Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Biology Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Share

Biology is a field full of career opportunities, offering roles as diverse as research scientists and nature conservationists to biotechnology, microbiology, and pharmacology. The list of career options for Biology degree holders goes on, wherever there is a need for expertise, not just in biology, but in anatomy, evolution, molecular biology and genetics, among others, in the private, public or non-profit sector.

If you have the aptitude for investigation, quantitative research and analysis, a degree in Biology may be a match. You are also expected to have good communication and collaboration skills in this discipline, as you will be likely working with a team or dealing with stakeholders.

Earning a degree through grit and commitment, you will be rewarded with good prospects down the road. The average base salary of a biologist is pegged at $60,942 (Payscale), nearly the average rate in the U.S. as is expected with STEM degrees.

You also need not limit yourself to attending an on-site campus if that is not possible. Today, you have several online bachelor’s degree options that will help you realize your career goal.

In this article, you will get to know more about these programs and the online degree programs that you should expect. Moreover, we will also touch on the cost, requirements, and other things to consider before taking up an online route to an undergraduate biology degree.

Table of Contents

1. Can you get a degree completely online?
2. Will employers take my online degree seriously?
3. Are online degrees recognized all over the world?
4. Online vs. Traditional Bachelor’s Program in Biology
5. How much does an Online Bachelor’s Program in Biology costs?
6. What are the requirements of an Online Bachelor’s Program in Biology?
7. Courses to Expect in Online Bachelor’s Program in Biology?
8. What additional skills can enhance a biology degree?
9. Things to Look for in an Online Bachelor’s Program in Biology
10. What are the best pathways after earning a biology degree?
11. How Can I Finance My Online Biology Degree?
12. What Are the Emerging Trends in Online Biology Education?
13. Biology: A Wide Open Field for Employment and Research
14. Could an Online Biology Degree Fast-Track a Career as a Medical Assistant?
15. Can an Online Biology Degree Propel You into Accelerated Healthcare Programs?
16. Can My Online Biology Degree Open Doors to Dual-Degree Programs in Healthcare?
17. How to Succeed in an Online Biology Degree Program
18. Should I Pursue Advanced Studies or Certifications to Enhance My Biology Career?
19. Could Professional Networking and Mentorship Accelerate My Biology Career?
20. How to Leverage an Online Biology Degree for High-Paying Career Opportunities
21. Exploring Interdisciplinary Opportunities with a Biology Degree

Can you get a degree completely online?

Yes. Many reputable higher learning institutions offer online degree programs, including biology. This is not just due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Online education was already mainstream even before the pandemic broke out. In fact, in 2018, Gallagher found that 61% of HR leaders believed that there is not much difference between the quality of online education and that of its on-campus counterpart.

And, when it comes to biology education, such can be the case.

Biel and Brame (2016) showed this in the paper, “Traditional Versus Online Biology Courses: Connecting Course Design and Student Learning in an Online Setting" published in the Journal of Microbiology and Biology Education. The researchers found that “well-designed online courses can be effective at promoting student learning… and can be as effective as their traditional counterparts."

Of course, the more reputable the institution, the better the education will be. Well-respected institutions like the University of Florida, The George Washington University, Colorado State University, and Clemson University offer online bachelor’s degree programs. And the more reputable the institution, the better job prospects will be for graduates.

Will employers take my online degree seriously?

The COVID-19 outbreak has accelerated the growth and acceptance of online degrees. But even before that, many employers did take online degrees seriously. For instance, in 2018, a survey by Gallagher showed that 71% of HR leaders have hired employees who earned their degrees or credentials online.

Recent online education statistics also show an increase in acceptance. Of course, this is partly because of the pandemic. However, depending on your field and location, local employers could be less interested in hiring people with online degrees than those who have earned them in person.

One case is in Kansas, as shown by Cole J. Engel, an Associate Professor in Accounting at Fort Hays University. Engel (2020) found that employers in Kansas do not find candidates with online credentials as attractive as those who earned their degrees in person. The study, however, is limited to the accounting profession.

But with elite institutions like Princeton University and Williams College offering fully online degree programs, online degrees are on their way to getting more accepted in the future.

Are online degrees recognized all over the world?

Online degrees are recognized all over the world. This is especially so when top institutions offer them. Johns Hopkins offers 88 fully online programs. Boston University has 39 fully online programs. Again, the more prestigious the institution, the more reputable your online degree will be. However, it does not hurt to check whether your target school or program is accredited. You can easily check the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) directory.

Accreditation is not only the main concern for students and employers. There is also the quality of education. Of course, only quality programs are accredited and recognized. As it is, the quality of online education is set to make an exponential growth based upon spending projections in educational technology (EdTech).

In 2020, there were 130 investment deals for American EdTech companies, raising an investment capital of $2.2 billion (Wan, 2021). These grew by 23% and 29%, respectively from 2019 figures. The largest funding deals include those for Coursera ($130 million), MasterClass ($100 million), and Udacity ($75 million in debt funding).

Moreover, HolonIQ (2020) predicts that after the short-term surge of adoption, we will see a long-term transition to digital integration. With it, the digital infrastructure ‘catch-up’ being played because of the pandemic by schools and colleges will lead to a 5.5% share of digital expenditure by institutions in 2025 amounting to $404 billion. This is thanks to the post-COVID digital spend at the rate of 16.3% CAGR.

These investments and the aggressive rollouts of reputable institutions of fully online degree programs are likely to make online credentials—academic or professional—more recognized all over the world.

Online vs. Traditional Bachelor’s Program in Biology

The main difference between online and traditional education is the delivery of course materials. Online degree programs offer more flexibility and are perfect for working professionals. For 39% of 2021 college students, online education is all that was possible because of the pandemic. Online education has its advantages and disadvantages.

By choosing the online education route, students would be able to go through their studies at their own pace and from the comforts of their own homes. Going online provides more opportunities to achieve a work-life-study balance. Also, according to online education trends, technologies such as AI can provide personalized learning pathways.

However, in-person training can also have its advantages over online counterparts. This is especially so in degree programs that prepare students for the social world.

In a study titled “Competencies in business degrees: A face-to-face and online comparative study," published in the Journal of Education for Business, Ferreras-Garcia and colleagues (2020) found that online university students are superior to their face-to-face counterparts when it comes to ICT-related competencies. However, they found that students “from the classroom-based university obtained good results in ethics-related competencies."

Hence, there could be advantages and disadvantages to choosing the best online degree program. But these can depend on the discipline. If a discipline is theory-heavy, then an online program could be a good route. But if a discipline has more to do with fieldwork and social interactions, then taking the online route will have barriers to student development.

In the case of many undergraduate biology programs, the training would be a mix of theory and lab work. Thus, some online-based programs have a hybrid learning deployment. However, since undergraduate studies are basic compared to the advanced work required for specializations in graduate programs, computer laboratory simulations could replace in-person lab work at a respectable level of effectiveness. And, a good level of technological competency is needed as software tools in many experimental settings are needed. These include lab inventory management software and the like. Of course, the quality of education really depends on the school, the program, and the active participation of students.

Is an online degree cheaper?

Typically, online degree programs are cheaper. There are two main reasons for this. Firstly, thanks to the low faculty load and resources needed to deploy online programs, schools can offer more affordable online degree programs than their in-person counterparts.

Gallagher and Palmer (2020) pointed out that forward-thinking institutions like the University of Illinois and Georgia Tech are offering online programs at a discounted cost. The former, in particular, offers an entire MBA program for only $22,000. And, this led to the full retirement of their residential offering. Georgia Tech offers its pioneering online Master’s in Computer Science Degree program for only $7,000.

Secondly, taking the online route would eliminate other costs for students, such as board, lodging, and transportation. Of course, there are hybrid programs, especially in the medical disciplines, that require in-person clinical hours. However, they are still less expensive compared to attending the traditional residential offering. This is because traditional residential offerings would also require students to undergo practicum and other in-person activities.

Is an online degree as good as a regular degree?

Online degree programs are, in theory, as good as traditional offerings. This is because online programs are typically offered as an extension of the on-campus version. Hence, both deployments share the same faculty, have the same requirements, and have, more or less, the same difficulty to complete. Again, the quality of education would largely depend on the quality of the program itself, its faculty, and the use of the digital infrastructure for delivery.

The effectiveness of education is also influenced by myriad interacting factors. In a study called “Online biology degree program broadens access for women, first-generation to college, and low-income students, but grade disparities remain" published in PloS one, Mead and associates (2020) found that “the online mode of instruction is associated with lower course grades relative to the in-person mode" in the same university. This has something to do with complex socioeconomic factors. Thus, a blanket statement is not warranted as of yet. This, however, does not exclude the possibility and the potential of having select online programs being at par with their in-person versions.

How much does an Online Bachelor’s Program in Biology costs?

In 2019, there were a total of 162,961 biology (including STEM) degrees awarded, and the number is growing at a 3.15% clip (Data USA, 2021). The median in-state tuition for public institutions is $8,505 (growing 1.6%) and the median out-of-state tuition for private tuition stands at $38,525 (growing 1.94%). This includes both traditional and online tuition fees.

As mentioned, biology degree online programs cost lower than traditional bachelor’s in biology. The best online programs for full-time students cost from around $4,477 to $15,936 with an average of $8,457.25 (Affordable Colleges Online, 2021).

Is an Online Bachelor’s in Biology degree worth it?

The biological sciences, as Burggren and colleagues (2017) in the Oxford Handbook of Interdisciplinarity stated, has “long benefited from the intellectual and pragmatic input of ideas and techniques from other disciplines." These include chemistry, medicine, mathematics, and engineering. The field interacts with many disciplines, including computer science, economics, and the humanities. So, if you are looking to be a researcher, biology will allow you to not just deep dive into the primary objects of study of biology, but also collaborate with other researchers from other disciplines. This alone is very rewarding.

When it comes to employment, biology majors have a median annual wage of $65,000, which is higher than the median wage of all fields at $60,000 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022).

Also, 79% of employed biology graduates work in healthcare practitioners and healthcare occupations (35%), management occupations (11%), educational instruction and library occupations (10%), life, physical, and social science occupations (10%), and business and financial operations occupations (5%). These occupations, too, are projected to grow faster than average with the healthcare occupations growing at a 15% rate. The rest are at 5%.

What are the requirements of an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Biology?

The same requirements stand for enrolling in an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Biology with traditional bachelor’s in biology. These include a high school diploma or equivalent and SAT or ACT scores—although many schools waived these because of the pandemic. Here is a list of the typical requirements that you will need for enrollment.

Admission Requirements

1. High School Diploma or GED (or something equivalent)
2. Minimum GPA (varies)
3. ACT or SAT Scores (may be waived because of the pandemic)
4. Math Credits
5. Biology Credits
6. Chemistry Credits
7. Physics Credits

General Requirements

1. Recommendation Letters
2. Application and Processing Fees
3. Statement of Purpose
4. CV/Resume
5. Testing Requirements (many schools waved this because of the pandemic)
6. TOEFL/IELTS for International Students

What are the Technological Requirements of Students for Online Learning?

Online students need to have a good reliable internet connection and a quality PC. These are the basic technological requirements. However, they might also need to invest in other devices and software to enhance their online learning experience. They could purchase quality sound devices like a microphone and a headphone. A good video camera would also be useful for synchronous lectures and group activities. Others also prefer to invest in other accessories like a dedicated tablet. Also, using online software tools for organizing notes, media, and schedules might be helpful.

Courses to Expect in Online Bachelor’s Program in Biology

There are two types of degrees in undergraduate programs in biology: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Science (B.S.). The former provides a more well-rounded liberal arts experience but with quality training in biology. The latter is more oriented towards science and math courses (UC Barbara, 2021).

A Bachelor of Arts in Biology degree will prepare students for career opportunities that require skills beyond pure science and mathematics (Burylo, 2020). These include careers in:

1. Teaching or Scientific Education
2. Healthcare Management
3. Communication Specialist
4. Environment and Conservation
5. Government Agency Roles

A Bachelor of Science in Biology degree program focuses on building in-depth skills in a particular field or area of study. The trade-off is that it is not as versatile as a B.A. degree (Buyrlo, 2020). However, this is a good choice for those that want to be in a research-heavy profession. These include careers in:

1. Genetics
2. Marine Biology
3. Disease Research and Microbiology
4. Pharmaceutical Developers
5. Biological Technicians
6. Biotechnology

Common Courses to Expect

1. Genetics. This introduces students to the study of genes, their variations, and heredity. It also covers not just the structures and functions of hereditary material but also mutation and selection.
2. Microbiology. The course provides an overview of the field of microbiology and its sub-disciplines, including virology, mycology, immunology, and parasitology. Students are introduced to the study of microorganisms from unicellular to multicellular.
3. Principles of Biology. This introduces students to foundational topics in biology, including molecular organization, reproduction, evolution, and cellular structures. They will examine the different kinds and levels of life and their interactions in their specific environments.
4. Anatomy and Physiology. This course introduces students to the study of human anatomy and physiology. It covers topics ranging from the different functions to clinical applications.
5. Ecology. This focuses on the factors that influence the development of organisms and their physical environments. It introduces students to the ways of thinking about how these interactions come about and what they may lead to.

What additional skills can enhance a biology degree?

In today’s competitive job market, supplementing a biology degree with additional skills can significantly expand career opportunities and readiness for diverse roles. Graduates may find value in developing skills such as data analysis, project management, and business acumen, which can enhance their ability to handle complex biological data, lead research projects, and even manage departments. For instance, a background in project management can be crucial for those interested in transitioning into healthcare administration. Fast-track programs, such as 1-year MHA programs online, are ideal for biology graduates looking to enter management positions quickly, providing them with practical tools to excel in healthcare environments.

Furthermore, knowledge of bioinformatics can be beneficial, as modern biology increasingly intersects with data science. Mastering programming languages like Python or R enables graduates to analyze genetic sequences, conduct ecological data assessments, and perform statistical analyses with confidence. Communication and science outreach skills are also valuable, especially for roles in public health, education, and science communication. These skills not only enhance employability but also prepare biology graduates to navigate interdisciplinary teams, contribute to decision-making processes, and communicate scientific findings effectively to diverse audiences. With these additional competencies, biology graduates can broaden their career prospects and stand out in fields as varied as research, healthcare, and environmental management.

Things to Look for in an Online Bachelor’s Program in Biology

It is best for students to first check whether there are accredited programs available in their area. This is because the cost of tuition can vary for out-of-state and in-state students. Also, many online-based programs are actually hybrid programs where some courses and requirements need in-person presence. This is especially for lab work and internships.

With this in mind, prospective students should also look into the hidden costs of attending. For instance, internships cost money. And, so does research or lab work. Moreover, as programs are heavily or fully online, then one must have the basic technological needs to get to class and study. As mentioned, these include a fast and reliable internet connection and a good working computer.

Also, one of the most important things to check is the reputation of the school and its faculty in terms of specialization. Many who take up biology for their undergraduate education have graduate education in mind. And, as biology has many areas of study and research, one can do better with mentors with the right expertise.

In relation to this, one should also look at the support services that a school offers. This is not limited to academic support services like library access and the like. Prospective students should also look into the quality of a program’s influence and network. This is because a better-networked school can help connect them with other institutions for both research and employment purposes.

What are the best pathways after earning a biology degree?

After earning an online bachelor’s in biology, graduates have numerous pathways for advancing their careers, enhancing expertise, or pivoting into interdisciplinary roles. Many graduates choose to continue their studies with a specialized degree in healthcare, such as a master’s in healthcare administration (MHA). A 1-year MHA program can be an excellent choice for those who want to quickly transition into administrative roles in healthcare without investing in lengthy additional schooling.

For those inclined toward research, pursuing a master’s or doctorate in biology or a related field allows for deeper specialization in areas like genetics, ecology, or molecular biology. Alternatively, a career in teaching or science communication is a meaningful route for biology graduates who wish to contribute to public education and awareness. Biotechnology, environmental science, and pharmaceuticals also offer robust job opportunities for biology graduates, each providing a range of roles from lab-based research to fieldwork and industry analysis.

Choosing the right path depends on your career goals, interests, and desired impact. Whether focusing on advanced study, entering the healthcare field, or shifting to a role in public health, the skills gained in a biology degree program provide a flexible foundation for numerous rewarding careers.

How Can I Finance My Online Biology Degree?

Securing funding for an online biology degree requires a strategic approach that explores institutional scholarships, federal aid, private grants, and flexible loan options. Prospective students should assess school-specific financial assistance programs alongside external funding opportunities to minimize overall expenses. Additionally, many educational institutions offer competitive payment plans that can ease the financial commitment of pursuing higher education. For those considering advanced studies without excessive costs, exploring programs like easy masters degrees online may be beneficial. Evaluating the return on investment for each aid option is crucial to ensure academic success while maintaining financial stability.

What Are the Emerging Trends in Online Biology Education?

Recent advancements in educational technology are reshaping the delivery of online biology programs. Institutions are incorporating sophisticated virtual lab simulations and adaptive AI-powered learning tools that offer personalized pathways without compromising on rigorous scientific training. Furthermore, the integration of data analytics and bioinformatics continues to drive curriculum innovation, enabling students to work with real-world datasets and digital research tools. These trends are complemented by the increasing availability of micro-credentials and stackable certificates aimed at addressing specific skill gaps, which helps graduates transition into specialized fields efficiently. In parallel, allied health competencies are gaining prominence through complementary courses, such as those offered by the online medical billing and coding school, ensuring a well-rounded preparation for today’s dynamic healthcare environment.

Biology: A Wide Open Field for Employment and Research

Biology is a wide-open field with many research and career opportunities. Biologists can find jobs in a wide variety of industries, including government institutions. And, depending on your degree type, one can also take on less research-heavy work like science communication, teaching, and as a lab technologist.

If you want to take on a research track, biology is a very vibrant field. There are many types of approaches that examine life at different levels—from a mathematical and relational standpoint to an analytic and functional focus. Also, because of its interconnectedness with other disciplines, research biologists also get to collaborate with experts working in other areas. And, as research interests in biology are vast, aspiring researchers will also find a wide-open field in terms of contributing to science—from theories to experimentations.

Likewise, an undergraduate degree in biology usually lands people in the medical field. Many become doctors and physicians. So, it is a good preparatory platform for those that want to work as medical professionals. Lastly, you can take a double degree with a related discipline. For instance, getting a bachelor’s degree in Nutition will likely carry over a significant number of credits from your Biology courses.

Could an Online Biology Degree Fast-Track a Career as a Medical Assistant?

An online biology degree establishes a strong foundation in scientific principles and critical thinking, which can complement the practical skills required in allied health roles. For those aiming to accelerate their entry into a career as a medical assistant, pairing a biology degree with targeted certification programs can prove advantageous. This combination leverages academic insights while addressing the hands-on competencies demanded in healthcare settings. It is important to evaluate accelerated training programs to determine how they fit with a degree’s theoretical framework and real-world application. For instance, understanding program duration and course intensity is crucial—learn more about How long are medical assistant programs? to assess if an accelerated pathway aligns with your career goals.

Can an Online Biology Degree Propel You into Accelerated Healthcare Programs?

An online biology degree can serve as a strategic foundation for transitioning into specialized healthcare training. By integrating core biological sciences with digital learning innovations, students develop both analytical competencies and adaptive skills that are essential for rapid progression into advanced healthcare roles. Graduates may leverage their academic background to enter accelerated programs that prepare them for dynamic clinical responsibilities. For instance, streamlined educational pathways are available for those aiming to complete intensive professional programs; prospective students should explore options such as the fastest PharmD programs online to expedite their entry into clinical practice. This targeted approach not only enhances career prospects but also meets the evolving demands of today’s healthcare industry.

Can My Online Biology Degree Open Doors to Dual-Degree Programs in Healthcare?

Pursuing dual-degree options can expand career potential by integrating robust biological fundamentals with advanced healthcare specialties. An online biology curriculum develops essential analytical and scientific proficiencies that complement further studies in fields like pharmacy, medicine, and other allied health areas. When exploring pathways for dual-degree integration, it is critical to assess academic alignment, scheduling flexibility, and accreditation standards across partnering institutions. Detailed evaluations of program outcomes and curricular coherence can streamline the transition toward specialized certifications. For example, candidates interested in combining their biology background with pharmacy studies should explore universities with PharmD programs.

How to Succeed in an Online Biology Degree Program

Success in an online biology degree program requires discipline, time management, and active participation. First, establish a consistent study schedule. Online courses offer flexibility, but staying on top of assignments and deadlines is crucial for success.

Engage with your instructors and classmates regularly. Utilize discussion forums, attend virtual office hours, and participate in group projects. This interaction can help clarify complex concepts and create a supportive learning environment.

Make the most of available resources, such as online libraries, virtual labs, and academic support services. Familiarize yourself with the technological tools and platforms used in the program, ensuring you’re comfortable with video conferencing, lab simulations, and course management systems.

Develop strong organizational skills by keeping track of course materials, notes, and research articles. Use digital tools like note-taking apps or cloud storage to stay organized and access information from any device.

Finally, seek internships or volunteer opportunities in labs or related fields to gain practical experience. While online programs provide theoretical knowledge, hands-on experience is crucial for developing the technical skills necessary in biology-related careers. Combining academic achievement with real-world practice will set you up for success.

Exploring Interdisciplinary Opportunities with a Biology Degree

A biology degree is a versatile credential that serves as a foundation for interdisciplinary exploration. This adaptability is crucial as the boundaries between biology and other scientific fields continue to blur, offering diverse opportunities for students willing to broaden their perspectives.

For instance, combining a biology degree with chemistry opens avenues in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and material sciences. With growing reliance on interdisciplinary research, many biology graduates pursue advanced studies or careers in fields that integrate biological principles with chemical processes. Those interested in such roles can consider exploring career options and educational pathways in careers in chemistry, which often overlap significantly with biology-based research and innovation.

Similarly, bioinformatics—a convergence of biology and computer science—has seen exponential growth. By gaining skills like programming or data visualization, biology graduates can excel in genomic research, proteomics, or ecological data analysis. Pursuing certifications or short courses in programming languages like Python can enhance employability and open doors to roles such as computational biologist or data analyst.

Another thriving intersection is between biology and environmental sciences. As sustainability and conservation efforts gain traction globally, biology graduates with expertise in environmental policies or ecological management are in high demand. Career opportunities in environmental consulting, renewable energy, or ecological remediation allow graduates to address pressing environmental challenges while building impactful careers.

By proactively seeking out interdisciplinary opportunities and developing complementary skills, biology graduates can remain at the forefront of innovation, ensuring their degree remains relevant in an ever-evolving job market.

Should I Pursue Advanced Studies or Certifications to Enhance My Biology Career?

Earning a biology degree is a solid foundation that many professionals build upon by pursuing further specialization. Advanced studies and certifications can sharpen leadership skills, strategic thinking, and technical expertise, helping graduates transition to roles with greater responsibility. For example, obtaining an executive masters can integrate scientific proficiency with business acumen, preparing professionals for executive-level decision-making and program management. Evaluating long-term career goals against the investment of additional education is crucial for aligning academic advancement with market demands in the rapidly evolving field of biology.

Could Professional Networking and Mentorship Accelerate My Biology Career?

Establishing robust professional relationships and accessing mentorship programs are pivotal for driving career growth in the field of biology. Engaging with targeted professional organizations, attending industry conferences, and actively participating in academic online communities can provide critical insights into emerging trends and facilitate valuable collaborations. Utilization of platforms like LinkedIn and specialized scientific forums enhances visibility and connection with leading experts, thereby opening avenues for advanced roles. Additionally, aligning with mentorship programs offered by reputable institutions or industry bodies enables personalized guidance in navigating complex career transitions and leadership paths. Pursuing further specialization—such as an online PhD in pharmaceutical sciences—can also reinforce your professional credibility while expanding your network of influencers in the life sciences.

How to Leverage an Online Biology Degree for High-Paying Career Opportunities

An online Bachelor’s Degree in Biology opens the door to numerous career paths, but to fully capitalize on this opportunity, it’s essential to focus on both the technical skills and additional certifications or experiences that can enhance your qualifications. While a biology degree alone can lead to exciting job opportunities, combining it with the right career strategies can help you land positions that offer higher salaries and long-term career growth.

A biology degree can also lead to some of the highest paying jobs with a biology degree. For instance, many biology majors transition into environmental consulting, forensic science, or data science, where the problem-solving and analytical skills gained during a biology program are highly valued.

Networking within the field and gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteer work can also play a significant role in securing a high-paying biology job. Whether it’s attending conferences, connecting with professionals via LinkedIn, or engaging in volunteer research opportunities, building your professional network can provide valuable insights and job leads.

Key Insights

• Versatile Career Opportunities: A biology degree offers diverse career paths, including research scientists, nature conservationists, and roles in biotechnology, microbiology, and pharmacology.
• Strong Skill Requirements: Success in biology requires strong skills in investigation, quantitative research, analysis, communication, and collaboration.
• Competitive Salary: The average base salary for a biologist is approximately $60,942, reflecting the typical earnings for STEM degree holders in the U.S.
• Online Learning Viability: Reputable institutions offer online biology degree programs that can provide education quality comparable to traditional on-campus programs.
• Global Recognition of Online Degrees: Online degrees from prestigious institutions are increasingly recognized worldwide, supported by substantial investments in educational technology.
• Cost-Effective Education: Online bachelor's programs in biology are generally more affordable than traditional programs, with tuition ranging from $4,477 to $15,936.
• Growing Job Market: Biology-related occupations, particularly in healthcare and research, have a positive job outlook and offer rewarding career prospects.

FAQ

1. Can you get a biology degree completely online? Yes, many reputable institutions offer fully online biology degree programs. These programs can provide high-quality education and are designed to accommodate students who need flexibility due to work or other commitments.
2. Will employers take my online biology degree seriously? Yes, many employers recognize and respect online degrees, especially those from reputable institutions. The acceptance of online degrees has grown, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic, which increased the prevalence and credibility of online education.
3. Are online biology degrees recognized all over the world? Yes, online degrees are recognized globally, especially when awarded by prestigious institutions. However, it's important to ensure that the program is accredited and meets the standards of the specific field or region you wish to work in.
4. How much does an online bachelor's program in biology cost? The cost of an online bachelor's program in biology varies, typically ranging from $4,477 to $15,936. This is generally more affordable than traditional on-campus programs due to lower overhead costs and the elimination of expenses like housing and transportation.
5. What are the requirements for enrolling in an online bachelor's degree in biology? Requirements typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, minimum GPA, and possibly SAT or ACT scores. Other common requirements are letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and, for international students, proof of English proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS.
6. What courses can I expect in an online bachelor's program in biology? Common courses include Genetics, Microbiology, Principles of Biology, Anatomy and Physiology, and Ecology. The curriculum covers foundational topics and may include lab work, often simulated online.
7. Is an online biology degree as good as a traditional degree? In theory, yes. Online biology degree programs typically share the same curriculum, faculty, and standards as their on-campus counterparts. However, the effectiveness can depend on the program's design, faculty involvement, and student engagement.
8. What are the technological requirements for online learning in a biology program? Students need a reliable internet connection, a quality computer, and often additional devices like a good microphone, headphones, and a webcam. Software tools for organizing notes, media, and schedules can also enhance the online learning experience.
9. What career opportunities are available with an online biology degree? Graduates can pursue careers in healthcare, research, education, environmental conservation, biotechnology, and more. Specific roles include geneticist, microbiologist, biological technician, science communicator, and healthcare manager.
10. Is an online bachelor's degree in biology worth it?

Yes, an online bachelor's degree in biology can be a valuable investment, offering diverse career opportunities and a competitive salary. It also provides a strong foundation for further studies or specialized careers in various interdisciplinary fields.

References:

1. Affordable Colleges Online. (2021, July 9). Online biology degrees. Affordable Colleges Online.
2. BestColleges. (2021). Online Education Trends Report. BestColleges.
3. Biel, R., & Brame, C. J. (2016). Traditional versus online biology courses: connecting course design and student learning in an online setting. Journal of microbiology & biology education, 17(3), 417-422. ASM.
4. Burylo, R. (2021, February 26). B.A. vs. B.S. in biology: What’s the difference? Faulkner University. Faulkner University.
5. Council for Higher Education Accreditation. (2021). Directory of CHEA-recognized accrediting organizations (PDF). CHEA.
6. Data USA. (2021). Biology. Data USA.
7. Frodeman, R., Klein, J. T., & Pacheco, R. C. D. S. (Eds.). (2017). The Oxford handbook of interdisciplinarity. Oxford University Press. Google Books.
8. Gallagher, S., & Palmer, J. (2020, September 29). The pandemic pushed universities online. The change was long overdue. Harvard Business Review.
9. Mead, C., Supriya, K., Zheng, Y., Anbar, A. D., Collins, J. P., LePore, P., & Brownell, S. E. (2020). Online biology degree program broadens access for women, first-generation to college, and low-income students, but grade disparities remain. PloS one, 15(12), e0243916. PLOS ONE.
10. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2020, November 30). Field of degree: Biology. BLS.
11. UC Santa Barbara. (2021). Biological sciences BA and BS. UC Santa Barbara.
12. Wan, T. (2021, January 23). A record year amid a pandemic: US Edtech raises $2.2 billion in 2020. EdSurge.