Students electing a major in biology may choose to study organisms on a cellular and molecular level, the genetics and development of organisms, the function processes of living things or the interrelationships of organisms within their environment. The study of biology provides a valuable background for those interested in science but uncertain of their choice of concentration. Not only are graduates aware of the processes and interactions of living things, but they acquire skills in scientific thinking and insight into the complex biological world.
Employment opportunities for graduates encompass a wide range of fields. Thirty to forty percent of biology majors continue in graduate or professional education. Others choose high school teaching or work as technicians and researchers in industry, hospitals or academic institutions. Some find positions in pharmaceutical sales, science libraries, fish and wildlife services, environmental protection and conservation agencies, meat and dairy inspection, and forestry services.
The bachelor's degree is often adequate preparation for entry jobs in testing, inspection and technical sales, but promotions are limited for those without advanced degrees.
(Check the Dictionary of Occupational Titles under section 041 for additional related careers.)
Salaries range greatly from one occupation, position, and work setting to another. According to the Summer 2008 NACE national salary survey for Bachelor's Degree Candidates in Biology, the average salary was $35,042.
American Association for the Advancement of Science - http://www.aaas.org/
American Institute of Biological Sciences - http://www.aibs.org/
American Society for Microbiology - http://www.asm.org/
Bio Online Career Center - http://www.bio.com/
Biotechnology Industry Organization - http://www.bio.org/
BioView.com - http://www.BioView.com/
Careers in Biochemistry and Microbiology (Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology) - http://www.faseb.org/careers/
HireBio.com - http://www.hireBio.com/
HireMedical.com - http://www.hireMedical.com/
HireRx.com - http://www.hireRx.com/
Science Careers - http://recruit.sciencemag.org/
Scientist's Employment Network - http://www.scijobs.org