Online Bachelors Degree in Biology

Biologists have the tools, knowledge and research skills to explore living things and find answers for their changes, behavior and evolution -- from the tiniest clump of cells to the ecosystem of an entire planet. A bachelor's degree in biology can lead to a dozen different fields and hundreds of potential career directions.

Earning bachelor's degrees in biology

Typical biology courses include biochemistry, evolutionary biology, general biology, genetics, invertebrate biology, marine biology, microbiology, plant anatomy and zoology. Expect other science subjects like physics, chemistry, environmental science and advanced mathematics, such as calculus. Depending upon your focus, field work, laboratory work, internships or research might be required.

Career options, outlook and salary

Bachelor's degrees in biology can serve as a stepping stone to further education or can lead to entry-level positions in a wide range of fields. The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that some disciplines are highly competitive and may require further education. For example, most marine biologists conducting research have a Ph.D. However, those with bachelor's degrees can seek related jobs such as science technicians or medical technologists.

For various occupations related to biology, the BLS calculates these 2010 mean yearly wages and job growth projections for the 2010-2020 decade:

1. Biological technicians: $39,020; growth of 13.5 percent
2. Environmental scientists: $61,700; growth of 18.7 percent
3. Food scientists and technologists: $60,180; growth of 8 percent
4. Soil and plant scientists: $57,340; growth of 12.1 percent

The American Institute of Biological Sciences points out biology majors may find careers in health care, education, research, environmental management, forensics, and even art or mathematics. Potential positions include botanists, food safety experts, forensic scientists, forest rangers, physical therapists, teachers and zookeepers, among many others. The AIBS expects excellent job growth for molecular biologists and biotechnology careers in the coming years.

Going beyond the bachelor's degree

Bachelor's degrees in biology can open doors to a wide variety of career paths. However, you may need a master's degree or doctorate to move into teaching positions, administration, research jobs and clinical placement. Online education can help move things along by allowing you to gain work experience while taking courses on your own time. In keeping with the fact that many biology degrees require lab or field work, hybrid education -- a combination of online classes and hands-on training -- is also a popular option.

Biologists have the tools, knowledge and research skills to explore living things and find answers for their changes, behavior and evolution -- from the tiniest clump of cells to the ecosystem of an entire planet. A bachelor's degree in biology can lead to a dozen different fields and hundreds of potential career directions.

Earning bachelor's degrees in biology

Typical biology courses include biochemistry, evolutionary biology, general biology, genetics, invertebrate biology, marine biology, microbiology, plant anatomy and zoology. Expect other science subjects like physics, chemistry, environmental science and advanced mathematics, such as calculus. Depending upon your focus, field work, laboratory work, internships or research might be required.

Career options, outlook and salary

Bachelor's degrees in biology can serve as a stepping stone to further education or can lead to entry-level …