If you’re interested in the science of life and pursuing financially fulfilling careers in biomedical science, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and the medical field, you may consider majoring in Biology.
Over 3 million jobs exist in fields related to Biology in the US alone, with sixty-nine percent of those jobs requiring a bachelor’s degree in Biology. From pharmaceutical sales representatives to respiratory therapists, there are a number of high-paying career paths that graduates can pursue with a Bachelor’s in Biology degree.
Below, we’ll unpack what students can expect from a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and five high-paying biology jobs students can pursue after graduation.
What is a Bachelor’s degree in Biology?
A Bachelor’s in Biology emphasizes studying living things, including plants, animals, and bacteria. Biology degrees also focus on many other disciplines, including physics, mathematics, chemistry, geology, law, statistics, and psychology.
Students with Biology degrees are prepared for a range of careers in the scientific, environmental, and medical fields.
Biology degrees in Connecticut often include either a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Biology or a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Biology.
While a general Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Biology degree is an excellent choice for students to keep options open as they advance their studies, a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Biology primarily focuses on the natural sciences as many students in these programs prepare for careers in the medical field. This degree is also an excellent choice for individuals wanting to pursue a scientific research career.
Every college and university will offer different degree types, courses, and requirements, so students should research what degree is best for them and which courses they will need to take.
Generally speaking, however, students can expect to take the following Biology courses in a Biology degree in CT program:
- Biology
- Calculus
- Chemistry
- Genetics
- Molecular Cell Biology
- Physics
- Principles of Ecology and Evolution
Some programs also offer students the opportunity to perform independent research, complete lab internships, or study abroad in addition to their coursework.
5 Biology jobs you can pursue with a Bachelor’s in Biology
Through its versatility, a biology degree in CT can pave the way toward a fast-growing field with various rewarding and high-paying jobs. Candidates often pursue Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) related fields, but many Biology degree holders turn to other professions or use their Biology degree to attend graduate, nursing, or medical school.
1. Forensic science technician
Forensic science technicians work in laboratories and on crime scenes to help law enforcement solve crimes.
Typically, forensic scientists analyze crime scenes and collect evidence, take photographs of crime scenes and evidence, record observations, catalog and preserve evidence, and reconstruct crime scenes.
More specifically, forensic biologists and chemists work in laboratories to analyze evidence using computers and high-tech equipment. They may also be called to testify during court proceedings.
The median annual salary for forensic science technicians is $64,940, with the highest ten percent earning more than $107,490.
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2. Scientific research manager
Science research managers fill an administrative role rather than research, as they are responsible for overseeing the work of scientists including biologists, chemists, and physicists.
Day-to-day, they may complete some of the following tasks and duties:
- Coordinate project meetings and assign tasks
- Help budget resources for projects and programs (e.g., staff and equipment).
- Hire and evaluate scientists and technicians, as well as other administrative staff members
- Ordering supplies and ensuring laboratories are stocked for tests and experiments
- Work with project leads and executives to develop goals for research development
Scientific research managers typically work in offices and can be employed by government agencies, consultancies, universities, or corporations. Natural science managers, which includes general scientific research managers, earn a median annual salary of $157,740, with the highest ten percent earning more than $239,200.
3. Environmental scientist
Environmental scientists are among the many popular and rewarding jobs in biology. They analyze environmental problems and develop solutions to address them. They also collect data for research projects, samples of air, soil, water, and other materials, analyze samples, and prepare technical reports based on their findings.
Some environmental scientists focus on designed to protect human health, while others find ways to minimize humanity’s impact on the ecosystem.
Environmental scientists may work for the federal or state government, private agencies, universities, or nonprofit organizations.
The median annual wage for environmental scientists is $78,980, with the highest ten percent earning more than $133,660.
4. Biomedical engineer
Biomedical engineers combine engineering and science principles to design and create equipment, devices, computer systems, and software.
They typically do the following:
- Collaborate with manufacturing staff on the safety and effectiveness of biomedical equipment
- Design equipment and devices, such as artificial internal organs, replacements for body parts, and machines for diagnosing medical problems
- Prepare procedures and write technical reports and research papers
- Present research findings to a variety of audiences, including scientists, clinicians, managers, other engineers, and the public
- Work with scientists to research how engineering principles apply to biological systems
These individuals make a median annual salary of $100,730, with the highest ten percent earning more than $154,350.
5. Zoologists
Zoologists study animals in captivity and in the wild and how they interact with their ecosystems. They mainly focus on undomesticated animals, their behavior, and the impact humans have on wildlife and natural habitats.
A zoologist’s study of animals includes conducting scientific tests and experiments, such as taking blood samples to assess an animal’s health and researching their habitats. They also typically research specific types of animals, such as birds.
They earn a median annual salary of $70,600, with the highest ten percent earning more than $110,590.
Earn your Bachelor’s in Biology at University of Bridgeport
If you are ready to pursue an exciting job in biology and sharpen skills in collaboration, communication, creativity, time management, and problem-solving, it’s time to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Biology at University of Bridgeport.
Through our curriculum, internships, and research opportunities, candidates can pursue their passions while helping their community and the world. Plus, our comprehensive student support services team is ready to help you succeed in college and your future career.