Careers and Outcomes
Make a living in life science
As a biology major, you can explore and learn the fundamental principles of life. Your career paths are diverse and rewarding.
What is biology?
Biology is the study of life and living organisms. Biologists explore all kinds of life forms: From the smallest cells and molecules to plants and animals.
Biology also examines diverse ecosystems, natural resources, conservation practices and so much more.
What can you do with a biology degree?
A bachelor's degree in biology helps you pursue careers in science and health.
It's also a popular major for pre-health students who go on to become doctors, dentists and other health-related professions. Your biology degree can help you meet the admission requirements for top schools in medicine, dentistry and more.
Possible career paths
- Biologist
- Biology educator
- Conservation biologist
- Curator
- Dentist
- Ecologist
- Environmental specialist
- Forensic scientist
- Genetic counselor
- Marine biologist
- Park ranger
- Pharmacist
- Physician
- Research technician
- Science writer
- Sustainability coordinator
- Wetland scientist
- Zookeeper
You can also combine your biology pursuits with non-science fields like agriculture, business and education.
International Bear spreads new roots
How much do biologists make?
Where do Missouri State graduates work?
The most common workplaces for biology graduates in laboratory sciences are:
- Abbott Laboratories
- Baylor University College of Medicine
- Cambridge Laboratory
- Cox Medical Centers
- Ecological Associates Inc.
- IMMVAC Inc.
- InCell Corporation
- Merrill-Dow Corporation
- Mid-America Dairymen Inc.
- Midwest Research Institute
- Missouri State Police Crime Laboratory
- Monsanto Corporation
- Pfizer Inc.
- Quest Laboratories
- Sigma Chemical
- Southern Research Institute, Alabama
- St. Jude's Children's Hospital
The most common workplaces for biology graduates in conservation, wildlife and ecological sciences are:
- Bass Pro Shops
- Dickerson Park Zoo
- Disney's Animal Kingdom
- Ecological Associates Inc.
- Gulf Coast Research Lab
- Kansas Department of Wildlife Biology
- La Sevietta Biological Station
- Missouri Botanical Garden
- Missouri Department of Conservation
- Missouri Department of Natural Resources
- National Park Service
- Ozark Catfisheries
- Ozarks Technical Community College
- Saltwater Angler, Key West, Florida
- Shiloh Historical Museum
- Smithsonian Institution, USNM
- Texas Wildlife and Parks Department
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
- U.S. Geological Survey
- Virginia Department of Game and Fish
- Wilson's Creek National Battlefield
Continue your education
A master's degree in biology is a two-year program that you complete after finishing your major. It offers advanced training, knowledge and career potential.
As a biology major, you'll have the extensive research experience to shine at the master's (graduate) level.
Explore Missouri State's graduate biology programs
Our department offers programs that will support your advancement in the field.
Most graduate programs come with an accelerated master's option, where you can get a head start on your future. Earn graduate-level credit as you complete your undergraduate (bachelor's) degree.