The classical cartoon image of what a “biologist” or “scientist” is, is someone wearing a white lab coat, gloves, and doing crazy experiments in a lab.
In actuality, those who work in the field of Biology do several jobs. They may be your teachers in high school, the people who are selling you your medicine, or the company that is working to make your food safe. Biology is the study of living organisms, whether it be small molecules in plants that we cannot see, or cells in the human body. A Master’s in Biology is an advanced degree for those wishing to expand their knowledge of the field.
Colleges Rank has compiled a list of the 7 Most Affordable Online Master’s in Biology Degrees. These schools were chosen based on their competitive tuition rates and a great return on investment. Although these programs can be completed entirely from the comfort of one’s own home, no diploma will state that the degree was taken online. Thus, students should not worry about compromising their education by enrolling in a distance learning program.
What kind of Master’s in Biology should you get?
An online Master of Science in Biology is an ideal degree for working adults. Online degrees are more flexible, with courses meeting only a few times a week in the evening. All coursework can be completed on one’s own time, 24 hours a day before the decided deadline. In addition, online degrees are more affordable. Luckily, all of these degrees listed here have the best bang for your buck in the nation for Biology.
Other than an MS in Biology, some schools may offer a degree in Biological Sciences or something similar. There are usually no official concentrations offered within this degree. Coursework will cover the basics of the field and prepare students for entry to mid-level positions, as well as for careers in teaching. Each MS will outline whether the program is ideal for future educators and/or researchers. Unfortunately, the majority of these programs are not ideal for those wishing to work solely as a researcher. Going directly into the Ph.D. program after one’s undergraduate studies is best for future scholars.
Not quite ready for a Master’s degree? Check out our ranking of the Best Undergraduate Online Biology Degrees.
How much will you earn with a Master’s in Biology?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that the median annual salary of all biological scientists in May 2017 was $76,690. The top-paying industries are equipment and merchant wholesalers, computer systems design and other related services, and pharmaceutical manufacturers. The five highest-paying states are Maryland, California, Massachusetts, Texas, and Florida. Given one’s experience and location, scientists can make around six figures at the peak of their careers.
Based on the BLS data, below are some of the best-paying jobs within Biology that require a Master’s degree or lower.
Microbiologist Environmental scientist Agricultural and food scientist Pharmaceutical sales representative What can you do with an online Master’s in Biology?
Most jobs within the field of Biology require a Master’s degree or higher. An MS will prepare individuals for more specific careers other than just a basic lab technician. For instance, with some additional training, one may be able to work in DNA forensics, collecting data for legal cases. Another job may include being a research associate at a respected lab. Before applying to schools, students should research future potential careers to see if the MS degree meets the job’s requirements.
For the programs on this ranking, the most common career path upon graduation is to become a biology teacher. Many students enrolled in the program already have a teaching credential, but may wish to gain more expertise in the study. The MS is not an ideal program for those just starting in education and who need state licensure; however, it may be a good program in conjunction with another education one. Graduates generally teach at the middle school or high school level.
What are the requirements for an online Master’s in Biology?
An MS in Biology will take between two to three years to complete. Applicants should possess a Bachelor’s in Biology or a related science degree. Those who do not have an undergraduate Biology degree should make sure they have taken the prerequisite biology courses. Schools would like to see applicants with a GPA of at least 2.75 or above.
The online MS does not usually require any major field experience or internships. Students are free to complete everything from the comfort of their own homes. Depending on if one is pursuing the degree part or full-time, only about two or three courses will be completed per term. Classes are taken year-round in the fall, spring, and summer. At the end of the degree, students will be required to complete a thesis or research project.
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