Is a biology degree necessary for someone planning on entering medical school?

I degree in the science field is not necessary but it does help your application. Admission offices look at your application as a whole and they look at the rigor of your courses over your undergraduate career. Will having a non-science related degree with pre-med requisites hurt you? No. Will having a specific science degree help you more than others?.... maybe. As a biology major , I can say its not easy but its worth it. If you choose to go the non-science route, they always have post-bacs that offer pre-requisites for medical school as well. I wish you the best of luck with your decision and just know that if you believe in yourself anything is possible. There are many different routes to get to the same destination. Good luck :)