what is needed to become biologist?
i want to become a biologist because i am very interested in studying am about life and how does it different organisms adapt to different enviorments #biology #cell-biology
2 answers
Catherine’s Answer
Hi Breantay,
I'm excited to hear you are interested in becoming a biologist.
First, I think it's important to keep in mind that there are many different types of biologists, and as you develop in your career, you are likely to become more and more specialized. In other words, you will be able to focus on a very small, specific part of the large world of biology. Honestly, if you turn to any page of a biology textbook, I bet you can find at least one scientist that has become the expert on just the topics covered in that one page.
If you are not sure what type of biologist you want to be (because there are so many choices!), you are not alone. The good news is: 1) you will figure this out as you keep going to school and learn more about all the different options and 2) the first few steps in the path look the same for every biologist.
The steps are:
1) Take as many science classes as you can in high school, especially IB or AP classes if they are offered in your school. Get good grades in all of your classes, even the ones outside of science, because you need to be a strong overall student to be accepted into college.
2) As a senior, apply to colleges with biology programs you are interested in.
3) Graduate from high school.
4) Attend college and get a major in biology. Depending on your university, there may be different types of biology majors available.
5) Get good grades in all your classes, especially your biology classes. Look for and apply to jobs or programs that give you the opportunity to work with a biology professor and do research in different areas of biology. As you go through college, take different kinds of biology classes to figure out what your favorite areas are.
6) Apply to a graduate (Master's or PhD) program in the area of biology you want to specialize in OR look for and apply to jobs after college where you can start working in the type of biology you like and then figure out if you need a graduate degree to do whatever you've figured out you want to do.
I hope this answer helps!
thank you for this
Jeevika
Lindsey’s Answer
Technically, anyone can be a biologist. It is a person who studies biology—end of definition. There are plenty of amateur biologists reading books and doing experiments and even inventing things in their homes, backyards, local natural areas, etc. right now. Their day jobs are as welders, police officers, truck drivers and cashier, etc. Some of them with a skilled trade will make more money than their peers with degrees. They do this for a variety of reasons, but mostly it’s their passion and they enjoy it.
An associate degree can be gained from your local community college. Associate level biologists can work in fingerprint labs for police departments, hospital labs, veterinary offices, and a few other roles.
A bachelors level biologist can work for schools, wineries, zoos, farms, hospitals, aquaria, and a number of other places. In my opinion, this is the most common degree type for biologists and has the highest number of available paid jobs. Obtain this degree from your local 4-year university.
A PhD level scientist can work in all of the above roles and more. For this one, you’re in for the long haul. You need to take the GRE and apply to graduate schools while in university.