Essential Information
The field of biology involves the study of life and evolution. It encompasses a variety of topics in general biology, as well as advanced studies and specializations in areas like microbiology and ecology. Biology degree programs are available from the associate's to the doctoral level.
Programs at both the associate's and bachelor's level typically offer students a wide variety of elective courses in an effort to expose students to the full range of available specializations.
In order to pursue master's or doctoral degree programs in biology students should have prerequisite test scores, recommendations, and a degree in a related field; some programs may include a GPA requirement. Such degrees might lead to careers in research, teaching or conservation efforts, among other areas.
Associate's Degree in Biology
An associate's degree in biology is typically designed for students who plan to transfer to a 4-year biology, pre-medical or pre-veterinary degree program. Some associate's degree programs in biology offer a health science option for students who are planning on going into health care fields such as nursing or physical therapy.
Prospective students need high school diplomas or the equivalent. Applicants may also be required to submit their SAT or ACT scores.
In addition to elective requirements, coursework includes laboratory work to provide students with hands-on experience. Following are some courses that may be found in an associate's-level program in biology.
- Biology
- Calculus
- Chemistry
- Environmental biology
- Microbiology
Bachelor's Degree in Biology
Biologists study how organisms interact with each other in the environment. They conduct research to gain a better understanding of life processes. They then apply that knowledge to the development of new processes or products.
Prospective students who plan to pursue a bachelor's degree in biology need a high school diploma or equivalent. Incoming students may also be required to submit SAT or ACT scores, along with transcripts, an application and a fee.
Coursework in a Bachelor of Science in Biology program includes instruction in the processes and methodologies that are needed to measure potentially disruptive and beneficial impacts on intricate and complex environmental systems. In addition to general education and laboratory courses, the following are some of the typical courses that are found in a bachelor's degree program in biology.
- Introduction to biology
- Ecology
- Chemistry
- Molecular biology
- Botany
Master's Degree in Biology
Students enrolled in a master's in biology program learn about the application of quantitative and qualitative methods as applied to field and laboratory studies. A master's program in biology may require students to select a concentration on which to focus their studies. Options students may choose from include biochemistry, wildlife biology, zoology, botany, molecular biology, medical microbiology, immunology, toxicology, cellular biology or genetic engineering.
Students who plan to apply to a master's degree in biology need a bachelor's in biology or a related field. Some programs may make exceptions for this. Additionally, students typically submit letters of recommendation and GRE scores.
The usual requirements for a master's in biology include a research proposal, a written thesis and an oral defense of the thesis. A master's program generally takes about two years to complete. Typical courses found in a master's degree in biology may include:
- Molecules and cells
- Genetics and evolution
- Research methodologies
- Microbiology
- Neurobiology
Ph.D. in Biology
A Ph.D. in Biology focuses on the completion of an original research project. Students become experts in their chosen areas of concentration as well as learning methods and approaches to investigating subject matter associated with their concentrations.
Those who plan to apply to a doctoral degree program in biology must have earned a master's in biology or a related field. Typically, prospective students submit their GRE scores with letters of recommendation. There may also be a minimum GPA requirement, depending on the school.
Ph.D. students in biology submit research proposals, conduct the actual research, write dissertations on the research and pass oral defenses of their dissertation in order to graduate. The following are typical courses found in a doctoral program.
- Molecular evolution
- Biodiversity
- Conservation biology
- Restoration ecology
- Genomic evolution
Popular Career Options
An associate's degree in biology provides students with the skills they need for entry-level positions in laboratories and research centers. The following are career paths that graduates may follow.
- Plant science technician
- Field biologist
- Research assistant
- Laboratory assistant
Graduates of a bachelor's degree-level biology program can choose careers in a number of fields. The following are some of the career options found in this field.
- Biologist
- Research assistant
- Laboratory technologist
- Marine biologist
- Biology teacher
Graduates with a Master of Science in Biology may pursue research-related positions. The following are additional career options for biology master's graduates (dependent on chosen concentration).
- Wildlife ecologist
- Zoologist
- Naturalist
- College teacher
Graduates with a doctoral degree in biology generally become researchers and university professors. The following are other possible careers for graduates at the doctoral level.
- Geneticist
- Researcher
- Environmental scientist
- Administrator, executive or company CEO
- Natural science manager
Continuing Education Information
Graduates with a bachelor's degree in biology have a few options for advancement. Some go on to study medicine or dentistry at the graduate level. Others, who want to advance their careers in research or a specialized field, may consider pursuing a master's degree in biology.
Those in this field who are interested in pursuing advanced positions or specialized research may go on to earn a Ph.D. Additional coursework or experience in business or related areas may be useful for those who want to move into managerial or sales positions.
Biologists have a choice of programs, ranging from the associate's to the doctoral level. There are a multitude of career opportunities for graduates of all kinds and each program will equip students with a thorough knowledge of biology through classroom learning and hands-on experience.