As online degree programs become more prevalent, many prospective students are leaning toward earning their entire degree from online institutions. In fact, students can now earn an online biology degree through virtual learning. Biology majors vary among different virtual degree programs. Therefore, it is important to research what type of degree you need to acquire in order to enter your prospective career field. Additionally, academic advisors are available to students through most institutions to help with class placement and academic planning.
Online Biology Degree Programs
Reputable online degree programs will hold regional or national accreditations. When searching for online degree programs, it is important to find those that hold accreditations recognized by the US Department of Education. Depending on which major you choose, core classes include topics like general biology, anatomy, biochemistry, and microbiology. Prospective students should prepare themselves to attend a four-year degree program, as many entry-level career positions require at least a bachelor’s degree.
Careers in Biology
A degree in biology opens many career opportunities, as it covers a huge domain in the science field. A bachelor’s degree will lead to entry-level positions in the fields of taxonomy, genetics, and evolution. However, many students use their bachelor’s degrees as a stepping stone into graduate programs to earn master’s and doctorate degrees. These higher-level degrees will open advanced career opportunities in your specialty area, thus resulting in higher salary potential. Opportunities vary in career fields such as:
- Zoology
- Biotechnology
- Biochemistry
- Botany
- Microbiology
- Forensic biology
- Healthcare
Online Biology Degree Program Recommendations
Choosing an online biology degree program can be overwhelming. Before you begin your search, it is advisable to figure out your future career aspirations. From there, you will realize the type of biology degree you need to fulfill those aspirations. Other factors to take into consideration include tuition rates, prerequisite requirements, accreditation, and graduation rates.
According to the Community for Accredited Online Schools, here are the top three online biology degree programs:
- University of Florida- The University of Florida’s online degree program awards graduating students with a Bachelor of Arts in Biology. This course will cover core topics in basic chemistry, physics, and critical analysis of biological research.
- Florida International University- This off-campus degree program awards graduating students with a Bachelor of Arts in Biology. Core courses will cover topics such as genetics and evolution.
- Logan University- Logan University’s biology degree program awards graduating students with a Bachelor of Science in Human Biology. Core coursework will cover topics in general sciences, organic chemistry, microbiology, and physics.
Prospective students can earn a Bachelor of Biology degree 100 percent in a virtual learning form. When searching for the best online degree program, it is important to choose a program that provides the major you want to specialize in. Most institutions will provide professional advisors to help students make the right class choices dependant on their desired specialties. If you are looking to earn your online biology degree, there are numerous online degree programs for you to choose to begin your career in biology.
