Careers in Biology
Whether you have a bachelor’s in biology, a master’s, or a PhD, you can choose your path as a scientist in the real world. Find out what you can do with a biology degree:
For the Biology Major
Deciding what you want to do with your life right after college is a big deal. But you don’t have to determine your entire career now. Follow these steps for biologists with a Bachelor of Science degree as you start to make your decision:
- Take part-time jobs and internships. Your biology professors likely have connections to other researchers and biologists across industries. Now is the time to experiment and discover what you like – before you make any big decisions. Use your connections to try out different positions and industries.
- Determine whether you want to continue learning. Is there a topic you haven’t yet exhausted? Do you still get a thrill from learning new things in your labs and lectures? Are you considering teaching? If so, you might continue on to a master’s degree in biology, or even a PhD.
- Talk to a mentor. Whether that’s your advisor at school or a biology professional you look up to, schedule time to talk about your options. Ask for help narrowing your interests and finding relevant opportunities. Find ways to put your passion to work, and determine how to get there.
Jobs for Biology Degrees
The American Institute of Biological Sciences has great tips for starting your biology career and a comprehensive list of job paths. Explore the following biology career opportunities, and find one that fits your education and research goals:
- Biotechnology: Use your biology skills to create advanced tools.
- Science museums: Teach classes, care for organisms and exhibits, and bring biology to the community.
- Research: Explore the world in labs or the natural environment to advance the field and solve problems.
- Healthcare: Research and create campaigns to advance the abilities and effectiveness of the medical field.
- Politics: With environmentalism ever on the rise, drive legislation related to environmental protection and biomedical research.
- Forensics: Solve crimes by specializing in anthropology, crime scenes, medicine, and more.
- Business and Economics: Develop strategies to address the economic impact of biological issues. Or test new drug products and services to advance medicine.
- Writing & Art: Write and/or illustrate textbooks and articles to inform the public on biological issues.
- Education: Become a grade school or high school teacher, or college professor, to immerse yourself in academia, which involves teaching and advanced research.
Last updated: 12/1/2014
