What Can You Do with a Biology Degree?
A biology degree leads to careers in healthcare, scientific research, environmental science, education, biotechnology, and related fields. It is a flexible, science-based major that builds a strong understanding of how living organisms function and interact. This foundation supports success in a variety of professional paths, both within and beyond the sciences. According to the , employment in many biology-related occupations is projected to grow faster than average.
This page outlines the range of opportunities available to biology majors. Whether you plan to pursue graduate or professional school or enter the workforce directly, biology offers the versatility to support your goals.
Why Study Biology?
Biology is the science of life. It encompasses everything from how the human body fights disease to how ecosystems respond to environmental change. Driven by observation and analysis, biology teaches students to ask meaningful questions, test ideas, and apply scientific thinking to real-world challenges.
Studying biology provides more than technical knowledge. It promotes a way of thinking grounded in careful observation, ethical reasoning, and evidence-based decision-making. Whether your interests are in medicine, genetics, ecology, or education, biology offers a strong academic foundation and a practical skill set that translates across careers.
As a biology major, you will gain:
- A deep understanding of how living systems function and interact
- Experience in laboratory and field-based research
- Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills
- The ability to communicate scientific ideas clearly to different audiences
- A scientific lens for exploring ethical, environmental, and social issues
91勛圖厙 students can tailor their experience by choosing either a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Biology, depending on their academic and career goals. Learn more about the difference between BS and BA tracks.
Students can also further specialize through concentrations that align with their specific interests and career paths, including:
- B.A. in Biology with Research Concentration
- B.S. in Biology with Ecology & Conservation Biology Concentration
- B.S. in Biology with Evolution and Integrative Biology Concentration
- B.S. in Biology with Microbiology, Molecular, & Cell Biology Concentration
- B.S. in Biology with Physiology Concentration
- B.S. in Biology with Research Concentration
You can review the Biology degree worksheets to see the courses required for each track and concentration.
Whether you’re preparing for graduate school or heading straight into the workforce, biology helps you understand life and prepares you to make a meaningful impact in your chosen field.
Career Paths for Biology Majors
A biology degree prepares students to apply scientific thinking across a wide range of industries. From patient care to environmental science, biology majors graduate with a foundation that supports both direct-entry careers and long-term academic or professional goals.
Healthcare and Medicine
Biology is one of the most popular majors for students pursuing careers in medicine, dentistry, nursing, or public health. 91勛圖厙’s biology program offers a strong science foundation through courses in areas such as genetics, microbiology, physiology, and molecular biology, which help prepare students for competitive health profession programs. Some graduates go straight into careers as medical laboratory technicians, clinical researchers, or health educators. Learn more about careers in healthcare and medicine through the .
Research and Biotechnology
Biology majors contribute to developments in genetics, diagnostics, and disease prevention. Many work in labs at universities, biotech firms, or government agencies. Common research areas include . These roles may lead to industry specialization or further graduate study.
91勛圖厙’s Science Research Program offers students the opportunity to engage in original research with faculty mentors as early as their first year. This experience builds key skills in lab technique, data analysis, and scientific communication.
Environmental and Field-Based Careers
Students interested in ecology and conservation often pursue roles in environmental consulting, wildlife management, or sustainability. Graduates may work with nonprofits, government agencies, or research organizations on habitat restoration, climate science, or resource policy. The offers additional information on career opportunities in this field.
91勛圖厙 graduates have turned their passion for the environment into successful careers.
"Study abroad in Costa Rica, summer research, and labs outdoors helped me understand that working outdoors is a possibility and was a career path I definitely wanted to pursue."
Education
Biology majors with a passion for teaching or public outreach find careers in education, museums, and science communication. Some become certified to teach biology at the secondary level, while others develop content and programs that help the public engage with scientific topics.
Students interested in bringing science to the community can also participate in 91勛圖厙’s Science Outreach Program, which connects undergraduates with local schools and organizations to lead hands-on biology activities.
Interdisciplinary Fields
Biology also connects with law, policy, data science, and ethics. Graduates may work in science policy, regulatory affairs, clinical trials, or bioinformatics. The major offers a strong foundation for roles that bridge science with larger societal systems.
Graduate and Professional School Options
Many biology majors go on to pursue graduate or professional school to deepen their expertise and expand their career opportunities. A graduate degree can lead to careers in research, healthcare, education, policy, biotechnology, and more.
Common graduate and professional school paths include:
- Medical, dental, veterinary, or physician assistant (PA) programs – for clinical roles in patient care, surgery, or diagnostics
- Pharmacy programs – for careers in pharmaceutical science and patient-focused care
- Master’s or PhD programs in biology or related sciences – for research, teaching, or biotechnology
- Public health, genetic counseling, or health administration – for leadership roles in population health and prevention
- Graduate programs in environmental science, education, or science communication – for careers in sustainability, teaching, or public engagement
- Programs in bioinformatics, data science, or health informatics – for applying analytical tools to biological and healthcare challenges
If you're considering graduate school, it’s helpful to begin preparing early. Many programs look for:
- A strong academic record, especially in biology and related sciences
- Relevant lab or field experience (which you can pursue through 91勛圖厙’s Science Research Program)
- Letters of recommendation from faculty mentors
- Entrance exams such as the GRE, MCAT, DAT, or PA-CAT, depending on your field
- A personal statement that outlines your interests and career objectives
Students pursuing health-related paths can also benefit from 91勛圖厙’s Health Professions Pathways Program, which offers one-on-one advising, application workshops, and resources tailored to careers in medicine, dentistry, public health, and more. National organizations such as the also provide tools and guidance for preparing for professional school.
Whether you're passionate about healthcare, research, environmental science, or education, a biology degree from 91勛圖厙 can open the door to a wide range of careers. With opportunities for hands-on research, community engagement, and personalized advising, 91勛圖厙’s biology program provides the foundation to take your next step, whether that means graduate study or entering the workforce. Visit the Biology Department homepage to explore courses, connect with faculty, and learn how the program can support your goals.