Explore creation through the biological sciences and make real-world impact through biology major jobs.

If you’re contemplating what can you do with a biology degree, you’re exploring a domain where scientific discovery in the biological sciences meets real-world impact and meaningful careers in biology major jobs.

The biological sciences encompass the comprehensive study of living organisms and their interactions with the environment around them. This expansive field investigates everything from cellular mechanisms to ecosystem dynamics, providing the foundation for understanding life itself.

Professional careers with a bachelor’s degree in biology tackle society’s most pressing challenges—from developing life-saving medical treatments to creating sustainable environmental solutions—while building essential skills in analytical thinking, laboratory proficiency, and ethical reasoning that lead to competitive salaries and meaningful professional impact across diverse industries.

Understanding the Biological Sciences: A Foundation for Discovery

What Are Biological Sciences: The biological sciences encompass the comprehensive study of living organisms and their interactions with the environment. This expansive field investigates everything from cellular mechanisms to ecosystem dynamics, providing the foundation for understanding life processes at molecular, organismal, and population levels.

Solving Real-World Problems: Professionals with careers in biological sciences tackle society’s most pressing challenges across healthcare, environmental conservation, pharmaceutical development, and agricultural innovation. From developing new medical treatments to creating sustainable farming practices, biological sciences professionals directly impact human health and environmental protection.

Career Opportunities and Skills: What can you do with a biology degree extends across multiple industries offering diverse career paths. Jobs for biology degree holders require strong analytical thinking, laboratory proficiency, communication skills, and ethical reasoning—competencies that lead to competitive salaries and meaningful professional impact in research, healthcare, and environmental sectors.

Real-World Problems Solved Through Biological Sciences

Professionals with careers in biological sciences tackle some of society’s most pressing challenges across multiple sectors.

Healthcare Innovation

  • Develop new treatments for diseases
  • Create advanced diagnostic tools
  • Advance personalized medicine approaches
  • Design innovative drug delivery systems

Environmental Protection

  • Address climate change impacts
  • Develop conservation strategies for endangered species
  • Create sustainable farming practices
  • Protect ecosystem integrity

Pharmaceutical Development

  • Design new medications for untreatable conditions
  • Improve drug safety and efficacy
  • Develop gene therapies for inherited disorders
  • Create biosafety protocols for public health

Agricultural Advancement

  • Increase crop yields through biotechnology
  • Develop disease-resistant plant varieties
  • Create sustainable farming methods
  • Address food security challenges

Career Paths and Biology Major Jobs

The question of what can you do with a biology degree has an remarkably broad answer. Careers with a bachelor’s degree in biology span multiple industries and offer diverse opportunities for professional growth and societal impact.

Are Entry-Level Jobs Available for Biology Graduates?

Yes, numerous entry-level positions exist for recent biology graduates. Many biology major jobs don’t require years of experience, making them accessible to new graduates who demonstrate strong foundational knowledge and laboratory skills.

Common entry-level positions include:

  • Research technician positions in universities and private companies
  • Clinical laboratory assistant roles in hospitals and diagnostic labs
  • Environmental monitoring technician positions
  • Quality control analyst roles in pharmaceutical companies
  • Medical assistant positions in healthcare settings

Healthcare and Medical Fields

Many biology major jobs exist in healthcare settings, offering direct patient impact and stable career growth.

Popular healthcare careers:

  • Clinical Laboratory Technicians – Analyze patient samples to help diagnose diseases and monitor treatment progress
  • Medical Assistants – Work directly with patients and healthcare providers in clinical settings
  • Pharmaceutical Sales Representatives – Help bring new treatments to healthcare professionals and patients
  • Medical Research Coordinators – Support clinical trials and research studies

Research and Laboratory Sciences

Research environments offer exciting careers with a bachelor’s degree in biology for those passionate about scientific discovery.

Research opportunities include:

  • Research Technicians – Support scientific investigations in universities, government agencies, and private companies
  • Laboratory Analysts – Conduct experiments and maintain sophisticated laboratory equipment
  • Quality Control Specialists – Ensure pharmaceutical and biotechnology products meet safety standards
  • Bioinformatics Technicians – Analyze biological data using computational tools

Environmental and Conservation Careers

Environmental careers allow biology graduates to address critical conservation and sustainability challenges.

Environmental career paths:

  • Environmental Consultants – Help organizations comply with environmental regulations
  • Park Naturalists – Educate the public about ecosystem conservation
  • Wildlife Biologists – Study animal populations and develop conservation strategies
  • Environmental Health Specialists – Investigate how environmental factors impact human health

Education and Outreach

Biology education offers rewarding careers for those passionate about sharing scientific knowledge with diverse audiences.

Educational opportunities:

  • High School Biology Teachers – Inspire the next generation of scientists
  • Museum Educators – Help the public understand scientific concepts through engaging exhibits
  • Science Outreach Coordinators – Develop community education programs
  • Curriculum Developers – Create educational materials for scientific learning

Biotechnology and Industry

The biotechnology sector offers cutting-edge careers with a bachelor’s degree in biology in rapidly growing industries.

Biotechnology roles:

  • Research Associates – Work on developing new products and technologies
  • Production Technicians – Help manufacture biological products safely and efficiently
  • Regulatory Affairs Specialists – Navigate approval processes for new treatments
  • Technical Sales Representatives – Support biotechnology product sales and customer education

Distinguished Biological Sciences Programs at HCU

Houston Christian University’s College of Science and Engineering offers three exceptional degree programs that serve as launching pads for biology major jobs and careers with a bachelor’s degree in biology.

At Houston Christian University, biological sciences education goes beyond traditional classroom learning—it’s about cultivating scientists who approach discovery through both rigorous scientific methodology and principled ethical frameworks.

Our biological sciences programs prepare professionals who can:

  • Think critically about complex biological problems
  • Work collaboratively across interdisciplinary teams
  • Apply knowledge with both competence and compassion
  • Navigate ethical challenges in scientific research

Whether you’re interested in cellular research, environmental conservation, or healthcare applications, the biological sciences offer pathways to meaningful careers that serve both scientific advancement and human flourishing.

Biology (BS) Program

The Biology (BS) degree program emphasizes cell and molecular biology, microbiology, and animal systems, preparing students for advanced studies in related fields.

Program highlights:

  • Comprehensive curriculum integrating general education with specialized biological sciences
  • Distinguished faculty providing specialized advising
  • Robust research involvement and hands-on laboratory experiences
  • Strong preparation for health and medicine careers
  • Close support for graduate, medical, or dental school applications

Students engage with faculty through the College of Science and Engineering’s specialized advising program, receiving guidance for professional school applications, internships, and career placement.

Biochemistry-Molecular Biology (BS) Program

The Biochemistry-Molecular Biology (BS) program bridges biology and chemistry, uncovering insights into life’s intricacies at the cellular level.

Program features:

  • Interdisciplinary study of biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics
  • Excellent foundation for pharmaceutical and biotechnology careers
  • Advanced laboratory facilities for molecular research
  • Preparation for leadership roles in medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology
  • Integration of molecular mechanisms with biological processes

This program prepares graduates to lead in fields from pharmaceuticals to biotechnology, providing the molecular foundation essential for modern biological sciences careers.

Chemistry (BS) Program

The Chemistry (BS) program includes comprehensive coursework in general, bio, inorganic, organic, analytical, and physical chemistry.

Chemistry program strengths:

  • Foundational preparation for pharmaceutical development careers
  • Strong analytical and laboratory skills development
  • Excellent preparation for environmental analysis roles
  • Solid foundation for chemical research positions
  • Integration with biological sciences applications

This program provides excellent preparation for jobs for biology degree holders who want to work in pharmaceutical development, environmental analysis, or chemical research.

Science Studies (BS) Program

The Science Studies (BS) program is a general science degree designed to provide a comprehensive scientific foundation across multiple disciplines. This interdisciplinary approach is particularly valuable for students exploring various biology major jobs who want flexibility in their career preparation.

Science Studies program benefits:

  • Comprehensive foundation across diverse scientific realms
  • Interdisciplinary approach ideal for broad career exploration
  • Excellent preparation for students unsure of their specific biological sciences focus
  • Strong foundation for advanced studies in specialized fields
  • Flexibility for careers requiring broad scientific knowledge

This program serves students who want to explore what can you do with a biology degree while maintaining options for careers with a bachelor’s degree in biology across multiple scientific disciplines.

Essential Skills for Success in Biological Sciences Careers

Success in careers with a bachelor’s degree in biology requires a combination of technical competencies and interpersonal skills that distinguish exceptional professionals.

Core Technical Skills

Laboratory Proficiency:

  • Scientific equipment operation and maintenance
  • Experimental protocol development and execution
  • Data collection and analysis techniques
  • Safety procedures and regulatory compliance

Analytical Capabilities:

  • Critical thinking and logical reasoning
  • Pattern recognition in complex data sets
  • Statistical analysis and interpretation
  • Research methodology and design

Professional Skills

Communication Excellence:

  • Scientific writing and report preparation
  • Presentation skills for diverse audiences
  • Collaborative teamwork in interdisciplinary settings
  • Public speaking and education abilities

Problem-Solving Expertise:

  • Creative approach to experimental challenges
  • Adaptation to unexpected research results
  • Innovation in research methodologies
  • Troubleshooting complex procedures

Technology and Modern Tools

Digital Proficiency:

  • Laboratory information management systems
  • Data analysis software and statistical packages
  • Specialized scientific instruments
  • Bioinformatics and computational biology tools

Ethical and Professional Standards

Houston Christian University emphasizes the development of professionals who conduct their work with integrity, respect, and commitment to the common good. Essential ethical competencies include:

  • Professional integrity in research and reporting
  • Respect for human subjects and animal welfare
  • Commitment to scientific accuracy and honesty
  • Understanding of regulatory and compliance requirements

Salary Expectations for Biology Major Jobs

Understanding earning potential is crucial when considering what can you do with a biology degree. Salary ranges for jobs for biology degree holders vary significantly based on experience, location, industry, and specific role responsibilities.

Entry-Level Positions

Starting Salaries for New Graduates:

  • Research Technicians: $35,000-$45,000 annually
  • Clinical Laboratory Technicians: $40,000-$60,000 annually
  • Medical Assistants: $30,000-$45,000 annually
  • Environmental Technicians: $35,000-$50,000 annually

Mid-Level Positions

Experienced Professional Ranges:

  • Laboratory Professionals: $50,000-$70,000 annually
  • Environmental Specialists: $45,000-$75,000 annually
  • Research Associates: $55,000-$80,000 annually
  • Quality Control Analysts: $50,000-$70,000 annually

Advanced and Specialized Roles

Senior Position Compensation:

  • Pharmaceutical Sales Representatives: $60,000-$100,000+ (including commissions)
  • Senior Research Associates: $70,000-$100,000 annually
  • Regulatory Affairs Specialists: $65,000-$95,000 annually
  • Laboratory Supervisors: $75,000-$110,000 annually

Additional Compensation Factors:

  • Government positions often include comprehensive benefits packages
  • Biotechnology companies may offer stock options and bonuses
  • Healthcare settings typically provide excellent health insurance
  • Research institutions may offer professional development opportunities

Advanced Education Pathways

While many rewarding careers with a bachelor’s degree in biology exist, advanced education opens additional opportunities for professional growth and increased earning potential.

Professional School Options

Health Professions Programs:

  • Medical school for physician careers
  • Dental school for dental practice
  • Pharmacy school for pharmaceutical careers
  • Veterinary school for animal healthcare

Graduate Study Opportunities:

  • Master’s programs in specialized biological sciences
  • PhD programs for research and academic careers
  • Professional science master’s degrees
  • Interdisciplinary graduate programs

Houston Christian University’s strong foundation in biological sciences prepares students exceptionally well for advanced studies. Our pre-health professions advising helps students navigate application processes for professional schools, while our research opportunities provide valuable experience for those pursuing graduate degrees.

The Houston Christian University Advantage

Choosing Houston Christian University for biological sciences education means joining a community that combines academic excellence with purposeful mission.

Academic Excellence

Distinguished Faculty and Facilities:

  • Research-active faculty with genuine care for student success
  • Small class sizes ensuring personalized attention
  • State-of-the-art laboratory facilities for hands-on learning
  • Advanced equipment preparing students for professional settings

Comprehensive Student Support

Professional Experience Office (PXO) Services:

  • Comprehensive advising and mentoring
  • Pre-health professions preparation
  • Graduate and professional school application support
  • Internship and career placement assistance
  • Career readiness development

Strategic Location Advantages

Houston’s premier position as a center for healthcare, energy, and biotechnology provides exceptional opportunities:

Local Industry Connections:

  • Leading research institutions for internships
  • Major pharmaceutical companies for career opportunities
  • Innovative biotechnology firms for professional growth
  • World-class medical centers for healthcare careers

Building Your Future in Biological Sciences

The journey toward careers in biological sciences begins with choosing the right educational foundation. Houston Christian University’s Biology (BS), Biochemistry-Molecular Biology (BS), Chemistry (BS), and Science Studies (BS) programs provide the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary for success in this dynamic field.

Whether you’re interested in healthcare applications, environmental conservation, research and development, or education, the biological sciences offer pathways to careers that make meaningful differences in the world. At Houston Christian University, you’ll discover not just what can you do with a biology degree, but how you can use your education to serve others and advance human flourishing.

Our location in Houston, one of the nation’s premier centers for healthcare, energy, and biotechnology, provides exceptional internship and career opportunities. Students gain exposure to leading research institutions, major pharmaceutical companies, and innovative biotechnology firms that offer pathways to meaningful careers in biological sciences.

Your next steps:

Houston Christian University’s biological sciences programs prepare students to be leaders—scientists who pursue truth, serve others, and contribute to the common good through their professional work. Transform your interest in biology into a meaningful and impactful career that serves both your professional aspirations and your calling to make a positive difference in the world.