Best Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology Programs
Find Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology
Types Of Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology Programs
What To Expect From The Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology Program?
Areas Of Specialization For Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology
Why Should I Pursue An Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology?
Areas Of Specialization For Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology
Why Should I Pursue An Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology?
Types Of Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology Programs
Areas Of Specialization For Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology
Why Should I Pursue An Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology?
Areas Of Specialization For Online Bachelor’s Degree In Psychology
The online biology degree is an undergraduate program offered by top-ranked institutions renowned for ground-breaking scientific discoveries and a long tradition of involving students in scientific research. The program provides a broad overview of the function, structure, and evolution of biological systems from component parts to organisms, communities, and ecosystems. Biology graduates go on to succeed in careers that are as diverse and interesting in a wide range of fields, including biological, clinical, and medical research, forensic science, wildlife biology, and agricultural science. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the median annual wage for biology professionals was $65,000 in 2019, with 69% employed in occupations requiring at least a bachelor’s degree. Read on to discover the bachelor’s degree in biology online and learn about its specializations, career options, timeline, and more.
Best Online Biology Degree Programs
The best biology bachelor degree programs are available in-person, online, or through distance learning from many institutions throughout the United States. These advanced programs allow students to gain a greater understanding and increase their knowledge and expertise in biology. The best graduate programs for biology majors are accredited and have experienced faculty, student support services, and a good reputation in graduation rates and placement history. FBD teams have analyzed the best colleges and best online biology degree programs for students, which are affordable, flexible, and meet all their needs. Here are the best online biology programs: *
The University of Florida (UF) is a public land-grant research university located in Gainesville, Florida. It was founded in 1853 and is a senior member of the State University System of Florida. UF has 16 academic colleges and over 150 research centers and institutes, providing a wide range of graduate professional programs, including business administration, engineering, law, dentistry, medicine, pharmacy, and veterinary medicine.
Univ
Address
Tuition
Grad Rate
University of Florida
341 Tigert Hall 300 SW 13th St, Gainesville, Florida 32611
Florida International University (FIU) is a public research university in Miami-Dade County, Florida, with its main campus in University Park. The school was founded in 1965 and first opened its doors to students in 1972. By enrollment, FIU has grown to become the second-largest university in Florida and the fifth-largest in the United States, with 11 colleges and over 40 centers, facilities, labs, and institutes, and over 200 programs of study available.
Oregon State University (OSU) is a public land-grant research university located in Corvallis, Oregon. OSU offers over 200 undergraduate degree programs, as well as graduate and doctoral degrees. On-campus enrollment averages around 32,000, making it the largest university in the state. OSU has graduated over 272,000 students since its inception.
The University of Arizona (Arizona, U of A, UArizona, or UA) is an Arizona-based public land-grant research university. The 13th Arizona Territorial Legislature established the first university in the Arizona Territory in 1885. The Arizona Board of Regents governs three universities, including the University of Arizona. As of 2021, the university had 49,471 students enrolled in 19 different colleges/schools.
Logan University, formerly Logan College of Chiropractic until 2013, is a private special focus university in Chesterfield, Missouri, that offers college education in chiropractic and the health sciences. Logan University graduates are trained, confident, and prepared for the future thanks to an innovative, outcome-based academic curriculum that emphasizes evidence-informed care, diverse clinical immersion opportunities, emerging technology, and proven practices.
Westfield State University (WSU) is a public university located in Westfield, Massachusetts. Founded in 1839 as America’s first public co-educational college without regard for race, gender, or economic class, WSU offers 31 undergraduate majors, 34 minors, and 43 different concentrations. Classes are available on campus and/or online. Graduate studies, post-baccalaureate teacher licensure, and community education courses are available at WSU.
Washington State University (Washington State, WSU, or Wazzu) is a public land-grant research university founded in 1890 and one of the oldest land-grant universities in the American West. Its flagship, oldest campus is in Pullman, Washington. With a total enrollment of over 28,500, it is the second largest institution for higher education in Washington state behind the University of Washington.
Univ
Address
Tuition
Grad Rate
Washington State University
French Administration Building, Pullman, Washington 99164
Excelsior College is an Albany, New York-based private online university. It has three schools that offer undergraduate and graduate degrees: the School of Undergraduate Studies, the School of Graduate Studies, and the School of Nursing. Through their distance education programs, it primarily serves non-traditional, adult working students.
Washburn University (WU) is a public university located in Topeka, Kansas. It provides undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in law and business. Washburn University has 550 faculty members who teach over 6,100 undergraduates and nearly 800 graduate students.
Kean University was founded in 1855 in Newark, New Jersey, as the Newark Normal School. It is a top-tier, vibrant, and diverse institution with a long history of excellence and innovation in higher education, offering more than 50 undergraduate majors and more than 60 options for graduate study, including six doctoral programs in a range of disciplines.
Life University is a private university in Marietta, Georgia that focuses on training chiropractors. It was founded in 1974. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools has accredited the university to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.
The University of Michigan-Flint (UM-Flint) is a public university in Flint, Michigan. It is one of two regional universities that follow the University of Michigan Board of Regents’ policies. The university has approximately 6,400 students enrolled, with 138 majors/concentrations available for 12 bachelor’s degrees and 43 graduate degrees. Graduate degrees are also available at UM-Flint, with 15 master’s degree programs and 12 doctoral degree/specialist programs.
Arizona State University is a public research university established in 1885 and is one of the biggest public universities in the country based on enrollment. It has nationally and internationally ranked programs that prepare the next generation of innovators to thrive while advancing groundbreaking research, strategic alliances, entrepreneurship, and economic development.
The University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC, formerly University of Maryland University College) is a public university established in 1947, serving over 90,000 students worldwide. It is the largest of the University System of Maryland campuses and one of the largest distance-learning institutions in the world.
Univ
Address
Tuition
Grad Rate
University of Maryland Global Campus
3501 University Blvd East, Adelphi, Maryland 20783-8010
$7,704
21%
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from the Online Biology Degree Programs
What is a biological science degree? The online biology degree program can help students unleash their full potential in studying biological sciences and will lay a good foundation for success upon graduation. Students can choose to pursue this degree in a traditional, online, or hybrid model that blends the two. Online programs, especially those that focus on biology studies, are for professionals employed full-time, and a traditional program is simply unfeasible. They provide flexibility and affordability, and the curriculum prepares students for professions in biology-related fields and advanced study in professional graduate courses.
A degree in Biology will prepare students for a future in research, academia, medical, dental, pharmacy, veterinary, forensic, and a host of other fields. The online BS in biology programs combine hands-on laboratory work with coursework and fieldwork, investigating the diversity and biology of plants, animals, and microbes, and developing both theoretical learning and practical skills to help lay the groundwork for a successful career. Here are some biology bachelor degree courses students can expect:
Evolution and Diversity
This course will lay the foundation for students to fully understand how evolution and diversity result from the interactions between organisms and their environments and the consequences of these interactions over long periods. Students learn how organisms continually adapt to their habitat, the diversity of existing environments, and the organisms adapted to them.
Cell and Molecular Biology
This course studies cells and the macromolecules like DNA, RNA, protein, lipids, and carbohydrates that define their structure and function. The course provides students with extensive study in cell biology, molecular biology, microbiology, biochemistry, and molecular genetics. Students will learn about significant contributions made to global medical and environmental issues. They will study the molecular basis of cancer and heart disease, infectious disease, the development of next-generation biofuels, and the genetic modification of crops for increased productivity and improved disease resistance.
Anatomy and Physiology
Anatomy and physiology are the most important terms and areas of the study of biology. This course provides students with a more profound knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the human body. Anatomy studies the internal and external structures of the body and their physical relationships, whereas physiology studies the functions of those structures. The course defines anatomy and physiology and explains why they are important in biomedical engineering.
Biochemistry for Medical Studies
Biochemistry is a vast field of research that yields important discoveries each year, much like medical science itself. Diving into biochemical techniques advances the student’s understanding of the chemical structures and processes that determine human health and disease, revealing the fundamental transformations between them.
Microbiology
Microbiology deals with studying microorganisms and their interactions with active and inactive components of the environment. It is a multidisciplinary science that depends on the skills and knowledge of professionals specializing in many different fields of physical sciences, life sciences, and engineering. The course focuses on independent scientific and medical disciplines like bacteriology, clinical microbiology, virology, parasitology, public health science, vaccinology, immunology, and others. This course outlines the basic view of microbiology, including microbial metabolism and its roles in various bioprocesses.
Some other examples of courses for a bachelor’s degree in biology online include but are not limited to:
Introductory Biology
Ecology & Evolution
Genetics
Investigating Biology
Evolutionary Biology
Foundations in Biochemistry
Cells and Systems
Histology and Cytology
Molecular Biology
Comparative Physiology
Environmental Writing
Vertebrate Physiology
Advanced Microbiology
Botany
Biology of Fishes
Plant Taxonomy
Developmental Biology
Virology
Conservation Biology
Evolutionary Mechanisms
Marine Biology
Immunology
Animal Behavior
Degree Types offered in Online Biology Degree Programs
The decisions do not end once a student has decided to pursue a biology bachelor’s degree. One still needs to choose between a Bachelor of Arts (BA in Biology) or a Bachelor of Science (BS in Biology) degree program, better explained below:
Bachelor of Arts in Biology
A Bachelor of Arts or BA in biology online degree offers more options than a bachelor of science major in biology in that while still concentrating on their major, students can explore a broader range of subjects. As a result, a biology BA combines basic science courses with the opportunity for more optional study in subjects like languages, history, and philosophy. Students pursuing a BA in biology gain exposure to a broad multi-disciplinary understanding of life science and arts and humanities.
Bachelor of Science in Biology
A Bachelor of Science or BS in biology online focuses mainly on the chosen major. As a result, the student enrolled in a biology BS will take the full course load of required biology degree courses. Apart from fulfilling the basic education requirements, students participate almost exclusively in classes on biology and other sciences and can specialize in a particular field.
Areas of Specialization in Online Biology Degree Programs
Specializations prepare students for employment opportunities in specific fields of the vast biology industry. Most graduate programs for biology majors require a further study that deepens students’ knowledge and skills and encourages additional expertise. To prepare students for specialized careers in biology, many schools offer areas of specialization or concentration. Some of the most popular specialization options for an online bachelor of science degree in biology are:
This specialization prepares students for work in conservation and environmental and wildlife protection. Online wildlife biology degree programs focus on evolution and animal behavior, the effects of climate change on natural ecosystems, and identify measures needed to sustain wildlife. Students also learn about protecting and restoring the Earth’s biodiversity, understand the various threats to life on the planet, and the solutions to eliminate those threats and restore the health and diversity of an ecosystem.
This specialization prepares aspiring students interested in epidemiology and lab-based diagnostics. Through several human biology degree courses, the concentration provides the technical knowledge necessary to identify diseases and the transformation of disease to reduce their spread. Students also investigate ecological factors contributing to disease and infection.
Lab manager, lab technician, epidemiologist
Behavioral Biology
This specialization is for students interested in combining insights from biology, psychology, and social science, which are interdisciplinary. It focuses on how ecology and evolution motivate human behavior and studies the basic principles in natural science that apply to hormonal and neural concerns and genetics in biomedicine.
Mental health counselor, psychologist, human resource specialist
Molecular Genetics and Cell Science (Molecular Biology Bachelor’s Degree Online)
This specialization helps students examine how biological science works at the microscopic and molecular levels. Students can explore the molecular and biochemical pathways that determine cellular function. They also learn about genetic control that can change cellular function in reversible and irreversible ways to tissues, organismal development, and disease.
Biotechnologist, forensic DNA analyst, research associate, horticulturist
Marine Biology Online Degree Programs
Marine biology studies marine organisms, their behavior, and how they interact with their surroundings. To understand marine organisms, students of the online marine biology degree will research chemical, physical, and geological oceanography as well as biological oceanography.
Research technician, marine biologist
Prospective students of a bioscience degree can also consider some of these other available concentration areas:
Integrative Biology
Computational and Quantitative Biology
Applied Physiology
Biomolecular Technology
Biomedical Science
Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
Organismal Biology
Ecology
Pre-Health
Pre-Medical
Why should I enroll into an Online Biology Degree Program?
Students who wish to pursue a career in a wide range of fields, including biological, clinical, and medical research, forensic science, wildlife biology, and agricultural and fisheries science, can opt for a bachelor’s in biology program. Biology is a study that encompasses everything from the molecular study of life to the study of plants and animal communities. For a variety of reasons, including the treatment of sickness and sustaining the natural environment, biology careers can lead individuals to a deeper understanding of living organisms to help develop biological knowledge and understanding of living processes. Even though further study is not necessary for many, an undergraduate degree in biology can serve as a gateway to pursuing postgraduate studies in specializations or related fields to further one’s expertise and advance one’s career. The Guide to Bachelor Programs sheds light on all aspects of a bachelor’s program.
Is biology a hard major? Although a challenging major, biology is not as difficult as other STEM majors like physics or chemistry. Nevertheless, some students find it tough to pursue a biology degree since it contains a lengthy syllabus, a lot of lab work, various complex topics, unfamiliar vocabulary, and a lot of material to learn. Some of the most extensive and lengthy courses are found in biology degree programs. Still, this degree can be rewarding for those interested in the subject and want to teach or move on to professions that pay well.
As for skills one would have acquired from this program, graduates with a bachelor’s in biology degree would have the ability to:
effectively convey scientific knowledge and research results to a wide audience;
interpret, accurately communicate, and extrapolate biological conclusions from research findings;
exhibit knowledge of ecological and environmental principles;
comprehend and be able to use the scientific method to solve issues;
work together as a team in a lab or research setting;
research and analyze scientific data;
investigate fundamental ideas in biology, such as evolution, structure-function relationships in biology, pathways, information flow, transformations of energy and matter, linkages and interactions between living systems, and more;
create a habit of lifelong learning by developing a questioning and analytical mindset;
produce biological data through scientific methods, equipment, and field and laboratory methods;
describe biological systems, use statistical analysis, modeling, and quantitative reasoning;
assess scientific material critically and what goes into the scientific research process;
exhibit knowledge of the chemical composition, structural layout, and functional traits of living things;
use professional communication skills necessary to convey scientific information both orally and in writing;
display the ability to apply biological education while making choices about political and environmental science-related concerns; and
comprehend life’s guiding principles.
Free Courses for Online Biology Degree Students
Free courses are a great way to learn something new or brush up on skills in specific fields of biology. They can also help in exam preparation or with assignments. Although most offerings are not accredited online biology courses that come with any certification, they help students better understand what they can expect when enrolling in a biology major. Here are some resources to find online bachelor’s courses in biology for free:
Course
Description
Provided by
Various Topics Related to Biology
Coursera offers free courses in biology-related topics at the beginner and intermediate levels. The collection comprises courses from accredited colleges and reputed entities, covering concepts like medical neuroscience, advanced neurobiology, space medicine, etc.
This platform offers a few free courses on a host of biology-related topics. Not all courses offered here are free; some free ones include clinical bioinformatics, genomic technologies in clinical diagnostics, genomic medicine, and life science, to name a few.
This platform is renowned for its self-paced video courses that experts and professionals facilitate. Udemy offers several free courses, and many are available at reasonable rates. Some free ones include biology basics, cell biology, A-Level biology, the foundation of biology, basics of molecular biology, etc.
Alison is a free platform with a comprehensive range of topics related to biology. Some free courses with certifications include basic medical skills, health, and safety for caregiving, understanding medication for caregivers, diploma in caregiving, and more.
How to get into the Online Biology Degree Programs?
The admission requirements for colleges vary, and each one has its unique set of criteria for admission. A high-Grade Point Average (GPA) and good test scores are helpful, and extracurricular activities are an advantage. It is always a good idea to verify with the admission office for exact and specific criteria since the prerequisites for the institution of choice may differ. Those transferring from a community or other accredited colleges must also check the biology transfer requirements and what prerequisites may have to be met. Some of the basic bachelor’s in biology requirements are:
Admission or Application Form with its prescribed fee.
Official Academic Transcripts.
A High School Diploma or General Education Development (GED) Certificate.
Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.8 or more.
American College Testing (ACT) / Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) Test Scores
Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose (varies by school)
Proof of English Proficiency (if the native tongue is or education was not in English)
How Long does it take to complete Online Biology Degree Programs
An online biology degree is typically designed to prepare students for careers in biological sciences and professional programs, including medical school. The program covers advanced biology courses and related needs in chemistry, physics, and mathematics and requires the completion of the core curriculum, typically totaling 120 credits. Synchronous and asynchronous classes will influence the duration of the program, as would other factors such as electives, concentrations, and capstone projects or theses. One of the most significant advantages of an online bachelor’s in biology over a traditional program is the ability to earn a degree part-time. People who are employed, parenting, or otherwise trying to fit a degree into their busy lives will benefit greatly from an online degree program that allows students to access course material on their own time.
In almost all cases, the duration of an online bachelor’s in biology is about 4 years, full-time. Part-time students will require a longer duration to complete. The typical time to earn an online biology degree is as follows:
Time to complete a full-time bachelors degree in biology online: about 4 Years.
Time to complete a part-time bachelors degree in biology online: between 4 and 6 years.
Accelerated Online Biology Degree Programs
Lower graduation times can be achieved by opting for accelerated programs or credit transfers. An accelerated biology degree is available in some institutions, allowing students to graduate in less time. These programs help students earn their degrees earlier than the typical schedule of 4 years. It is noteworthy that most accelerated bachelor’s degree in biology online programs combine a bachelor’s and master’s degree that will take 4+1 years to complete instead of the usual 4+2 years. For example, Drexel University offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) and a Master of Science (MS) degree that requires 5 years rather than 6.
Accreditations for Online Biology Degree Programs
Accreditation is a term that includes both the initial and ongoing process of schools, higher education institutions, or programs meeting the standard requirements of nationally recognized, independent accrediting bodies. It is the process by which colleges in the United States receive public recognition and endorsement of their educational standards. While some universities may not offer accredited online biology degree programs, most will alternately be accredited at the institutional level by one of the following authorized accrediting bodies:
New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Online biology degree programs accredited may be found at some schools. Biology degree accreditation, specific to an area within biology and at a program level, is usually provided by organizations such as the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB). A BS or BA degree program in biochemistry, molecular biology, or a closely related field may be accredited by the ASBMB as meeting high standards.
Prospective students may be apprehensive about the cost of an associate’s program. An online associates biology is usually more economical than a traditional one since the student does not have to pay for accommodation, transportation, or meals. Yet they need to pay tuition fees, which keep increasing each year. Fortunately, students can access various financial aids that could significantly reduce their financial burden.
Scholarships
Scholarships are awarded to students who are good in academics, sports, arts, music, or any other skill. Religious groups, communities, individuals, and NGOs offer scholarships to deserving students. The good thing about scholarships is that they are free, and the student need not pay the awarded money back.
Grants
Grants are need-based and are allocated on a case-to-case basis to students with a poor financial status. They cover a variety of education-related expenses, such as tuition and fees, boarding, and books and supplies. Grants do not need to be repaid as well.
Student Loans
Student loans are sums of money often borrowed from a bank or financial institution against a guarantee to pay it back regularly through installments. They can be used to cover tuition fees, boarding, utility bills, meals, groceries, books, equipment (laptop/printer), and transportation. Student loans involve a calculative risk, and the student needs to be cautious of the interest these loans attract and keep up with repayments to avoid an increase in debt. To learn how to apply for loan forgiveness to stop repaying student loans, read about Donors for Student Loans and Grants for Student Loans.
Students can apply for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to check if they are eligible for federal financial aid for higher education. More information is available in the FAFSA Student Aid handbook.
Scholarships for Online Engineering Degree Students
As with most undergraduate programs, it is possible for students pursuing an engineering online degree to seek a scholarship and reduce their cost of education. Several individuals, organizations, and groups give up scholarships to deserving students who can demonstrate excellent academic progress and other required qualities. Of the many available engineering scholarships, some are:
The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) offers several scholarships to undergraduate engineering or pre-engineering students enrolled full-time in a post-secondary educational institution and working toward a Bachelor of Science or Engineering degree in a program that has historically served as a training ground for the HVAC&R industry.
The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) offers scholarships to undergraduate students attending American colleges and universities with recognized engineering department programs.
The Alabama Home Builders Foundation scholarship offers scholarships to deserving students interested in pursuing an education in the residential construction-related trades in the state of Alabama.
The Barbara and Richard Couch Hypertherm Scholarship is awarded to a student pursuing a two or four-year degree in an engineering or technical major in areas of mechanical, process, software, or electrical engineering.
$2,500 x 2 Nos.
September 01, annually
FAQs Related to the Online Biology Degree Programs
What are biological sciences?
All branches of the natural sciences that focus on different facets of life’s processes are included in the biological sciences. The definition spans all species, from bacteria to animals and plants, and incorporates anatomy, physiology, cell biology, biochemistry, and biophysics.
Can I get a biology degree online?
Can you get a biology degree online? Yes! Prospective students who want to pursue a career in science can earn a bachelor’s degree in biology online. Many universities in the United States offer bachelor’s degrees in biology online. An online program is an excellent option for those employed and those trying to balance their personal and professional lives. Most online programs are part-time, so students can complete their assignments whenever it is convenient for them. The advantage of an online program is that the students need not visit the campus and can easily access the course whenever or wherever at their own convenience.
How long does it take to get a biology degree?
Typically, a full-time bachelor’s degree in biology can take about four years to complete. However, the timeline can change depending on core classes, electives, delivery mode, and the program’s structure. The best online biology bachelor degree programs offer the flexibility to tailor one’s degree to one’s requirements that can influence the time it takes to graduate.
Which is the best college for an online bachelor’s in biology?
It is nearly impossible to find the best place to get a biology degree online. Students must consider the factors that are most important to them to graduate from a reputed college. However, essential factors determine an institution’s quality, such as the curriculum, specializations in certain areas, and practical learning. Some of the best online colleges that offer biology degrees are highlighted on this page.
What is biology vs. human biology?
Studying biology involves becoming knowledgeable about the processes, systems, and changes that occur among all living organisms. Colleges that offer human biology majors provide a more specialized degree than a general biology degree, delving more deeply into the complexities of what it means to be human. Many colleges with human biology majors are available across the country.
What can you do with a human biology degree?
Biology is a vast subject with multidisciplinary areas. Students can consider whether they want to use the undergraduate degree to enter a professional field directly or as a foundation for advanced study leading to a graduate degree. Students can utilize this degree as a foundation for an advanced professional degree in a healthcare field like medicine, dentistry, and veterinary medicine. One can also consider graduate programs in other non-health disciplines, another popular option with many.
The online bachelor’s in biology degree program is an excellent degree in terms of job prospects and salaries they lead to. The benefits of earning this degree generally outweigh the cost involved in acquiring it. Ultimately, a bachelor’s in biology is worth it for those interested in fields like medical research, forensic science, wildlife biology, environmental science, and fisheries.
What are the specializations in a biology degree?
An online biology degree is offered in various specializations and variants at most schools. Some examples of variant degrees include Evolutionary Biology Degree Online, Bachelor’s Degree in Anatomy and Physiology Online, Online Forensic Biology Degree, Conservation Biology Degree Online Online Bachelor’s Degree Wildlife Biology, etc.
Career Opportunities and Salaries after Online Biology Degree Programs
An online bachelor’s degree in biology opens up a broad array of potential career paths. It can lead to careers in various settings, including:
Parks
Zoology
Health Care
Museums
Environmental Management and Outreach
Marine Biology
Federal and State Government
Medical or Environmental Research Labs
Education
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), roughly 113,800 new positions will be created in the biological, physical, and social sciences, a growth of 8% between 2020 and 2030, nearly as fast as the average for all occupations. Employment growth is anticipated because of the rising demand for scientific knowledge, particularly in fields like biomedical research, psychology, and environmental protection. Here are a few examples of careers, the skills they require, salaries they provide, and growth potential:
Animals, other wildlife, and their interactions with their environments are all topics of study for zoologists and wildlife biologists. They look at how animals behave and how humans affect wildlife and its natural habitats. They create and carry out animal experiments in labs or in the wild, and they research the traits of animals, such as their relationships with other species, population dynamics, reproduction, movement patterns, and illnesses.
Critical-thinking skills, outdoor skills, observation skills, emotional stamina and stability, communication skills, problem-solving skills, interpersonal skills
Biological technicians, also known as laboratory assistants, oversee scientific tests, studies, and analyses. They perform experimental procedures using automated machinery, cutting-edge robotics, and conventional laboratory tools. Biological scientists (such as microbiologists) or medical scientists usually direct and evaluate the work of biological technicians.
Observation skills, critical-thinking skills, analytical skills, technical skills, communication skills
Microbiologists research many kinds of parasites, bacteria, viruses, algae, and fungi. They try to comprehend how these species function, develop and engage with their surroundings. They organize and carry out intricate research initiatives, such as producing new drugs to treat infectious diseases or enhancing sterilizing techniques. They also recognize and categorize microorganisms discovered in samples taken from humans, animals, plants, or the environment.
Logical-thinking skills, problem-solving skills, time-management skills, communication skills, observation skills, math skills, interpersonal skills, detail-oriented, perseverance
Conservation scientists and foresters develop plans for managing forest lands and resources and supervise forestry and conservation activities to guarantee adherence to laws and the preservation of habitat. They manage the land quality of forests, parks, rangelands, and other natural resources. Foresters select and prepare areas for planting trees by clearing land using bulldozers, herbicides, or controlled burning.
Environmental scientists and specialists apply their understanding of the natural sciences to safeguard both human health and the environment. They might clean up dirty areas, offer legislators advice, or collaborate with businesses to cut waste. For scientific analysis, they gather and collate environmental data from samples of the air, water, soil, food, and other materials. They also develop plans to stop, curtail, or resolve environmental issues like air or water pollution.
Problem-solving skills, communication skills, analytical skills, interpersonal skills, self-discipline
$76,530
8% (as fast as average)
Certifications and Licensing for Online Biology Degree Students
The study of biology is vast and has a wide range of specialties and subspecialties. For those who already have a bachelor’s in biology, their professional knowledge can be more easily validated with a biology certification. Additionally, it will put one in a better position for a sense of accomplishment, confidence, and the right kind of recognition and progress. Above all, by earning a certification in biology, one demonstrates one’s dedication to professional growth and to a diverse discipline that encompasses, among other things, anatomy, genetics, ecology, and nutrition. In laboratory settings, certification and licensure will be required in most instances.
Students should note that certification must be chosen based on the concentration area taken in the undergraduate program. Here are some popular certifications to consider:
The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) Certification was created to evaluate students’ knowledge and comprehension of the fundamental concepts in biochemistry and molecular biology that the ASBMB and its members have established. The ASBMB certification exam evaluates these idea domains at various levels of cognitive skills and abilities and is available to all undergraduate students who are enrolled in ASBMB-accredited programs.
The American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP) offers a host of credentials for microbiologists, molecular biologists, and laboratory technicians of all educational levels. Certifications are available for the U.S. as well as for international use. Certifications include:
The American Association of Bioanalysts (AAB) is committed to helping both the community’s clinical laboratories and the personnel working there. The American Board of Bioanalysis (ABB) and the AAB Board of Registry (ABOR) are independent national certifying bodies for lab specialists. While ABB certifies directors, consultants, and supervisors, ABOR certifies bench-level laboratory personnel (technologist, laboratory scientist, technician).
AAB Board of Registry (ABOR) Certifications include:
Medical Technologist – MT(AAB)
Andrology Laboratory Scientist – ALS(AAB)
Embryology Laboratory Scientist – ELS(AAB)
Molecular Diagnostics Technologist – MDxT(AAB)
Medical Laboratory Technician – MLT(AAB)
American Board of Bioanalysis (ABB) Certifications include:
Embryology Laboratory Director – ELD(ABB)
Clinical Consultant – CC(ABB)
High Complexity Clinical Laboratory Director – HCLD(ABB)
Andrology Laboratory Director – ALD(ABB)
Bioanalyst Clinical Laboratory Director – BCLD(ABB)
The Wildlife Society offers two certifications for wildlife biologists. The Associate Wildlife Biologist designation is given to those who have met demanding academic requirements and are deemed qualified to represent the field as an ethical practitioner. The Certified Wildlife Biologist is given to those who have the educational background and demonstrated expertise in the art and science of applying ecology principles to the conservation and management of wildlife and its habitats.
Additional Resources for Online Biology Degree Students
Biology is a vast subject requiring students who have completed their bachelor’s degree in biology to update their knowledge regularly. Mentoring, access to robust peer networks, job opportunities, training, and other benefits are frequently included with membership in professional organizations. Professionals and students must tap into readily available resources to network, compare notes, exchange ideas, and keep abreast with the latest in biology. Here are a few to explore:
The Human Biology Association is a non-profit scientific organization supporting innovative research and teaching on human biological variation worldwide in evolutionary, social, historical, and environmental contexts. The association is a group of professionals, including internationally recognized leaders in anatomy, anthropology, public health, genetics, endocrinology, nutrition, and numerous other fields.
The International Union of Biological Sciences (IUBS) is a non-profit organization comprising national scientific academies, international scientific associations, and societies. The association oversees cooperation and interaction among scientists from all disciplines and nationalities to promote research, education, and training, in biological sciences. IUBS’s main objective is to understand and find solutions to several scientific questions and serious and formidable challenges by facilitating collaboration across all disciplines and promoting inputs from professionals in all policy discussions.
The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology’s mission is to promote the science of biochemistry and molecular biology and to provide an understanding of the molecular nature of life processes. The society serves the scientific community through scientific meetings, support of career development, science education at all levels, publications, and promoting the diversity of individuals entering the scientific workforce.
AIBS is a diverse group of 115 member organizations, including professional associations, scholarly societies, academic institutions, museums and science collections, and others. AIBS works with members to share information and the influencers who shape biology. With their large community, they help members network with others.
The Biology Graduate Student Association oversees cooperation and interaction between graduate students, the biology department leadership, and the university administration to understand student interests, needs, and concerns; promote professional development, and maintain high academic integrity. The association is a voice and support system for students to improve their experience in the biology department and foster communication, collaboration, and collegiality among students and faculty by facilitating professional and social connections across all biological disciplines.
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