CollegeTuitionData — College Data in Plain English

Biological Sciences Salary Guide

Biological Sciences: Solid Entry Salaries with Strong Growth Potential for Advanced Degrees

Median Earnings: $33,155 | Programs: 4,104 | Colleges: 1,683

Earnings Distribution

Biological Sciences graduates see a wide range of earnings depending on institution, location, and degree level.

  • Lowest Reported: $12,257
  • 25th Percentile: $28,338
  • Median: $33,155
  • 75th Percentile: $37,980
  • Highest Reported: $185,874

The interquartile range (middle 50% of earners) spans $9,642, a 29% spread around the median. Top earners at the best-paying institutions make 461% more than the median.

Salary Analysis

Biological Sciences graduates can expect a median starting salary of approximately $33,155, with a typical range between $28,338 and $37,980. This figure, however, represents an average across a broad field with diverse career outcomes. Earnings can vary significantly based on the level of education attained. While an associate's or bachelor's degree might place graduates within the reported median range, advanced degrees (Master's or Ph.D.) often lead to higher starting salaries and greater earning potential, particularly in research, development, and specialized roles. Geographic location plays a substantial role; major metropolitan areas with strong biotech, pharmaceutical, or healthcare industries, such as Boston, San Francisco, or San Diego, tend to offer higher salaries to compensate for the cost of living and to attract top talent. Conversely, rural areas or regions with less developed scientific sectors may offer lower compensation. Top-paying specializations within biological sciences often involve biotechnology, genetic engineering, pharmacology, and bioinformatics, where specialized skills are in high demand. The career salary trajectory for biological sciences majors can be steady, with significant increases possible through experience, further specialization, and advancement into management or lead research positions. The return on investment (ROI) for a biological sciences degree is generally considered moderate to good. While the initial cost of education can be substantial, the foundational knowledge and transferable skills gained can lead to stable employment and opportunities for growth, especially for those who pursue advanced studies or enter high-demand subfields.

Top Paying Colleges for Biological Sciences

CollegeStateMedian Earnings
University of PennsylvaniaPA$185,874
Columbia University in the City of New YorkNY$100,512
University of ChicagoIL$99,193
Oregon Health & Science UniversityOR$93,583
Michigan State UniversityMI$93,234
Ohio State University-Main CampusOH$93,164
Northeastern UniversityMA$90,091
University of Maryland Global CampusMD$89,105
California State University-Channel IslandsCA$88,886
University of Minnesota-Twin CitiesMN$87,769
Johns Hopkins UniversityMD$87,746
University of Michigan-Ann ArborMI$85,029
Boston UniversityMA$83,663
Brown UniversityRI$83,470
Emory UniversityGA$79,751

Earnings by Degree Level

  • Doctoral: $69,925 (263 programs)
  • Master's: $55,795 (566 programs)
  • Bachelor's: $32,909 (2,802 programs)
  • Associate's: $26,171 (344 programs)
  • Graduate Certificate (41 programs)
  • Certificate (87 programs)
  • First Professional (1 programs)

Career Paths

  • Research Assistant: $45,000 — Assists senior scientists with experiments, data collection, and laboratory maintenance.
  • Laboratory Technician: $50,000 — Performs routine tests and analyses in a laboratory setting, ensuring quality control and accuracy.
  • Biologist: $65,000 — Conducts research, analyzes biological data, and develops scientific theories or applications.
  • Medical Scientist: $85,000 — Conducts research to improve human health, often working in pharmaceutical companies or academic institutions.
  • Biotechnology Specialist: $75,000 — Applies biological principles and techniques to develop new products or processes in areas like medicine or agriculture.

Salary Negotiation Tips for Biological Sciences Graduates

Strategies to maximize your earning potential in this field:

  1. Research salary benchmarks for similar roles in your specific geographic location and industry.
  2. Highlight any relevant internships, research experience, or specialized skills that set you apart.
  3. Be prepared to discuss your desired salary range and justify it based on your qualifications and market value.

How Biological Sciences Salaries Compare

Biological Sciences graduates earn $33,155 at the median, which is 19% below the national median of $40,900 for all college graduates.

FAQ

How much do Biological Sciences majors make?

Biological Sciences majors typically see a median starting salary around $33,155, with a common range falling between $28,338 and $37,980. This figure is an average and can be significantly influenced by factors such as degree level, specialization, and geographic location. Graduates with a bachelor's degree might start in this range, while those with master's or doctoral degrees often command higher starting salaries, particularly in research-intensive roles or specialized industries like biotechnology and pharmaceuticals.

What is the highest paying job with a Biological Sciences degree?

The highest paying jobs for Biological Sciences graduates often require advanced degrees (Master's or Ph.D.) and specialized expertise. Roles such as Medical Scientist, Senior Research Scientist, or Director of Research and Development in fields like biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, or genetic engineering can command salaries well into the six figures. These positions typically involve leading research projects, developing new treatments or technologies, and managing scientific teams, demanding extensive knowledge and experience.

Is a Biological Sciences degree worth the cost?

The return on investment for a Biological Sciences degree is generally considered moderate to good, especially when viewed as a foundation for further specialization or advanced study. While the initial cost of education can be significant, the degree provides a strong scientific foundation applicable to numerous growing fields. Graduates can find stable employment in research, healthcare, and industry. The ROI is often enhanced for those who pursue graduate studies, leading to higher earning potential and more specialized, in-demand roles. The critical thinking and problem-solving skills developed are also highly transferable.

Biological Sciences Salaries by State

Explore More

Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.