Is Biotechnology a Good Major and Career for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

With the US biotechnology market valued at over $550 billion, it's clear the field is expanding rapidly. This growth has sparked widespread interest among students wondering if biotechnology is a wise academic and career path for 2025.

The challenge lies in understanding what a biotechnology degree really offers—and whether it leads to stable, high-paying, and future-proof job opportunities. With so many overlapping fields in science, medicine, and technology, choosing the right major can feel overwhelming.

This article helps you evaluate whether studying biotechnology aligns with your goals, interests, and the evolving job market.

Key Things You Should Know About Biotechnology as a Major and Career

Biotechnology combines biology, chemistry, and technology to solve real-world problems in healthcare, agriculture, and environmental science.
A biotech degree opens doors beyond the lab—graduates can work in research, tech development, regulatory affairs, or even AI-driven biological modeling.
Skills in data science, machine learning, and AI are increasingly valuable and can significantly enhance your job prospects and earning potential in biotech.

Is biotechnology a good major for undergraduates for 2025?
What is the job outlook for biotechnology careers?
What are the best career options for biotechnology majors for 2025?
What is the average salary for a biotechnology graduate for 2025?
Does getting a master’s or doctorate in biotechnology increase your salary?
What technical skills do biotechnology employers look for in 2025?
What are the most useful electives in a biotechnology degree?
How can integrating IT skills advance biotechnology careers?
What are the ethical and regulatory challenges in biotechnology?
Can advanced online degrees boost biotechnology career opportunities?
What are the fastest-growing sectors in biotechnology for 2025?
Is AI being used in biotechnology careers now?
How does biotechnology compare to environmental science?
Can interdisciplinary certifications boost biotechnology career prospects?
Other Things You Should Know About Biotechnology as a Major and Career

Is biotechnology a good major for undergraduates for 2025?

The biotechnology industry expansion indicates rising demand for new talent, innovation, and scientific solutions to modern challenges. For undergraduates, biotechnology offers an interdisciplinary foundation that blends biology, chemistry, and technology with applications in medicine, agriculture, and environmental science. The major is well-suited for students who enjoy laboratory work, data analysis, and problem-solving within real-world biological systems. It also opens the door to specialized fields like genetic engineering, pharmaceutical research, and synthetic biology.

What makes biotechnology even more appealing in 2025 is its adaptability. Graduates aren’t limited to lab jobs—they can pivot to roles in regulatory affairs, tech development, or even AI-driven biological modeling. For those looking to broaden their skill set further, fields like machine learning and artificial intelligence are increasingly relevant in biotech. For instance, pairing your biotech background with credentials from one of the cheapest online Master’s in Artificial Intelligence can help you stay competitive in the biotech job market.

What is the job outlook for biotechnology careers?

The biotechnology market shows sustained annual growth of over 12% through 2030, according to Grand View Research. This growth fuels demand for a diverse range of professionals, from research scientists to lab technologists, and offers a promising job outlook for students and early-career professionals entering the field for 2025.

The biotech industry's expansion isn’t limited to human health. There's also increasing demand for professionals who specialize in sustainability and environmental applications. For instance, if you're interested in ecological or conservation work, the biotechnology path can intersect with careers like environmental scientist, where molecular tools are used to monitor ecosystems, clean pollutants, or develop biodegradable materials.

Overall, the job outlook for biotechnology is strong and diverse, especially for those who pair technical expertise with evolving skills in data science, AI, or environmental applications.

What is the biotechnology market’s annual growth?

What are the best career options for biotechnology majors for 2025?

A biotechnology degree offers far more than just lab work. In 2025, the best career options for biotechnology majors span clinical, industrial, agricultural, and environmental sectors. Each area offers unique roles that cater to different skill sets—from bench science and research to project management and product development.

Here are some of the most in-demand career paths:

Biological Technician – Assists scientists with lab experiments.
Clinical Laboratory Technologist – Analyzes blood and tissue samples for diagnostics.
Bioengineer/Biomedical Engineer – Designs medical equipment or develops artificial organs.
Bioprocessing Engineer – Works on large-scale production of biotech products like vaccines.
Regulatory Affairs Specialist – Ensures biotech companies meet legal and safety standards.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), job growth for biological technicians is projected at 7% from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than average for all occupations. Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians are also in demand, with a 5% projected growth. Meanwhile, bioengineers and biomedical engineers are expected to see 7% growth in the same period, driven by innovations in medical devices, drug development, and personalized medicine.

Others take a more academic or research-heavy route. For example, biotech majors interested in ecology or wildlife may also learn how to become an environmental biologist and pursue positions in universities, NGOs, or government agencies focused on environmental protection. With increasing public and private investment in sustainability and health, the range of biotechnology careers is broader—and more relevant—than ever.

What is the average salary for a biotechnology graduate for 2025?

Salary potential is a key consideration when choosing a major, and biotechnology holds up well in this department. According to Data USA, the average wage for those working in the biotechnology field is $122,345, making it one of the more lucrative paths in science and technology. This figure includes both entry-level and experienced professionals, but it underscores the earning potential of the industry.

Entry-level salaries for biotechnology graduates typically start in the range of $50,000 to $70,000, depending on your specialization, geographic location, and type of employer. Roles in the pharmaceutical industry, medical device companies, or government research labs often pay more. As you gain experience or pursue advanced education, such as a master’s or Ph.D., your salary can increase significantly. When comparing with other sectors, the highest paying IT jobs often surpass biotechnology salaries, especially in areas such as software engineering, cloud computing, and cybersecurity.

It’s also worth noting how biotech compares to adjacent fields. For example, some graduates choose to pursue careers related to wildlife or ecosystem management. While meaningful and impactful, these positions tend to offer lower pay—for context, you can check the wildlife biologist salary to see how it stacks up against typical biotech roles. This contrast can help you weigh personal interests against financial expectations.

If you are interested in cybersecurity, you might wonder what cyber security job pays the most—roles like chief information security officer (CISO) or cybersecurity architect tend to command top salaries due to their critical role in protecting organizational assets.

A biotechnology degree in 2025 offers both strong starting salaries and room for upward mobility, especially if you combine your degree with experience in data analysis, programming, or regulatory affairs.

Does getting a master’s or doctorate in biotechnology increase your salary?

Advancing your education in biotechnology can significantly boost your earning potential and career opportunities. While a bachelor’s degree opens many entry-level roles, those with a master’s or Ph.D. are often considered for leadership positions, advanced research roles, and specialized sectors like pharmaceutical development or genomics. These roles not only come with greater responsibilities but also higher compensation packages.

Many biotechnology professionals pursue graduate degrees to deepen their expertise in niche fields or pivot toward academic research and policy-making. For example, someone exploring the aquatic biologist career path may benefit from a master’s degree focused on marine ecosystems and biotechnology applications in environmental monitoring. Similarly, Ph.D. holders are often recruited into biotech startups, think tanks, and teaching positions at universities.

Beyond salary, a graduate degree can also open doors to grant funding, consulting roles, and interdisciplinary projects that would otherwise be out of reach. In today’s competitive job market, advanced qualifications are more than just credentials—they’re gateways to leadership and innovation.

What technical skills do biotechnology employers look for in 2025?

Technical skills remain a major differentiator for biotech job candidates. Employers value hands-on laboratory experience and a solid foundation in data analysis, genetics, and regulatory compliance. Based on data from Zippia, the most commonly listed skills on biotechnology resumes fall into eight key categories:

R Programming (23.4%) – Essential for statistical analysis, data visualization, and bioinformatics tasks.
Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP; 13.4%) – Ensures compliance with production quality and safety standards.
DNA Techniques (12.6%) – Involves the manipulation, sequencing, and analysis of DNA for research and diagnostics.
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR; 11.9%) – A critical method for amplifying DNA, used in everything from disease detection to cloning.
Assay Development (10.4%) – Designing and executing biochemical tests to measure biological activity or concentration.
Sample Extraction (10.2%) – Techniques for isolating DNA, RNA, proteins, or metabolites from various biological samples.
Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA; 7.8%) – A lab technique used for detecting and quantifying substances such as proteins, hormones, or antibodies.
Other Skills (10.3%) – This includes cell culture, data modeling, microscopy, and lab automation.

These skills are particularly important in roles that blend biology and data science. If you’re considering a career intersecting biotech and oceanography, for example, look into the how to become a marine biologist pathway, where molecular tools are increasingly used to assess marine biodiversity and environmental impact.

What are the most useful electives in a biotechnology degree?

Choosing the right electives during your undergraduate studies can significantly strengthen your resume and prepare you for high-growth areas in biotechnology. In 2023, DNA sequencing emerged as a major force in the industry, accounting for 17.52% of market revenue, according to Grand View Research. This growth is tied to reduced sequencing costs and the development of personalized treatments—particularly in cancer therapy, where identifying genetic mutations is crucial. Understanding the types of forensic science can also be a valuable complement to biotechnology studies, as forensic biology often relies on genetic analysis and molecular techniques that overlap with biotech applications.

Electives that support this trend include:

Genomics and DNA Sequencing – Offers hands-on experience with modern sequencing platforms and genomic data interpretation.
Bioinformatics – Teaches computational tools for analyzing biological data, essential in research and clinical settings.
Molecular Genetics – Provides a deep understanding of gene function, expression, and regulation.
Pharmacogenomics – Explores how genes affect individual responses to drugs—critical in personalized medicine.
Regulatory Science – Prepares students to navigate the laws and guidelines that govern biotech product development.

For students interested in bridging healthcare and technology, learning how to get into nursing informatics can open additional career paths, especially as health systems increasingly depend on biotechnological innovations and data-driven patient care.

What share of biotech revenue comes from DNA sequencing?

How can integrating IT skills advance biotechnology careers?

Biotechnology professionals can significantly enhance their career trajectories by developing strong digital competencies. As the sector evolves, expertise in data analytics, bioinformatics, and computational modeling becomes indispensable for driving innovation and ensuring competitive advantage. Pursuing additional training through online technology degree programs can provide practical knowledge in cybersecurity and advanced IT methodologies. This strategic integration supports efficient research processes, fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, and enables professionals to address complex challenges effectively.

What are the ethical and regulatory challenges in biotechnology?

Biotechnology advancements confront a spectrum of ethical and regulatory challenges that require precise oversight. Stakeholders must address concerns over genetic modifications, data privacy, and biosecurity while ensuring that scientific progress harmonizes with societal values. Robust regulatory frameworks and ongoing interdisciplinary dialogue are vital for mitigating risks, especially as innovations cross traditional sector boundaries. In this context, leveraging diverse skill sets—including simulation and digital design techniques found in an online video game development degree—can enhance the development of practical training models and compliance strategies within biotech research environments.

Can advanced online degrees boost biotechnology career opportunities?

Biotechnology professionals are increasingly turning to advanced online degrees to acquire interdisciplinary skills that complement laboratory expertise. These programs focus on integrating core biotech principles with data analysis, computational methods, and regulatory knowledge, thereby positioning graduates for leadership in emerging sectors. For example, targeted coursework in bioinformatics offers a pathway to analyze large biological datasets and drive innovation in genomics and personalized medicine. Graduates who invest in such specialized education can benefit from flexible learning environments and stay current with advancements in both biotechnology and allied fields. This strategic approach to continuing education supports career growth and adaptability in a rapidly evolving industry, as demonstrated by emerging trends in bioinformatics online masters programs.

What are the fastest-growing sectors in biotechnology for 2025?

Biotechnology is far from a monolithic field. Among its many branches, the healthcare segment led the market in 2023, commanding 44.3% of revenue share, according to Grand View Research. The rapid rise of healthcare biotechnology is driven by advancements in genomics, molecular diagnostics, tissue engineering, and novel drug delivery systems.

The most dynamic sectors to watch for 2025 include:

Genomic Medicine – Using genetic information to tailor treatments to individual patients.
Cell and Gene Therapy – Offering potential cures for genetic disorders and cancers.
Biopharmaceuticals – Focusing on the development of complex drugs derived from living cells.
Synthetic Biology – Engineering organisms to produce new materials or biofuels.
Bio-Imaging and Diagnostics – Enhancing early disease detection and treatment monitoring.

These fast-growing areas offer robust opportunities for innovation and employment, especially for those with a strong foundation in both laboratory science and digital technologies. Biotechnology’s impact on healthcare is not only expanding treatment options but also redefining how diseases are diagnosed and prevented.

What share of biotech revenue comes from the healthcare sector?

Is AI being used in biotechnology careers now?

Artificial intelligence is no longer a future trend in biotech—it’s already reshaping how the industry operates. From drug discovery to genetic analysis, AI tools are accelerating research, improving accuracy, and cutting development time. Algorithms can now predict protein structures, simulate biological interactions, and automate high-throughput screening processes.

In research labs, AI assists in identifying biomarkers for diseases or optimizing synthetic pathways in microbial engineering. In clinical settings, it's used to analyze genomic data and recommend personalized therapies. For professionals entering the field, familiarity with machine learning and AI-integrated software is becoming a sought-after skill.

AI is also transforming the job market by creating hybrid roles that combine biotechnology with data science. For students, this means that cross-training in both domains—biology and AI—can give a competitive edge for 2025 and beyond.

How does biotechnology compare to environmental science?

Biotechnology and environmental science both address global challenges, but from different perspectives. Biotechnology focuses on harnessing biological systems for practical applications—such as developing new medicines, biofuels, or sustainable materials. Environmental science, meanwhile, studies the natural world and seeks to understand and mitigate human impacts on ecosystems.

That said, there is significant overlap. Biotechnologists also work in environmental sectors, developing microbial solutions for waste management or engineering plants for climate resilience. On the other hand, environmental scientists rely on biotech tools—such as DNA barcoding or biosensors—for monitoring biodiversity and pollution.

If you're torn between the two fields, consider your long-term goals. Biotechnology offers more lab-based, innovation-driven roles with higher average salaries, while environmental science tends to emphasize fieldwork and ecological stewardship. Both are meaningful paths, but your ideal choice will depend on whether you're more interested in manipulating biology or protecting it.

Can interdisciplinary certifications boost biotechnology career prospects?

Biotechnology is increasingly becoming a data-driven field, where expertise extends beyond traditional lab skills. Professionals supplementing their scientific background with interdisciplinary certifications in cybersecurity, bioinformatics, or data analytics can address emerging challenges in data protection and regulatory compliance. For instance, a focused credential like a 2-year degree in cybersecurity jobs provides targeted skills in safeguarding intellectual property and securing digital infrastructures. This blended proficiency not only enhances operational resilience but also positions graduates to lead innovative projects in converging technology and biology.

What do graduates say about biotechnology as a major and career?

Choosing biotechnology as my major opened doors I never imagined—within a year of graduating, I landed a research assistant role at a pharmaceutical company working on mRNA vaccines. The coursework was intense, but learning how to apply genetic engineering in real-world health solutions felt incredibly meaningful. I still remember the thrill of running my first successful gel electrophoresis—it confirmed I was in the right field. Now, I'm contributing to cutting-edge therapies that could save lives, and that purpose drives me every day. Stella

Biotech taught me how to think critically and innovate under pressure, which helped me transition into a regulatory affairs position at a global medical device firm. I never thought a lab-heavy major would lead to a career in policy and compliance, but understanding the science gave me an edge. The faculty mentors were key—they helped me explore non-traditional career paths within the field. I love being at the intersection of science, law, and public health. Raj

What drew me to biotechnology was the chance to merge biology with technology to solve complex environmental problems. Today, I work in agricultural biotech, helping develop drought-resistant crops to support global food security. During college, I got involved in a synthetic biology competition that totally changed my outlook—it showed me how creativity and science go hand in hand. The field is evolving fast, and being part of that change feels empowering. Ruth

Key Findings

The biotechnology market is growing at an annual rate of 12% through 2030.
Employment is projected to grow 7% for biological technicians and bioengineers, and 5% for clinical lab technologists from 2023 to 2033.
The average annual salary in the biotechnology field is $122,345, with entry-level roles starting between $50,000–$70,000.
DNA sequencing accounts for 17.52% of the biotech market’s revenue.
The healthcare segment holds the largest share of biotech revenue at 44.3%.

Other Things You Should Know About Biotechnology as a Major and Career

What’s the difference between biotechnology and biomedical science?

Biotechnology focuses on using biological systems and organisms to develop products for industries like agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and environmental science. Biomedical science is more centered on understanding human biology and disease to support clinical and diagnostic work. While both fields involve laboratory research, biotech has a broader application beyond healthcare. For example, biotech can lead to innovations in biofuels or genetically modified crops. Biomedical science, on the other hand, is more directly tied to medical advancements.

Can biotechnology majors go to medical school?

Yes, biotechnology majors can apply to medical school, as long as they complete the required pre-med coursework. Many biotech programs include biology, chemistry, and lab experience that align with med school prerequisites. However, students may need to add specific courses like physics or organic chemistry depending on their program. A strong GPA, MCAT score, and relevant clinical experience are still essential. Biotechnology can offer a unique scientific foundation for future physicians interested in research or medical innovation.

How can biotechnology students gain hands-on experience?

Students can gain practical experience through internships, undergraduate research, and lab-based courses. Many universities have partnerships with biotech companies, offering summer research opportunities or co-op programs. Joining campus organizations like synthetic biology teams or attending science conferences can also build skills. Some students volunteer in academic labs or apply for grants to pursue independent projects. Hands-on work is crucial for reinforcing classroom learning and making connections in the field.

What lab equipment do biotech students need to learn to use?

Biotech students typically learn to use pipettes, centrifuges, spectrophotometers, and autoclaves. They also work with PCR machines for DNA amplification and gel electrophoresis systems for analyzing genetic material. Familiarity with cell culture equipment and biosafety cabinets is important in many research settings. More advanced tools like CRISPR kits, flow cytometers, and bioreactors may be introduced in upper-level courses. Learning how to properly calibrate, maintain, and record data from these tools is a key part of training.

References:

BLS. (2025, April 18). Bioengineers and biomedical engineers. BLS.
BLS. (2025, April 18). Biological technicians. BLS.
BLS. (2025, April 18). Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians. BLS.
Data USA. (n.d.). Biotechnology. Data USA.
Grand View Research. (2024). U.S. biotechnology market Size | Industry Report, 2030. Grand View Research.
Zippia. (2025, January 8). Biotechnologist skills for your resume and career. Zippia.