Biotechnology is a rapidly growing field that combines biological sciences and technology to create new products and processes. The best biotechnology bachelor’s degrees prepare students for careers in research, development, and production in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and food science.
A Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology offers a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on experience in laboratories and research facilities. Many programs also offer internships and cooperative education opportunities, giving students the chance to gain real-world experience in the biotechnology field. Find out what biotechnology bachelor’s degrees are available and the biotechnology bachelor’s degree jobs you can get after graduation in this article.
Where Can I Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology?
Some of the best schools where you can get a Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology are Arizona State University, Syracuse University, Penn State University, Oregon State University, and New Mexico State University.
Biotechnology bachelor’s degrees are highly sought, especially with the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, as biotechnology experts are at the forefront of vaccine production. Every college has its strengths and weaknesses, so it is essential to carefully research your selection.
What Schools Offer the Best Biotechnology Bachelor’s Degrees?
- Arizona State University
- Penn State University
- New Mexico University
- Oregon State University
- Syracuse University
What Are the Admission Requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology?
The admission requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology include having a high school diploma or equivalent. You will also need to take and pass the SAT or ACT exam. However, some schools have waived that for the 2022 to 2023 academic year due to COVID. Some programs may require additional core coursework in biology, chemistry, and physics.
Biotechnology Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements
- Application form
- Official transcripts
- An essay
- Recommendation letters or references
- Subject test and SAT or ACT scores
How to Get a Biotechnology Bachelor’s Degree
The best way to get a biotechnology bachelor’s degree is by successfully fulfilling all graduation requirements. Each school has unique requirements you must fulfill. Below is a detailed list of some common biotechnology bachelor’s degree requirements.
How Many Credits Do You Need for a Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology?
You need 120 credits for a Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology. These credits include general education courses and core courses specific to your major. Students must take at least 30 credits in their major. Most schools offer coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and math that are curriculum requirements for various programs.
Biotechnology Degree Requirements
- 120 Credit hours
- Upper-level and lower-level courses
- Minimum 2.0 GPA in major courses or an average C grade to earn a bachelor’s degree
- Successful completion of a biotechnology internship
- Capstone project
Best Biotechnology Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | BS in Molecular Biosciences and Biotechnology | Higher Learning Commission |
| New Mexico University | BS in Genetics and Biotechnology | Higher Learning Commission |
| Oregon State University | BS in Biotechnology | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Penn State University | BS in Biotechnology | National Accreditation Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science |
| Syracuse University | BS in Biotechnology | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of Florida | BS in Biotechnology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| University of Houston | BS in Biotechnology | Association of Technology, Management and Applied Engineering (ATMAE) |
| University of Rhode Island | BS in Biotechnology | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Rivier University | BS in Biotechnology | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| University of Kentucky | BS in Agriculture and Medical Biotechnology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools |
Best Schools for Biotechnology: Top Biotechnology Bachelor’s Degree Programs
Finding the best schools for a Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology can be difficult. Below we have compiled a list of the top schools to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology in the United States to help you with your school search.
Arizona State University (ASU) was founded in 1885 and is one of the most highly respected schools in the state of Arizona. It is also a pioneer public institution in the biotechnology industry. The focus of this accredited university is research, but it still offers some excellent graduate programs. It currently has a population of 54,866 students.
BS in Molecular Biosciences and Biotechnology
The molecular biosciences and biotechnology bachelor’s degree is a four-year program and can also be offered as an accelerated degree program of three years. This course focuses on the interface between molecular biology and biotechnology. Students are equipped with basic biotechnology skills during this program.
BS in Molecular Biosciences and Biotechnology Overview
- Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $446/credit (in state); $781/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 66%
BS in Molecular Biosciences and Biotechnology Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0
- Standardized Tests: ACT, SAT, or Accuplacer
- Application Fee: $50
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: IELTS or TOEFL for international students
Applying to Arizona State University
- Complete an undergraduate admission application.
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit your official transcripts.
- Submit ACT or SAT (optional) for admission placement.
- Apply for financial aid through FAFSA.
Originally an agricultural college, New Mexico State University was founded in 1888 and is the oldest public university in New Mexico. It had a total undergraduate enrollment of 11,575 students for the fall of 2020 and is in a city setting with a 900-acre campus. The academic calendar is semester-based, and there are five campuses, with Las Cruces as the main campus.
BS in Genetics and Biotechnology
The genetics and biotechnology bachelor’s degree is a four-year program that emphasizes the molecular basis of biotechnology. It allows students to explore fundamental genetic engineering topics such as genome structure and function, regulatory elements, DNA replication, transcription, and translation.
BS in Genetics and Biotechnology Overview
- Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $317.80/credit (in state); $383.25/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 51%
BS in Genetics and Biotechnology Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.75
- Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT (optional)
- Application Fee: $25
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Students must be ranked in the top 20% of their graduating class
Applying to New Mexico State University
- Complete an undergraduate admission application.
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit an official transcript.
- Submit ACT or SAT (optional) for admission placement.
- Apply for financial aid.
Oregon State University was established in 1868 as a public institution. It has a total undergraduate enrollment of 26,644 students and is located in the city with over 422 acres of land. The academic calendar is based on quarters.
BS in Biotechnology
Oregon State University’s BS in Biotechnology program is a four-year program where students study biotechnological methods and principles, microbial genetics, cellular biotechnology, molecular biology and microbiology, and cell and tissue culture technology.
BS in Biotechnology Overview
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Tuition: $328/credit (in state); $1,013/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 180 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 69%
BS in Biotechnology Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0
- Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT
- Application Fee: $65
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: A background check
Applying to Oregon State University
- Complete an undergraduate admission application.
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit an official transcript.
- Apply for financial aid.
- Confirm enrollment and attend orientation.
Founded in 1855, Pennsylvania State University is known as Happy Valley and is a public institution. It has a total undergraduate enrollment of 74,446 students and spans over 7,958 acres. The academic calendar is semester-based.
BS in Biotechnology
Penn State University’s BS in Biotechnology program offers a focus on biotechnology, bioinformatics, and systems biology. Students learn about biochemistry, molecular biology, and microbiology to understand the basic principles of today's biotechnology technologies.
BS in Biotechnology Overview
- Accreditation: National Accreditation Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science
- Tuition: $747/credit (in state); $1,458/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 125 credits
- Program Length: Four years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 73%
BS in Biotechnology Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.0
- Standardized Tests: ACT, SAT, Accuplacer, IELTS or TOEFL
- Application Fee: $50
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Additional math at a high school level
Applying to Penn State University
- Complete an undergraduate admission application.
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit an official transcript.
- Submit ACT or SAT (optional) for admission placement.
- Wait for feedback.
Syracuse University was established in 1870 as a private college. It had a total undergraduate enrollment of 14,479 students in the fall 2020 academic year and covers 721 acres. The academic calendar is semester-based.
BS in Biotechnology
Syracuse University School of Biotechnology boasts a strong and supportive academic community that offers students numerous opportunities. The academic program prepares students to enter careers in the high-demand biotech fields of research and manufacturing.
BS in Biotechnology Overview
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition: $55,920/year
- Required Credits: 57 to 66 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 83%
BS in Biotechnology Admission Requirements
- GPA: Not stated
- Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT (waived for fall 2022 due to COVID)
- Application Fee: $85
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Secondary school counselor evaluation
Applying to Syracuse University
- Complete an undergraduate admission application.
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit an official secondary school transcript.
- Submit a senior-year grade report.
- Provide two academic recommendations.
Based in a suburban area, the University of Florida was founded in 1853 and has a current undergraduate enrollment of 34,931 students. The University of Florida is a member of the Association of American Universities and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. It offers various affordable programs in different disciplines.
BS in Biotechnology
University of Florida's college of agricultural and life sciences department of biotechnology is a premier training ground in the newest, fastest-growing, and most exciting areas in science and the biotechnology industry. Students develop an understanding of the molecular biology and techniques used to discover genes and their role in normal biological processes.
BS in Biotechnology Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition: $212.71/credit (in state); $955.28/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 89%
BS in Biotechnology Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.0
- Standardized Tests: ACT, SAT, or TOEFL
- Application Fee: $30
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Proof of immunization and computer requirement
Applying to University of Florida
- Complete an undergraduate admission application.
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit an official transcript.
- Submit ACT, SAT, or TOEFL.
The University of Houston was established in 1927 as a public university. It boasts a total undergraduate enrollment of 39,165 students and is located in an urban setting covering an area of 895 acres. The academic calendar is semester-based.
BS in Biotechnology
The University of Houston's biotechnology program is one of the first at a public university. Bioscience students will complete undergraduate training in the basic sciences with a high-value curriculum designed to provide insight into fundamental principles underlying molecular biology, cellular biology, and molecular genetics, as well as other areas of study.
BS in Biotechnology Overview
- Accreditation: Association of Technology, Management and Applied Engineering
- Tuition and Fees: $6,528.78/semester (in state); $14,148.78/semester (out of state)
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 62%
BS in Biotechnology Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.5
- Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT
- Application Fee: $75
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Admissions essay
Applying to University of Houston
- Complete an undergraduate admission application.
- Pay the application fee.
- Self-report your transcript.
- Submit ACT or SAT (optional) for admission placement.
- Check your application status.
University of Rhode Island (URI) is a leading public research university located in Kingston. Academically, URI is a comprehensive doctoral-granting institution that emphasizes both undergraduate and graduate studies. It boasts an acceptance rate of 75.5 percent.
BS in Biotechnology
The BS in Biotechnology degree provides a strong foundation in biology and chemistry but touches upon biochemistry, biophysics, genetics, and microbiology. Many graduates pursue careers within the biotech and medicine industries or go to graduate school in their field of choice.
BS in Biotechnology Overview
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Tuition: $552/credit (in state); $1,303/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 71%
BS in Biotechnology Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.5
- Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT (Optional for 2022 to 2023 due to COVID-19)
- Application Fee: $65
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Admissions essay
Applying to University of Rhode Island
- Complete an undergraduate Common Application.
- Pay the application fee.
- Provide your official high school transcripts.
- Submit the admissions essay.
- Submit a letter of recommendation.
Rivier University (RU) is a private university with a total undergraduate enrollment of 1,438 students in the fall of 2019. RU is the only university in New Hampshire that guarantees full-time employment to invested students within nine months of graduation. If they don't get hired, they'll be given more financial or educational assistance.
BS in Biotechnology
The BS in Biotechnology program provides undergraduate students with the basic knowledge of molecular biology, biochemistry, and bioinformatics to succeed in their studies. The course prepares students for jobs at biotech companies and pharmaceutical and biomedical firms.
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BS in Biotechnology Overview
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Tuition: $35,445/year
- Required Credits: 120 to 121 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 56%
BS in Biotechnology Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.0
- Standardized Tests: Optional
- Application Fee: None
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Letter of recommendation
Applying to Rivier University
- Complete an undergraduate admission application.
- Submit an application essay.
- Provide an official high school transcript or GED.
- Submit an official college transcript.
- Provide one letter of recommendation.
The University of Kentucky has its campus in Lexington. This public institution was founded in 1865 and is the largest university in the state of Kentucky, with a total undergraduate enrollment of 22,227 students in the fall of 2020. The campus size is 918 acres, and it uses a semester-based calendar.
BS in Agriculture and Medical Biotechnology
The University of Kentucky is the first to offer a Bachelor's Degree in Agricultural and Medical Biotechnology. This program teaches the fundamentals of genomics, biochemistry, cell biology, molecular biology, and agricultural sciences. Biotechnology is a fast-growing area of science with applications in agriculture, biomedicine, and environmental sciences.
BS in Agriculture and Medical Biotechnology Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
- Tuition: $512.50/credit (resident); $1,303.50/credit (non-resident)
- Required Credits: 120 to 128 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 66%
BS in Agriculture and Medical Biotechnology Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.0
- Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT (optional)
- Application Fee: $50
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: None
Applying to University of Kentucky
- Complete an undergraduate admission application.
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit an official transcript.
- Submit ACT or SAT scores.
- Submit an academic letter of recommendation (optional).
What Is a Biotechnology Bachelor’s Degree?
A biotechnology bachelor’s degree is a postsecondary degree program where you learn about living organisms and the processes that occur within them. Biotechnology can also include biological materials in production, including DNA, gene editing, and vaccine production.
A Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology is awarded after completing a four-year program. This degree qualifies you for higher-level positions in the field, such as a researcher or lab manager. A wide range of programs offered at schools focuses on biomedical sciences and new trends in pharmacological sciences. Students can choose to continue their education by considering a graduate program.
How Important Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology?
It is very important to have a Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology because it can give you a strong foundation in the basics of life sciences and enhance your communication, computer and research skills that are necessary to be successful in a biotechnology career. Biotechnology was further emphasized during the COVID-19 pandemic as the world became reliant on biotech companies to produce vaccines.
What Types of Bachelor’s Degrees Can You Get in Biotechnology?
The different types of Bachelor’s Degrees in Biotechnology you can get include:
- Bachelor of Science (BS)
- Bachelor of Engineering (BE)
- Bachelor of Drug Design
- Bachelor in Pharmaceutical Sciences
Is It Better to Get an In-Person Degree or Online Degree in Biotechnology?
It is better to get an in-person degree than an online degree because in-person degrees offer students the opportunity to network with fellow students and professors. Additionally, in-person classes tend to be smaller, allowing students to interact with professors one-on-one if needed.
Graduates with an in-person biotechnology bachelor’s degree will have more job prospects, a higher starting salary, and greater opportunities than students who have only earned online biotechnology degrees. However, pursuing an online program can be beneficial if the student cannot attend school regularly.
What Is the Difference Between a Biotechnology Bachelor’s Degree and a Biotechnology Certificate?
The main difference between a biotechnology bachelor’s degree and a biotechnology certificate is that the degree involves two to four years of full-time study while the certificate involves a shorter, part-time study schedule. The bachelor’s degree has more rigorous coursework and a deeper understanding of the field than a sub-baccalaureate level certificate.
While the benefits of earning a biotechnology bachelor’s degree are numerous, those who cannot commit to four years full time might be able to earn a biotechnology certificate with only one or two years of study. This option allows students to immerse themselves in the subject area without taking on as much debt as they would if they were to pursue an in-person degree.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology?
A Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology costs $16,647 for a full, four-year program, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. A public university should cost you an average of $9,349. If you choose to attend a private university, be prepared to pay $32,769 for a four-year bachelor’s degree program in biotechnology.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Biotechnology Bachelor’s Degree?
It takes four years to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology. This applies if you are an in-state or out-of-state student and study full time. It could take longer for a part-time degree program. You must complete at least 120 to 125 credit hours to graduate with a biotechnology bachelor’s degree. Students should complete at least 17 credit hours per semester. At the end of the course, students may be tasked with a thesis project.
How Hard Is It to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology?
It can be hard to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology. The difficulty level of an undergraduate biotechnology program depends on your learning style and the rigor of the courses.
Courses in this major will relate to science, biology, chemistry, and math. Those courses with labs tend to be more difficult because there is an immediate application of knowledge that you are trying to convey.
Why Should You Get a Biotechnology Bachelor’s Degree?
You should get a Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology because it can give you access to many career opportunities in the biomedical or technical field. The biotechnology bachelor’s degree is offered to students interested in careers in research and development, product creation and production, clinical trials and testing, and areas of the pharmaceutical field.
Graduates of a bachelor’s program have the opportunity to go on to graduate school to earn a more advanced degree like a master’s or a doctorate degree.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in a Bachelor’s Degree Program in Biotechnology?
Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology courses focus on the natural sciences. These courses may fall under the college of life sciences in some universities, while some consider it an agricultural or medical course. Below are some of the courses you will come across while pursuing your bachelor’s degree programs in biotechnology.
General Biology
This course covers the basic biology of cells and organisms. You will learn how to identify, classify, and describe all types of organisms. In this class, you will also learn about biological sciences, including how to find similarities and differences between organisms.
Organic Chemistry
Organic chemistry courses are lab-intensive classes where students learn how chemicals react with each other. You’ll also learn about chemical reactions within living organisms, such as the Krebs cycle.
Math
Math courses are designed for students who have completed at least two years of high school math. You will learn about algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and calculus. Some students also take statistics, either as a separate class or with the biotechnology core coursework.
Biotechnology
This course teaches students about biotechnology’s ethical, economic, and environmental aspects and standards. You will discuss the molecular biology of microorganisms, gene cloning, and its applications.
Genetics
A genetics course is critical to biotechnology as it covers the basic principles of genetics, including Mendelian and molecular genetics. Topics also include DNA replication, DNA interactions between genes, and gene mapping. The course may also introduce genetic engineering.
Continuing Education Paths for Biotechnology Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
The best path to take with a biotechnology bachelor’s degree is a graduate degree. You may decide you want to learn more in a specific concentration of biotechnology, so earning your master’s degree in the subject is your best bet. Graduate students that are busy professionals can still pursue a higher degree and advanced courses in this field and opt for an online biotechnology master.
Related Biotechnology Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Biotechnology Bachelor’s Degree Programs
The things to look for in the best biotechnology bachelor’s degree programs are course content, accreditation and reputation, faculty strength and reputation, counselors and advisors, and financial aid availability.
Course Content
Course content is critical when selecting a program. The best biotechnology bachelor’s degree programs should include courses in biological sciences, organic chemistry, genetics, biotechnology, and math. If these courses are not included in the curricula, it’s a red flag.
Accreditation and Reputation
Accreditation is important because it indicates that an institution meets certain academic standards for graduates. Carefully consider the school’s accreditation status and seek out alumni or former student reviews to gain perspective on the institutions’ offerings. The better the school, the more likely you’ll have a high-paying job and advanced degree postgrad.
Faculty Strength and Reputation
Look at the reputation of the faculty members in the department and their experience. Find out whether faculty members have a publication record. Ask about their professional affiliations, like memberships in academic societies and other organizations where they’re active.
Counselors and Advisors
Find out who your academic advisors are and the resources available to you. The best programs provide academic advice services from the very first year. Ask about the advisory services offered, especially workshops and mentoring. You’re much more likely to get the help you need if you see a professional advisor.
Financial Aid Availability
Check how much financial aid you’re eligible for to help you pay your tuition. Ask about financial aid options such as grants, scholarships, student loans, and income share agreements. Be sure to ask about all the educational expenses and the refund policy, especially if you are withdrawing from the program.
What Is the Most Affordable Biotechnology Bachelor’s Degree?
The most affordable Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology is offered by the University of Florida. In-state students pay $6,380, while out-of-state students pay $28,659. As an in-state student, you’ll pay $213 per credit, while an out-of-state student pays $955 per credit. For a four-year program of 120 credits, you should expect to spend about $25,560 as a resident of Florida and $114,600 as a non-resident.
Salary and Job Outlook for Biotechnology Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
Biotechnology graduates are highly employable because of the increasing number of job opportunities for both skilled professionals and laypeople. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the employment of biological technicians is expected to grow 7 percent from 2020 to 2030. Biotechnology graduates can also find jobs in biofuels, genetic testing, clinical laboratory research, and hospital diagnostic testing services.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Biotechnology Bachelor’s Degree?
It is not very hard to get a job with a biotechnology bachelor’s degree. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are, on average 11,800 biological technician job openings each year, with job growth of seven percent. In some states, over a quarter of jobs in this field are expected to go unfilled. If you have a Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology, you can get an entry-level job.
What’s the Average Biotechnology Bachelor’s Degree Salary?
The average salary for someone with a Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology is $51,204 per year, according to PayScale. For people who work full-time, the salary may be even more generous. Biotechnology graduates are likely to make around $78,090 a year, while those with the lowest salary make around $31,170.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Biotechnology Bachelor’s Degree?
The jobs you can get with a biotechnology bachelor’s degree are in health, food safety, and scientific research fields. Biotechnology bachelor’s degree grads may be employed as microbiologists, bio technicians, or technicians in laboratories. They may also work as research assistants or laboratory managers and supervisors in bio-systems.
Biotechnology Degree Jobs
- Biomedical Technician
- Microbiologist
- Medical Scientist
- Biomedical Engineer
- Biostatistician
Potential Careers With a Biotechnology Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With a Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology?
You can make between $48,140 and $97,410 per year with a Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology, according to data from PayScale. Entry-level biotechnologists with one to four years of experience may earn an annual salary of $58,598, while a mid-level biotechnologist with five to nine years could earn a salary of $74,512 each year.
With a biotechnology bachelor’s degree, you could earn even more depending on the career path you choose. Find below a detailed analysis of the highest-paying biotechnology degree jobs and their salaries.
Highest-Paying Biotechnology Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Biotechnology Bachelor’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers | $97,410 |
| Biostatistician | $96,280 |
| Medical Scientist | $95,310 |
| Microbiologist | $79,260 |
| Biological Technician | $48,140 |
Best Jobs for Biotechnology Bachelor’s Degree Grads
The best jobs for biotechnology bachelor’s degree grads are roles like biostatistician and medical scientist. Below you will find the average salary, the job growth projection, and what each job entails. Moreover, we also mention some of the most common medical applications of biotechnology.
Biomedical engineers study technological and medical advancements in order to create advanced technologies and medical devices that improve the quality of life. In biomedical engineering, scientists might create medical software to control equipment to test novel medicinal therapies or create materials for replacement components, or design and build artificial body parts such as hip and knee joints.
- Average Salary: $97,410
- Job Outlook: 6% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 19,300
- Highest-Paying States: New Mexico, Arizona, Minnesota, Connecticut, Massachusetts
Biostatisticians and biometricians are statisticians who work in pharmaceutical companies, government agencies, and hospitals. They may plan research studies to see if medications are effective in treating illnesses or medical problems of the human body. They may also aid in determining the origins of human and animal disease epidemics.
- Average Salary: $96,280
- Job Outlook: 33% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 44,800
- Highest-Paying States: New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Wyoming, California
Medical scientists study human illnesses and circumstances in order to save the human life. Biomedical research and development are conducted by medical professionals to enhance understanding of life processes and other living entities that influence human health, such as viruses, bacteria, and other infectious agents.
- Average Salary: $95,310
- Job Outlook: 17% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 133,900
- Highest-Paying States: Connecticut, Maine, Delaware, New Jersey, Tennessee
Microbiologists are scientists that study microorganisms to deduce how they interact with their surroundings. Microbiological processes consist of experiments and use a wide range of devices. Microbial biotechnology experiments are planned, carried out, and supervised by a team working on experimental projects, usually for a research organization.
- Average Salary: $79,260
- Job Outlook: 5% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 21,400
- Highest-Paying States: Massachusetts, Montana, Maryland, California, Georgia
Biological technicians collect and prepare research specimens or medical samples. You must be able to operate in a laboratory setting and understand how various testing equipment functions. A skilled biological technician must disinfect scientific gear, operate machines, and collect and label samples.
- Average Salary: $48,140
- Job Outlook: 7% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 87,600
- Highest-Paying States: Massachusetts, Connecticut, Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology Worth It?
Yes, a Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology is worth it. Biotechnology degree holders can find employment at pharmaceutical companies in food safety, quality control, environmental and energy testing, life science research and manufacturing, bioinformatics, or advanced medical technologies.
PayScale reports that biotechnology graduates earn $51,204 per year on average. Degrees in biotechnology from public or private institutions prepare graduates for jobs requiring hands-on experience and technical skills to perform scientific research or development in a professional organization.
Additional Reading About Biotechnology
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Biotechnology Bachelor’s Degree FAQ
Yes, biotechnology is a lucrative career. Biotechnologists have some of the highest salaries in science and engineering careers. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics job growth for biological technicians is 7 percent between 2020 and 2030 due to the growing demand for biotechnology products and services. Hence, a career in biotechnology is well worth it.
The best biotechnology companies include Novartis, Johnson & Johnson, and Pfizer. The best private companies invest in research and development related to renewable and clean energy, nanotechnology, and information technology. However, the field of biotechnology is broad, and there is a wide variety of options to choose from to get the professional experience you need to advance in your career.
You will need a Bachelor’s in Biotechnology to be a biotechnologist. This is the minimum educational requirement for employment in this field. In addition, experience with laboratory work is also helpful for employment. It is not required, but a wide range of employers prefer that you have some experience in the laboratory before entering this scientific field. There are several affordable biotechnology degrees to help you pursue this career path.
Yes, biotechnology bachelor’s degrees are available as online programs and there are many online schools for biotechnology students. Usually, these online programs in biotechnology are offered through the school’s distance learning program. These types of study programs in the biotech field allow undergraduate students to work at their own pace and complete their online bachelor’s degree through independent study.
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