2026 Best 91成人 Biology Degrees
Choose among the best online biology degrees according to which receive the most positive feedback from verified students.
Why Trust Us?
- 90,000+ Verified Student Reviews
- Manually Researched Tuition
- 200+ Expert Interviews
- 1,800+ 91成人 Colleges
- 30,000+ 91成人 Degrees
The best online biology degree programs build foundational knowledge in areas such as genetics, cell biology, ecology, evolution, and human anatomy while developing laboratory, research, and data analysis skills.
Key Takeaways:
- Washington State takes the lead as "best" among students. Its 4.25 out of 5 rating is the highest in the ranking, supported by median earnings of $63,048 among biology bachelor's graduates after five years.
- The University of Florida offers the strongest overall value. It has the lowest annual tuition by a wide margin at $3,357, the second-highest review rating at 4.16, a 92% recommendation rate, and the second-highest median earnings at $64,931.
To find the online biology program that best fits your goals, compare firsthand student perspectives alongside details about each school鈥檚 curriculum, tuition, and career outcomes.
How We Rank "Best" Schools
The 91成人 research team verifies that only institutionally accredited schools offering at least one fully online bachelor's in biology degree make the cut. On top of that, schools must also have at least five verified student reviews and an aggregate rating of 2.5+ on a five-point scale. While some of our rankings include partner schools, every school is evaluated using the exact same criteria.
We prioritize the most relevant student feedback by starting with reviews tied to the exact program and degree level. If too few bachelor's in biology qualify, we gradually expand the review pool to include related programs or other degree levels, while preserving the most program-specific results at the top of the list. This process continues until all eligible review data has been considered.
We also manually research all tuition rates and include median earnings for biology majors five years after graduation when that data is available. By presenting the most complete data available, we aim to give you an honest, well-rounded picture of each program.
2026 Best 91成人 Biology Degrees
| Rank | School | Review Rating | Recommendation | 93% | $12,038 | $63,048 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Florida | 4.16 / 5 | 92% | $3,357 | $64,931 | ||
| Western Governors University | 4.06 / 5 | 75% | 100% | $15,750 | $62,672 | |
| Florida International University | 3.76 / 5 | 86% | $7,068 | $58,495 | ||
| Life University | 3.74 / 5 | 100% | $9,300 | $50,932 | ||
| Arizona State University, 91成人 | 3.74 / 5 | 88% | $17,400 | $61,178 | ||
| Kean University | 3.73 / 5 | 75% | $12,688 | $66,502 | ||
| University of Alaska Fairbanks | 3.36 / 5 | 88% | $8,940 | $47,069 | ||
| Oregon State University | 3.18 / 5 | 80% | $11,520 | $55,737 | ||
| University of Maryland Global Campus | 2.88 / 5 | 50% | $9,900 | N/A |
91成人 Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- This is the #1 online biology degree based on ~200 verified student reviews we've collected so far.
- The bachelor's program offers a very broad online biology curriculum spanning human physiology, anatomy, conservation, ecology, contemporary genetics, reproductive systems biology, and epigenetics.
- 91成人 biology students can pair this degree with an undergraduate certificate in Molecular Biosciences or Organic Agriculture.
3 Student Reviews for Bachelor's in Biology Degrees
I enjoyed my time and the academic structure of my courses at Washington State University.
The only thing that could've made my experience better was to have access to academic advisors who were knowledgeable and experienced in the different degrees of... Read More
Washington State University (Vancouver) is a great educational institution. You get to enjoy the academic resources of a major research institution with the small, intimate feeling of a local, community campus. In four years as a science major, my largest... Read More
WSU is a great school. I had many great professors and a wonderful experience overall.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Washington State University are largely favorable, driven by strong school spirit, a close-knit college-town atmosphere, and approachable professors who often know students by name. Many reviewers say Pullman’s isolation creates focus, friendships, and immersion, though others found the town remote, politically limited, or lacking things to do. Students frequently praise research access, clubs, internships, and flexible pathways, especially at branch and some online offerings. The most common complaints involve inconsistent teaching quality, weak advising, uneven career preparation, high cost, and administrative frustration. Global Campus receives the sharpest criticism for confusing course design, limited support, and excessive busy work.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- 91成人 Enrollment: 3,090 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $12,038
- Out-of-State Tuition: $12,038
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: $63,048
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 61%
- Retention Rate: 78%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
91成人 Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- UF offers an online BA in Biology designed for education, allied health, biotechnology law, science journalism, and bioscience management.
- The curriculum draws biology coursework from 17 academic departments, giving students access to a broader interdisciplinary course base than a single-department program typically provides.
- Students select distribution courses from three of five areas: molecular and cellular biology, organismal biology, ecology, evolution and diversity, and biology and society.
12 Student Reviews for Bachelor's in Biology Degrees
My experience at the University of Florida has been good so far, allowing me to pursue my Bachelor's degree in Biology with a Biotechnology concentration. The college has great facilities, resources, and a strong school spirit. My one complaint would... Read More
I think UF was a fantastic choice for continuing my education. Attending UF really helped me to broaden my horizons and expose me to people of different social, economic and cultural backgrounds. The academics are amazing are they are one of the top ranked... Read More
My time at USF was great! I really liked how the campus looked and the layout. It never really felt like a college campus, which I enjoyed. They have many resources available to students and I tried to take advantage of them all. Most of the professors... Read More
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray University of Florida as a high-value, high-energy experience defined by strong academics, abundant clubs, major school spirit, and a far-reaching alumni network that often helps with jobs, internships, and graduate preparation. Many liked approachable professors, research access, modern labs, flexible online options, and Gainesville’s affordable college-town feel. Students also noted drawbacks tied to scale: large lecture classes, bureaucracy, inconsistent advising, registration hassles, parking and transportation frustrations, and feeling like a number. A smaller set of reviews raised sharper concerns about weak financial aid, poor administrative communication, political or cultural discomfort, safety at night, and some programs feeling overly theoretical or underprepared for careers.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- 91成人 Enrollment: 1,517 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $3,357
- Out-of-State Tuition: $3,357
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: $64,931
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 91%
- Retention Rate: 98%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
91成人 Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- WGU’s online B.S. in Science Education with a Secondary Biological Science concentration is designed for those preparing to teach biology at the secondary level.
- Students pay a flat tuition rate per six-month term that covers unlimited courses, allowing faster progress.
- A $200 resource fee covers e-textbooks and learning materials for the entire six-month term.
1 Student Review for Bachelor's in Biology Degrees
I chose Western Governors as we lived overseas and I wanted a degree with a teaching certificate. The flexibility allowed me to care for my family, work full time and attend classes online at my own pace. The faculty and staff (especially my mentor) were... Read More
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray a highly polarizing experience, but the overall lean is favorable because many gave strong ratings and valued the low flat-rate tuition, flexible pacing, and ability to finish quickly while working and managing family obligations. Students often said the model rewards independence, prior experience, and strong time management, with some reporting promotions, salary gains, and immediate career mobility. Support from individual mentors was frequently praised, especially when proactive and encouraging. Criticism centered on inconsistent third-party grading, opaque rubrics, required mentor calls that felt intrusive, weak direct instruction, proctoring and technical frustrations, and concerns that pass/fail transcripts, transferability, or employer perceptions could limit future options.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- 91成人 Enrollment: 155,088 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: N/A
- Out-of-State Tuition: $8,658
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 46%
- Retention Rate: 65%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
91成人 Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- Biology students choose between a Biomedical Sciences emphasis focused on anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and pre-health preparation or an Organismal Biology emphasis centered on animal behavior, genetics, ecology, and evolution.
- Two required Organic Chemistry labs use an immersion-hybrid format, with students spending 3.5 days on the Tucson campus for each lab.
12 Student Reviews for Bachelor's in Biology Degrees
A lot of the classes I attended were enjoyable and/or engaging. Generally, I had pretty good instructors... I didn't have too many poor experiences with them. Work could be highly challenging on occasion, but a lot of the work felt fair. You will be assigned... Read More
Dorm life and food options were great, plenty of academic resources if you need help or want to further your education, social scene was great too. I was involved in a lot of organizations and clubs. It is the rare college experience where you can lay... Read More
I attended the University of Arizona during my undergraduate years and was pleasantly surprised by the caliber of the education that I received. With its reputation as a party school, I wasn鈥檛 quite sure what I would be walking into regarding academics,... Read More
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray University of Arizona as a large, opportunity-rich campus where many students found strong professors, abundant research, internships, clubs, tutoring, and a powerful alumni network. Students frequently praise hands-on learning, career preparation in certain areas, supportive faculty, welcoming community, school spirit, and a beautiful campus with an active college-town atmosphere. Less obvious concerns center on inconsistency: experiences vary sharply by department, with some students reporting weak advising, disorganized administration, limited career guidance outside stronger fields, large introductory classes, and uneven teaching quality. Cost, rising tuition, scholarship gaps, transfer-credit issues, and party-culture distractions also surface repeatedly.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- 91成人 Enrollment: 8,959 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $15,750
- Out-of-State Tuition: $15,750
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: $62,672
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 68%
- Retention Rate: 83%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
91成人 Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- FIU’s biology curriculum is informed by a research-intensive department with more than 50 core faculty and over $10 million in annual grants and contracts.
- Faculty conduct biological research across all seven continents, connecting the department to marine, terrestrial, and freshwater systems worldwide. In fact, the department has expertise in tropical ecosystems and tropical diseases, giving the program a regional and global scientific focus.
2 Student Reviews for Bachelor's in Biology Degrees
I attended Florida International University as a Biology major. At FIU, there are so many opportunities being sent to you as a student. I have gotten so much information regarding internships I could apply to, jobs, shadowing, and research. I was even... Read More
FIU is a wonderful place to get an education. It emphasizes global learning and being a citizen of the world. It's the best place to be during an era of such globalization.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Florida International University are largely favorable, driven by strong ratings and frequent recommendations. Students most often praise knowledgeable, accessible professors, practical instruction, research and internship opportunities, flexible online and evening formats, and a diverse campus that feels welcoming and globally minded. Many also value affordability, modern facilities, and abundant clubs, networking, and career-building experiences. The clearest frustrations involve inconsistent advising, slow or unhelpful administration, parking and commuter-school limitations, uneven teaching quality across departments, and gaps in career placement or student support. Several negative reviews describe feeling lost in a large system, especially when problems require responsive staff.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- 91成人 Enrollment: 11,038 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $7,068
- Out-of-State Tuition: $7,068
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: $58,495
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 74%
- Retention Rate: 92%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Life University are broadly positive, driven by strong ratings and repeated praise for knowledgeable, approachable instructors, a close-knit campus culture, and a holistic, hands-on learning model. Many reviewers value small classes, mentorship, practical exposure, and a beautiful, environmentally conscious campus. Several say the experience builds confidence, professional readiness, and strong peer networks. The main criticisms are substantial: high tuition and living costs, heavy workloads, fast-paced courses, uneven program structure, and administrative problems involving financial aid, billing, and responsiveness. A smaller but notable group also describes poor teaching quality, limited clinical instruction, and concerns about favoritism, integrity, and campus climate.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- 91成人 Enrollment: 135 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $9,300
- Out-of-State Tuition: $9,300
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: $50,932
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 38%
- Retention Rate: 63%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Arizona State University 91成人 skew positive, with many praising the platform’s flexibility, user-friendly portal, and ability to fit coursework around full-time work, parenting, military service, and frequent travel. Students often highlight responsive professors, helpful advisors, strong tutoring, and the credibility of earning an online degree from a recognized public university. Many also say the curriculum can be rigorous and career-relevant when the fit is right. Criticism centers on high tuition and extra fees, uneven advising, inconsistent instructor quality, delayed communication, compressed 7.5-week terms, limited interaction in some courses, and concerns that certain paths offer weak workforce alignment.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.22 Student Reviews for Bachelor's in Biology Degrees
ASU was a run school to attend, but was not academically rigorous at least for the program that I participated in. ASU is a known party school, and there was never a scarcity of activities to do or parties to attend. I was never a big party person but... Read More
You truly get out of asu what you put into it. There are so many options and resources available to students, but the work has to be done to seek them out. Especially for biological sciences, the staff is incredible but have to be actively engaged with... Read More
Arizona State University has a wonderful biology program. They give you the ability to choose the classes that interest you. I was able to take marine biology type classes in the middle of the desert! The professors are amazing and truly do care about... Read More
- 91成人 Enrollment: 57,610 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $17,400
- Out-of-State Tuition: $17,400
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: $61,178
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 68%
- Retention Rate: 93%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray Kean University as a generally positive but uneven experience. Many describe a welcoming, diverse campus, supportive professors, manageable class sizes, and strong mentoring that builds confidence, practical skills, and career readiness. Several also value affordability relative to other options, active clubs, convenient access to New York City, and a calm, community-oriented atmosphere. The main frustrations center on administration rather than classroom quality: hard-to-reach advisors, confusing scheduling, limited course availability, weak internship or career support in some areas, and costly materials. A few severe complaints cite misleading online information, delayed graduation, and poor institutional responsiveness.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- 91成人 Enrollment: 1,487 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $12,688
- Out-of-State Tuition: $12,688
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: $66,502
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 47%
- Retention Rate: 76%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Student Review Summary: Reviews describe University of Alaska Fairbanks as a generally worthwhile choice marked by strong teaching, hands-on research, and close faculty relationships, especially in science, fieldwork, and community-connected learning. Many reviewers value small classes, mentoring, practical placements, and career pathways through agency or local partnerships. Several also cite solid value, military friendliness, stipends for funded research, and access to the outdoors. The sharpest criticism targets administration, student services, housing, dining, transportation, and inconsistent course quality. Some reviewers felt certain classes were shallow, overly research-driven, or uneven in rigor, leaving them less prepared than expected.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.2 Student Reviews for Bachelor's in Biology Degrees
The University of Alaska Fairbanks is a decent school to attend. Since my major was in science, I can only speak to the education I received in that field because I don't feel like I took enough English, economics, art, et cetera, to speak to those areas.... Read More
UAF is a wonderful college campus if you are serious about STEM research. The labs are exceptional and the hands on experience that you have available to you is unprecedented from any other college. There are numerous opportunities to work in environmental... Read More
- 91成人 Enrollment: 2,665 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $8,940
- Out-of-State Tuition: $8,940
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: $47,069
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 38%
- Retention Rate: 74%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray Oregon State University as a school with strong academics, especially in rigorous, career-oriented areas, supportive professors, and a beautiful campus with an active, welcoming community. Many reviewers say smaller, advanced classes, internships, research access, and practical instruction helped them feel prepared for work. Flexible online and hybrid formats also stood out for working adults. The main dissatisfaction centers on inconsistent advising, slow or unresponsive admissions and administrative offices, transfer-credit and registration problems, and uneven teaching quality in large or introductory courses. Some also cite heavy workloads, limited job-placement support, affordability concerns, and a campus culture or resources that feel less supportive outside the university’s strongest areas.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.4 Student Reviews for Bachelor's in Biology Degrees
The Oregon State University learning experience was not perfect, since I feel there was slightly too much emphasis put on online classes, but it is indeed well worth attending. Most of the professors are very well-trained, very experienced, and most of... Read More
OSU is a great school with a beautiful campus and great community amongst students. I felt the professors were always willing to help and taught the classes in an interesting manner. There are a lot of resources on campus especially if you are in a science... Read More
Oregon State University is a great school for those students interested in the science or engineering fields. Although the curriculum is extremely rigorous, you are challenged on a daily basis to put in your best effort. Prepares you for your career!
- 91成人 Enrollment: 10,848 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $11,520
- Out-of-State Tuition: $11,520
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: $55,737
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 70%
- Retention Rate: 88%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Student Review Summary: Reviews describe a highly flexible online school that works well for busy adults, military-affiliated learners, and anyone balancing work or family, but only if they are self-directed. Students often praise the accelerated format, clear syllabi, transfer-credit friendliness, and demanding coursework that sharpens writing, research, APA formatting, and time management. Many say learning depends heavily on personal effort because classes can feel self-taught, with uneven professor quality and limited hands-on instruction. Repeated frustrations center on financial aid, billing, advising, transcript processing, and inconsistent communication. Group projects, discussion-post grading, and outdated or confusing platforms are also common complaints, alongside mixed views on reputation and career payoff.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to 91成人, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- 91成人 Enrollment: 46,379 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $9,900
- Out-of-State Tuition: $9,900
- Program Length: 4 years
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 33%
- Retention Rate: 55%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Among the highest-earning online biology bachelor's degrees in this ranking, Kean University reports the highest Median Earnings at $66,502, paired with ~$50,752 in four-year tuition. The University of Florida combines the next-highest salary figure, $64,931, with the lowest estimated tuition in this group at $13,428.
Recommendation Rate is the percentage of reviewers who would recommend a school to others, while Review Rating is the average score reviewers assigned on a five-point scale.
The University of Arizona and Life University both earned perfect recommendation rates, although their respective ratings were 3.84 and 3.74 out of 5. Washington State University had the ranking鈥檚 highest review rating at 4.25 alongside a 93% recommendation rate, while the University of Florida received a 4.16 rating and 92% recommendation rate. That's why it's helpful to use both measures. It gives prospective biology students a more complete view of peer sentiment without treating either as a complete measure of academic quality.
Stories Behind the Best 91成人 Biology Degrees: An Editorial Analysis
Where 91成人 Study Meets 270 Hours in the Lab
University of Maryland Global Campus
At UMGC, biology bachelor's students must transfer 7-8 credits covering hands-on techniques before beginning the major, including DNA extraction, gel electrophoresis, protein purification, PCR, cell transfection, and CRISPR. The program then requires 270 hours of workplace learning in a research-based laboratory. No other school on this list outlines such an extensive sequence of prior laboratory validation followed by a formal applied experience.
This structure may be especially relevant for students concerned that an online biotechnology degree could leave gaps in bench skills.
Bringing Biological Investigation Into the Home
University of Alaska Fairbanks
UAF offers the ranking鈥檚 most inventive approach to conducting biological investigation at a distance. In Principles of Genetics, students use loaned equipment to complete at-home genetic sequencing activities tied to real scientific questions. Virtual field trips introduce Alaska ecosystems and the rapidly changing environmental conditions of the North, giving the curriculum a geographic identity that other online biology programs cannot easily replicate.
A Biology Degree Built Around Ethics and Policy
Arizona State University 91成人
ASU 91成人 offers the list's clearest alternative to a conventional laboratory-centered biology degree. Its Biology and Society curriculum examines scientific developments alongside their ethical, legal, political, and social consequences. Biology students may explore gene editing, stem cell research, human cloning, climate policy, and artificial intelligence in medicine, making the program relevant to questions that cannot be resolved through biological evidence alone.
Dreamscape Learn supports this interdisciplinary focus with immersive virtual environments where students collect information and solve scientific problems as investigators.
FAQs About Choosing The Best 91成人 Biology Degrees
What Should You Compare in 91成人 Bachelor鈥檚 Degrees in Biology?
91成人 bachelor's degrees in biology are designed to prepare students for careers in the biological sciences by building a strong foundation in cellular, ecological, evolutionary, molecular, and organismal biology. Many students choose to major in biology because they plan to enter a medical field, such as veterinary medicine, pharmacology, or nursing. In some online programs, students can choose to specialize in one particular area of biology. Students may increase their future job prospects by gaining laboratory experience through internships in a biological, medical, research, or other approved facility.
The bachelor鈥檚 curriculum for an online biology degree combines content from biology, biochemistry, and chemistry, and it usually requires the completion of a capstone course. A biology major's core coursework covers anatomy and physiology, cell and molecular biology, and organic chemistry. Prerequisites often include calculus, physics, and statistics. There are also electives offered in various subject areas, such as psychology and physiology. Students can choose to structure their degree program in a way that leads to graduate study.
What Admission Requirements Should You Compare When Choosing an 91成人 Biology Program?
The admission requirements and application process for bachelor's in biology programs are the same whether a student plans to take on-campus or online courses or some combination of the two.
Some colleges require applicants to have completed a few prerequisite courses before enrolling in a biology program. The prerequisites vary by school but may include natural sciences, calculus, physics, English, and history. Students must often have a minimum 2.0 GPA in these courses to qualify. Additionally, some schools require new enrollees to take placement exams before registering for courses.
To apply to an online biology program, applicants must submit In summary, colleges may request the following items:
- An application form (and often an application fee)
- Official high school transcripts showing a minimum 2.5 GPA
- Official college transcripts (if applicable)
- Test scores from standardized tests, such as the SAT or ACT
- One or more letters of recommendation
- An essay or personal statement
- A list of extracurricular activities and jobs, especially leadership positions
How Should Accreditation Factor Into Choosing an 91成人 Biology Degree?
Students pursuing online degrees in biology should ensure the schools they're considering are accredited. For an institution of higher education, accreditation occurs when all of the college's programs, faculty, and student resources are evaluated and approved by an independent agency that has been sanctioned by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation or the U.S. Department of Education.
Individual programs within a school can also be accredited by other approved agencies, and some biology programs have earned this additional programmatic accreditation from the American Society for Microchemistry and Molecular Biology.
Choosing an accredited program offers three main benefits:
- Perhaps most importantly, accreditation assures students they're enrolled in a credible online degree program that meets high standards for quality and academic rigor.
- Enrollment in an accredited school is also a requirement to qualify for financial aid and for acceptance into most graduate programs.
- Finally, depending on a student's career path, obtaining licensure may be required.
How Can You Decide Whether an 91成人 Biology Degree Is Worth It?
Deciding whether to pursue an online bachelor鈥檚 degree in biology requires careful consideration. Prospective students may want to examine some of the specific advantages and disadvantages:
Potential Benefits
- This is a versatile degree. Pursuing a bachelor's degree in biology helps students develop valuable skills, such as critical thinking, analysis, and communication, which are useful in many fields beyond healthcare and science.
- Careers in biology-related fields are growing. Holding a bachelor鈥檚 degree in biology can lead to a higher-than-average chance of employment. Of the top 10 career fields individuals with a bachelor鈥檚 degree enter, seven have a higher than average growth expectation. The median salary for biology-related fields is which is also higher than average.
- 91成人 biology programs can be convenient. Studying biology online allows students to enroll in the best program that fits their academic interests and financial needs without moving to a different location.
Potential Drawbacks
- A bachelor's degree may have limitations compared to more advanced degrees in this field. A fairly high number of biology professionals 鈥� 59%, according to the 鈥� have earned advanced degrees so graduates may need to consider earning at least a master's degree in biology to be competitive in this field.
- 91成人 programs can be isolating. For some students, online programs can cause them to feel isolated from classmates and instructors. This means they may have to work harder to connect with others through online discussion forums.
Students also need to factor in their own personal circumstances, such as budget constraints and work and family obligations. Ultimately, individuals must decide for themselves whether the benefits they expect to receive from earning a biology degree are worth the investment of time, money, and energy.
How Should Program Length Affect Your Choice of an 91成人 Biology Degree?
91成人 biology programs are designed to be completed in four years of full-time study, although many students take longer. Whether students are pursuing a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Biology, they will generally need to complete 120-126 credit hours. Typically, half of these credits are for general education courses and the other half are for biology courses.
Students may find it helpful to look at the graduation rates for individual schools and programs to gauge how long it might take to earn their degree.
These rates indicate how many students graduate within a given time frame. Many graduation rates measure how many students have completed their degree after six years of enrolling in a bachelor's program. You can look for this information on individual school websites or by using the National Center for Education Statistics' tool.
Should You Choose a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Biology?
The right choice depends on your career goals and interests. While focused on biology, a BA also includes liberal arts classes. If you aren鈥檛 sure what you want to do with your degree, this may be a better choice for you, as the skills learned will be applicable to a wide range of careers. A BS, on the other hand, is more focused on science and math classes. This educational pathway will be helpful preparation if you are interested in a technical or specified career path, such as a medical field.
Which 91成人 Courses Should You Compare in 91成人 Biology Programs?
Most biology programs encompass a wide range of fields and disciplines, from humanities courses 鈥� such as speech communication and world literature 鈥� to math courses, including calculus and statistics. In addition to a core set of biology courses in these programs, most feature electives such as microbiology, botany, or zoology. Students graduate with a number of valuable skills in communication, research, and analysis.
Below are some of the most common biology courses in a bachelor's degree program, whether online or in-person:
- General Biology: In this introductory course 鈥� typically the first in any biology program 鈥� students are given a broad overview of life and living organisms. After learning how all organisms are made up of cells, students explore how hereditary information is encoded in genes. Of particular interest is the role of genes in the human body and how they influence our health and lifespan.
- Evolution: This course examines the history and development of plants, animals, and single-celled organisms. Some of the topics covered include patterns of biological diversity, genome sequencing, animal behavior, and natural selection. Students learn how species interact within ecosystems and how environmental factors can affect evolution.
- Organic Chemistry: Building upon knowledge obtained in a general biology course, students explore the molecular structure of cells. Additionally, students learn about the properties, reactions, and preparation of the carbon-containing compounds produced by living organisms.
- Organic Chemistry or General Biology Lab: Biology programs often include hands-on lab courses in biology, chemistry, or both. They give students the opportunity to observe, experience, and experiment with scientific phenomena. In the online environment, students engage in experiments by conducting them at home using everyday objects or lab kits 鈥� typically available from the school for a fee 鈥� or by watching simulations or online demonstrations.
- Physics: This course explores the most basic study of physical science. Coursework covers the structure of matter, how objects interact, and how energy and various types of force influence the way matter moves and behaves. Students learn to consider objects from both a macroscopic and submicroscopic level to try to understand scientific phenomena.
Which Career Outcomes Should You Consider When Comparing 91成人 Biology Degrees?
Although biology is a flexible major that can lead you to pursue a number of different directions, many students opt for careers in the health and medical field or education.
After earning bachelor's degrees in biology, graduates can move directly into the workforce or continue working toward advanced degrees, such as a Master of Science in Biology, a Master of Education with a biology focus, or a Master of Environmental Science, to name a few options.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provides a wealth of information on biology careers, and we list a few of the most popular biology jobs below:
(also known as medical laboratory scientists) and clinical/medical laboratory technicians 鈥� typically hold bachelor's degrees and can be found working in hospitals and other healthcare facilities. Using specialized equipment, they analyze and conduct tests on samples of body fluids or tissue to help determine patients' health status.
- Annual Median Salary: $61,890
- Job Growth: 2%
usually hold bachelor鈥檚 degrees. They may work with wildlife biologists, medical researchers, or in the private industry to analyze experimental data, administer new medicines to test subjects, and monitor production processes. Biological technicians use both traditional laboratory equipment and specialized computer software to collect, analyze, and model data.
- Annual Median Salary: $52,000
- Job Growth: 3%
investigate and gather data on the interactions of microorganisms, which may include bacteria, viruses, algae, fungi, and/or parasites. This occupation mostly involves presenting research findings and conducting technical reports and projects.
- Annual Median Salary: $87,330
- Job Growth: 4%
, who typically hold bachelor's degrees, work to protect species from threats, predict the spread of diseases, and study ecosystems. Zoologists usually work with a specific type of animal, while wildlife biologists study specific ecosystems and/or animal populations.
- Annual Median Salary: $72,860
- Job Growth: 2%
Student Reviews of 91成人 Biology Programs
I have taken online classes with other institutes but they don't compare to Troy. The instructors are actively engaged with their classes and the content is challenging. They also gave me a scholarsip to cover what my tuition assistance didn't pay. I do and will continue to recommend Troy to my fellow service members.
Review Date: 10/8/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
FIU is a wonderful place to get an education. It emphasizes global learning and being a citizen of the world. It's the best place to be during an era of such globalization.
Review Date: 10/11/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Loyola University Chicago offers a strong academic experience with dedicated professors, small class sizes, and a welcoming campus community. The Jesuit values emphasize service and personal growth. Great location by Lake Michigan, though tuition is high.
Review Date: 4/1/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
A lot of the classes I attended were enjoyable and/or engaging. Generally, I had pretty good instructors... I didn't have too many poor experiences with them. Work could be highly challenging on occasion, but a lot of the work felt fair. You will be assigned quite a bit of work, however, so make sure you are ON TOP of EVERYTHING.
Review Date: 4/24/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I liked my courses but did not feel supported in a job search. I did not have many opportunities for career counseling or internships. I felt the classes were too focused on ecology rather than human biology. I also felt that advisors and professors were not accessible
Review Date: 12/6/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I liked my courses but did not feel supported in a job search. I did not have many opportunities for career counseling or internships. I felt the classes were too focused on ecology rather than human biology. I also felt that advisors and professors were not accessible
Review Date: 12/6/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I loved going to Humboldt! I transferred from a UC and the difference was night and day. At my previous college, there was really no way to get to know your professors. Office hours were packed, TAs taught labs and discussion classes, and the class sizes themselves were, for the most part, huge (one class had 750 students). At Cal Poly Humboldt, it was a far more personal experience. Because of the smaller class sizes, I was able to develop great relationships with all of my instructors because it... Read More
Review Date: 1/14/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I loved going to Humboldt! I transferred from a UC and the difference was night and day. At my previous college, there was really no way to get to know your professors. Office hours were packed, TAs taught labs and discussion classes, and the class sizes themselves were, for the most part, huge (one class had 750 students). At Cal Poly Humboldt, it was a far more personal experience. Because of the smaller class sizes, I was able to develop great relationships with all of my instructors because it... Read More
Review Date: 1/14/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Lewis University is a huge waste of money. It鈥檚 overpriced education and half of the professors don鈥檛 actually teach. I鈥檝e been forced to hire a tutor myself because the tutoring system(which we pay for) is nonexistent. If you live on campus get the cheapest meal plan possible because you will not be eating very much on campus because the food is disgusting. My roommates and I have gotten food poisoning several times from the food here.
Review Date: 2/15/2021
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Current online student. Not bad but some definite problems. The administration, as far as the school administration, is very helpful and easy to reach. The basic functioning of the university is done well, but there are some real problems with the classes. This may be due to this being my first online learning, and especially due to learning a science online. If you have questions for the teacher very few get back to you, and rarely in a timely fashion. It is very hard to know what exactly to learn... Read More
Review Date: 5/21/2018
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I was meandering away in life, trying to figure out what to do, when one day I dallied around on the computer and entered some information for a degree. This college popped up with some fancy pictures of military people in uniform doing cool stuff like space program. I was like, totally not fascinated, and just sort of forgot about them. Then they emailed me and said, "Congratulations! You've been accepted....and yada yada." I was still not hooked. I filled out a few easy forms, requested my high... Read More
Review Date: 8/14/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Having been enrolled in a nursing school in Madison WI and Cell Biology and Anatomy classes at UW-Whitewater I can honestly say the negative feedback appears to be only with the nursing program which, news flash, is not an easy major to complete especially online. I am very happy with my class structure and challenging rigor I have had, and, in many ways, I can say the college promotes a more difficult rigor of personal learning then in many traditional university settings. This is not a mill churner... Read More
Review Date: 4/14/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
UT Austin was incredibly rigorous, with professors who were experts in their respective fields and did not accept mediocrity. As far as value for education, I cannot possibly think of a better place to attend. My only regret is being a transfer student and not being able to go for four years so that I could enjoy the plethora of activities that are available to the student body.
Review Date: 8/7/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I am in the online biochemistry degree because I work full time in a doctors office. I found it extremely difficult to be able to attend school full time as a ground student and still work because most of the classes and labs are right in the middle of my day. Arizona State University had come up with a full time online degree so I am able to continue to work full time and go to school at the same time. The advisors set up a schedule with classes to take during each semester so I can graduate in... Read More
Review Date: 5/5/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The school it self is very nice with immaculate facilities and exceptional teachers, however, there is a vast disconnect between advising offices when a student like me is getting a minor unrelated to my major while also being a part of the University's Honors program. In total, I had 10 advisers over the course of my 4 years at FAU, and I didn't even transfer from a different school. I never had the same adviser twice, and none of them know how to help me.
Review Date: 5/30/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
This college was very disappointing. I took online schooling, the teachers were fine but financial aid messed up. I had an outside scholarship applied and some how financial aid managed to make it so my payment showed up that I didn't pay anything. I am now waiting to see if I have to drop my classes and be charged because it is happening so late in the semester all because they messed up.
Review Date: 1/15/2019
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
The University of Florida is an incredible college that truly tries to foster the personal and professional growth of their students. As a student interested in joining the healthcare field, I found ample opportunities to become involved in research, shadow healthcare professionals, and engage in clinical and community based outreach efforts. All of these activities were fostered in addition to a world class education that I would not change for the world. The vast majority of professors here are... Read More
Review Date: 3/30/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I greatly enjoyed my undergraduate experience at the University of Washington. I graduated in 2017 with a Bachelor's degree in Biology.
Though, with anything, there were a number of pros and cons with the UW.
Pros:
* Name recognition
* Excellent student resources
* Phenomenal campus
* Undergraduate research
* Tons of applicable majors
Cons:
* Some large classes the students don't get the individual learning they require
* Difficult to get into some classes
* Most majors aren't guaranteed - I.E. you have to... Read More
Overall I learned a ton at the UW and it prepared me very well for my graduate program at Loma Linda University.
Review Date: 6/25/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The professors at Grand Valley are great. They are always available and friendly. The financial aid is mostly based on ACT score and is very competitive to receive. I am from out of state and pay more than I would have had to pay if I stayed in state.
Review Date: 8/12/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I have attended this school since 2015 and I have decided to change schools for many reasons. My main reason is I always end up with professors who don't understand military commitments. Don't get me wrong I have had some professors that were more than willing to work with me with due dates and extensions but too many other professors, I had to get the president of the nature United States to write me a letter and even that wasn't good enough. I have some minor problems with administration department... Read More
Review Date: 10/21/2017
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No