With a biology degree, you can pursue a variety of careers that involve the study of life, including those focused on animals, plants, bacteria, and humans. The study of biology is always evolving, leading to many scientific breakthroughs in recent years. From cloning animals to mapping the human genome, research possibilities continue to grow, making this an especially exciting time to join the field. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the top 10 fastest growing jobs include several that are relevant to a those who've earned a biology degree online–especially jobs in healthcare.Holding a graduate degree in biology opens the door to higher salaries, but plenty of career opportunities are available at every educational level in the field. If you're interested in online biology programs, chances are you'll be able to find a job that fits your level of education. Read on to learn more about the job opportunities available in the field, and how online biology degrees at the associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctorate levels can help launch your career.
Online Biology Degree Overview
| Degree Level | Average Cost | Loan Default Rate | Time Commitment | Early Career Pay | Mid-Career Pay | Unemployment Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Associate | $8,689 | 15.9% | 2 years | Not reported | Not reported | 7.4% |
| Bachelor's | $16,876 | 8.9% | 4 years | $32,000 | $65,000 | 4.5% |
| Master's | $18,268 | 5.3% | 2 years | $57,000 | $104,000 | 2.3% |
The level of your online biology degree can impact your job opportunities, specialization, and salary. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), biology degrees at the associate level prepare students to work as biological technicians, an entry-level position in the field. Most other jobs require further education for advancement. Many graduates of bachelor's, master's, and doctorate online biology programs pursue more research-intensive, hands-on careers in healthcare, laboratory work, and nature conservancy, among others.
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Online Biology Choose Your Career
| Career | Median Salary | Projected Growth | 2014 Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biological Lab Tech | $41,650 | 5% | 79300 |
| Wildlife Biologist | $59,680 | 4% | 21300 |
| Microbiologist | $67,550 | 4% | 22400 |
| Environmental Scientist | $67,460 | 11% | 94600 |
| Food Scientist | $62,470 | 5% | 36100 |