Dissecting frogs. That's what many people think of when they hear the word
biology. But that's a very small part of what biology students do. They study
every aspect of the living world around us, from microbes to ecosystems.
An undergraduate degree may prepare you for entry-level positions in a
variety of scientific fields, but for the most part you'll need further study.
If you want to be a researcher, you'll likely need at least a master's
degree, and often a PhD.
Students majoring in biology take a wide variety of classes. These might
include microbiology, cell biology, botany, animal and marine biology,
genetics, ecology and evolution.
That means it's important to concentrate on math, chemistry and physics,
as well as biology, early in your high school studies.
Students shouldn't neglect English either, says Michael Lizotte. He is
an assistant professor of biology at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh.
"The skills learned in a good high school course in comparative literature
could be more useful than taking one more high school biology course," he
says. That's because biology students need to read and write reports and studies.
There's more to getting ready for college than simply taking classes. "The
real key to being prepared for college is developing self-discipline and good
study skills," says Sarah Armstrong. She is a biology professor at Millsaps
Don't forget about volunteer work. It can provide you with great experience.
"Students will find having laboratory or field experience useful,
as our program is research-based," says Kathryn L. Edwards. She is a biology
professor at Kenyon College in Ohio. "However, other activities are also useful,
such as hospital or geriatric service, veterinary clinic aid, and any activity
in which you can show leadership skills."
Textbooks are not cheap in biology programs. Some schools may also
charge a minimal fee for laboratory costs.
Occupational Outlook Handbook
Find current information related to the field of study for Biological
Biology Resources and Links
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Online Biology Book
Estrella Mountain Community College's list of helpful links
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