Just curious if getting level 3 science tech really helps all that much as far as acquiring tech points faster? I'm at level 2, and the process of getting more tech point is still slow as molasses in january, so ... is it worth it? or should i just hold out and spend the points on other things which are potentially more useful (i.e exploration 3, medicine 3 or engineering 3)

Yes, I really think that it's useful to get level in Science. It's difficult to see it except if you use a chronometer and you notice each villager's skills etc... during a long time!
But it is better to get science for progressing faster.