Options with biology
A biology degree can prepare you for a career in the science and health sectors. You also develop a range of transferable skills…
Jobs directly related to your degree include:
Jobs where your degree would be useful include:
Remember that many employers accept applications from graduates with any degree subject, so don't restrict your thinking to the jobs listed here. To find out what jobs would suit you, log in to My Prospects.
Biology-related jobs are particularly competitive, so it is valuable, and sometimes critical, to gain practical experience in the field. Work experience demonstrates your commitment to the career area and knowledge of what is involved. Some degree courses may incorporate a year-long industrial placement and you may be eligible to receive a bursary or grant to support your placement.
During your course, you could also use the summer holidays or evenings/weekends to get some experience through paid opportunities or voluntary work. A number of organisations offer work experience including the:
You could also try contacting science museums, research and clinical laboratories, conservation facilities or pharmaceutical companies.
Search for placements and find out about work experience and internships. More information about work experience opportunities and industrial placements is available from the Society of Biology - Work Experience and Placements .
A wide range of employers recruit graduates for biology-related jobs including:
Many biology graduates pursue opportunities outside the science and health sectors in business, finance, marketing, education and sales.
Find information on employers in science and pharmaceuticals, environment and agriculture, health and social care, and other job sectors.
In addition to subject-specific knowledge of biological systems and concepts, you will develop a range of practical and technical skills and learn how to use specialist techniques and technical equipment. A biology degree also develops more general skills, which are attractive to employers in all sectors, including:
Many biology graduates choose to study for postgraduate qualifications in a more specialised science to increase their expertise in a particular area. Others pursue postgraduate opportunities in other career areas.
A higher qualification may be an advantage in a competitive job market as it will enhance your research skills, specialist knowledge and communication skills. It can also help with career progression.
If you want a career as a research scientist or a university lecturer, you must do a PhD following your degree. This takes three years but is likely to be fully funded with a 'salary'.
For more information on further study and to find a course that interests you, see postgraduate study in the UK and search courses and research.
Almost half of biology graduates are in employment six months after graduating. Of these, almost 13% go into professional and technical jobs, such as research assistant or laboratory technician, and approximately 8% enter scientific research, analysis and development.
More than a quarter of graduates go on to further study, while around 8% combine work and study.
For a detailed breakdown of what biology graduates are doing six months after graduation, see What Do Graduates Do?
Graduate destinations data from the Higher Education Statistics Agency.
