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Biology is the study of life from the smallest organisms, like bacteria, to the largest animals and plants on earth. This broad field of study puts you on the path for many different possible jobs.

Having this degree can take you to labs, fieldwork, or graduate school. Many biology graduates opt to study in a specialized or related subject at the postgraduate level. It allows them to expand their skills and aid with professional growth. What can you do with a degree in biology?

Why Study Biology?

If you love science and nature, then biology may be the perfect option for you. Biology is the scientific study of life. Biologists investigate life on many different levels, from the smallest cells and species to vast ecosystems. Biology provides students with a fascinating and rich study path with a diverse range of options.

It is a practical entry-level study for advanced disciplines including veterinary science, medicine, microbiology, and public health.

Even without an advanced degree, biology graduates can find employment in a wide range of fields, depending on the nature of their studies. Aside from working in a lab, many biologists work in conservation, food science, agriculture, pharmaceutical companies, research and development (R&D), and other closely connected sectors. It offers a well-rounded learning experience with skills that translate to a variety of industries.

Branches of Biology

That versatility of biology is a significant draw for students who love science but are unsure how to put that interest to work. Biology is an umbrella term that breaks down in a variety of courses of life studies and employment options, such as:

  • Molecular Biology – The study of the molecular basis behind the biological activity
  • Cell Biology – The study of cell functions and structure
  • Microbiology – The study of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and prions
  • Genetics – The study of heredity and genes
  • Botany – The study of plant life
  • Anatomy and Physiology – The study of bodily structures of living organisms, including humans, and how they function
  • Zoology – The study of animals and animal systems
  • Ecology – The study of the relationships between organisms and their environment

These fields all have one thing in common – they focus on life, which is the fundamental study of biology. Biology is a general study of life, and these subclasses break life down by species or another variant. Microbiology studies microorganisms, for example. Cell biology is about cells and their place in life.

Who Should Consider a Degree in Biology?

The right student for a degree in biology is someone who loves science and is curious about the world they live in. You should not only be good at science but enjoy learning about it.

Someone interested in a biology degree will also want to have good attention to detail and an aptitude for math. Any scientific field, including biology, also requires analytical thinking and good verbal and written communication skills.

Biology Degree Careers

There are a variety of career options available for someone with a degree in biology, including some of these more common choices.

Laboratory or Research Technician

This is a practical choice for those with a biology degree. Laboratory technicians gather samples for examination and use laboratory equipment to conduct studies on substances.

They also maintain and clean their equipment and aid other biological and medical professionals with their studies and tests. Biological technicians may also be called laboratory assistants.

Pharmaceutical Sales

Biology graduates more interested in business might consider a career in pharmaceutical sales. Pharmaceutical and biotech companies are interested in individuals who are outgoing and understand the science of their products and side effects to help explain the value of their products to healthcare providers.

A degree in biology is also steppingstone to more advanced studies such as the following:

Healthcare

A biology degree is one of the most common degrees for those applying to medical school according to the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC). A solid foundation in biology will help you do well on the MCAT and medical courses, but it is also important to develop strong people skills through courses or a minor in psychology or human services.  Biology majors interested in nursing can apply to accelerated bachelor of science in nursing programs at other institutions to earn their RN license.

Veterinarian Careers

A biology degree can also prepare you for a career in veterinary medicine, especially if you enhance your degree with a minor or double major in equine studies and the appropriate internships.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapists are required to have a doctorate in physical therapy, and a biology degree with the appropriate internships provides the prerequisites for students to apply to graduate physical therapy schools.

Research Scientists

A biology degree is a great first step towards a career in scientific research. Research scientists conduct experiments to advance the field of medicine and basic science. An advanced degree is required to become a research scientist, and a biology degree offers the flexibility to apply to graduate schools in many specialized fields such as biotechnology, biochemistry, molecular biology, and more.

Genetic Counselor

Genetic counselors examine customers’ hereditary composition and speak with them about the potential of passing on a genetic illness or impairment to their children. They may also deal with people who are worried about the possibility of developing signs of genetic illnesses later in life. Genetic counselors require an advanced degree and board certification, and a bachelor’s in biology provides a solid foundation to apply to those graduate programs.

Biology Teacher

Biology teachers in K-12 education are important to preparing students for STEM careers and have a strong job outlook. Biology graduates have the foundational knowledge, but most states require students to also earn teacher certification and /or state board licensure to become teachers.

Government and Public Policy

Biology majors interested in helping to create policies that promote research or protect human health and environmental conservation, might consider a career in government. An advanced degree in public policy is often required but biology is a good first step towards understanding the science behind the policies.

Overview of Post BS in Biology

Once you decide biology is a course of study that interests you, the next step is to find the right program. Post University offers an undergraduate degree program that allows you to earn a Bachelor of Science in Biology degree via on-campus study.

A bachelor’s degree in biology from Post University includes the fundamentals of this scientific study. You will take classes in evolution, cellular structure and function, genetics, bioenergetics, and interacting systems.

You will gain a better knowledge of the scientific process and apply the scientific method to biological events using quantitative reasoning and modeling. In addition, you’ll learn about ethics in science and research.

As a student at Post University, you will conduct experiments, do scientific research, collect data, and improve your oral and written communication skills. The biology degree program at Post University also gives you the opportunity to see the possible career and graduate school opportunities available in molecular biology, microbiology, botany, zoology, ecology, and genetics.

Graduates of Post University’s B.S. in Biology program are on a path to seek careers in health science, research, education, and biotech fields or continue studying in a post-graduate degree program.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Now is the time to check out the B.S. in Biology program at Post University and contact us to learn more about becoming a biology major.

Thank you for reading! The views and information provided in this post do not reflect Post University programs and/or outcomes directly. If you are interested in learning more about our programs, you can find a complete list of our programs on our website or reach out directly!

Please note jobs, career outcomes, and/or salaries highlighted in this blog do not reflect jobs, career outcomes, and/or salaries expected from any Post program. To learn more about Post’s program and their outcomes, please fill out a form to speak with an admissions representative.