What Can I Do With a Biology Degree? 15 Exciting Careers to Explore
If you’ve earned (or are thinking about earning) a biology degree, you’re probably asking: “What can I do with a biology degree?” The answer? A lot more than you might think.
Biology is one of the most versatile majors out there. From research labs to hospitals, wildlife preserves to classrooms, the knowledge gained in a biology program can lead to diverse and rewarding career paths. Whether you’re passionate about health, nature, science, or education, a biology degree can be the key to your future.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top career options, earning potential, and tips to help you make the most of your degree in biology.
Why Biology Is a Valuable Degree
Biology is the study of life — from the tiniest microorganisms to the largest ecosystems. It’s a foundational science that plays a role in health, medicine, the environment, and technology.
Here’s why a biology degree opens so many doors:
- Transferable Skills: Biology grads gain critical thinking, lab techniques, data analysis, writing, and problem-solving skills.
- Graduate School Ready: Many biology majors go on to med school, dental school, pharmacy, or research-based graduate programs.
- In-Demand Knowledge: With growing interest in sustainability, biotechnology, and healthcare, biology expertise is more valuable than ever.
Top Careers With a Biology Degree
Below are some of the most popular and lucrative career paths you can pursue with a biology degree.
| Career Title | Education Level Needed | Average Salary (US) | Field Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medical Doctor | Biology + Med School | $230,000+ | Healthcare |
| Biomedical Scientist | Bachelor’s / Master’s | $70,000–$95,000 | Research/Healthcare |
| Environmental Scientist | Bachelor’s / Master’s | $63,000–$75,000 | Environmental |
| Genetic Counselor | Master’s | $90,000+ | Medical |
| Biology Teacher | Bachelor’s + Teaching Cert | $45,000–$65,000 | Education |
| Marine Biologist | Bachelor’s / Master’s | $60,000–$85,000 | Environmental |
| Forensic Scientist | Bachelor’s | $60,000–$75,000 | Criminal Justice |
| Pharmaceutical Sales Rep | Bachelor’s | $70,000–$100,000+ | Business/Healthcare |
| Biotech Research Associate | Bachelor’s / Master’s | $60,000–$85,000 | Biotechnology |
| Public Health Analyst | Bachelor’s / Master’s | $65,000–$90,000 | Health & Policy |
Career Paths Explained
1. Healthcare & Medicine
Many biology students go on to medical school to become doctors, dentists, veterinarians, or physician assistants. If direct patient care isn’t your thing, you might consider lab-based roles like medical technologist or pathologist assistant.
Bonus options: Physical therapy, nursing, occupational therapy — all biology-friendly paths.
2. Research & Biotechnology
If you’re curious, detail-oriented, and love solving problems, research may be for you. Biotech firms, universities, and government agencies hire biology grads for research roles in genetics, pharmaceuticals, and infectious diseases.
Industries hiring: Biotech startups, pharmaceutical companies, academic labs.
3. Environmental Science
Want to save the planet? A biology degree is a great entry point to environmental careers like conservation biology, ecology, or climate research.
Job titles to explore:
- Wildlife Biologist
- Conservation Scientist
- Environmental Educator
4. Education & Teaching
If you’re passionate about inspiring the next generation, teaching biology at the high school or community college level is a rewarding path. Some even go into curriculum development or science communication.
Tip: Add a teaching certificate for K–12 roles or a master’s for higher ed.
5. Business & Sales
Biology majors aren’t limited to the lab. If you’re outgoing and persuasive, roles in medical or pharmaceutical sales can be incredibly lucrative.
Other options:
- Clinical trial management
- Healthcare marketing
- Product development
What If I Don’t Want a Lab Job?
Not everyone with a biology degree wants to work in a lab coat. Good news: your skills are valuable in many fields.
Here are a few unexpected but biology-relevant jobs:
- Science Writer or Journalist – Translate complex research into accessible articles or content.
- Patent Examiner – Help evaluate biomedical inventions.
- Regulatory Affairs Specialist – Ensure products meet safety standards.
- Science Policy Advisor – Bridge the gap between science and government policy.
Do I Need More Than a Bachelor’s Degree?
It depends on your career goals. Here’s a general rule of thumb:
| Goal | Recommended Education |
|---|---|
| Physician, Dentist, Pharmacist | Biology + Professional Degree |
| Research Scientist | Bachelor’s + Master’s/Ph.D. |
| Teacher (K–12) | Bachelor’s + Certification |
| Biotech or Sales Rep | Bachelor’s may be enough |
Skills That Make Biology Majors Stand Out
- Analytical Thinking
- Scientific Writing
- Laboratory Techniques
- Data Analysis (Excel, SPSS, R)
- Communication & Collaboration
- Time Management
Pairing your biology degree with tech skills (coding, bioinformatics, or data science) can make you even more competitive.
Your Biology Degree Is Just the Beginning
So, what can you do with a biology degree? The better question is: what can’t you do? Whether you’re interested in medicine, the environment, research, or beyond, biology opens doors to endless opportunities. It’s a flexible foundation that lets you shape your future — and pivot when needed.
If you’re already in a biology program or considering one, start thinking early about where you want it to take you. Seek internships, volunteer, network, and keep learning — your degree is powerful, but what you do with it is what really counts.