Today, there are a number of options that you can choose from when it comes to education. Though software and technology are the dominant career choices today, Biology has always been an evergreen option. What does a biology degree entail? What career choices can you opt for with a Biology degree? How competitive is the market?
If you are seeking out answers for the questions above, read this article to find out more about how your Biology degree can help you choose the best career path.
What skill sets can you obtain with your Biology degree?
Listed below are some of the common skills that you can pick up on during your course in Biology:
- A better understanding of living organisms and biological systems.
- Strong experience and skills in laboratories.
- Applied sciences and a general understanding of ecosystems and conservation.
- Analytical skills
- Communication, leadership, Coordination skills, among others.
- Discipline and attention to detail.
Apart from the ones mentioned above, your degree can also help you get field experience, survival skills, and other useful skills.

Are there any advantages when you major in Biology?
Yes! There are many benefits that you can enjoy such as:
- Make a difference- With vast experience about ecosystems and the environment, you can be more aware of pressing issues and develop solutions.
- Wide range of career choices- From career options in pharmaceuticals, healthcare, hospitals, research and other industries, the choices are endless. A degree in biology can help you get access to a diverse range of career options.
- Good pay- A career in biology has relatively good pay. By being a quick learner and adding more skills in your toolkit, you can quickly scale up your income potential.
- Experience- With career and research in biology, you can get a mixed experience of both working in small and large teams as well as working alone by yourself.
- Options to venture into other industries- By taking supplemental courses, you can also extend your career options in other industries and sectors.
Common career prospects
With a degree in Biology, there are many career prospects that you can pursue such as:
- Pharmaceutical Industry- With a degree in Biology, you have access to numerous career opportunities in the pharmaceutical industry including manufacturing drugs, Research & Development, Testing, Sales, among others.
- Environmental Scientist- These career paths deal with the conservation of the environment and ecosystem. It also includes finding alternative sources for clean energy while preserving the earth’s natural resources.
- Teaching- While using your knowledge and skills as a biologist, you can also get into the teaching industry for schools, colleges or universities.
- Agriculture and Food industry- Analyze crop samples, find more efficient ways of cultivation, among others.
- Beauty and health industry- This covers various therapies such as acupuncture, massage, etc.
- Animal care- For people interested in animals and pets, animal care careers involve proper raising and caring for various types of animals.

Apart from these commonly opted career paths, there are a lot of other opportunities and options that you can pursue with your degree in Biology. Choosing a field that you are passionate about can help you make an effective choice in your career path.
Best Scholarships in Biology for International Students
- Fully-Funded PhD Projects for UK/EU Students
The University of York Department of Biology is pleased to offer the Fully-Funded PhD Projects in the field of Biology. UK and EU citizens are eligible to apply for this opportunity. The award will cover the tuition and will give an annual tax-free stipend of £15,000. The application deadline is May 31, 2019.
- International Excellent Scholarship in Canada
Covenant University is delighted to offer International Excellent Scholarship (CUIES) for International students. The program is open to non-Nigerian Master’s applicants to To help in their higher study in Nigeria. The university will provide the program value, being a waiver of tuition fee only (100% or 75% or 50%). The application deadline is August 29th, 2019.
- Victoria University of Wellington Alison Morton Scholarship
Applications are open for the Alison Morton Scholarship at the Victoria University of Wellington. The program is open to a full-time student enrolled in a BSc (Hons) or MSc in Ecology or Marine Biology. Winner will receive up to $2,500 (subject to funds available). The application deadline is 1 October 2019.
- PhD Fellowships in Life Sciences
The University of Lausanne Faculty of Biology and Medicine is pleased to announce the PhD Fellowships in Life Sciences starting April 2020. Talented and motivated candidates who have or will have obtained Masters in Switzerland or abroad, are eligible to apply. Up to 450 PhD awards are available. Applications for the 2020 phd fellowships will be available as of August 30, 2019