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What can you do with a biology degree?
Laura Tucker
Updated Aug 21, 2024Save
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Biological science is the study of life and is therefore one of the broadest subjects you can study. Biology encompasses everything from the molecular study of life processes right up to the study of animal and plant communities.
Read on to find out where your biology degree could take you, and download our guide on how to find a job after university.
So, what can you do with a biology degree?
Biology degrees are extensive, so as you might expect, careers for biology graduates are equally as wide-ranging. Careers in biology include:
Biology careers can lead you to study living organisms to help develop biological knowledge and understanding of living processes for a number of different purposes, including treatment of disease and sustaining the natural environment.
Many biology degree graduates choose to study at postgraduate level within a specialization or related field, in order to further their expertise and help career progression, although further study often isn’t necessary for many.
Read on to find out more about the selection of typical – and less typical – careers in biology available for both undergraduates and postgraduates.
Typical careers with a biology degree
Biology careers in research
Most common is research within the medical and life sciences, covering areas such as health and disease, neurology, genomics, microbiology and pharmacology. Researchers help to develop societal knowledge within many areas and, with the right additional qualifications, can be found within academia, research institutes, medical facilities and hospitals, and also within business and industry.
Biology careers in healthcare
Healthcare biologists with the necessary qualifications and experience also work as veterinarians, doctors, nurses, dentists and other healthcare professionals. Biologists are recruited not only within hospitals and other medical facilities; they are also hired by organizations such as the Peace Corps in order to bring advanced healthcare to developing and war-torn regions.
Biology careers in environmental conservation
Biologists in these roles carry out recovery programs for endangered species and provide education for the general public. Hiring industries include charities and not-for-profit organizations, government and the public sector and ecological consultancies.
Biology careers in education
If you do choose to undertake further study and go on to work within higher education, you may be able to produce your own research, have your work published and/or become a member of an advisory board within your field.
Less typical biology degree jobs
A biology degree will equip you with many transferable skills that are sought-after in the workplace, whether that workplace is within a scientific industry or not.
Below is a selection of some of the less conventional biology degree jobs you can pursue with a biology degree.
Careers in biotechnology
Careers in forensic science
Testimonials
Careers in government and policy
Biology careers in government will involve working closely with government officials and policy makers in order to advise on and create new legislation for growing topics such as biomedical research and environmental regulation. Your role will be to ensure that changes to the legal system are made based on solid science. You may work at regional or national level as a political advisor for scientific organizations and agencies or not-for-profit entities. You may also act as a representative for a political committee or group.
Careers in business and industry
Careers in economics
Careers in science publishing and communication
Expected salaries for careers with a biology degree
The table below outlines some average salaries for different careers you can do with a biology degree, according to Check A Salary. Please note starting salaries for graduates will be lower.
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Laura is a former staff writer for TopUniversities.com, providing advice and guidance for students on a range of topics helping them to choose where to study, get admitted and find funding and scholarships. A graduate of Queen Mary University of London, Laura also blogs about student life.
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