Biological Sciences Major

Students looking to major in something science related should look at some biological sciences majors. No matter what type of biology major you choose, most first-year biology classes will have core classes focusing on topics such as cell theory, molecular biology, evolution, adaptation, gene theory, and homeostasis.

After developing a good foundation of knowledge for the core value of biology, you will be able to select a field to specialize in. Anatomy, biophysics, cellular biology, ecology, environmental biology, forensic biology, psychology, microbiology, natural science, physiology, zoology, are several popular choices. Our complete guide to biological sciences majors will cover the following:

• What are Biological Sciences Majors?
• Different Types of Biological Sciences Majors
• Biological Sciences Major Jobs
• Pros of a Biological Science Major

What Is A Biological Science Major?

The idea of pursuing a major in biology for many students can bring back unpleasant memories of dissecting frogs back in school. While the study of live organisms requires a biology degree, there is so much more to this area than just formaldehyde and finding out what is inside of a frog. There are so many opportunities to earn a degree in biology as online degrees have become more popular and available to students.

By enrolling in a biology degree program, students will be taking core classes their first year to help them explore their choices in the field of biology. Biological science majors encompasses many different types of biology majors – think of it as a way to group all the biology majors together under one umbrella.

Many professors in this field are practicing biologists who want to help students with their experience in specific fields of biology. We dive deeper into the different biological science majors you can pursue below – this should help you figure out which path you want to take.

Different Types of Biological Sciences Majors

If you wish to pursue a biological sciences major, you have a lot of options to choose from. Make sure the college major you choose is something you will enjoy – no one likes spending time on something they do not enjoy. There are many branches and sub-branches to choose from. Find out which biological sciences majors are most interesting to you.

Biology Major

The general focus in biology is meant to provide students with a wide variety of biological science curriculum and an ability to pursue a wide range of elective courses. Biology is a great degree for students who wish to enter graduate school or want any entry level position in various industries after graduation. A major in biology can also be used for students who wish to attend medical school or dental school.

Students in biology often go into the medical field, and many move to research labs or the pharmaceutical and biotech industries. Many occupations will need further training above an undergraduate degree, such as oceanographer, entomologist, or marine biologist. Biology gives students the space to find their particular interests. A research-based career is another common career path for students who major in biology.

Astrobiology Major

Astronomy associated with biological sciences is astrobiology. Astrobiology is the science of life in the universe’s formation and evolution. A detailed integrated understanding of biological, celestial, and cosmic phenomena is needed for this major. Astrobiology includes the quest for stable environments, the search for signs of prebiotic chemistry in the Solar System, and investigation into the history and diversity of life on Earth.

In contrast with the long-established fields of biology, physics, geology, planetary science, the field of astrobiology is fairly modern. There are very few dedicated astrobiology degree programs at this time. Specializing in a particular scientific discipline, such as astronomy, is the standard direction for a student interested in learning astrobiology.

Meteorology Major

The science of climate, environment, and the properties, composition, and mechanisms of the atmosphere is meteorology. Students study how the weather can be predicted and how to consider climate change. The goal of a science degree program in meteorology is to gain a broad understanding of the basic physical mechanisms that effect the atmosphere. There are two main type of meteorologists:

• Meteorologists that gather data and track weather patterns for research
• Broadcast meteorologists who report on various weather events

Chemistry Major

A chemistry major includes studying the diverse forms in which the elements on the periodic table interact. Students in chemistry may go on to research various topics like cancer treatment, chemistry education, and nutrient cycling.

Chemistry majors will be well prepared to use their knowledge of science on everyday life. This includes jobs in academia, pharmacy, business, or another field. Chemistry majors should be prepared to face a demanding program while they gain a deep knowledge of the world’s subject matter.

Physics Major

Students majoring in physics will study questions about the universe. Examples of the applications of physics can be seen in inventions like the X-Ray machine. A major in physics is a road to a scientific degree that seeks to understand how the planet operates and how the universe is structured. Physics majors investigate matter and energy and learn about both classical and contemporary theories.

Students should expect to take a lot of courses that involve math. A physics major might be the best fit for you if you are good at math and are willing to learn problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

Microbiology Major

Microbiologists study bacteria and viruses that are at the beginning stages of life. Students may find themselves studying or working on things like infectious diseases, environmental health, and commercial uses of bacterial by-products. Students should expect to take classes in both organic and inorganic chemistry, as well as genetics and immunology. A microbiology major could lead to work in laboratory science or in public services after graduation.

Cellular Biology Major

Cells are the fundamental organizational unit of all life. Students majoring in cellular biology will focus on the functions of cells and how these cells interacting with different things. Students will find many similarities in microbiology and cellular biology majors.

Many cellular biology majors will go on to graduate school. With all of the labs and hands-on training that a cellular biology major receives, these students will be ready to enter fields like teaching, biomedical science, and industrial studies. The major’s broad study orientation gives you the ability to become familiar with contemporary laboratory biology, and you will be motivated to collaborate on individual research items.

Ecology Major

A major based on ecology or environmental sciences could suit you if you are invested in topics such as global warming and sustainable development. At the macroscopic stage, ecologists study biology, focusing on plant-animal relationships as well as other factors, including environmental chemicals and charged particles. Some common careers for an ecology major include an environmental consultant or a soil technician.

Biological Sciences Major Jobs

By complete a degree in the field of biological sciences, you will be able to apply for many different types of jobs. These jobs are spread across various industries which is another benefit of majoring in something that falls under the biological sciences umbrella.

Some common jobs include:

Check out some statistics about biological science majors in the table below. Our team also pulled data about unemployment rates by major and different college majors and their average income. Give those two resources a look as well.

scroll right on mobile to see entire table

Why You Should Get A Biological Science Major

Students who are interested in pursuing medical, dental, or veterinary school should consider a biological sciences major. Biological science majors, depending on which one you choose, will prepare you for the required entrance exams for various graduate programs. Students will be able to build a solid base of knowledge in the field of science – this will provide them with many opportunities.

Since degree programs in biological science are so diverse, after students receive their degree, there are a ton of different opportunities. Some common opportunities may include careers such as health care professional, geneticists, epidemiologists, and environmentalist. In addition, because of the research, time management, and presentation abilities acquired when earning an undergraduate degree, graduates are well-prepared for graduate school or a job.

People are looking for students with a background in biological sciences. Humans are living longer, scientist are inventing new things to help humanity, and doctors are sought after – all great things for this field.

For those who realize why they want to work in the field of biology, a bachelor’s degree in biological science is perfect, but they still need to figure out which area. As an undergraduate, before moving on to careers in science, pharmaceuticals, environmental management, or wildlife conservation, students will have the ability to acquire experience in many fields.

All data for this article was found in the Bureau of Labor Statistics.