Best Online Biology Degrees 2020

Biology is often seen as the study of the human body, but it’s a lot more than that. Studying bio you will learn more about how the entire natural world works. You’ll learn about the cells that make up humans and animals, and how they work, for instance. Depending on what field you specialize in, you may also learn about topics like ecology and zoology. In addition, with an online biology degree, you can learn from the comfort of home or any other location with Internet access.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in scientific occupations is projected to grow 7% by 2028. That is “faster than the average for all occupations.” A total of about 97,400 new jobs will exist in this field within the next few years. Furthermore, the median annual wage for people employed in this field was $68,160 in May 2019—that’s an impressive sum!

In this guide, we’re going to take a look at the top five web-based bio programs. Accordingly, we’ll discuss the background of these programs, tuition, and how they are structured.

Online Biology Programs in 2020

With so many top-quality web-based bio programs out there, you may be wondering: Which one is right for me? To help you answer that question, we’ve prepared a list of the top online biology programs. So, are you ready to send your application and start your career?

#1: Florida International University

• BA in Biology
• Tuition: $229/credit (in-state) or $346/credit (out-of-state)
• Duration: 4 years
• Credit requirement: 120 credits
• Acceptance rate: 59%

Florida International University offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Biology program. This program will teach you about topics such as the essentials of biology, the foundations of biochemistry, ecology, genetics, and biochemistry.

As a bio student at FIU, you won’t just study a general biology curriculum. You’ll also be able to concentrate on one of the five tracks available, which include “bioentrepreneur” and “environmental policy” tracks. These will allow you to pursue a specific field in which you are interested in more depth.

In addition, every online undergraduate student at Florida International University is paired with a success coach who helps guide them in their studies.

#2: Logan University

• BS in Human Biology
• Tuition: $275/credit
• Duration: 4 years
• Credit requirement: 122 credits
• Acceptance rate: 88%

Logan University’s BS in Human Biology offers a low student-to-faculty ratio (twelve-to-one) as well as a flexible trimester schedule.

In this program, you’ll build the foundational knowledge you need to succeed in a range of scientific and health care jobs. Additionally, you’ll be given the opportunity to complete some of your program on the school’s 112-acre campus based in St. Louis, Missouri. Here, you’ll learn from world-class faculty in an ideal classroom environment.

Logan University has state-of-the-art facilities such as an anatomy lab and a radiology center. This alone makes it a great place for anyone pursuing a career in the life sciences.

#3: University of Florida

• BA in Biology
• Tuition: $129/credit (in-state) or $553/credit (out-of-state)
• Duration: 4 years
• Credit requirement: 120 credits
• Rate of Acceptance: 61%

This course gives you the broad training in bio you need to pursue a wide range of careers in life sci, health, or interdisciplinary.

As a student enrolled in the University of Florida’s biology degree, you’ll learn about general chemistry, genetics, cell biology, population genetics, microbiology, and more.

The University of Florida has nearly 5,000 faculty members, and employs two Pulitzer Prize winners. But that’s not all. Forty-three members of its faculty are in the National Academy of Sciences Engineering, the Institute of Medicine, and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

#4: Excelsior College

• BS in Natural Sciences
• Tuition: $510/credit (civilian) or $250/credit (military)
• Duration: 4 years
• Credit requirement: 120 credits
• Acceptance rate: N/A

Excelsior College offers a BS in Natural Sciences degree. This program is designed to prepare you in the practical and theoretical skills you’ll need to work in natural sciences. The coursework in this degree covers human genetics, biodiversity, and a wide range of other topics.

Excelsior College operates a fully-online career services program that helps students prepare for and transition into their ideal career. Moreover, its career center boasts tools related to self-assessment, career exploration, setting goals, decision-making, and more. You’ll be able to speak with an experienced career counselor who can help you navigate important career decisions.

#5: Arizona State University

• BS in Biological Sciences
• Tuition: $640/credit
• Duration: 4 years
• Credit requirement: 120 credits
• Acceptance rate: 85%

Arizona State University offers a web-based Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences. This program explores the organization and processes of life such as plants, animals, humans, and microbes. You may be required to attend an on-campus lab in Tempe, Arizona.

Arizona State University provides a range of student support services on the web. For instance, students who learn remotely can access all the school’s library materials through the electronic journals and e-books directory. The school also provides comprehensive career and professional development services to help you build your resume and practice your job interview skills.

Other Great Programs

Colorado State University

While Colorado State doesn’t offer a degree in biology specifically, it does offer several related programs. For instance, you can earn a master’s in Agricultural Sciences or Biomedical Engineering. Further, Colorado State’s online programs hold regional accreditation.

Bellevue University

With Bellevue University’s online program, you can earn a bachelor’s in biology. In addition, you can pursue an endorsement in Secondary Teacher Education if you plan on becoming a teacher.

Finally, the University of Illinois, Southern New Hampshire University, and the University of Mississippi are also great alternatives.

Web-Based Bio Degree Offerings

Bio programs can prepare you for a job as a teacher, researcher, zoologist, and veterinarian, among other careers.

Studying toward an online diploma will help you acquire the knowledge you need to pursue one of these careers, on more flexible terms. Many remote programs are cheaper than their in-person equivalents and offer more control over when you study.

There are four main types of biology degrees you can earn online:

• Associate
• Bachelor’s
• Master’s
• Doctorate

Online Biology Associate Degree

Online associate programs prepare you for a wide range of entry-level positions in bio and the life sciences. These programs focus on the foundations of bio, including bacteria, animals, and plant studies.

Admission Requirements

You’ll need a high school diploma or equivalent certificate to enroll in these programs. In some cases, programs will ask that you take prerequisite courses in bio, calculus, chemistry, and physics.

Curriculum

The curriculum will be different for every university. For the most part, you’ll be learning about the fundamentals of biology, both theoretical and practical. You’ll study topics such as anatomy of the human body, animal biology, molecular biology, history of life, genetics, and human physiology.

You’ll study both in the classroom and in the lab. This will help you build and apply the theoretical knowledge you need.

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Degree Progression

There are two main paths you can pursue after attaining an associate diploma: going into a job, or advancing your studies.

Many people use an associate program as a wedge into an entry-level position in life sciences. This may include a job in forestry, zoology, or biochemistry. For example, you’d be able to get an entry-level job as a technician or research assistant, depending on the field you have entered.

You can also continue down the academic path. Many people choose to pursue an associate degree to develop a sound knowledge of the fundamentals before progressing onto a bachelor’s degree program.

Online Biology Bachelor’s Degree

Online bachelor’s degree programs will prepare you for a wide range of careers in biological sciences. A bachelor’s is often required for more senior or practical roles in biology and the life sciences.

Admission Requirements

To enter an online bio bachelor’s degree program you will need a high school diploma or equivalent certificate. You should have a good understanding of at least one of the sciences and may have to take prerequisite courses before starting your studies.

Curriculum

In an online bachelor’s degree, you’ll develop a deep understanding of biological sciences. Your course will cover topics such as cell and molecular biology, molecular modeling, organic chemistry, and psychology. Additionally, you’ll learn about how to work safely in a lab environment.

Many bachelor’s programs require you to complete a capstone project or senior thesis project. This involves studying an area of bio in-depth and producing a report.

Progression

Completion of an online bachelor’s degree in biology will unlock many opportunities. For instance, you could go on to pursue a job in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, wildlife management, or other areas related to bio and the life sciences. You could end up working in a laboratory, a research facility, or a government agency.

Online Biology Master’s Degrees

Online master’s degrees in biology allow you to explore more advanced topics related to natural sciences. MS programs focus on conducting original research and can position you for a long-term career in the life sciences. You might also look into accelerated master’s programs. These often combine master’s and bachelor’s degrees, shortening the amount of time spent in school.

Online Doctorate in Biology

Online doctoral degrees in biology are accessible to people who have earned a master’s degree in the field or a related area. These programs last between three and eight years and involve heavy research and lab work. Most online doctoral degrees comprise a large amount of in-person laboratory work. In fact, the labs are crucial, as they supplement the lecture material and give you hands-on experience.

As a doctoral bio student, you may have to hold a part-time job, internship, or research fellowship at some point during your education. In some programs, these experiences count toward your course credits and will give you real-world experience using the skills learned in the classroom.

What Can You Do With a Biology Degree?

An online bachelor’s program in biology will position you for a wide range of careers within the field of biology or life sciences. Bio programs don’t focus on training for a specific area, but this has its benefits. You’ll graduate with a broad range of skills that can be applied to many areas.

Here are a few of the career options available to bio graduates:

• Environmental Scientist: Environmental scientists use their knowledge of the natural sciences to protect the environment and the health of humans. For instance, they may advise policymakers on how to reduce waste or help businesses become more environmentally conscious in their practices.
• Agricultural and Food Science Technician: With an associate degree, you could go on to become an agricultural and food science technician. These workers assist agricultural and food scientists by measuring and analyzing the quality of food and other agricultural products.
• Agricultural and Food Scientist: Agricultural and food scientists research ways to improve the efficiency of agricultural institutions. They devote themselves to improving the sustainability of crops and farms, study soil compositions, and research ways to make the most out of natural resources.
• Microbiologist: Microbiologists study microorganisms such as viruses, fungi, algae, and bacteria. They perform experiments and research projects to figure out how these organisms grow and interact with their surroundings.
• Zoologist and Wildlife Biologist: Last but not least, zoologists and wildlife biologists study animals and how they interact with other animals and their surroundings. For example, they study the physical characteristics of animals, their behaviors, movement patterns, and analyze how human activity impacts wildlife.

Career Prospects for Online Biology Degree Graduates

Demand for workers in life sciences, such as environmental scientists and microbiologists, is high. These jobs require at least an associate’s degree, but, in many cases, a bachelor’s degree is the minimum level of education accepted.

The exact salary you can expect will depend on your area of specialty. That said, most jobs in biology and the life sciences command impressive salaries.

Here are a few median salaries collected from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics to help you better understand how much you could earn:

• Environmental Scientist: $71,360
• Agricultural and Food Science Technician: $41,230
• Agricultural and Food Scientist: $65,160
• Microbiologist: $75,650
• Zoologist and Wildlife Biologist: $63,270

Starting out in your career, you’ll earn an entry-level wage. This may be lower than the statistics listed above, but will still be high. Once you acquire some experience working in the field, you’ll command a higher salary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Web-based bio programs are a great investment if you want to break into a career in the life sciences. Indeed, you’ll study everything from human anatomy to zoology. This will give you a range of knowledge that you can apply to different careers.

The main benefit of an online program is its flexibility. You can study on your own schedule. However, many online bio programs do require you to show up to an in-person laboratory or immersive sessions throughout the course. Lab skills are, of course, an important part of many courses. Nevertheless, you should be able to take a large percentage of the course online.

In conclusion, if you’re thinking about a career in bio, enrolling in one of these programs could be a good investment. Make sure you do your research to determine if the program is a good fit for you. Also, ensure any program you enroll in has the proper national or regional accreditation.