Online Biology Degrees

We're Not In Kansas Anymore: The New Biologist

A career in biology can take you all over the world, visiting rainforests, grasslands, and swamps in search of the perfect research. Biological scientists study living organisms and their relationship to their environment. Findings are then used to solve practical problems in research, healthcare, environmental management and conversation, and education among other industries.

Many biologists, after their initial training in accredited programs, choose a specialty field such as biochemistry, microbiology, and ecology. So if you're feeling adventurous, consider the following:

•    Scientific field trips can involve strenuous physical activity and primitive living conditions.
•    Biologists use a variety of tools and equipment during field research, including shovels, hammers, and backpacks.
•    Biologists may be called on to climb, stand, kneel, or dive for research.

Biological scientists held about 77,000 jobs in 2004, and job growth is expected to grow between 18% and 26% though 2014. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports, "Opportunities for those with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in biological science are expected to be better." Indeed, 96.1% of currently employed biologists have a bachelor's degree or higher. A doctoral degree is necessary for independent research and college-level teaching, while a master's degree is sufficient for basic research. Courses in general biology will suffice in your primary training programs, but expect to declare a specific focus in later studies. The American Institute of Biological Sciences reports biologists can earn as much as $80,000 a year with experience and education, so see how the right programs and training can help your future as a biologist today.