Find out the top careers for biology majors and the best biology major jobs.
Like the field of study itself, a biology degree is broad and versatile. Jobs for biology majors range from high school teachers to zoologists to doctors. If you’re interested in the study of life, you’ll be able to find plenty of in demand careers.
Here are the top 5 jobs for biology majors.
Narrowing down the options was tough, but we’ve managed to put together a list of five of the top jobs for biology majors. With good salaries and above average growth, these biology major jobs can lead to a long, successful career.
Medical Scientist
- What They Do: The detectives of medicine, medical scientists are responsible for all of the research that goes into the science of human health. The importance of this work makes medical scientists one of the most crucial jobs for biology majors.
- Salary: Though there’s some variation, the median annual wage for medical scientists is about $77,000.
- Demand: Like many jobs for biology majors, the demand for medical scientists is high and shows no signs of slowing down.
- Prerequisites: Due to the research orientation of this career, a PhD is required. An MD will also help your chances of landing a top job.
Microbiologist
- What They Do: Working primarily in labs, microbiologists study life at its smallest, most basic form. They use their findings to help improve the quality of everyday life.
- Salary: Salaries vary based on the position, as some require a higher level of education. On average, microbiologists make around $66,000 per year.
- Demand: The outlook is steady for microbiologists. You can expect to find open positions for this important career.
- Prerequisites: To get started as a microbiologist, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in the field. More advanced degrees are required for better paying positions.
Biomedical Engineer
- What They Do: Like medical scientists, biomedical engineers focus on the healthcare angle of biology. Their work ranges from designing products to maintaining medical systems.
- Salary: Biomedical engineers are well compensated for their important work. The average annual salary is about $81,000.
- Demand: In terms of demand, biomedical engineering is one of the best jobs for biology majors. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the profession to grow by more than 60% over the next decade.
- Prerequisites: A bachelor’s degree is required for entry-level positions, but a graduate degree will earn you higher pay.
Biological Technician
- What They Do: Through extensive laboratory work, biological technicians help to produce tangible results from medical scientists’ research and product designs. Their experiments and testing are an essential part of the scientific process.
- Salary: With an annual salary of about $39,000, biological technicians make less than most other jobs for biology majors.
- Demand: Though demand is lower than it is for scientists, biological technicians are crucial and always needed.
- Prerequisites: You’ll need a bachelor’s degree in biology, as well as plenty of experience working in a lab.
Environmental Scientist
- What They Do: Working directly with nature, environmental scientists seek to identify and minimize harm to the planet. Many choose to specialize in either environmental health or environmental protection.
- Salary: On average, environmental scientists make about $62,000 annually, but salary is typically based on education.
- Demand: Due to increased awareness of environmental issues, environmental scientists are expected to be in high demand.
- Prerequisites: Most entry-level jobs require a bachelor’s degree.
Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics