Online Bachelors Degree in Life Sciences

Life sciences allow you to study living organisms -- plants, animals or humans -- and how they interact with their environments. Bachelor's degrees in life sciences could be the first step toward teaching biology, exploring cutting-edge nanotechnology or feeding the world through advances in agricultural science. An undergraduate degree is also a foundation for studies in physician assisting, pre-med or veterinary medicine. With more than 50 life science fields from which to choose, you can take your pick from anatomy to zoology.

Exploring bachelor's degrees in life sciences

General education studies in the social sciences and English can build important skills for research and communicating with colleagues, clients and patients. Math and statistics are building blocks for the sciences. The curriculum for bachelor's degrees in life sciences could span subjects like these:

1. Biology and microbiology
2. Chemistry, organic chemistry and biochemistry
3. Genetics
4. Physics
5. Physiology
6. Psychology or physical anthropology

Popular concentrations include biology, chemistry, bioinformatics and biomedical technology. Some degree programs also offer apprenticeships for hands-on experience in diverse industries and professions.

Life sciences career options, outlook and salaries

Bachelor's degrees can provide a foundation for dual degrees in occupational and physical therapy or physician assisting. With the required training or certification, you could enter pharmaceutical research, K-12 science education, technical writing, biotech, medicine, veterinary technology and more.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the following median annual salaries in 2010 for related careers:

1. Biomedical engineer: $81,540
2. Medical laboratory technologist: $46,680
3. Veterinary technologist: $29,710

The BLS projects excellent employment growth between 2010 and 2020 -- over 50 percent -- for veterinary technologists and biomedical engineers. Average growth of 13 percent is expected for medical and clinical laboratory technologists and technicians.

Beyond bachelor's degrees in life sciences

Master's degrees allow you to refine your area of interest -- biotechnology, chemistry, neuroscience or genetics, for example -- as well as your specific goals in research, teaching or industry. Doctorates are designed for teaching at the college level, intensive research or leadership roles.

Online graduate degree programs offer multidisciplinary approaches such as agricultural and life sciences. Hybrid or web-based degree programs allow you to work while you study and apply what you learn to your current job. You can collaborate with peers and professors around the world to enhance your academic experience. Start your life sciences education today and make a difference tomorrow.

Life sciences allow you to study living organisms -- plants, animals or humans -- and how they interact with their environments. Bachelor's degrees in life sciences could be the first step toward teaching biology, exploring cutting-edge nanotechnology or feeding the world through advances in agricultural science. An undergraduate degree is also a foundation for studies in physician assisting, pre-med or veterinary medicine. With more than 50 life science fields from which to choose, you can take your pick from anatomy to zoology.

Exploring bachelor's degrees in life sciences

General education studies in the social sciences and English can build important skills for research and communicating with colleagues, clients and patients. Math and statistics are building blocks for the sciences. The curriculum for bachelor's degrees in life sciences …