Career Paths and Skills

Biology is the study of life! What could be more fascinating? How is it that molecules assemble to become cells and cells become organisms? True understanding in biology requires knowledge of chemistry, mathematics and physics.

With this strong academic background, graduates with degrees in biology are well prepared to enter a broad spectrum of disciplines. Intellectual rigor and the ability to analyze and communicate complex issues allow the biology major to consider careers or advanced study in business, law, science, government, or medicine.

The Cawley Career Center is a good resource for students seeking information on internships and career paths in the sciences. 

With a BS degree (this list was compiled from information on Georgetown graduates and from national data).

  • Pharmaceutical researcher and developer
  • Medical Laboratory Assistant
  • Pharmaceutical salesperson
  • Government agency researcher or administrator

The following careers require advanced study or advanced degrees: 

  • Medical Doctor, Dentist
  • Professor
  • Biotechnologist
  • Biomedical Engineer
  • Lawyer
  • Forensic Scientist
  • Veterinarian
  • Zoologist
  • Secondary teacher
  • Public Health Official 

Skills

The study of biology allows for the development of a core set of skills sought after by employers in a wide range of occupational settings. A sample of representative skills and abilities follows:

Critical Thinking Skills
  • Read and evaluate technical information
  • Synthesize themes from diverse sources
  • Perceive patterns and structures
Communication Skills
  • Logical presentation of information
  • Ability to convey complex issues
  • Technical writing skills
Research Skills
  • Formulate hypothesis
  • Research design and implementation
  • Collection and presentation of data