Biology Degrees

What is a Biology Degree?

Since the beginning of time, people have shown interest in the world in which we live and the organisms with which we share the planet. This curiosity was and still is essential for our survival; with increased understanding of the world around us comes technological advances and the knowledge to prevent further damage to our Earth. Were you a child who played in the creeks and caught toads? Did you learn how to bend sunlight through a magnify glass to create fire? Were you a Boy Scout or Girl Scout, and a good one at that? If so, you can use your fascination in the world to earn a Biology Degree and study living organisms all day long.

Today's biologists use the modern methods of science to study plants, animals, microbes, and microscopic organisms that are invisible to the naked eye. Biology research is broken down into two categories: basic and applied. Basic research is conducted with no purpose in mind but to gain knowledge, and applied research is used to solve a problem. Most biology degree majors specialize in a specific area. Some areas of specialization are as follows:

• Aquatic biologists
• Biochemists
• Biophysicists
• Microbiologists
• Physiologists
• Botanists
• Zoologists and wildlife biologists
• Ecologists

Biologists typically work in laboratories while employing a variety of high-tech equipment to conduct experiments on plants or animals. Some biological research is performed outside the laboratory to study organisms in their native environment. Marine biologists work mainly outdoors and on vessels in order to study fish, plankton, and other marine organisms. Biologists work a normal 40-hour work week, but they may need to work odd hours at times when performing research.

Successful biological scientists have the ability to work well independently or in a team environment. It's very important that biologists have clear written and oral communication. For those biology degree graduates interested in management or administrative positions, strong business and communication skills, along with marketing and management techniques are essential for growth. One of the most important skills a biology degree student must possess is patience and self-discipline, which is necessary to conduct long and detailed research projects.

How can I get a Biology Degree?

To obtain a position in applied research, product development, management, research technician, inspection or as a teacher, a bachelor's or master's degree is required. Many biology degree graduates enter medical, dental, or veterinary schools, or find jobs as high school science teachers. Coursework for biology majors includes mathematics, physics, engineering, and computer science. Many biology students find it beneficial to take computer courses for modeling and simulating biological processes, learning to use lab equipment, and for performing research.

Does life as a biologist sound enticing to you? Fortunately, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, ""employment of biological scientists is projected to grow 21 percent over the 2008—18 decade, much faster than the average for all occupations, as biotechnological research and development continues to drive job growth.""

 And, if the job growth doesn't sell you, maybe the earning expectations will. For biochemists and biophysicists, the annual wages in 2008 was $82,840. Most graduates with a biology degree have the opportunity to earn between $59,260 and $108,950 annually.

Would you like to study ant farms and travel to exotic locations?  By earning a degree in biology that dream could become a reality.