Biology Degree Careers

A biology degree might be an excellent educational option for those interested in the study of living beings. While some biology graduates choose to attend medical or pharmacy school to become doctors or pharmacists, others seek more satisfying vocations. In this post, we look at 17 careers you may acquire with a biology degree (without going to medical or pharmacy school).

Biology jobs you can get without going to medical school

Earning a degree in biology from an authorized college or university might qualify you for a variety of professional opportunities. Pursuing more education, such as graduate school or special career programs, can increase your work possibilities even more. Here are some examples of occupations you could pursue with an undergraduate biology degree:

1. Laboratory technician

• National average salary: $45,059 per year

A laboratory technician is in charge of carrying out experiments and maintaining the lab environment. They perform research, acquire data, calibrate equipment, collect samples, and sanitize work environments. Laboratory technicians typically support a higher-level professional, such as a researcher or scientist.

Employers who hire for this position often require at least a high school diploma, making it an excellent entry-level opportunity. Most employers prefer applicants with an associate or bachelor’s degree in laboratory science, biology, or a similar discipline.

2. Biology professor

• National average salary: $61,014 per year

A biology professor instructs students attending a college or university about the topic of biology. They plan and present lessons, assign homework and administer and grade exams. It’s their responsibility to convey complex information in a clear and concise way and answer student questions. As employers typically require college-level professors to have at least a master’s degree in the field, candidates seeking a job as a biology professor usually earn a doctoral degree or Ph.D. in biology. Their graduate thesis on a research topic of their choice typically informs their specialty as an instructor.

3. Forensic scientist

• National average salary: $63,220 per year

A forensic scientist analyzes physical evidence from a crime scene to gain clues about the details of an occurrence. They do this by performing scientific and chemical experiments and other processes in a laboratory setting. They work with detectives, police officers and other professionals to investigate and solve a crime. Those hiring for this role usually seek candidates with at least a bachelor’s degree in natural science like biology or chemistry. Of course, a major in forensic science is the best option to become a competitive candidate for this job.

4. Environmental scientist

• National average salary: $63,119 per year

An environmental scientist conducts research into the natural sciences to protect natural resources, support human health and solve environmental issues. They may work to decrease or eliminate problems like pollution, climate change and deforestation. Students who seek careers as environmental scientists usually pursue bachelor’s degrees in environmental science, biology or a related field. During their academic training, these students explore areas like ecology, geology and biology to understand environmental issues.

5. Microbiologist

• National average salary: $63,211 per year

A microbiologist investigates the characteristics and role of microorganisms within ecosystems. They may study plant pests and diseases, bacteria, algae and fungi, viruses or parasites. Their goal is typically to understand how microorganisms originate, grow, live, interact with other organisms and regenerate. This knowledge can help foster advancements in fields like health care, agriculture and environmental science. Candidates for this field have usually earned a bachelor’s degree in microbiology, biology, biochemistry or a closely related field.

6. Medical writer

• National average salary: $105,570 per year

A medical writer creates documents on medical, scientific and other research-related topics to promote awareness of them and educate the public. They may write promotional materials, articles, journal manuscripts and abstracts or website content. For example, a medical writer may compose an educational article on a certain type of disease, symptoms and treatment. Employers hiring for a medical writer position often look for candidates with academic training in a scientific field like biology or chemistry. Experience in medicine and health care can also help make you a competitive candidate for this job.

7. Physician assistant

• National average salary: $117,562 per year

A physician assistant helps a physician diagnose and treat patients in various areas of medicine, such as primary care, emergency medicine and psychiatry. They complete tasks like performing exams, diagnosing illnesses, ordering laboratory tests, prescribing medications and assisting with surgeries. Having a master’s degree in a scientific or medical field and patient care experience are both common requirements for candidates seeking a job as a physician assistant. Gaining official academic training in biology can prepare you to provide health care, assist with laboratory work and complete the other job duties of a physician assistant.

8. Bioprocess engineer

• National average salary: $113,978 per year

A bioprocess engineer designs and produces biological products and systems, ones that involve living organisms or organic material. These can include foods, agricultural products, biofuels, pharmaceuticals and water filtration processes. Those in this role typically have expertise in biological and chemical processes and an extensive understanding of how materials interact with each other. Students in this area usually pursue bachelor’s degrees in biology or chemistry. Many also earn master’s degrees in bioprocess engineering.

9. Registered nurse

• National average salary: $70,822 per year

A registered nurse is a licensed medical professional who provides health care and health education to patients with different conditions. Those in this role usually work in hospitals, physician offices, nursing care homes or other health care facilities. They may complete duties like taking vitals, recording medical history, assessing patient health problems, administering medicine and providing at-home care instructions. Candidates seeking to become registered nurses obtain an associate degree in nursing, at least. One of the requirements for this path is a successful score in the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) exam.

10. Nurse practitioner

• National average salary: $120,621 per year

A nurse practitioner (NP) assesses, diagnoses and treats specific health conditions in patients. They typically specialize in a certain area, like acute care, gerontology, cardiac care, orthopedic medicine, natal care or pregnancy and birth. Candidates desiring to become nurse practitioners usually earn a Bachelor of Science in nursing, become a registered nurse and complete a nurse practitioner graduate-level program, earning their master’s or doctoral degree in the field. It’s also necessary they pass the national NP board certification exam.

11. Biologist

• National average salary: $70,725 per year

A biologist studies the life processes, interactions and environments of humans, plants, animals, bacteria and other organisms. This helps people learn about the world, protect the health of living beings and overcome environmental issues. To gain an entry-level role in the field, candidates complete at least a bachelor’s degree in biology. It can help to choose a concentration in a specific area, such as molecular and cell biology, ecology or biochemistry. Candidates may also pursue a master’s or doctoral degree for higher-level research and management positions.

12. Biomedical engineer

• National average salary: $86,755 per year

A biomedical engineer designs and produces biomedical instruments such as artificial organs, replacement limbs and diagnostic machines. They install, maintain and repair this equipment to make sure it remains functional for use. Those in this field often conduct extensive research and collaborate with medical professionals to understand issues in the health care field and create devices to solve them. Students who want to become biomedical engineers usually pursue a bachelor’s degree in bioengineering, biomedical engineering, biology or a related field.

13. Physical therapist

• National average salary: $85,831 per year

A physical therapist provides treatment and rehabilitation for patients who’ve experienced injuries or who are living with musculoskeletal conditions. Those in this role help people heal, regain mobility and reduce pain. Employers hiring for a physical therapist role often seek candidates with an associate or bachelor’s degree in physical therapy, biology, physiology, anatomy, nursing or a related subject from an accredited institution. Some students may choose to study biology in school and complete a separate physical therapy program to gain practical skills and experience in the field.

14. Research scientist

• National average salary: $95,565 per year

A research scientist performs experiments to gather and analyze data and draw actionable conclusions regarding issues in the scientific field. These experiments may take the form of laboratory tests and trials, field tests, interviews or polls. It’s essential they follow certain scientific processes and guidelines to share their studies with others and explain their findings. They may work in fields like health care, biology, chemistry, computer science, environmental science or political science. Those in this field usually have at least a bachelor’s degree in the topic of research, but many have a master’s degree or Ph.D.

15. Regulatory affairs manager

• National average salary: $102,473 per year

A regulatory affairs manager ensures an organization’s products adhere to governmental regulations. They may complete tasks like filing applications, setting appointments with government leaders, inspecting facilities and developing and enforcing procedures. Employers hiring for this role often seek candidates who have a bachelor’s degree in business administration or a related field and extensive knowledge of laws and industry regulations. Earning a double major in both business administration and biology can prepare you to fulfill the duties of a regulatory affairs manager for biological products.

16. Life sciences consultant

• National average salary: $105,691 per year

A life sciences consultant provides professional advice and suggestions on how pharmaceutical, biotech, medical and health care companies can improve the well-being of patients. These consultants help businesses make decisions and provide medical treatment that improves the duration and quality of people’s lives. To become a life sciences consultant, it’s typically a requirement to have a Ph.D. in life sciences, biology or a similar subject. However, you may enter the field and start gaining entry-level work experience as an assistant or technician after you earn a bachelor’s degree.

17. Biotech consultant

• National average salary: $134,335 per year

A biotech consultant offers professional direction to organizations or individuals interested in biotech devices and services. Those in this role tend to be experts on how biotechnology can help a business become more efficient or help a medical professional treat a patient’s condition. Biotech consultants typically have an in-depth knowledge of advanced therapies and health care solutions. Students with the goal of becoming a biotech consultant typically earn a degree in biotechnology, biology or another topic in life sciences or business.