Biology, or the study of living organisms, is a broad topic with a wide range of employment options. In academics, writing and editing, laboratory research, health care, and pharmaceuticals, you can pursue a wide range of biology-related occupations. Depending on your intended role and career path, you may need to pursue additional education beyond your four-year degree. A biology degree is excellent for students who like science and are naturally drawn to the sciences

For graduates with a bachelor’s degree in biology, medical school isn’t the only option; however, you may need to invest in further study beyond a four-year degree to get started. Typical images of biologists are of a white lab coat staring into a microscope and a room full of glass slides and beakers. However, the profession has many more opportunities than most people may realize. With a biology degree, you can be anywhere from an environmental manager to an oceanographer. Whatever your field of interest, a biology degree can lead to a rewarding career

A biology degree can lead to a variety of professional opportunities. If you enjoy science and are fascinated by the study of living things, a biology degree could be the best way to get started on your career path.

1. Is Biology a Good Degree?

Biology is undoubtedly a good and popular degree option because it allows students to get up close and personal with many aspects of human, animal, and cell life. Biology degrees offer a wide range of modules, allowing you to study something that you’re passionate about and making it a fantastic choice for aspiring scientists.

When deciding between a biology degree and a more specialized one, the most crucial factor to consider is which course you would love more. Any degree you pursue will include classes addressing the principles of biology, so your job possibilities will be similar regardless of your choice. Once you’ve graduated, these broad modules will allow you to travel between subjects, so an undergraduate degree in zoology won’t hinder you. For example, from pursuing a master’s degree in biotechnology. So, if you’re particularly passionate about a particular aspect of biology, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t pursue a specialized degree.

2. How Much Does Biology Majors Make?

Biology is a well-paying field, and, on average, they earn around $68,500/year. This pay scale can vary depending on the type of jobs you take. Getting a master’s or a specialization in a particular field of biology can increase your chances of getting a higher salary. The top earners get high salaries ranging from $1,14,750 per year to $2,08,000 per year.

3. Benefits and Disadvantages of a Biologist Job

The most significant advantage of a Biology career is job security. Biology-related jobs are expected to expand 5% in the United States by 2029, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. You’ll also be well compensated for your efforts, primarily if you pursue a Master’s or Ph.D. in Biology, which will significantly enhance your earnings. Postgraduate degrees also allow you to conduct research and develop new biological discoveries.

Furthermore, some Biology occupations may expose you to hazardous substances or working conditions. Specialized training, protective equipment, and preventative measures, on the other hand, considerably lower the hazards. Remember, safety regulations are in place for a reason!

The increasingly competitive employment market is a significant disadvantage for Biology grads. Employers want future employees to have the necessary knowledge and practical skills. Work experience is essential in this situation, which is why you should look for study programs that involve or assist you in finding Biology internships.

4. Common Career Paths for Biology Majors

A biology degree can also lead to a lucrative career in the sciences. There are countless opportunities in the field. Some of them are mentioned below:

Biologist

Biologists work with organic matter and creatures to conduct tests and analyses. Marine biology, genetic biology, developmental biology, and evolutionary biology are just a few of the specialties available. The focus of this profession is research. Many biologists are employed as researchers and develop societal knowledge. Their work spans the academic world, hospitals, research institutes, and industry. For example, biologists in the health sector develop campaigns to treat and cure diseases. While many of these roles are out of reach for undergraduates, there are plenty of jobs available. The average salary of a biologist is around $ 68,548 per year

Biological Technician

Biological technicians, also known as laboratory assistants, apply the laboratory skills and procedures learned by biology majors in their labs, academic research, and joint research with instructors. Technicians must conduct studies that produce precise results. They record data and make computations as they did as biology majors when completing reports. Many new graduates who do not want to continue their education after graduation or wish to postpone it find technician jobs with researchers at medical schools, government agencies, non-profit research organizations, or pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies.

 The top 10% of earners made $73,350 or more, while the bottom 10% made $29,540 or less. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in this profession is expected to expand by 7% between 2019 and 2029, faster than the national average.

Biochemist

In the fast-growing disciplines of biotechnology and biomedical research, biochemists play a critical role. Biology gives them the laboratory and scientific research abilities and expertise to create and execute studies for new product development. Anatomy and physiology knowledge aids biochemists in comprehending the effects of medications and biotechnology solutions on the human body.

They can present proposals and findings to peers and potential funding sources thanks to the presentation and writing abilities they learned as biology majors. The top 10% of earners made $182,870 or more, while the bottom 10% made $50,620 or less. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in this sector is expected to rise at a rate of 4% between 2019 and 2029, which is about average for all occupations.

High School Science Teacher

You can also combine your biology degree with a teaching qualification. Teaching is an excellent career for biology students. Some biology teachers work in classrooms, lecture theatres, museums, and labs. If you are pursuing a career in education, you can move up a level. In addition to an undergraduate degree, you can also get a master’s degree and a Ph.D. These are the most common jobs that biologists can get with a biology degree. Biology principles are taught in high school by biology professors. Teachers in high school often have excellent communication, organizational, and time-management abilities and teach students in grades 9-12. Creating lesson plans, speaking, answering questions, giving homework, and evaluating examination material are everyday daily activities for high school instructors. They earn up to $46,000 per year.

Genetic Counselors

Genetic counselors examine clients’ hereditary makeup and inform them about the possibility of passing on a genetic disease or disability to their children. Adults who are concerned about the possibility of developing signs of genetic illnesses later in life may benefit from their services. To complete the requisite master’s degree in biology, they must have advanced biology aptitude. Genetic counselors made a median annual pay of $81,880 in May 2019, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Pharmaceutical Sales Representative

 Medical supplies, IT products, pharmaceuticals, and other medical supplies are sold by pharmaceutical or medical product sales agents to hospitals, clinics, and other medical practices.

a.    These employees must be technologically savvy to explain how a product works. They will also require scientific knowledge to demonstrate how this product will assist both the doctor and the patient. Sales agents for pharmaceutical or medical products must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills. A bachelor’s degree is frequently sufficient for entry into this field. In May 2019, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimated that technical and scientific product sales representatives earned median annual pay of $81,020.

 Medical and Health Service Managers

 Medical and healthcare executives spend a significant amount of time engaging with healthcare professionals and must communicate scientific policies and procedures to them. They must decipher scientific regulations relating to medical services and adjust programs as needed. Medical and healthcare executives frequently hire, supervise, and assess healthcare workers and researchers. As they evaluate prospects and employees, they must appreciate the intricacies of their credentials and performance. Medical and health services managers had a median annual salary of $100,980 in May 2019, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Journalism

If you are interested in a career in journalism, you might want to consider a biology degree. This will allow you to work in the field and educate the public on biological issues. In addition, you can also work in the media. For example, you can be a science writer. This will allow you to spread the word about the importance of being educated about the sciences. Your job will be as varied as your passion.

Physician Assistant and Nurse Practitioners

As front-line service providers, physician assistants and nurse practitioners are highly demanded. Biology is an excellent basis for graduate study in these and other related fields.

a.    To identify medical disorders, physician assistants and nurse practitioners must have a thorough understanding of human biological systems, anatomy, and physiology. They also require scientific solid method expertise from a biology background to assess new studies on numerous treatment choices and drugs. Physician assistants earned median annual pay of $112,260, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

To Sum Up

Biologists can be employed in any industry. Many employers are happy to hire graduates with any degree, but many prefer those with experience in their field. Adding relevant work experience to your resume will help you stand out among your peers. Not only will it build your practical skills, but it will also help you establish relationships with employers. Furthermore, you will have a good understanding of the work and the environment, which will help you prepare for your future career.

A biology degree is a great way to start a science career. There are many opportunities in the field. You can work in the pharmaceutical industry or any other field related to biology. If you are interested in animal life, you might consider a biology job. You can work as a physician or in a research lab. A doctor can also help you with scientific research in your community.

A career as a biologist requires a love of science. It would help if you enjoyed solving equations and reading books about science. You should be curious about “why” and enjoy nature. Most branches of biology involve the study of living organisms in their natural environments. As such, biology is one of the most valuable degrees globally. If you love science, you will be happy with your career. There are many jobs to choose from in the field of biology.