What do wildlife biologists, genetic counselors and pharmaceutical researchers have in common? They all started with a degree in biological sciences. Whether you’re exploring college majors or considering a career in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), studying biological science offers a powerful way to understand how life works — and how to make a difference with that knowledge.
In this guide, we’ll break down what the major covers, where it can take you and why it’s a smart move for students who want a hands-on education that prepares them for real-world impact.
What is Biological Science?
Biological science is all about life: How it works, how it adapts and how it all connects. At its core, it’s the study of living organisms and the environments they’re part of. From microscopic cells to entire ecosystems, biology helps explain how life works on every level.
Ever wonder how the body heals a cut? Why do birds migrate? Or how does a virus spread — and how can we stop it? Those are the kinds of questions biological science helps answer.
For students curious about STEM, biological science (also known as bioscience) offers a chance to explore big ideas through hands-on learning. It builds critical thinking skills and opens the door to careers that make a real impact.
What are the Biological Sciences?
Biological sciences are a collection of interconnected fields that each explore life from a different angle. Whether you’re interested in solving medical mysteries, protecting ecosystems or studying how genes shape who we are, there’s a branch of bioscience that fits.
Some of the major areas within biological sciences include:
- Microbiology: Studies microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi, many of which play major roles in health and the environment
- Genetics: Examines at how traits are passed down, how genes work and how genetic variations affect living things
- Molecular Biology: Focuses on processes happening at the molecular level, such as DNA replication and protein synthesis
- Medical Biology: Applies biology to health and disease, connecting lab research with real-world medicine
- Cell Biology: Explores how cells function, grow and interact; crucial to understanding all life
- Ecology: Studies how organisms relate to each other and to their environments
- Evolutionary Biology: Looks at how species change over time and where they come from
- Organismal Biology: Focuses on whole organisms, including how they’re built, how they function and how they behave
- Forensic Biology: Uses biology in criminal investigations, such as DNA analysis and crime scene evidence
- Physiology: Studies how living systems work, from organs and tissues down to chemical reactions
- Botany: The science of plants, including how they grow, reproduce and interact with their environment
- Zoology: The study of animals, including their biology, behavior and evolution
Each of these fields plays a role in solving real-world problems. Students don’t need to know their intended career path right away, but instead, will likely benefit from exploring different areas as part of their educational journey.
Biological Sciences vs. Biology vs. Chemistry
When researching science majors, it’s easy to get lost in the terminology. Biology, biological sciences and chemistry all sound similar, but each one has its own focus.
Biology is a broad term that simply means the study of life. It covers everything from plants and animals to cells and ecosystems. High school courses usually introduce biology at this level, giving students a big-picture view of how living systems work.
Biological sciences takes that foundation further. It refers to the scientific discipline of biology, often in a college or research setting, and includes many subfields such as genetics, microbiology, ecology and more. A biological sciences degree usually involves digging deeper into the details, running experiments and applying scientific methods to study living things.
Chemistry, on the other hand, is a physical science. It focuses on matter — what things are made of, how they behave and how substances interact and change. While biology focuses on living systems, chemistry looks at both living and non-living matter. Chemistry is also foundational to biology, especially in areas such as molecular biology or biochemistry, where understanding chemical reactions inside cells is key.
Despite their differences, each field plays an important role in science and often overlaps with the others.
What You’ll Learn in a Biological Sciences Major: Courses, Skills & Opportunities
A biological sciences major offers a strong foundation in how living systems work, paired with the hands-on experience needed to build a career in science, healthcare or research.
Students start with core courses such as general biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, physiology and anatomy. Many of these include lab work, giving students the chance to practice scientific methods and experience hands-on lessons. From there, electives such as zoology, botany or environmental science enable students to explore specific areas of biological science that align with their interests or career goals.
Along the way, students build skills that apply far beyond the classroom. These include:
- Scientific research and lab techniques
- Data analysis and interpretation
- Critical thinking and problem-solving
- Clear communication of complex ideas
- Safe and effective use of lab tools, software and other technology
Outside of class, there are even more ways to further lessons. Many students gain real-world experience through internships, fieldwork or working as lab assistants. Undergraduate and graduate research opportunities are available for those who want to further explore a topic or contribute to active studies alongside faculty.
A biological sciences degree can also serve as a strong launchpad for advanced study. Whether the next step is graduate school, medical school, dental school or a research-focused doctorate, a biological sciences degree helps students build the knowledge and confidence to keep moving forward.
Biological Sciences Careers
A degree in biological sciences opens the door to a wide range of career paths, from lab work and field research to healthcare, education and biotech. With a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences, students gain the scientific foundation and hands-on experience needed to step into entry-level roles or prepare for graduate study. A master’s degree can lead to more specialized positions, higher-level research and increased earning potential. Whether the goal is to enter the workforce right after college or pursue advanced training at professional schools, biological sciences offer the flexibility to build a career with real impact.
Salary and job outlook information sourced from the latest available data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2025).
8 Jobs You Can Get with a Bachelor’s Degree in Biological Sciences
1. Entry-level Microbiologist
Description: Work in labs testing microorganisms, identifying bacteria or fungi, running standard assays, documenting results and supporting research projects.
Typical work environment or industry: Government labs, biotech or pharmaceutical companies, environmental testing labs
Average salary: $87,330
Job outlook: Projected to grow 7% year-over-year (YoY) from 2023 to 2033
2. Biology teacher
Description: Teach high school biology or general science, inspiring students and sharing knowledge of life sciences.
Typical work environment or industry: Public or private schools (additional certification required in most states)
Average salary: $64,580
Job outlook: 1% projected decline in employment from 2023 to 2033
3. Biological technician
Description: Assist scientists or engineers in labs by preparing experiments, collecting samples, recording data and maintaining equipment.
Typical work environment or industry: Research institutions, pharmaceutical labs, universities, environmental consulting firms
Average salary: $83,100
Job outlook: Projected to grow 7% YoY from 2023 to 2033
4. Environmental scientist
Description: Study ecosystems and environmental health — for example, monitor pollution, assess habitat impacts and recommend conservation strategies
Typical work environment or industry: Government agencies, nonprofits, environmental consulting firms
Average salary: $84,600
Job outlook: Projected 7% growth YoY from 2023 to 2033
5. Wildlife biologist
Description: Research animal behavior, habitats and ecological relationships, often including fieldwork monitoring populations
Typical work environment or industry: Government wildlife agencies, national parks, conservation organizations, research institutes
Average salary range: $72,860
Job outlook: Projected 4% growth YoY from 2023 to 2033
6. Clinical research manager
Description: Manage clinical trials, recruit participants, coordinate data collection, ensure regulatory compliance and liaise with research teams
Typical work environment or industry: Hospitals, universities, pharmaceutical companies, research organizations
Average salary range: $161,180
Job outlook: Projected 8% growth YoY from 2023 to 2033
7. Science or technical writer
Description: Translate scientific research into clear written content for publications, websites, proposals or other documentation
Typical work environment or industry: Publishing, educational organizations, science communications firms, biotech companies
Average salary range: $91,670
Job outlook: Projected 4% growth YoY from 2023 to 2033
8. Medical sales representative
Description: Promote and sell medical or laboratory products, such as diagnostics or biotech tools, to healthcare or research professionals
Typical work environment or industry: Pharmaceutical companies, medical device firms
Average salary range: $99,710
Job outlook: Projected 4% growth YoY from 2023 to 2033
7 Jobs That May Require a Master’s Degree in Biological Sciences
1. Biostatician
Description: Apply statistical models to biological and health data, often for medical research, clinical trials or public health studies
Typical work environment or industry: Government agencies, pharmaceutical companies, research institutions, public health departments
Average salary range: $104,350
Job outlook: Projected 11% growth YoY from 2023 to 2033
2. Biomedical research scientist
Description: Design and conduct experiments to better understand disease, treatment options or biological systems
Typical work environment or industry: University labs, hospitals, pharmaceutical or biotech companies
Average salary range: $100,590
Job outlook: Projected 11% growth YoY from 2023 to 2033
3. College biology instructor
Description: Teach biology at the college level, ranging from community colleges to undergraduate and graduate programs
Typical work environment or industry: Two- or four-year colleges and universities
Average salary range: $83,920
Job outlook: Projected 8% growth YoY from 2023 to 2033
4. Conservation scientist
Description: Protect natural resources and ecosystems, often using data and policy to guide sustainable land use
Typical work environment or industry: Government agencies, conservation nonprofits, environmental consulting firms
Average salary range: $69,060
Job outlook: Projected 5% growth YoY from 2023 to 2033
5. Genetic counselor
Description: Help individuals and families understand genetic conditions and make informed healthcare decisions
Typical work environment or industry: Hospitals, genetic testing centers, medical clinics
Average salary range: $98,910
Job outlook: Projected 16% growth YoY from 2023 to 2033
6. Biotechnologist
Description: Use biological processes and tools to develop new products in health, agriculture and industry
Typical work environment or industry: Biotech firms, pharmaceutical companies, academic or commercial research labs
Average salary range: $52,000
Job outlook: Projected 7% growth YoY from 2023 to 2033
7. Biochemist
Description: Study the chemical processes that support life, often focusing on drug development, cellular function or metabolism
Typical work environment or industry: Biotech and pharmaceutical companies, research labs, government agencies
Average salary range: $103,650
Job outlook: Projected 9% growth YoY from 2023 to 2033
Reasons to Major in Biological Sciences
Choosing a major in biological sciences means stepping into a field that’s full of possibility. Here’s why it’s a smart move for students who want to explore how life works and use that knowledge to make a difference.
- Prepares you for a wide range of careers
From research labs and classrooms to conservation sites and hospitals, a biological sciences degree can take you in many different directions. Whether you’re planning to enter the workforce after college or explore a specialized role after earning an advanced degree, this major builds the scientific foundation to support either path. - Strong foundation for medical and graduate school
For students planning to apply to medical, dental or veterinary school, or to pursue a master’s or PhD, biological sciences offers the coursework and lab experience that most programs require. - Hands-on learning opportunities
Classroom learning matters, but real understanding comes from doing. Students in this major take part in lab work, field studies and research that bring science to real-life applications. - Ability to learn in-demand skills
Along with core biology knowledge, students build skills employers look for, such as data analysis, scientific writing, lab safety, problem-solving and working with advanced technology. - Endless specialization options
Biological sciences branches into dozens of focus areas, so students can shape the major to match their personal interests and professional goals. - Opportunities to conduct research
At many universities, including Marshall, students can work alongside faculty on real research projects, sometimes as early as their freshman year. - Connects to other scientific fields
Biological sciences is a gateway to many areas of STEM. It overlaps with chemistry, physics, computer science, environmental studies and more, making it a great starting point for interdisciplinary careers.
Biology is the general study of life and living organisms. Biological sciences is a broader academic term that includes all the branches and subfields of biology, including genetics, ecology and molecular biology. In a college setting, biological sciences often refers to a deeper, more research-focused approach.
Biological sciences includes a wide range of subfields. Some focus on microscopic life (such as microbiology), others on whole ecosystems (such as ecology) or human health (such as physiology and genetics). You’ll also find specialties such as zoology, botany, molecular biology, biochemistry and forensic biology.
It’s a science degree focused on studying living systems — how they function, change and interact. Students build a foundation in biology, chemistry and research methods, with the flexibility to explore different areas through labs, electives and fieldwork.
Graduates work in labs, hospitals, classrooms, research centers, conservation groups, biotech firms and beyond. Some jump straight into careers as lab technicians, science writers or environmental scientists. Others use it as a launchpad for medical school, graduate school or a specialized science career.
Yes. It covers the core science courses most med schools require and helps students build the research, problem-solving and communication skills they’ll need in a clinical setting. Make sure to plan ahead for any additional prerequisites.
Absolutely. Biological sciences gives students the scientific background and technical skills to work in research, development, testing or sales across biotech and pharmaceutical companies. Some roles may require extra certifications or training, but this degree gets you in the door.
