Highly informative resources to keep your education journey on track. And the possibilities may expand even more if you're prepared to get just a little bit of additional training at a vocational school. This means youâll have anywhere from six to eight years of training under your belt before you can even begin to undertake the sophisticated research necessary to make advancements in the field. But unlike other areas of study with well-defined career paths, biology's professional outcomes can sometimes be trickier to figure out, mostly because the possibilities are so wide-ranging. If you have a strong interest in providing medical care for people or animals, then a biology degree is a good entryâpoint for becoming certified or earning an advanced medical degree. Become a specialist in biology-related areas like muscular anatomy, body mechanics, and human pathology while using the healing power of touch to help people relieve stress, ease physical tension, recover from injury, minimize pain, and more. Here are some example salaries based on nationwide averages. (Some schools offer graduate programs that are more accessible and streamlined than what you'll find at many traditional universities.). So your options are not limited to scientific research, teaching, professional medicine, or other professions that require the most advanced educational credentials. It may be more appropriate if you want to enter a medical or researchâintensive profession. And starting the process is easy. They may not realize that those opportunities are often reserved for people who go on to earn more advanced graduate-level degrees. Medical and scientific innovation continue to drive biology into new and thrilling directions. Your career could involve pure research, or you could apply your research to the development of solutions in areas like public health, agriculture, or environmental restoration. I have a friend who just got his Bachelors in Biology from a 4-year university. Of course, popularity is not necessarily a measure of value. That's probably why biology and life sciences majors experience the biggest increase in earnings out of all majors when they earn a graduate degree. Education requirements: A Bachelor's Degree in Biology can qualify you for entry-level work in the field of environmental science. Also known as laboratory assistants, biological technicians use the laboratory ⦠For some of them, all it takes is a few months. Or maybe just one particular field, ⦠Potential careers can even include working as an assistant to a dermatologist or other medical esthetics practitioner. A bachelorâs degree in biology is a great pathway if you envision a career in horticulture, agriculture, genetics, zoology, or any field that involves the study of living organisms. Now he is considering being an RN, and possibly Nurse Practitioner. But as a biology Ph.D., your ultimate objective is to become knowledgeable enough to contribute something unique to the field of biology. Use sophisticated X-ray or MRI equipment to capture diagnostic images of internal patient anatomy that can help radiologists and doctors detect signs of injury or illness. Although you will likely be required to finish a doctorate degree if you wish to advance to the position of pharmacist, a biology degree â associateâs or bachelorâs â qualifies you for several pharmacy-related jobs, including that of a pharmacy technician. If you need more information about a degree in biology, continue on. Provide preventive care and guidance to dental patients as a professional who understands the biological causes of gingivitis and other oral diseases. Jobs in this area of science are appealing to all kinds of people. Wow, that is awesome Krista! Students pursue a focused course of study designed to build entry-level career skills in a ⦠But this question often stems from the fact that jobs for biology majors can be hard to find—unless you have a practical career plan, understand the relevant alternatives, and know how to approach the challenge. An associate degree in biology is an affordable point of entry into the subject that requires 60 credits and typically takes two years. The main reason to get a PhD in this field is to become a biologist with the qualifications to perform independent research or work for post-secondary institutions, government agencies, or private employers that require advanced credentials. General biology is an obvious choice, and in some schools \"biology\" may be the only biology major available. And the practical skills that you do get to learn are typically very specific to actions such as performing research in a laboratory or writing technical papers. This degree provides a solid foundation for continuing to a bachelorâs degree in biology. Less typical careers with a biology degree A biology degree will equip you with many transferable skills that are sought-after in the workplace, whether that workplace is within a scientific industry or not. Research opportunities do exist for top students with biology backgrounds, but if you plan to conduct research for a living, you will most likely need to continue to an advanced degree program. Beyond university research labs, a lot of entry-level biology-degree jobs become available in industries such as agriculture, food processing, pharmaceutical manufacturing, health care, and private biomedical research and development (R&D). Khan Academy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Assist environmental scientists by collecting samples, investigating pollution sources, monitoring areas of concern, and working to prevent violations such as toxic dumping or air, water, and soil contamination. To find out if a college or university on your list is regionally accredited, check the Department of Educationâs Database of Postsecondary Institutions and Programs. Now as graduation approaches, you wish you could go back and major in communications and become a writer instead. Now what? Take advantage of your scientific knowledge as well as your outgoing personality in order to help drug companies sell and promote their latest breakthroughs. Colleges and trade schools that focus on preparing students for in-demand vocations tend to have relatively easy admission requirements, short programs, and convenient class schedules. One common reason for pursuing a graduate degree is that an undergraduate biology education is often more knowledge-based than skills-based. With a biology degree, you will probably enter the workforce with a wide variety of valuable abilities—maybe more than you realize. The degree in biology allows you to choose one or more interesting directions. In addition, it's often possible to find jobs in government agencies that are charged with conserving natural resources and protecting public health and the environment. While your bachelorâs degree will provide you with the necessary theoretical and practical groundwork, your masterâs degree will provide you with your first real opportunity to conduct meaningful research specific to your area of interest. According to the OES program, a biologist makes from $67,760 to $105,940 per year, on average, depending on the specialty. Upon completion of the MA in Biology (Traditional and Zoo Science option), graduates will be able to:. This is ideal if you intend to use your biology degree in a field like healthcare management, conservation, or agricultural management. Christine Poon, the vice-chairman of Fortune 500 company Johnson Johnson, studied for a bachelorâs degree in biology and later a masterâs degree in biochemistry. Increase your understanding of animal biology as somebody who gets to assist veterinarians with diagnostic testing and medical procedures related to the care of people's pets or other creatures. But according to the National Center for Education Statistics, only about six percent of American college graduates majored in biological and biomedical sciences during the 2016-2017 academic year. Build on your interest in human anatomy, body movement, and nutrition by leading and motivating people in physical activities that improve their strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular performance. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the median annual salaries, as of 2018, for a few of the most popular career options in your field: Professional associations are a fantastic way to make connections in a field, learn about valuable seminars or certifications, and improve your own credentials. But when you pursue a doctorate degree in biology, you generally choose a special area of focus. Or perhaps you enjoyed biology in high school and want to know if it would be worth majoring in at the next level. But there are plenty of biology degree jobs that donât involve going anywhere near a stethoscope or drawing up patient charts, including lab-based research, direct involvement in policy, or even the sale of new prescription drugs. Maybe you've already graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology and haven't found suitable employment yet. Become a professional who gets to manage and monitor public or private lands in order to conserve natural resources or to maximize the use of those resources in a way that does the least possible harm to the environment. Individuals who have earned biology degrees typically work in laboratory settings. But that process is often relatively fast, especially if you attend a school that focuses on helping you prepare for such an exam. Demonstrate an in-depth mastery from a range of fundamental biological concepts and subjects, including cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, evolution and ecology, and principles of conservation biology. In comparison, the most popular major was business, representing over 19 percent of college graduates. Help protect the health of American workers by designing strategies to prevent workplace injuries, diseases, and environmental damage and by inspecting work settings to ensure that they comply with relevant government regulations. For a detailed look at the differences between regional and national accreditation, check out What Do I Need to Know About College Accreditation? Here is maybe the most important point to remember: You don't have to pursue a biology degree in order to attain an enjoyable or good-paying career that capitalizes on your enthusiasm for the subject. But the process of getting into a traditional graduate-level program for a master's degree or PhD can be very competitive and time-consuming. Biology is a natural science that is concerned with the structure, function and evolution of various ⦠Earning a four-year degree in biology can definitely open some doors. Simply enter your current zip code to explore a variety of nearby vocational schools! Trade-Schools.net matches students with schools and is compensated when a visitor requests and receives information from our clients. As a computational biologist, your career could involve developing computerized simulations that make it possible to study research questions without using a traditional laboratory. In addition to introductory level studies in human physiology, plant and animal reproduction, ecology, and the taxonomy of living organisms, youâll also have a chance to engage in in-depth studies of specific bodily systems; the connection between neurology and psychology; and the complex ethical questions that can arise from challenging biogenetic issues. Accreditation of Colleges and Universities: Whoâs Accrediting the Accreditors? Accreditation is the process by which colleges and universities are evaluated and validated. Many occupational fields have roots in biology. Combine your biology and technology interests in a career that lets you use advanced ultrasound equipment to capture images that aid doctors in diagnosing, treating, or performing surgical procedures on their patients. Many biology majors begin their educational journey with a goal to go ⦠This is after at least four years of undergraduate work in a relevant discipline and a one- to two-year masterâs degree. Your career goals changed. Explore the real-world aspects of human biology while working alongside doctors and caring for people in your community who are at their most vulnerable. For help safely navigating the ForâProfit Sector, check out our Guide to ForâProfit Colleges: What You Need to Know. Typically, the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) recognizes the same institutions, although CHEA recognition isnât mandatory. Master's degrees in biology or teaching are not required to teach biology in middle or high school, but some school districts encourage it. Or you can pursue a graduate degree in biology and become a college instructor, research scientist, or genetic counselor. With a little bit of extra vocational training, you can work in the growing allied health care sector. Many professionals, however, choose to pursue graduate-level work in environmental science to advance progress more quickly in their career. Degree Programs and Careers. Biology topics. What Do I Need to Know About College Accreditation? Daniel says biology degree recipients tend to have marketable skills in both science and math, which is a winning combination for many employers, and this skill set is something degree ⦠Changing your major now isn't a realistic option. He wanted to be a doctor but his GPA is too low (2.66). Interested in all kinds of biology? You just have to know where to find the opportunities. For example, here's what you can do with a biology degree: You can work as a research assistant, technician, or sales representative in the agricultural, food processing, pharmaceutical, or biomedical industries. Biological Technician. Biology is brought to you with support from the Our mission is to provide a free, world-class education to anyone, anywhere. How High School Students Can Prepare for This Major . Your career opportunities will likely depend on the specialty or sub-specialty you've chosen. A biology degree provides you with the foundational knowledge and undergraduate credentials to enter a medical profession or medical school. Among the first things to consider for anyone studying biology is whether they want to use the undergraduate degree to enter a professional field directly, or as a foundation for ⦠You can even become a biology teacher at the middle school or high school level. Choose your own path and start applying your talents in work. If youâre interested in teaching biology, youâll want to earn a bachelorâs degree in biology while earning your teaching credentials. Help pharmacists organize, measure, package, label, and dispense prescription medications in a retail or hospital pharmacy setting. So you're not alone in wanting to pursue a career in it. The problem is that a lot of smart, motivated people go into the field believing that an undergraduate degree in biology may be all they need to access the types of employment opportunities they want. Here are nine entry-level jobs for biology majors that are especially worth keeping in mind. Carry out laboratory tests on samples of bodily fluids, tissues, or other biological substances in order to help medical practitioners diagnose and treat patients. Biology Teacher Graduates of advanced degree programs in molecular and cellular biology may choose to become instructors. This means that your biology education will focus on issues that impact human, animal, and plant life and include subjects like genetic engineering, transhumanism, GMO farming, and global climate change. Help patients in medical and health care settings in the most direct way while using your knowledge of human illnesses, disabilities, and a lot more. Summary of Biology Major Skills. Then consider a Master in Biology, a degree program that can advance your career to the next level. I figured the "what are you going to do with it" thing would figure itself out along the way. Here are a few of the top careers in biology: Depending on how far you take your studies, your biology education could be the pathway to a very wellâpaying career. I loved doing biology. Be one of the first responders to situations in which people's lives might be saved as a result of your quick actions and knowledge of first-aid treatment for the sick or injured. So if you're at the beginning of your journey into post-secondary education, then you could be employment-ready in a lot less time than it would take to earn a traditional biology degree. Below is a selection of some of the less conventional careers you ⦠This may be a good idea if you envision yourself pursuing graduate studies in biology but you're not yet sure which specific area interests you most. Average yearly job openings are based on employment projections from the Bureau of Labor Statistics for the decade between 2018 and 2028. Begin right now by conducting a quick search for programs in your region. For example, some biology majors have found success as biomedical technologists, conservation or environmental technicians, middle or high school science teachers, or even as forensic investigators, medical illustrators, or pharmaceutical sales representatives. TheBestSchools.org is an advertising-supported site. If you are curious about the living world outside of the protective confines of your house or place of ⦠For many others, the biology associateâs degree provides an ideal stepping stone to further study in areas like nursing, health sciences, public health, and of course, biology. For example, with a degree in microbiology, you can pursue jobs related to studying viruses, bacteria, fungi, algae, microscopic parasites, or other microorganisms. Depending on what you would like your career in biology to be, a masterâs in biology may be the right choice for you. Legitimate regional and national accrediting organizations are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (ED). An associate degree in biology touches on the basic knowledge required for an assistant position in many laboratories or research facilities. Actor Lisa Kudrow, or Phoebe from Friends, studied biology at Vassar College in New York, obtaining a bachelorâs degree. 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