What Can You Do With a Biology Degree: 21 Exciting Career Paths for Amazing Success
A biology degree is one of the most versatile and fascinating academic qualifications you can earn. It offers a strong foundation in understanding life—from microscopic cells to complex ecosystems—and opens the door to a wide range of fulfilling and impactful careers. If you’ve ever wondered, what can you do with a biology degree, you’re in for an exciting exploration of opportunities that blend science, innovation, and purpose.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll uncover 21 dynamic career paths you can pursue with a biology degree, along with insights on salaries, industries, and the skills that make you valuable in today’s job market. Whether you’re passionate about medicine, the environment, research, or technology, this article will help you discover where your biology degree can take you.
1. What Can You Do With a Biology Degree: Understanding the Basics
Before we dive into career options, let’s start with the foundation—what exactly does a biology degree cover?
A biology degree equips you with the knowledge to study living organisms, including humans, animals, plants, and microorganisms. You’ll learn about genetics, anatomy, physiology, ecology, biochemistry, and molecular biology. But beyond the classroom, you’ll also gain hands-on experience in lab work, field research, and scientific communication.
If you’re asking, what can you do with a biology degree, the short answer is—plenty. From healthcare to environmental management, education to biotechnology, biology graduates find themselves in roles that impact nearly every aspect of life and society.
2. Careers in Healthcare and Medicine
One of the most popular answers to what can you do with a biology degree lies in the medical and healthcare fields. Biology is the cornerstone of medicine, and your degree can pave the way to numerous rewarding careers.
2.1 Medical Doctor or Surgeon
If you pursue further studies, a biology degree provides the essential foundation for medical school. Many future physicians start with a biology major before specializing in areas like cardiology, pediatrics, or surgery.
2.2 Dentist
Dentistry also values biology graduates because of the understanding of anatomy and physiology required to care for patients’ oral health.
2.3 Pharmacist
A biology degree prepares you for pharmacy school, where you can apply biological and chemical knowledge to create and dispense life-saving medications.
2.4 Physician Assistant or Nurse Practitioner
These roles combine patient care and diagnostic work—perfect for biology graduates seeking direct involvement in healthcare without going through full medical school.
3. Careers in Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals
When you think about what can you do with a biology degree, biotechnology should immediately come to mind. Biotech is an industry that fuses biology with technology to solve problems in medicine, agriculture, and environmental science.
3.1 Biomedical Scientist
Biomedical scientists work on understanding diseases and developing treatments. Their research helps improve vaccines, medications, and diagnostic tools.
3.2 Genetic Counselor
If you’re fascinated by DNA, becoming a genetic counselor could be your calling. You’ll help patients understand genetic conditions, testing results, and family health risks.
3.3 Biotech Researcher
In biotech companies, biology graduates conduct experiments that lead to new products such as medical devices, enzymes, or synthetic materials.
3.4 Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
For those who enjoy communication and science, biology graduates can thrive in pharmaceutical sales, educating healthcare professionals about new drugs and therapies.
4. Careers in Environmental Science and Conservation
Still wondering what can you do with a biology degree if you love nature? Environmental science offers countless opportunities to make a difference in protecting our planet.
4.1 Environmental Scientist
Environmental scientists study air, water, and soil to develop sustainable solutions for pollution, climate change, and resource management.
4.2 Wildlife Biologist
This career allows you to work in the field, studying animals in their natural habitats, tracking population trends, and contributing to conservation strategies.
4.3 Ecologist
Ecologists examine how organisms interact with their environments and help maintain biodiversity.
4.4 Marine Biologist
If you’re passionate about oceans, marine biology lets you explore life under the sea—from coral reefs to whales.
5. Research and Academia
A key answer to what can you do with a biology degree is research. The scientific method and analytical skills learned during your studies are invaluable in laboratories and universities.
5.1 Academic Researcher
Working at universities or research institutes, academic biologists conduct experiments, publish papers, and mentor students.
5.2 Laboratory Technician
Biology graduates with strong lab skills are in demand across industries. Lab technicians support research by preparing samples, conducting tests, and analyzing data.
5.3 Professor or Lecturer
After earning an advanced degree, you can teach biology at colleges or universities and inspire the next generation of scientists.
6. Agriculture and Food Science Careers
Biology plays a vital role in agriculture and food production. If you’re asking what can you do with a biology degree in these sectors, you’ll find opportunities that merge science with sustainability.
6.1 Agricultural Scientist
These professionals develop better crop varieties, sustainable farming methods, and pest control strategies to ensure food security.
6.2 Food Scientist
Food scientists work on improving food safety, nutrition, and shelf life. Your biology background helps you understand microorganisms, enzymes, and metabolic processes.
6.3 Plant Biologist or Botanist
Studying plants’ growth, genetics, and ecosystems can lead to careers in agriculture, horticulture, or botanical research.
7. Careers in Education and Science Communication
If you love sharing knowledge, what can you do with a biology degree? You can educate and inspire others.
7.1 High School Biology Teacher
Teaching biology allows you to pass on your passion for science while shaping young minds.
7.2 Science Communicator or Writer
Many biology graduates write for scientific publications, websites, or educational platforms, translating complex research into engaging content for general audiences.
7.3 Museum Educator or Science Outreach Coordinator
These professionals design educational programs, exhibits, and events that bring biology to life for visitors.
8. Forensic Science and Criminal Investigation
Biology’s application in solving crimes is both fascinating and practical. Wondering what can you do with a biology degree in this field? Plenty.
8.1 Forensic Biologist
Forensic biologists analyze DNA, blood, and other biological evidence to help law enforcement solve crimes.
8.2 Crime Lab Technician
Working in a lab, you’ll conduct tests that connect suspects to evidence or identify unknown substances.
8.3 Toxicologist
Toxicologists examine how chemicals and poisons affect living organisms, often assisting in criminal investigations or drug development.
9. Careers in Public Health and Epidemiology
If you’re drawn to population health and disease prevention, a biology degree opens many doors.
9.1 Epidemiologist
Epidemiologists study patterns of diseases, track outbreaks, and develop prevention strategies—an especially important role in our post-pandemic world.
9.2 Public Health Analyst
Using your biological knowledge, you can analyze health data and inform government or community programs that improve wellbeing.
9.3 Immunologist
An advanced biology-related role focused on understanding the immune system and developing vaccines or allergy treatments.
10. Careers in Data Science and Bioinformatics
A modern twist to what can you do with a biology degree lies in the intersection of biology and technology.
10.1 Bioinformatician
Bioinformaticians use computer science and biology to analyze large datasets—such as genetic codes or protein sequences—to uncover new biological insights.
10.2 Computational Biologist
This role involves using mathematical models and algorithms to understand biological systems.
10.3 Data Analyst (Biological Focus)
With some additional training in data analytics, biology graduates can enter the rapidly growing field of data science, interpreting biological and medical data for research and industry applications.
11. Careers in Government and Policy
Biology graduates play vital roles in shaping science-based public policy. So when thinking what can you do with a biology degree, don’t overlook the public sector.
11.1 Environmental Policy Analyst
These professionals craft and assess policies related to sustainability, conservation, and environmental protection.
11.2 Health Policy Advisor
You can work with government agencies to create health programs, manage disease control, or develop regulations for medical research.
11.3 Science Administrator
This role involves overseeing funding, compliance, and ethics for government-funded research programs.
12. Careers in Business and Industry
Biology majors aren’t confined to labs or fieldwork. If you have an entrepreneurial spirit, you’ll find plenty of business-oriented answers to what can you do with a biology degree.
12.1 Biotechnology Entrepreneur
Start your own biotech or eco-friendly business by developing innovative products or services.
12.2 Quality Control Specialist
Biology graduates ensure that products—from food to pharmaceuticals—meet regulatory and safety standards.
12.3 Project Manager (Scientific Field)
Manage teams and budgets for research projects, clinical trials, or product development in science-based companies.
13. Careers in Veterinary and Animal Science
Animal lovers often ask what can you do with a biology degree if you love working with creatures big and small.
13.1 Veterinarian
While you’ll need veterinary school, your biology degree is an essential foundation.
13.2 Veterinary Technician
Assist veterinarians in caring for animals, performing lab tests, and managing medical records.
13.3 Animal Behaviorist
Study animal psychology and help improve welfare and training practices.
14. Emerging and Future-Focused Fields
As technology and biology continue to merge, new career paths are constantly emerging.
14.1 Synthetic Biologist
Design and engineer new biological systems or organisms for use in medicine, agriculture, or materials science.
14.2 Biotech Startup Innovator
With the explosion of biotech startups, biology graduates are joining teams that revolutionize healthcare, sustainability, and bioengineering.
14.3 Astrobiologist
If space fascinates you, astrobiology combines biology and astronomy to explore life beyond Earth.
15. Skills You Gain From a Biology Degree
When evaluating what can you do with a biology degree, remember that it’s not just about job titles—your transferable skills matter too.
Key skills include:
- Critical thinking and problem-solving
- Data analysis and interpretation
- Laboratory and research techniques
- Scientific writing and presentation
- Team collaboration and communication
These skills are valuable in almost any professional environment.
16. Salary Expectations for Biology Graduates
Biology-related careers vary widely in salary. Here’s a general overview (based on global averages):
- Lab Technician: $45,000 – $65,000
- Biomedical Scientist: $60,000 – $95,000
- Environmental Scientist: $55,000 – $90,000
- Biotech Researcher: $70,000 – $120,000
- Medical Doctor: $150,000+
- Genetic Counselor: $80,000 – $110,000
Salaries depend on education, experience, and industry, but overall, biology degrees offer steady and growing earning potential.
17. Further Education After a Biology Degree
To expand your career prospects, you can pursue graduate degrees like:
- Master’s or PhD in Biology or related fields – for research or academia.
- MD or DO – for medical practice.
- MPH (Master of Public Health) – for public health careers.
- MBA – for biotech business or management roles.
18. Internships and Real-World Experience
No matter what path you choose, practical experience is key. Internships, research assistantships, or volunteering with conservation projects can give you a major edge in the job market.
19. Challenges and Rewards of a Biology Career
Biology careers can be demanding—long research hours, grant competition, and sometimes modest starting salaries. However, the rewards are immense: contributing to medical breakthroughs, saving endangered species, or shaping the future of biotechnology.
20. The Future of Biology-Related Careers
The world is moving toward innovation in life sciences—gene editing, renewable energy, and bioinformatics are booming. The demand for professionals who understand living systems will only grow, meaning your biology degree is more valuable than ever.
Salary And Stress Level
| Career | Average Salary (USD) | Stress Level | Notes |
| Medical Doctor / Surgeon | $150,000+ | High | Long hours, high responsibility, rewarding outcomes |
| Dentist | $120,000 – $180,000 | High | Patient care and precision work |
| Pharmacist | $110,000 – $140,000 | Medium | Regulated work, moderate patient interaction |
| Physician Assistant / Nurse Practitioner | $95,000 – $120,000 | Medium | Fast-paced clinical environment |
| Biomedical Scientist | $60,000 – $95,000 | Medium | Lab work with deadlines and research pressure |
| Genetic Counselor | $80,000 – $110,000 | Medium | Emotional stress helping families |
| Biotech Researcher | $70,000 – $120,000 | Medium | Lab deadlines, funding pressure |
| Pharmaceutical Sales Rep | $60,000 – $100,000 | Medium | Target-driven sales, travel requirements |
| Environmental Scientist | $55,000 – $90,000 | Medium | Fieldwork, regulatory pressure |
| Wildlife Biologist | $50,000 – $85,000 | Medium | Field conditions, travel, seasonal work |
| Marine Biologist | $50,000 – $90,000 | Medium | Travel, fieldwork, research deadlines |
| Lab Technician | $45,000 – $65,000 | Low | Routine lab work, less decision-making stress |
| Professor / Lecturer | $60,000 – $120,000 | Medium | Research and teaching balance, tenure pressure |
| Forensic Biologist | $55,000 – $85,000 | High | Criminal investigations, time-sensitive work |
| Toxicologist | $65,000 – $100,000 | Medium | Lab work and regulatory compliance |
| Epidemiologist | $70,000 – $100,000 | Medium | Public health responsibilities, data-driven |
| Bioinformatician | $75,000 – $110,000 | Low-Medium | Computational work, project deadlines |
| Data Analyst (Biology) | $65,000 – $95,000 | Low-Medium | Analytical role, office environment |
| Environmental Policy Analyst | $60,000 – $95,000 | Medium | Policy pressure, stakeholder interactions |
| Veterinary Technician | $35,000 – $50,000 | Medium | Hands-on animal care, physical work |
| Synthetic Biologist / Biotech Innovator | $80,000 – $130,000 | Medium-High | Research and innovation pressures |
Notes on Stress Level:
- Low: Routine tasks, predictable environment, less immediate responsibility
- Medium: Moderate deadlines, some high-responsibility tasks
- High: High stakes, patient outcomes, regulatory pressure, or time-sensitive research
21. Final Thoughts: Why a Biology Degree Is Worth It
So, what can you do with a biology degree? The truth is, almost anything that involves understanding life, solving problems, and making a difference.
Whether you dream of discovering a cure, protecting the planet, or educating the next generation, your biology degree is the gateway to countless possibilities. It’s a journey filled with exploration, growth, and meaningful contribution to humanity and the natural world.
FAQs About What Can You Do With a Biology Degree
Q1. Is a biology degree worth it?
Yes. A biology degree offers versatile career opportunities in medicine, research, environmental science, and biotechnology. It’s ideal for anyone passionate about science and discovery.
Q2. Can I work in healthcare without going to medical school?
Absolutely. Biology graduates can become physician assistants, nurses, lab technicians, genetic counselors, or public health workers without attending medical school.
Q3. What can I do with a biology degree if I don’t want to work in a lab?
You can explore careers in teaching, writing, sales, environmental policy, or even data analysis. Your biology background gives you a strong foundation for many non-lab roles.
Q4. How much can I earn with a biology degree?
Salaries vary widely. Entry-level positions may start around $45,000, while advanced or specialized roles can exceed $100,000 annually.
Q5. Do I need a master’s degree for a good career in biology?
Not necessarily. Many biology-related roles only require a bachelor’s degree, but advanced degrees can open doors to research, teaching, and higher-paying positions.
Q6. What are some emerging careers in biology?
New fields like synthetic biology, bioinformatics, and genetic engineering are rapidly expanding and offer excellent growth potential.