Earning a significant biology degree gives you access to several job opportunities as many career possibilities are attached to the field. Therefore, as a student who loves science and is interested in studying living things, these top 10 careers in biology that are marketable are for you.
Biology is a core subject for careers in the science and health sectors. However, you can take many other career paths with this degree.
Biology degrees focus on the science of the natural world, the study of medicine and health occupations, and even niches in education. A biology degree could lead to a career in academics, pharmaceuticals, laboratory research, zoology, and much more.
This article aims to give you the necessary information about a biology degree and the marketable career you can find. Also, you will know these biology careers’ salaries and job outlook.
Table of contents
- What Is Biology?
- Who Is a Biologist?
- What Is A Biology Degree?
- Steps To Pursuing A Career In Biology Degree
- What Can You Do With A Biology Degree? |Top 10 Marketable Careers
- Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Biology?
Biological science is one of the broadest and most important subjects in the world today. In simple terms, biology is the study of life, and living organisms.
According to Wikipedia, Biology is the natural science that studies life and living organisms, including their physical structure, chemical processes, molecular interactions, physiological mechanisms, development, and evolution.
Who Is a Biologist?
A biologist is a scientist with specialized knowledge in biology, the scientific study of life. Biologists involved in fundamental research attempt to explore and further explain the underlying mechanisms that govern the functioning of living matter.
What Is A Biology Degree?
Biology is an increasingly complex and exciting field that incorporates other critical subdisciplines such as anatomy, pathology, ecology, chemistry, genetics, botany, and ecology. A degree in biology will examine living organisms and their interactions with the environment.
With the introduction of medical and scientific innovation, the study of biology is now expanding into new and thrilling directions. In other words, biology education will not focus on living things’ physical structure, chemical and molecular processes.
Instead, a degree in biology will focus on issues that impact human, animal, and plant life and include subjects like genetic engineering, transhumanism, GMO farming, and global climate change.
Furthermore, a bachelor’s degree in biology is a great educational starting point if you pursue a medical career. It provides you with the foundational knowledge and undergraduate credentials to enter a medical profession or medical school.
In addition, it takes about four years to complete a bachelor’s degree in biology.
Check out these Biology Conferences for Students & Professional
Steps To Pursuing A Career In Biology Degree
To pursue a career in biology, one must earn a biology major degree. However, for clarity’s sake, below are some of the steps you can follow:
- Begin in high school
- Enroll in the right program
- Look toward the future
- Fulfill professional requirements
- Continuing Education
To pursue a career in biology, start by taking courses in biology, anatomy and physiology, environmental science, chemistry, and pre-med subjects.
They present students with opportunities in biology and the knowledge that will be useful during their undergraduate study.
What Can You Do With A Biology Degree? |Top 10 Marketable Careers
Biology is a broad field that opens the door to various career paths. Below are the top 10 marketable careers in biology to pursue:
- Biologist
- Biological Technician
- Biochemists
- Biophysicists
- Zoologists
- Microbiologist
- Research scientist (life sciences)
- Wildlife Biologists
- Health Educator
- Pharmaceutical / Medical Product Sales Representative
#1. Biologist
Biologists research and explain the living world around us. However, it is impossible to be an expert in the whole field of biology. Therefore, biologists will often choose to specialize in a particular field and study this area in detail.
Biologists that perform fundamental research seek to understand what mechanisms control the functioning of living matter. On the other hand, biologists who carry out applied research try to develop or improve processes in areas like medicine and industry.
To become a biologist, one needs to earn a degree in biology. However, with a Master’s degree in biology, biologists will have developed a specialty in a specific area of animal and plant species and habitats.
What Does a Biologist Do?
As one of the marketable careers in biology, below are the duties of biologists:
- Conduct and analyze plant and animal biological data about relationships between organisms and their environment.
- Prepare environmental impact reports.
- Inform the public, state, and federal representatives and agencies of test results.
According to indeed.com, the average salary for a Biologist is $71,547 annually in the United States.
Based on the report of Glassdoor, the average annual wage for biologists is $54,660. Meanwhile, Payscale reports that the average salary for a Biologist is $52,855.
You may like to see the 10 Best Universities in the World to Study Molecular Biology & Genetics
#2. Biological Technician
Biological technicians help biological and medical scientists to carry out laboratory tests and experiments. They also carry out analysis of the result under the supervision of the microbiologist and medical scientist.
Generally, most biological technicians work full-time and also keep regular work hours.
However, one needs a bachelor’s degree in biology or any related field to become a biological technician. Also, gaining laboratory experience while in school is an advantage for prospective biological technicians.
What Does a Biological Technician Do?
As one of the marketable careers in biology, below are the duties of biological technicians:
- Setting up, maintenance, and cleaning laboratory instruments and equipment, such as microscopes, scales, pipets, and test tubes
- Carrying out biological tests and experiments
- Collecting and preparing biological samples, such as blood, food, and bacteria cultures, for laboratory analysis
- Documenting their work, including procedures, observations, and results
- Analyzing experimental data and interpreting results
- Writing reports that summarize their findings
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of biological technicians is expected to grow by 7 percent from 2018 to 2028, faster than the average for all occupations.
This increase is a result of continuous growth in biotechnology and medical research.
US BLS reports the median annual wage for biological technicians as $44,500. That is, they earn $21.39 per hour.
#3. Biochemists
Biochemists are scientists that are trained in biochemistry. Also known as biological chemistry, Biochemistry is the study of living things at the molecular level, focusing mainly on the processes that occur. Biochemists study the chemical processes within and relating to living organisms.
To qualify for some entry-level positions in biochemistry, you will need a bachelor’s and master’s degree.
However, to work in independent research and development as a biochemist, you will need to earn a Ph.D. in biochemistry. Notwithstanding, many Ph.D. holders begin their careers in temporary postdoctoral research positions.
Also, the job of a biochemist is a full-time job.
What Does a Biochemist Do?
As one of the marketable careers in biology, below are the duties of a biochemist as reported by the US BLS:
- Plan and conduct complex projects in basic and applied research
- Manage laboratory teams and monitor the quality of their work
- Isolate, analyze, and synthesize proteins, fats, DNA, and other molecules
- Research the effects of substances such as drugs, hormones, and nutrients on tissues and biological processes
- Review literature and the findings of other researchers and attend conferences
- Prepare technical reports, research papers, and recommendations based on their research findings
- Present research findings to scientists, engineers, and other colleagues
- Secure funding and write grant applications
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of biochemists is expected to grow 6 percent from 2018 to 2028, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
This increase is because of the need to use the knowledge they have gained from basic research to develop biological products and processes that improve people’s lives.
US BLS reports the median annual wage for biochemists as $93,280. That is, they earn $44.85 per hour.
According to Glassdoor, biochemists earn $58,012/yr. Meanwhile, from payscale, the average salary for a Biochemist is $59,304.
Check out these Biochemistry Conferences for International Students
#4. Biophysicists
A biophysicist is a scientist who uses physics to study biological systems using an interdisciplinary approach. They conduct, analyze, and interpret studies from molecules to organisms for scientific evidence in proving or providing information for the greater good of medicine or science.
What Does a Biophysicist Do?
The biophysicist does almost the same type of job as the biochemist. However, the difference is that biophysicists focus on the physical processes of living organisms, while biochemists study the chemical aspect.
Therefore, as one of the marketable careers in biology, below are the duties of a biophysicist:
- Plan and conduct complex projects in basic and applied research
- Manage laboratory teams and monitor the quality of their work
- Isolate, analyze, and synthesize proteins, fats, DNA, and other molecules
- Research the effects of substances such as drugs, hormones, and nutrients on tissues and biological processes
- Review literature and the findings of other researchers and attend conferences
- Prepare technical reports, research papers, and recommendations based on their research findings
- Present research findings to scientists, engineers, and other colleagues
- Secure funding and write grant applications
Just like biochemists, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of biophysicists is expected to grow 6 percent from 2018 to 2028, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
This increase is because of the need to use the knowledge they have gained from basic research to develop biological products and processes that improve people’s lives.
US BLS reports the median annual wage for biophysicists as $93,280. That is, they earn $44.85 per hour.
Meanwhile, according to Glassdoor, the average salary of a Biophysicist is $73,757 in the United States. On the other hand, payscale reports the average salary for a Biophysicist at $99,750.
#5. Zoologists
Zoologists are biologists who study a variety of animal species, their behaviors and characteristics, and how they interact with their ecosystems. To become a Zoologist, one will need a bachelor’s degree for entry-level positions.
However, for higher-level investigative or scientific work, you will need to earn a master’s degree. Meanwhile, if you want to lead independent research or go for a university research position, you will need a Ph.D. degree.
What Does a Zoologist Do?
As one of the marketable careers in biology, below are the duties of a Zoologist:
- Designing and conducting research projects and studies of animals
- Studying the characteristics of animals and their behaviors
- Collecting and analyzing biological data and specimens
- Writing papers, reports, and articles that explain research findings
- Ensuring animal welfare through various initiatives
- Educating the public on animal welfare and wildlife conservation
- Promoting conservation efforts
- Assisting with captive breeding programs
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of zoologists and wildlife biologists is expected to increase by 5 percent from 2018 to 2028, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
The salary for zoologists may vary based on factors such as the type of employment, level of education completed, and duties they carry out.
The US BLS reports the median annual wage for zoologists as $63,420. That is, they earn $30.49 per hour.
Also read more on the 21 Affordable Online Zoology Degree Programs
#6. Microbiologist
Microbiologists study the growth, interactions, and characteristics of microscopic organisms such as bacteria, algae, fungi, and some types of parasites and their vectors. They aim to answer many critical global questions by understanding microbes.
Microbiologists work in many places, such as labs in universities, research institutes, and industrial companies, investigating microbes in fieldwork and much more.
To become a microbiologist, one needs a bachelor’s degree in microbiology or a closely related field.
What Does a Microbiologist Do?
As one of the marketable careers in biology, below are the duties of microbiologists:
- Plan and conduct complex research projects, such as improving sterilization procedures or developing new drugs to combat infectious diseases
- Perform laboratory experiments that are used in the diagnosis and treatment of illnesses
- Supervise the work of biological technicians and other workers and evaluate the accuracy of their results
- Isolate and maintain cultures of bacteria or other microorganisms for study
- Identify and classify microorganisms found in specimens collected from humans, plants, animals, or the environment
- Monitor the effect of microorganisms on plants, animals, other microorganisms, or the environment
- Review literature and the findings of other researchers and attend conferences
- Prepare technical reports, publish research papers, and make recommendations based on their research findings
- Present research findings to scientists, nonscientist executives, engineers, other colleagues, and the public
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of microbiologists is expected to increase by 5 percent from 2018 to 2028, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
This is because microbiologists need to contribute to basic research, solve problems encountered in industrial production processes, and monitor environmental conditions to ensure public health and safety.
The US BLS reports that microbiologists earn a median annual wage of $71,650 annually. That is, they earn $34.45 per hour.
Here are Tp 21 Masters degree Scholarships for Microbiology Students
#7. Research scientist (life sciences)
A researcher within life sciences primarily plans and conducts experiments and analyzes results. This process is done either with a definite end use, such as to develop new products, processes, or commercial applications or to broaden scientific understanding.
A bachelor’s degree in biology can be a starting point for a career as a life science research scientist.
What Does a Research scientist Do?
As one of the marketable careers in biology, below are the duties of a Research scientist (life sciences):
- Create and conduct experiments.
- Process and analyze results and data.
- Communicate results to the scientific community through published papers.
- Collaborate with industry/academia to apply research results and develop new techniques, products, or practices.
- Present ongoing work and findings to colleagues at academic conferences, and summarise the nature of the research, methodology, and results.
- Carry out fieldwork to inform research.
- Teach, demonstrate to, or supervise students (in academia) and train and supervise other staff members.
According to Glassdoor, the national average salary for a Research Scientist is $87,358 in the United States. Meanwhile, on payscale, the average salary for a Research Scientist is $78,847.
In the UK, research scientists who have completed an MSc, MPhil, or Ph.D. typically earn from £25,000 to £40,000.
#8. Wildlife Biologists
Wildlife biologists are primarily responsible for studying the biology, behavior, and habitats of various animal populations in the wild. Furthermore, they study how human activity affects animals’ behavior and population size.
Wildlife biologists help preserve species of concern by reducing human-wildlife conflicts and managing sustainable hunting.
What Does a Do?
As one of the marketable careers in biology, below are the duties of Wildlife Biologists:
- Conduct census projects, research studies, and complex data analysis.
- Study ecosystems.
- Work to save endangered species.
- Evaluate the impact of commercial ventures on local wildlife.
- Study wildlife disease transmission.
- Trap, tag or relocate animals for conservation purposes.
- Determine the environmental effects of land and water use and also develop land and water use plans.
- Interact with fish and game wardens and wildlife rehabilitators to coordinate the management of local wildlife.
- Conduct and analyze plant and animal biological data about relationships between organisms and their environment.
- Write research papers, scientific reports, and scholarly articles to explain findings.
- Prepare environmental impact reports.
- Present findings to academics, the general public, and other stakeholders
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of wildlife biologists is expected to increase by 5 percent from 2018 to 2028, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
The US BLS reports the median annual wage for wildlife biologists as $63,420. That is, they earn $30.49 per hour.
According to Glassdoor, the national average salary for a Wildlife Biologist is $54,660 in the United States. Meanwhile, from payscale, the average salary for a Wildlife Biologist is $51,375.
#9. Health Educator
A health educator teaches people how to live positive and healthy lifestyles. They instruct them on nutrition and avoiding unhealthy activities like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
According to balance careers, the health educator aims to provide people with tools to avoid developing life-threatening health issues.
To pursue a career as a health educator, one should have at least a bachelor’s degree in a field such as health, wellness, biology, human development, or a related field.
What Does a Health Educator Do?
As one of the marketable careers in biology, below are the duties of a health educator:
- Evaluate the health needs of the people and communities they serve.
- Develop programs, materials, and events to teach people about health issues.
- Teach people how to handle existing health conditions.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of programs and educational materials.
- Supervise the staff that implements health education programs.
- Collect and analyze data to know a particular community and improve programs and services.
- Help people find health services or information.
- Provide training programs for community health workers or other health professionals.
- Advocate for better health resources and health policies.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of health educators is to increase by 11 percent from 2018 to 2028, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
This growth will result from efforts to improve health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs by teaching people healthy behaviors and explaining how to use available healthcare services.
The US BLS reports that the median annual wage for health educators is $ 54,220.
On Glassdoor, the national average salary for a Health Educator is $50,459 in the United States. According to Payscale, the average salary for a Health Educator is $44,710.
#10. Pharmaceutical/Medical Product Sales Representative
A pharmaceutical or medical product sales representative helps increase the public’s awareness of medical products. They sell medical supplies, IT products, medicines, and more to hospitals, clinics, and other medical practices.
To become a pharmaceutical sales representative, you must have a strong knowledge of chemistry, anatomy, biology, and physiology to be able to explain to doctors the effect of a new drug on their patients.
Also, they need strong communication and interpersonal skills since they regularly relate to people.
What Does a Pharmaceutical/Medical Product Sales Representative Do?
As one of the marketable careers in biology, below are the duties of a pharmaceutical or medical product sales representative:
- Identify prospective customers by using business directories, following leads from existing clients, and attending trade shows and conferences.
- Contact new and existing customers to discuss their needs and explain how specific products and services can meet them.
- Help customers select products to meet customers needs, product specifications, and regulations.
- Explain product features that will meet customers’ needs and exhibit the capabilities and limitations of their products.
- Answer customers’ questions about the prices, availability, and uses of the products they are selling
- Negotiate prices and terms of sales and service agreements
- Prepare sales contracts and submit orders for processing
- Collaborate with colleagues to exchange information, such as information on selling strategies and marketing information
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment increased by 2 percent from 2018 to 2028.
The US BLS reports that the median annual wage for a pharmaceutical or Medical Product Sales Representative is $79,680.
On payscale, the average salary for a pharmaceutical sales representative is $78,869. Meanwhile, Glassdoor reports that the national average salary for a Pharmaceutical Sales Representative is $70,821 in the United States.
Frequently Asked Questions
Biology is a good degree for anyone who wants to study life. Studying for a biology degree will open doors to various career opportunities for you as the field is broad.
A bachelor’s degree in a biology major will take at most four years for you to complete.
Several job opportunities await a biology degree holder in the following areas: research, medicine, agriculture, schools, hospitals, laboratories, zoos, and a lot more.
As one of the prerequisite courses for pre-med school, a bachelor’s degree in biology is a great educational starting point if you ultimately plan to pursue a medical career.
It provides you with the foundational knowledge and undergraduate credentials to enter a medical profession or medical school.
According to indeed.com, the average salary for a Biologist is $71,547 annually in the United States. However, according to Glassdoor’s report, the average annual wage for biologists is $54,660. Meanwhile, Payscale reports that the average salary for a Biologist is $52,855.
Conclusion
Biology is a core subject for careers in the science and health sectors. Earning a biology major could lead to a career in academics, pharmaceuticals, laboratory research, zoology, and much more. I hope this article helps you in making your career choice.
References
- TheBalanceCareers – Top Jobs for Biology Degree Majors
- TheBestSchools – What Can You Do With a Biology Degree?
- USBLS – Occupational Outlook Handbook of Life, Physical, and Social Science
- LearnHowToBecome – Biology Degrees & Careers
- CareerExplorer – What does a biologist do?
- EnvironmentalScience.org – How to Become a Biologist/Biological Scientist
- 20 Best Masters Degree Scholarships for Biotechnology Students
- 18 Best Biomedical Engineering Schools in the World
- 30 Marketable Courses in the USA
Does this article meet your immediate needs? If yes, leave us a 5-star rating in the Review Box below. If not, leave us an opinion in the comment box to express your concern or ask a question, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
