggest guy on the playground and said "he's with me."

1. already asked
2. How many credits must one earn in uni, or what degree must one obtain to be a certified scientist?
Most important question, seriously:
3. What is the most respected field of study, among scientists, and among the general population?