A biology degree can lead to a variety of exciting jobs. You could work in a laboratory, researching different organisms. You could also work in the medical field, helping to diagnose and treat diseases. There are many other options available as well. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the different careers you could pursue with a biology degree. We will also talk about the skills and knowledge you will need for these careers. So if you are wondering what you can do with a biology degree, read on!
What Can You Do With an Associate in Biology?
In an Associate in Biology program, you will study the basic principles of biology and related sciences. You will learn about the structure and function of living organisms, the role of DNA and genes in inheritance, and the ecology of populations and communities. You will also develop laboratory and research skills, and learn how to use scientific equipment and techniques.
After completing an Associate in Biology program, you may be eligible to transfer to a four-year college or university to pursue a bachelor’s degree in biology or a related field. Alternatively, you may be able to find entry-level jobs in the field of biology, such as working in a lab or farms.
Medical/ Clinical Laboratory Technologist and Technician
A clinical laboratory technologists and technicians work in a hospital or clinic, performing tests on blood and other biological samples. They may also work with patients to help them understand their test results. To become a medical laboratory technologists and technicians, you should be good at working with computers and have strong attention to detail. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics as of May 2021 the median salary for medical laboratory technologists and technicians was $57,800 per year.
Agricultural and Food Science Technician
Agricultural and food science technicians work in the agriculture and food industries, helping produce and process food. They may work in laboratories, testing products for quality control. They may also work on farms, helping with crop production. To become an agricultural or food science technician you should also be interested in agriculture and have strong problem-solving skills. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics as of May 2021 the median salary for agricultural and food science technicians was $44,700 per year.
What Can You Do With a Bachelor’s in Biology?
Bachelor’s degree programs in biology typically offer a more in-depth curriculum than associate’s degree programs. Students in bachelor’s degree programs may take advanced courses in topics such as biochemistry, microbiology, and physics.
There are many different career paths that students with a bachelor’s degree in biology may pursue. Some examples include becoming a zoologist and wildlife biologist, biological technician, or microbiologist.
Zoologist and Wildlife Biologist
Zoologists and wildlife biologists research wildlife and how animals associate with their ecosystems. Zoologists typically study a specific type of animal, while wildlife biologists study a variety of animals and their interactions with the environment.
Zoologists and wildlife biologists can work in a variety of settings, including zoos, wildlife refuges, and research laboratories. Some may work in offices, where they conduct research and prepare reports. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics as of May 2021 the median salary for zoologists and wildlife biologists was $64,650 per year.
Biological Technician
Biological technicians typically work in laboratories where they assist biologists and other scientists with experiments. Biological technicians may collect and analyze samples, set up and maintain equipment, and record data. They may also prepare specimens for examination and help develop new laboratory procedures.
Biological technicians should have good communication and interpersonal skills. They should be able to work well in a team as well as independently. They should also be detail-oriented and have good organizational skills. They should have the ability to follow instructions carefully and be able to troubleshoot problems that may arise. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for biological technician was $48,140 in 2021.
Microbiologist
Microbiologists are scientists who study microorganisms, which are tiny living things that can only be seen through a microscope. They may study the effects of microorganisms on the environment, or they may work in a laboratory to test new medicines or vaccines. Microbiologists also study the genetics of microorganisms, and they may work on developing new ways to control or eliminate them. Some microbiologists work in food science and help to ensure that the food we eat is safe and free of harmful bacteria. Others work in water quality control and help to make sure that our drinking water is clean and safe. Still others work in the medical field and help to diagnose and treat diseases. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for microbiologist was $79,260 in 2021.
What Can You Do With a Master’s in Biology?
A master’s degree in biology will allow students to explore the subject in greater depth than in previous degrees. Students will be able to take more advanced courses in areas such as molecular biology, ecology, and evolutionary biology. The degree will also prepare students for careers in research, teaching, and healthcare.
Biological Scientists
Biological scientists study the living world. They investigate the structure, function, growth, and development of plants, animals, and microorganisms. Many biological scientists work in research and development, where they design and conduct experiments to explore the potential applications of new technologies. Others work in applied research, developing ways to solve practical problems in areas such as agriculture, medicine, and the environment. Still others work in teaching, Extension, or public service, communicating their findings to students, the public, and policy makers. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for biological scientists was $82,530 in 2021.
Physician Assistant
A physician assistant is a health care professional who provides medical care under the supervision of a licensed physician. Physician assistants can perform many of the same duties as a doctor, including taking medical histories, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, and prescribing medications. You can become a physician assistant with a master degree in biology. However, it is recommended that you complete a physician assistant program in order to be eligible to take the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for physician assistant was $121,530 in 2021.
What Can You do With a Doctorate in Biology?
A Doctorate in Biology can give you many opportunities, such as working in a research lab, teaching at a university, or working in the field of medicine. Some other potential opportunities that a Doctorate in Biology could offer include working in a pharmaceutical company, environmental consulting, or working in a government position.
To get a Doctorate in Biology, you need to have a Bachelor’s degree in Biology or a related field. In addition to a strong academic background, you will also need to complete a research project and write a dissertation in order to earn your Doctorate in Biology.
Medical Scientist
Medical Scientist is a job title for a research scientist who studies basic medical science and performs clinical research. You can become a medical scientist with a Ph.D. in biology, although many medical scientists have a Ph.D. in a medical or scientific discipline. Medical scientists conduct research to improve human health. This research may be conducted in a laboratory, in a clinical setting, or in the field. Medical scientists may also be involved in the design and implementation of clinical trials. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for medical scientist was $95,310 in 2021.
Post-secondary Teacher
A postsecondary biology teacher is a biologist who teaches biology at the college level. They are responsible for designing the curriculum, teaching the courses, and grading the students. To be a postsecondary biology teacher, you must have a master’s degree in the field. You should also be interested in teaching and have excellent communication skills. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for post-secondary teacher was $79,640 in 2021.
Some Careers Options Where Biology Degree Can Be Helpful
This section presents careers where a degree in biology is not always required but may be helpful. There are many careers where a biology degree can be helpful, such as a careers in medicine, nursing, pharmacology, veterinary science, etc. Read on to find out more.
Genetic Counselor
A genetic counselor is a professional who helps people understand and cope with the implications of genetic disorders. Genetic counselors work with families who have a family history of genetic disorders, as well as with individuals who have been diagnosed with a genetic disorder. Genetic counselors also provide information and support to families who are considering genetic testing. A master’s degree in genetic counseling or genetics is required to become a genetic counselor. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for genetic counselors was $80,150 in 2021.
Fitness Trainer
A fitness trainer is a professional who helps people improve their physical fitness. They may work in a gym, teach classes, or work one-on-one with clients. They may also work in the field, providing training and advice to athletes. You don’t need a degree in biology for becoming a fitness trainer, but it will give you a better understanding of how the human body works and how to design workout programs that are effective and safe. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for fitness trainers and instructors was $40,700 in 2021.
Nutritionist or Dietitian
A nutritionist or dietitian is a professional who helps people to improve their health by making changes to their diet. Nutritionists can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, community health centers, and private practice. To work as a nutritionist or dietitian, you must have at least a bachelor’s degree in dietetics, food and nutrition, or a related field. A biology degree can provide a basis for further study in dietetics or nutrition. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for dietitians and nutritionists was $61,650 in 2021.
Biochemist or Biophysicist
Biochemists and biophysicists study the chemical and physical properties of living organisms and the processes by which they interact with each other and their environment. Most biochemists and biophysicists have a Ph.D. in biochemistry, biophysics, or a related field. Ph.D. holders in biochemistry and biophysics typically have a bachelor’s degree in a biology, physical science, or engineering. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for biochemists and biophysicists was $102,270 in 2021.
Environmental Scientist and Specialist
Environmental scientists and specialists use their knowledge of the natural sciences to protect the environment and human health. They may clean up polluted areas, advise policymakers, or work with industry to reduce waste. A bachelor’s degree in environmental science or a related field is the minimum educational requirement for most entry-level jobs. A degree in biology can be helpful for becoming a environmental scientist or specialist. It can provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the natural world and the ways humans interact with it. This knowledge can be helpful in protecting the environment and human health. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for environmental scientists and specialists was $76,530 in 2021.
Is a Degree in Biology Worth It?
A degree in biology can be very beneficial for those interested in pursuing a career in the medical or scientific field. It can also be beneficial for those interested in teaching biology at the high school or college level. A degree in biology can also be beneficial for students interested in pursuing a career in the environmental, conservation field or other fields related to the bilolgy.
Conclusion
A degree in biology can lead to many different exciting careers. If you are passionate about science and health, then a career in biology may be the right choice for you. There are many other options available, so be sure to explore all of your options before deciding. And remember, if you are not sure what you want to do, a degree in biology can still be a great choice. It all depends on what you want to achieve. So, ask yourself this question: what do you want to do with your life? And then find a degree that will help you get there.
