Online Associates Degree in Biology

Biology is the study of the living world around us. From individual cells to the vast communities found throughout our environment, biology focuses on studying the systems, cells and processes that make up living matter. Associate degrees in biology are the first step toward a wide variety of careers and specializations in the field.

Associate degrees in biology

The associate degree in biology can offer you the opportunity to learn more about the world around you, choose what specialty you would like to pursue and build credits to advance toward completing a bachelor's degree program. Typical courses you might take as part of an associate degree program include biochemistry, evolutionary biology, general biology, genetics, microbiology, plant anatomy, zoology and more. Depending upon the career path you choose, you might also complete coursework in fields such as chemistry, environmental science, math, physics, pre-medicine and others.

Career options, outlook and salary

A degree in biology can open the door to diverse occupations. You might be able to pursue a career as a biological scientist or look for opportunities in related careers such as those for forensic scientists, medical scientists, science technicians and others. Biological scientists often specialize in a particular type of biology and build their careers around one particular discipline. These niche fields could vary in focus from biochemistry to genetics and even mycology (the study of fungi). If the career you desire requires working with living things, a biology degree can be an asset.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment growth of 21 percent for biological scientists from 2008 to 2018. Biotechnical research and development, especially under the umbrella of the federal government, is expected to drive growth. The BLS reported the following mean annual wages for biological scientists in 2010:

1. Biochemists and biophysicists: $85,580
2. Microbiologists: $72,030
3. Zoologists and wildlife biologists: $61,660
4. All other biological scientists: $71,310

Going beyond the associate degree

Though the associate degree can be a stepping stone to a higher degree, job prospects significantly improve for those who hold bachelor's or master's level learning. In most cases, those who want to pursue a career as a biological scientist must hold a PhD. Additionally, many related careers, such as those for veterinarians or other medical professions, often require an advanced medical degree. However, the ability to simultaneously work on a career and attend school through an online degree in biology could not only prove advantageous, but also be a sign of successful adaptation in today's busy world.

Biology is the study of the living world around us. From individual cells to the vast communities found throughout our environment, biology focuses on studying the systems, cells and processes that make up living matter. Associate degrees in biology are the first step toward a wide variety of careers and specializations in the field.

Associate degrees in biology

The associate degree in biology can offer you the opportunity to learn more about the world around you, choose what specialty you would like to pursue and build credits to advance toward completing a bachelor's degree program. Typical courses you might take as part of an associate degree program include biochemistry, evolutionary biology, general biology, genetics, microbiology, plant anatomy, zoology and more. Depending upon the career path you choose, …