Career Opportunities for Graduates With a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology

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A bachelor’s degree in biology offers graduates numerous career opportunities and advancements to higher-level degree programs. While salaries will vary between different career fields in biology, there is always room for advancement. 

What Can You do With a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology?

Biology covers a broad field of employment opportunities after you earn your bachelor’s degree. While most people think medicine and healthcare, there are countless other career fields degree holders can enter. Main biology professions include careers in:

Microbiology, botany, molecular biology, medical biology, marine biology, environmental biology, evolutionary biology, and zoology

While most employers seek higher-level degree holders, a bachelor’s degree in biology is an excellent asset for entry-level positions. Students graduating from a four-year program can then apply to a master’s degree or doctorate program. These programs essentially narrow down the student’s specializations and prepare them for research-based career advancement opportunities. Likewise, these career advancements generally come with a healthy salary. 

Career Outlook in the Biological Science Field

As a bachelor’s degree holder, you have access to many well-paying career choices. Career options will vary depending on your area of expertise or your major choice. Here are three of the highest paying careers for graduates with a bachelor’s degree in biology.

1. Microbiologist- A microbiologist studies microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, viruses,  and algae. These professionals make an average salary of about $75,600 per year. Additionally, many entry-level positions require at least a bachelor’s degree for consideration.
2. Environmental Scientist- An environmental scientist’s responsibilities involve extensive research on the environment and how humans affect these environments. Many scientists are typically passionate about protecting the environment and promoting the health of animals and humans. These science professionals make an average salary of around $71,000 per year. Also, entry-level positions for this field generally require a bachelor’s degree to start.
3. Agricultural and Food Scientist- Closely in relation to environmental scientists, these specialists work closely with the environment to ensure food production safety and growing. These scientists are responsible for improving agricultural practices to find more efficient and environmentally-safe ways to produce food. Experts in this field of science earn an average salary of about $65,000 per year. Entry-level positions require at least a bachelor’s degree for consideration and job placement.

How to Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology

As a prospective student, it is beneficial to start narrowing down your interests and career aspirations. If you plan to further your education and narrow down your specializations in the future, then working with a college advisor will help you choose the right bachelor’s degree program. Bachelor’s degree programs in biology are available on campus at universities, and also online. It is important to view the degree program’s prerequisite and academic requirements before applying. If you decide to attend a bachelor’s degree program online, make sure the program had regional or national accreditation supported by the US Department of Education.

Earning a bachelor’s degree in biology will cover many fields in science. As a graduate from a four-year baccalaureate program, you will be eligible for graduate school programs. These programs include medical school, dental school, and other professional degree programs.