Many students who earn a master's degree in biomedical science go on to earn a doctorate or professional degree in medicine, pharmacology or another related field. However, there are several careers closely related to biomedical science that require and/or utilize a master's degree in the field. Explore a handful of these careers below.
Career Options for a Master's in Biomedical Sciences
| Job Title | Median Salary (2020)* | Job Growth (2020-2030)* |
|---|---|---|
| Epidemiologists | $74,560 | 30% |
| Biomedical Engineers | $92,620 | 6% |
| Natural Sciences Managers | $137,940 | 6% |
| Chemists | $79,300 | 7% |
| Biochemists and Biophysicists | $94,270 | 5% |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Career Information for Biomedical Sciences Jobs Requiring a Master's
Epidemiologists
Epidemiologists must hold at least a master's degree, but advanced degrees are common. A background in biomedical sciences will help these professionals as they research human diseases and other medical conditions to try and identify any patterns or specific causes. They may take samples, conduct surveys or interview different people to collect data that they then analyze and draw conclusions from for health officials and policymakers. Their findings may affect public health policy and/or programs, and many of these professionals specialize in a particular area, such as environmental health, mental health or infectious disease.
Biomedical Engineers
Some biomedical engineers need a master's degree, and although they usually have at least an undergraduate background in a field of engineering, a master's in biomedical sciences could help these professionals as they create different biomedical equipment. They may design software, machines for medical tests, artificial organs and other biomedical equipment and then install and maintain it. Biomedical engineers typically need to train healthcare professionals on the use of the equipment and ensure that the equipment is safe to use. Many of these professionals also work in research and may present their findings in scientific papers for healthcare professionals and other scientists and engineers.
Natural Sciences Managers
Natural sciences managers must hold a degree in the sciences, either at the bachelor's, master's or doctoral level, and also have years of work experience. A master's degree in biomedical sciences could lead to a management position with a biomedical research organization, since these managers generally oversee groups of scientists in their particular discipline as they work collectively on a project. Natural sciences managers are responsible for checking the techniques and work of the scientists, keeping the projects running on time and within budget, communicating with the client about any progress and ensuring that all lab procedures are carefully followed. They may work in the lab, training or assisting scientists, but they also perform administrative and managerial tasks, including setting goals for projects and maintaining inventories.
Chemists
Chemists can enter the field with a bachelor's degree, but they typically need a master's or doctoral degree to work in research. Those with a background in biomedical sciences may want to work as medicinal chemists who help develop and test new drugs, or even as organic or forensic chemists who work with biological samples and compounds. In general, chemists conduct research projects and experiments to study chemicals and other substances at the molecular level to better understand how the substance works, its possible applications and whether it is safe for various roles. Chemists present their findings in scientific papers and technical reports.
Biochemists and Biophysicists
Biochemists and biophysicists usually need a PhD, but there are entry-level positions available for those with a bachelor's or master's degree. Like chemists, those with a background in biomedical sciences may work as a biochemist or biophysicist who focuses their work in the medical field. These scientists look at the chemical and physical properties of biological processes to understand how they work and how other substances, like pharmaceutical drugs, may affect them. In medicine, they may help develop new drugs, study diseases, develop ways to test for genetic disorders and more. They record all of their findings in detailed scientific articles and papers.
Those with a master's degree in biomedical sciences can work careers as biomedical engineers and other entry-level scientists involved in the medical field. Students may make a career out of these positions or work them until they earn a more advanced degree.
