How a Biology Major Prepares You for the Job Market
Biology majors are prepared to enter the job market after closely studying human, animal and plant life and other living organisms. Biology graduates learn about different principles of biology, including evolution, cell theory, gene theory, homeostasis and much more. Biology students also focus greatly on genetics and the role of proteins. A general biology degree program covers a wide range of biological sciences and topics, therefore opening up the door for graduates to work in many different areas. Biology graduates will be able to apply their specific knowledge of ecology, evolutionary and organism biology toward the study of organisms and their evolution in freshwater, marine and terrestrial systems. They may also put their molecular, cellular and developmental knowledge toward studying molecule's cellular structure, functions and the processes of organism development. Biology majors also have knowledge in anatomy and physiology, which can be applied toward medical, clinical academic or research careers.
Best Career Paths for Biology Majors
Biology majors can choose from several career paths, both general and specific, such as these:
- Marine Biologist. Marine biologists study salt water organisms and the aquatic life in oceans. They sometimes study the characteristics of oceans and the ocean floor, as well. Marine biologists use molecular biology practice to study the biochemical processes that are happening inside the living cells of salt water organisms. They are often called oceanographers, because the two occupations share similar duties of studying the movements of ocean waters, the physical and chemical properties of oceans and coastal waters, as well as how properties affect coastal areas, weather and life form. Marine biologists use their biology background, as well as chemistry and geosciences to conduct experiments, analyze data and report their findings. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, marine biologists made an average salary of $105,671 in March 2009.
- Ecologist. Ecologists study the relationships of organisms and their environments. They investigate specific factors, such as population size, pollutants and temperature to determine this relationship. Ecologists are trained in biology and other scientific disciplines to collect information and analyze experimental data on the quality of air, soil, water and food. They also study ecosystems to understand the network of relationships between various organisms at different populations. After experiments and studies have been conducted, ecologists record data and work with other environmental scientists to fix environmental problems. According to the Bureau, ecologists fall under the category of environmental scientists, who make an average salary of $59,750.
How to Market Your Biology Degree
A biology degree covers the fundamentals of life sciences, and is needed to pursue careers within most research and health care fields. Your biology degree provides both the basics and specifics of cellular, molecular and microbial biology, which makes you adaptable in many different science fields. Biology majors also have performed in-depth experiments, written essays and contributed to group scientific projects which gave you hands-on experience that replicates real field work.
