A biology degree opens doors to many exciting job opportunities across different fields. From healthcare to environmental conservation, graduates can find fulfilling careers that match their interests and skills. With the right knowledge and training, biology majors can work in laboratories, hospitals, research facilities, and even outdoors.
The skills gained during a biology degree program—like critical thinking, data analysis, and scientific writing—make graduates valuable in many industries. These transferable skills help biology majors stand out in the job market, even for positions that might not directly relate to biological sciences.
1. Biology Teachers and Educators
Biology teachers inspire the next generation of scientists in middle schools, high schools, museums, and nature centers.
Most teaching positions require education degrees or teaching certificates beyond a biology degree. Many states offer alternative certification pathways for those with science backgrounds.
Daily responsibilities often include:
- Preparing and delivering biology lessons and labs
- Grading assignments and providing feedback
- Meeting with students who need extra help
- Developing curriculum materials
A typical day involves teaching multiple classes, supervising laboratory activities, grading work during prep periods, and meeting with colleagues or parents.
Career growth opportunities include department chair positions, curriculum development roles, or advancement to teaching at community colleges or universities with additional education.
2. Research Scientists and Assistants
Research scientists with biology degrees work in universities, government agencies, and private companies.
Many positions require a master’s or PhD, though some assistant roles accept candidates with bachelor’s degrees.
Daily responsibilities include:
- Designing and conducting experiments
- Collecting and analyzing data
- Maintaining detailed lab records
- Writing research papers and grant proposals
A typical workday might begin with team meetings to discuss project progress. Scientists spend most hours running experiments, analyzing samples, and documenting results. They use various lab techniques like PCR, gel electrophoresis, and cell culture.
Career growth often follows paths from research assistant to lead scientist to research director. Many researchers also teach or mentor students alongside their lab work.
3. Biotechnology and Bioinformatics Specialists
The biotechnology industry needs biology graduates who understand both science and technology.
Entry-level positions generally require a bachelor’s degree, though specialized roles may need a master’s.
Common job duties include:
- Developing new products or medical treatments
- Testing and improving production methods
- Analyzing biological data using computer programs
- Creating databases of genetic information
Bioinformatics specialists spend their days using computer algorithms to analyze DNA sequences, protein structures, and other biological data. They collaborate with lab scientists to interpret experimental results.
Career advancement opportunities grow as industries like pharmaceutical development, agricultural biotechnology, and medical diagnostics expand. Specialists can move into management roles or become consultants for multiple companies.
4. Physician Assistants and Nurses
Biology graduates often choose careers as physician assistants (PAs) or nurses.
Both paths require additional education beyond a biology degree. PAs need to complete a master’s program (typically 2-3 years) and pass a certification exam.
Their daily work includes:
- Examining patients
- Diagnosing illnesses
- Creating treatment plans
- Prescribing medications
Nurses start by earning a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) and passing the NCLEX exam. They might work in hospitals, clinics, or schools.
A typical day for a nurse might involve checking vital signs, giving medications, and updating patient records. Many nurses work 12-hour shifts, caring for multiple patients at once.
Career growth in these fields is strong. PAs can specialize in areas like emergency medicine or surgery. Nurses can become nurse practitioners or nurse anesthetists with more education.
5. Dentists, Pharmacists, and Physical Therapists
Biology majors interested in oral health, medications, or movement science have excellent options.
These careers need graduate degrees beyond a biology bachelor’s.
Dentists complete 4 years of dental school after college. Their workday includes examining teeth, filling cavities, and performing extractions. Many dentists own private practices.
Pharmacists need a Doctor of Pharmacy degree (PharmD). They spend their days:
- Dispensing medications
- Checking for drug interactions
- Advising patients on proper medication use
- Consulting with doctors
The Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree prepares students for careers as licensed pharmacists.
Prerequisites for pharmacy school often include courses in biology, chemistry, and physics—subjects biology majors typically study. Students might need to take the Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT) as part of the application process.
Physical therapists earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. They help patients recover from injuries through exercise programs and hands-on therapy.
Career advancement might mean opening a private practice, specializing in a specific area, or moving into management roles.
6. Surgeons and EMTs
The contrast between surgeons and EMTs shows the range of medical careers available with biology backgrounds.
Surgeons follow a long education path: medical school (4 years), residency (3-7 years), and possibly fellowship training. Their precise work happens in operating rooms, where they perform procedures ranging from simple repairs to complex transplants.
EMTs (Emergency Medical Technicians) can start with just a few months of training after high school, though biology degrees provide valuable background knowledge. They respond to emergency calls, provide first aid, and transport patients to hospitals.
A surgeon’s day involves patient consultations, surgeries, and follow-up care. EMTs work in shifts, responding to calls that can range from minor injuries to life-threatening emergencies.
Both careers offer advancement. Surgeons can specialize in fields like neurosurgery or cardiothoracic surgery. EMTs can become paramedics or move into emergency management.
7. Public Health Professionals
Biology graduates find meaningful work addressing community health needs and preventing disease outbreaks.
Community health workers often need only a bachelor’s degree to start.
Their responsibilities include:
- Collecting data on health trends
- Developing educational programs
- Connecting people with healthcare resources
- Working with vulnerable populations
Career growth in public health can lead to positions with government agencies like the CDC, international organizations like WHO, or non-profits focused on health issues.
Many public health professionals enjoy the balance of office work and fieldwork. They might spend some days analyzing data and others meeting with community members or inspecting facilities.
8. Science Writers and Technical Writers
Science writers transform complicated biological concepts into accessible content for magazines, websites, newspapers, and scientific publications.
A biology graduate might enter this field by building a portfolio of sample articles or pursuing a certificate in science writing. Many start by freelancing before finding full-time positions.
Typical responsibilities include:
- Researching scientific discoveries and breakthroughs
- Interviewing scientists and experts
- Writing clear, accurate articles about biology topics
- Fact-checking and verifying scientific information
During a typical workday, a science writer might attend a research presentation, conduct interviews, draft articles, and coordinate with editors or clients.
Career advancement might lead to senior editor positions, specialized science communication roles, or establishing an independent consulting practice.
9. Environmental Scientists and Ecologists
Environmental scientists examine how humans affect the natural world. They collect soil, water, and air samples to detect pollution levels and assess ecosystem health.
A biology graduate might enter this field with just a bachelor’s degree, though many positions prefer a master’s. Additional certification in environmental management can increase job prospects.
Daily responsibilities include:
- Conducting field studies to gather environmental data
- Analyzing samples in laboratories
- Creating reports on environmental conditions
- Advising organizations on environmental regulations
A typical workday might involve morning fieldwork collecting samples, afternoon lab analysis, and report writing. They often collaborate with government agencies or private companies.
Career advancement can lead to senior scientist positions, project management roles, or policy development.
10. Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists
Zoologists and wildlife biologists study animal behavior, physical characteristics, and how animals interact with their environments.
Most positions require at least a master’s degree, with fieldwork experience being highly valuable. Specialization in specific animal groups or ecosystems can help biology graduates stand out.
Common job duties include:
- Observing animals in their natural habitats
- Tracking population changes and migration patterns
- Developing conservation strategies
- Managing wildlife rehabilitation programs
Their workday varies widely—they might spend dawn hours tracking animals, midday recording data, and evenings analyzing findings. Extensive travel to remote locations is common.
Career growth can include research leadership positions, conservation program direction, or academic roles teaching the next generation.
11. Marine Biologists and Botanists
Marine biologists focus on ocean life while botanists study plants. Both specialties involve understanding how these organisms function and adapt to changing environments.
A biology degree serves as the foundation, but specialized graduate study is typically needed. Field experience through internships can provide essential practical skills.
Typical responsibilities include:
- Cataloging species diversity in specific habitats
- Researching plant or marine organism adaptations
- Assessing impacts of climate change on populations
- Designing restoration projects for damaged ecosystems
A marine biologist might spend mornings diving to collect samples, followed by lab work analyzing specimens. Botanists often split time between greenhouse experiments and field sites.
Career progression can involve becoming a research director, conservation area manager, or consultant for environmental restoration projects.
12. Pharmaceutical Sales Representatives
Pharmaceutical sales representatives use their biology background to explain medical products to healthcare professionals.
Entry-level positions typically require a bachelor’s degree in biology or related field, with some companies offering training programs for new graduates.
Daily responsibilities include:
- Meeting with doctors and hospital staff to discuss medications
- Explaining scientific benefits of products in understandable terms
- Organizing educational events for healthcare providers
- Tracking sales data and market trends
A typical workday involves traveling between medical offices, giving presentations, answering questions about drug mechanisms, and maintaining relationships with clients.
Career growth opportunities exist for successful representatives. They may advance to regional manager positions, specialized product lines, or marketing roles within pharmaceutical companies.
13. Biotech and Manufacturing Sales Professionals
Biotech and manufacturing sales professionals market scientific equipment, reagents, and technologies to laboratories and research facilities.
Most start with a biology degree and gain product knowledge through company training programs.
Their key responsibilities include:
- Demonstrating complex scientific equipment to potential buyers
- Translating technical features into practical benefits for researchers
- Building relationships with procurement departments at universities and companies
- Staying current on new technologies in the field
During a typical day, these professionals might demonstrate laboratory equipment, prepare quotes for customers, attend scientific conferences, or collaborate with the product development team.
Career progression often leads to senior sales positions, account management for major clients, or product management roles that shape company strategy.
14. Biophysicists and Biochemists
Biophysicists and biochemists study the chemical and physical principles of living things and biological processes.
Most positions require a Ph.D., though entry-level roles may be available with a bachelor’s degree in biology plus laboratory experience.
Daily responsibilities include:
- Conducting complex research experiments
- Analyzing biological samples and data
- Developing new testing methods for drugs or other biological products
- Writing research papers and grant proposals
A typical workday might involve morning lab meetings, several hours of experimental work, data analysis, and documentation. These professionals often work in teams at universities, pharmaceutical companies, or government agencies.
Career progression usually follows this path:
- Research assistant → Research associate → Senior scientist → Lab director
- Starting salary ranges from $50,000-$80,000, reaching $120,000+ with experience
15. Epidemiologists and Microbiologists
Epidemiologists study disease patterns and outbreaks, while microbiologists focus on microscopic organisms like bacteria and viruses.
Most epidemiologist positions require a master’s degree in public health with epidemiology concentration, while microbiologists can often start with a bachelor’s in biology.
Key responsibilities include:
- Collecting and analyzing data to investigate disease causes
- Planning and directing studies of public health problems
- Communicating findings to health practitioners and the public
- Developing protocols for disease containment
A typical day might involve analyzing disease data, meeting with health officials, writing reports, and planning future studies.
Career advancement opportunities include moving into senior research positions, specialized roles in infectious disease control, or leadership positions in public health agencies.
Salaries typically start at $45,000-$70,000 and can exceed $110,000 with experience and advanced degrees.
16. Cell Biology and Development Specialists
Cell biology focuses on understanding life at its most basic level. This field examines how cells function, divide, and interact with their environment.
Starting in cell biology typically requires a master’s degree or PhD beyond a bachelor’s in biology. Some entry-level lab technician positions accept candidates with just a bachelor’s degree.
Daily responsibilities include:
- Conducting experiments with microscopes and cell cultures
- Analyzing cellular processes using specialized equipment
- Recording and interpreting research data
- Collaborating with other scientists on research projects
A typical workday might involve preparing samples, running tests, analyzing results, and documenting findings. Lab meetings and literature reviews are also common activities.
Career advancement can lead to roles like senior researcher, lab director, or principal investigator. Many professionals in this field work at universities, research institutes, or biotechnology companies.
17. Nutrition and Anatomy Specialists
Nutrition and anatomy specialists study how body systems function and how nutrients affect health. This growing field connects biological knowledge with practical health applications.
A biology degree serves as a foundation, but specialized roles often require additional education. Nutritionists typically need certification programs, while anatomists may pursue medical school or graduate studies.
Professionals in this area might:
- Design nutrition plans for individuals or groups
- Research how nutrients affect different body systems
- Teach anatomy to students in medical or health fields
- Develop educational materials about human biology
The workday varies widely. A nutritionist might see clients, analyze dietary needs, and create meal plans. An anatomy specialist might teach classes, conduct research, or work with medical professionals.
Career growth opportunities include becoming a registered dietitian, health educator, or medical illustrator. Some professionals transition into healthcare administration or public health policy.
18. Behavior, Evolution, and Animal Science Specialists
This field explores how and why organisms behave as they do, how species change over time, and how to manage animal populations effectively.
Wildlife biologists and zoologists typically need at least a bachelor’s degree, while research positions often require graduate education.
Common job duties include:
- Observing animal behavior in natural habitats
- Collecting and analyzing biological samples
- Managing conservation projects for endangered species
- Developing breeding programs for captive animals
A typical day might involve fieldwork collecting data, laboratory analysis, or managing animal care facilities. Writing research papers and grant proposals is also common.
Career advancement paths include becoming a wildlife manager, conservation scientist, or research director. Many professionals find opportunities with government agencies, zoos, aquariums, or environmental consulting firms.
19. Clinical Research Associates, Cytotechnologists, and Medical Laboratory Scientists
These healthcare professionals play crucial roles in medical research, disease diagnosis, and laboratory testing, using their biology expertise in clinical settings.
A bachelor’s degree in biology or related field is typically required for entry-level positions, with cytotechnologists and medical laboratory scientists often needing specialized certification. Clinical research associates may benefit from additional certifications in clinical research.
Daily responsibilities include:
Clinical Research Associates:
– Monitoring clinical trials to ensure protocol compliance
– Collecting and validating patient data
– Coordinating between research sites and sponsors
– Ensuring regulatory requirements are met
Cytotechnologists:
– Examining cell samples under microscopes for abnormalities
– Identifying cancerous and pre-cancerous cells
– Preparing detailed reports on findings
– Collaborating with pathologists on diagnoses
Medical Laboratory Scientists:
– Analyzing body fluids, tissues, and cells
– Operating sophisticated laboratory equipment
– Performing complex tests for disease diagnosis
– Ensuring quality control in laboratory settings
A typical workday might involve sample preparation, detailed analytical work, documentation, and communication with healthcare teams. Work environments include hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, research institutions, and pharmaceutical companies.
Career progression typically follows these paths:
Clinical Research Associate: CRA I → CRA II → Senior CRA → Clinical Research Manager → Clinical Operations Director
Cytotechnologist: Staff Cytotechnologist → Senior Cytotechnologist → Laboratory Supervisor → Laboratory Manager
Medical Laboratory Scientist: MLS I → MLS II → Laboratory Specialist → Laboratory Supervisor → Laboratory Director
Starting salaries range from $45,000-$70,000, with experienced professionals earning $80,000-$110,000+ depending on specialization, location, and industry.
20. Science Policy and Advocacy
Biology degree holders can shape the future by working in science policy and advocacy roles. These positions connect scientific knowledge with government decision-making and public understanding.
Policy analysts with biology backgrounds evaluate scientific evidence and help craft legislation on issues like public health, environmental protection, and research funding. They work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or think tanks.
Some biologists become science advisors to legislators, explaining complex scientific concepts to help inform better policies. They translate technical information into understandable formats for non-scientists.
Advocacy positions allow biology graduates to champion important scientific causes. They might work for organizations focused on climate change, conservation, or medical research funding.
Job duties in this field often include:
- Analyzing proposed legislation for scientific accuracy
- Writing policy briefs and position papers
- Meeting with lawmakers and their staff
- Organizing grassroots campaigns
- Communicating science to media and public
Skills needed for success in science policy include strong communication abilities, political awareness, and deep scientific knowledge. Many positions require a graduate degree in biology plus policy experience.
Organizations hiring in this field include the American Institute of Biological Sciences, Federation of American Scientists, and government agencies like the EPA or NIH.
Science policy careers offer biology graduates the chance to make broad impacts beyond the laboratory, influencing how society uses and supports scientific research.
Internships and Student Organizations
Biology majors can gain valuable experience through internships at research labs, hospitals, and conservation organizations.
These positions help students apply classroom knowledge to real-world problems.
Many universities offer internships at local medical centers where students assist with patient care or lab work. For example, students might help process blood samples or observe surgical procedures.
Joining biology-related student organizations enhances learning outside the classroom. Groups and pre-med clubs connect students with mentors and peers. These organizations often host guest speakers, organize field trips, and provide volunteer opportunities.