Quick Summary
“There’s biology in everything, even when you’re feeling spiritual.” – Helen Fisher
When we think about career options in Biology, our minds often jump to doctors and nurses. But did you know there’s a whole world of exciting jobs in biology beyond healthcare? From studying animals in the wild to unlocking the secrets of genetics in a lab, the field of biology is vast and full of opportunities.
Biology after 12th opens a multitude of opportunities across medical and non-medical domains. Whether you’re aiming to become a doctor or pursue a career in environmental science, biotechnology, or healthcare management, biology lays a strong foundation.
Here are the best biology career options that bio students can pursue:
| Career | Key Skills Required | Average Salary (INR) | Career Highlights |
| Microbiologist | Scientific knowledge, Analytical skills, Ethics, Attention to detail, Communication | ₹2.3 LPA | Works in labs studying microbes, diseases, or developing antibiotics |
| Forensic Scientist | Evidence analysis, Attention to detail, Math & Science, Deductive reasoning, Computer skills | ₹4.8 LPA | Studies ocean ecosystems, conservation, and marine life |
| Biotechnologist | Bioinformatics, Lab skills, Analytical thinking, Chemistry/Biology, Critical thinking | ₹4.9 LPA | Genetic engineering, pharma, environmental biotech |
| Marine Biologist | Scientific inquiry, Environmental awareness, Problem-solving, Technical skills | ₹6.9 LPA | Works in genomics, heredity studies, and DNA research |
| Pharmacist | Pharmaceutical knowledge, Customer service, Communication, Analytical skills | ₹2.2 LPA | Dispenses medicines, advises on drug use |
| Geneticist | Scientific knowledge, Research, Computer skills, Problem-solving, Analytical skills | ₹4.8 LPA | Solves ecological issues, pollution control |
| Environmental Scientist | Scientific knowledge, Fieldwork, Critical thinking, Attention to detail | ₹3 LPA | Innovates in food safety, nutrition, and product development |
| Medical Transcriptionist | Typing, Listening, Medical terminology, HIPAA compliance, Time management | ₹2.9 LPA | Converts medical dictation to written records |
| Food Scientist | Food science, Lab skills, Analytical thinking, Creativity, Adaptability | ₹6 LPA | Assists in experiments and data collection |
| Botanist | Botany knowledge, Field research, Data analysis, Communication | ₹5 LPA | Studies plant life, ecosystem impacts |
| Biological Technician | Biology, Lab techniques, Computer proficiency, Attention to detail | ₹5 LPA | Assists in experiments, data collection |
| Plant Biochemist | Biochemistry, Plant biology, Lab techniques, Communication | ₹3.7 LPA | Researches plant metabolism, bioengineering |
| Commercial Horticulturist | Plant & soil science, Pest management, Planning, Problem-solving | ₹3.6 LPA | Manages greenhouse crops, plant production |
| Research Biologist | Scientific knowledge, Analytical skills, Technical ability, Communication | ₹3.3 LPA | Conducts studies in labs or field across biology |
| Farming/Agriculture Consultant | Agricultural expertise, Business acumen, Communication, Problem-solving | ₹2.2 LPA | Advises farmers on productivity, sustainability |
Here is the list of the 20 biology students’ career options:
Becoming a microbiologist is one of the first choices that bio students should consider when considering their career options. Microbiologists are scientists who study microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. As a microbiologist, you will investigate the growth, behavior, and interaction of microscopic organisms in various environments, such as soil, water, air, and living organisms.
You will also develop and apply techniques to identify, isolate, and manipulate microorganisms for various purposes, including disease diagnosis, treatment and prevention, food production, and environmental monitoring. You can work in various settings, including research institutions, government agencies, healthcare facilities, and industries.
Becoming a forensic scientist is one of the best career options in biology that you can opt for. A forensic scientist is a professional who applies scientific methods to investigate and analyse evidence related to criminal or civil cases. They collect and analyze physical evidence such as DNA, fibres, blood, and fingerprints to help solve crimes and provide evidence in court.
As a forensic scientist, you will work closely with law enforcement, attorneys, and other professionals to help piece together the events of a crime and present their findings clearly and concisely. You will also be trained in various scientific disciplines, including chemistry, biology, and physics, which will help you excel in your career after biology.
Read More BSc Forensic Science- Course Details and Scope in India
A biotechnologist is a professional who applies principles of biology, chemistry, and engineering to develop and improve products, processes, and technologies that utilize biological systems. When you choose this career after biology, you work in various fields such as healthcare, agriculture, food science, environmental science, and more.
Biotechnologists also use genetic engineering, protein engineering, and cell culture techniques to develop new drugs, vaccines, and diagnostic tools, improve crops, develop new materials, and study the environment.
A marine biologist is one of the career options in biology you can go with if you love water and water. As a marine biologist, you study life in the oceans, including the biology, behavior, and ecology of aquatic organisms such as fish, whales, sharks, and corals. You may also work in research institutions, universities, government agencies, or conservation organizations and conduct fieldwork, experiments, or data analysis to understand and protect marine life and ecosystems.
A pharmacist is a person who works in a chemist shop, dispensary, or medical store. Pharmacology is a rapidly growing field with a huge scope in the global healthcare. It has given rise to various medicinal manufacturing, marketing, and clinical research and labs, making it one of the most preferred career options in biology. There are several jobs in biology for a good pharmacist, you can open your medical store, work in a private hospital or even work for government hospitals too.
Read More Jobs After A Diploma In Pharmacy.
Genetics deals with the various variations in genes, heredity, and characteristics among living organisms, and this field has a great scope in biology. Geneticists study the interactions of diseases, mutations, traits, abnormalities, and games in the environment. They investigate how traits are passed down from generation to generation, analyse DNA and genetic data, and use this knowledge to understand and treat genetic disorders. This can be one of the most renowned career options in biology.
An Environmental Scientist is a professional who studies the natural world and its complex interactions with human activities. This is another one of the career options for biology students who want to use scientific methods to investigate environmental issues such as climate change, pollution, and resource depletion and develop strategies to protect and preserve the environment for future generations. Environmental scientists use their knowledge of natural science to protect the environment and its impact on human health.
Medical transcripts produce reports and other documents from recordings and audio as directed by the physician. The job requires an in-depth knowledge of various medical terminology, treatments, and procedures. It is one of the best career options in biology for students.
Being a food scientist is one of the best career options in biology for people who love food and want to understand its science. A food scientist is a professional who applies scientific principles to study and improve food products’ quality, safety, and nutritional value. They analyse food ingredients, develop new food products, and ensure that they meet government regulations and consumer expectations.
You can earn a BSc in food science and technology as an undergraduate degree. And this gives you one of the best career options in biology to get jobs in reputed organizations like FSAI (Food Safety Authority of India) and ISI (Indian Standards Institute) to become a food scientist.
Botany is one of the well-established branches and career options in biology. A botanist is a scientist who studies plants and their relationship with the environment. They research plant biology, growth, development, and their uses in agriculture, medicine, and industry. When you choose this career after biology you may get to work in various settings, such as laboratories, botanical gardens, universities, or government agencies, to advance our understanding of plant life.
Recommended Read: Best Postgraduate Courses after BSc Botany
Biological technicians are professionals who work in a laboratory or field setting to conduct experiments and tests related to biological research. They assist scientists and researchers by preparing samples, recording data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. This is one of the best career options in biology, where you work on analyzing biological specimens, monitoring experiments, and documenting results.
If you love plants and chemistry and would love to know more about these topics, then becoming a plant biochemist is one of the career options in biology to consider. A plant biochemist is a scientist who specializes in the study of the chemical processes and metabolic pathways of plants. In this scope of biology, you get to use various techniques to investigate the structure and function of plant molecules such as proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids. Their research contributes to understanding plant growth, development, and responses to environmental stimuli.
This is one of the career options in biology which is related to food and agriculture. A Commercial Horticulturist is a professional who specializes in the cultivation and management of plants for commercial purposes. This may include growing fruits, vegetables, ornamental plants, and other crops for sale to consumers or other businesses. They may work in various settings, including farms, nurseries, greenhouses, or other agricultural facilities.
A biological researcher studies living organisms, if you are interested in doing this as job then it is one of the best career options in biology for you. A biology researcher is a professional who studies living organisms, their structure, function, behavior, and interactions with the environment. They conduct experiments, analyse data, and publish their findings in academic journals to advance scientific knowledge and contribute to developing new medicines, treatments, and technologies.
Farming or agriculture is the base of any nation; choosing this as one of the career options in biology will only lead to success. As an agriculture consultant, you can do so by providing advice and guidance to farmers, agricultural businesses, and government agencies on various aspects of agriculture. In this career after biology, you will help in crop selection, soil management, pest control, and marketing strategies, among others, to improve agricultural productivity and profitability.
Zoologists are scientists who specialize in the study of animals, encompassing their behavior, physiology, ecology, and evolution. They conduct research to understand various aspects of animal life, such as their habitats, reproductive patterns, and interactions with other species. Zoologists work in diverse environments, including laboratories, zoos, natural habitats, and conservation areas.
Read More: BSc Agriculture Salary and Scope in India
| Field | Entry Role | Higher Studies | Senior Role |
| MBBS | Junior Doctor | MD/MS | Specialist Surgeon |
| BSc Biotech | Lab Assistant | MSc / PhD | R&D Scientist |
| BSc Nursing | Staff Nurse | MSc Nursing | Nurse Administrator |
| BPT | Assistant Physio | MPT | Senior Physiotherapist |
Acquiring hands-on experience can help you differentiate yourself from your peers. Here are some ways to gain practical skills:
✔ Laboratory Internships:
You can gain laboratory experience in either university or industrial research laboratories. Be sure to learn basic laboratory techniques such as handling DNA samples, DNA extraction, PCR, cell culturing, and so on.
✔ Fieldwork Projects:
Participate in a project that requires fieldwork, such as ecological surveys, wildlife studies, or environmental impact assessments.
✔ Industry Internships:
Intern with biotechnological companies, pharmaceutical companies, or public health organisations.
Source for opportunities:
Internshala
Indian Academy of Sciences Summer Programs
ICMR and CSIR internship programmes for postgraduate students
Portals of Biotech industries (for example: Biocon, Syngene)
Online teaching is one of the fastest-growing part-time jobs for biology students. It gives you the benefit of teaching and learning from the comfort of your home. Due to technological advancement, the concept of online learning or teaching has increased. Many platforms are available for those who want to work as a teacher.
You can earn extra income by becoming Chegg Q&A Expert. Biology students can register to become Biology Subject Expert. If you are proficient in Biology or any other subject. you can easily solve students’ queries and get paid for each accepted answer.
Technical content writing is a good way to earn money for those proficient in writing. If you have in-depth knowledge of biology, then you can work as a part-time scientific or technical writer. As a scientific writer, you will research and organize complex information into a simple one based on the target audience.
Many biology departments and research labs offer part-time positions to students interested in gaining practical laboratory experience. Lab assistants may help prepare materials for experiments, clean and maintain equipment, and assist with data entry and analysis. This is a great chance for you as a student to learn some practical skills, and if you develop an interest in this work, you might even choose it from one of the several career options in biology for the future.
Medical scribing is another part-time career option for biology students. As a medical scribe, you work alongside healthcare providers, documenting patient encounters in real time. This is a great part-time job for biology students who are interested in pursuing a career in medicine or healthcare. Medical scribes can work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
|
Courses |
Eligibility |
Course Duration |
Admission Process |
Top Colleges |
M.Sc. in Food Science
|
BSc in Food Science and Technology |
2 Years |
Entrance-Based or Merit |
1. IGNOU Delhi 2. BHU Varanasi 3. IIEST Shibpur |
Ph.D. in Biological Science
|
BSc+ MSc in Biological Science |
3-5 Years |
Entrance-Based |
1. AIIMS Delhi 2. IIT Delhi 3. University of Hyderabad |
MBA
|
B.Sc. with 55% to 60% |
2 Years |
Entrance-Based |
1. Manipal University Sikkim 2. Bharati Vidyapeeth University Pune 3. AIIMS Delhi |
Master of Science in Biotechnology |
Bachelor’s degree in biotechnology or a related field |
2 Years |
Entrance-Based
|
1. Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kharagpur 2. Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi 3. Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT), Mumbai |
Master of Science in Biology |
Bachelor’s degree in biology |
2 Years |
Entrance-Based |
1. Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore 2. Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) 3. University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad |
The MSc is a two-year postgraduate program in Food Science and Technology where students learn about the processing, production and safety of food. Those students who want to go into food nutrition can pursue this course.
A Ph.D. in Biology gives students an in-depth knowledge of biomedical research. It is a suitable course for students who want to make their career in the research field.
The Master of Business Administration is for students who wish to enter the biotechnology or pharmaceutical positions in a company. An MBA in biology will help you prepare for leadership roles and open doors to great career options in biology for students.
Master of Science in Biotechnology focuses on applying biological principles to develop new technologies and products. This course provides multiple career options in biology, as graduates can work in various industries, such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and environmental science.
This degree is a step up from the undergraduate level and provides a more in-depth study of the biological sciences. This course offers various specializations, such as molecular biology, ecology, marine biology, and more, which open doors to career options in biology.
Read More: Best Career Options and Jobs after B.Sc. Biology
All the career options in biology offer a great deal of success, but what you need to decide is what’s best for you. To help you, some of the best career options in biology and courses have been mentioned here. You can evaluate yourself and your passion for biology, then choose any of the careers in biology. So, do your research and learn about various choices in biology other than a doctor, nurse, or surgeon, and get your dream job in 2025!
Biology after 12th is not a single track—it’s a universe of possibilities. The opportunities are vast, whether pursuing a NEET-based medical career or exploring the many enriching non-medical fields. The key is to align your interests with your strengths and make informed decisions.
Make the best choice and excel in your career with the help of some Career Advice.
The best careers in biology include microbiologists, forensic scientists, biotechnologists, marine biologists, pharmacists, geneticists, environmental scientists, medical transcriptionists, food scientists, and botanists.
There are immense career options in biology from which students can choose. They can go into various sectors like health care, marine, corporate sector etc. As such, they can become researchers, consultants, and professors in biology or take online tutoring.
Biology graduates have immense career options. You can choose any field in biology, and if you have the skill and knowledge, then you will get a good salary. Some of the high-paying jobs are:
1. Biotechnologist
2. Marine biologist
3. Pharmacist
4. Environmental scientist
5. Medical transcripts
Yes, biology is the best career because biology students have immense career options. You can make a career in any field, from medicine to marine, and get a good salary. These are also the sectors that offer good salary packages to students. So yes, it is a good file to build your career.
Yes, biology has scope in the future. Some of the most promising career options after pursuing biology include Biological Technicians, Plant Biochemists, Commercial Horticulturists, Biology Researchers, and Farming/Agriculture Consultants.
Research Scientist
Healthcare Professional (Doctor, Nurse, etc.)
Environmental Consultant
Biotechnologist
Academic Lecturer
Laboratory Technician
Wildlife Biologist
Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
Science Communicator
Quality Control Analyst
Forensic Scientist
Microbiologist
Conservation Scientist
Genetic Counsellor
Environmental Educator
Synthetic biology.
To pursue a career in biology, follow these steps:
Obtain a strong foundation in science during secondary school, focusing on biology, chemistry, and mathematics.
Enrol in a relevant undergraduate degree programme, such as a Bachelor of Science in Biology or a related field.
Gain practical experience through internships, laboratory work, or volunteering in relevant organisations.
Consider pursuing a Master’s or PhD for advanced opportunities in research, teaching, or specialised fields.
Network with professionals in the field through conferences, seminars, and academic events.
Apply for jobs in academic institutions, research facilities, healthcare, environmental organisations, or biotech companies.
Some of the best career options after 12th Biology include:
Medicine (MBBS)
Nursing
Pharmacy
Biotechnology
Biomedical Engineering
Veterinary Science
Environmental Science
Forensic Science
Clinical Research
B.Sc. in Biology or Life Sciences
Choose based on your interests and career goals.
Authored by, Amay Mathur | Senior Editor
Amay Mathur is a business news reporter at Chegg.com. He previously worked for PCMag, Business Insider, The Messenger, and ZDNET as a reporter and copyeditor. His areas of coverage encompass tech, business, strategy, finance, and even space. He is a Columbia University graduate.
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Chegg India does not ask for money to offer any opportunity with the company. We request you to be vigilant before sharing your personal and financial information with any third party. Beware of fraudulent activities claiming affiliation with our company and promising monetary rewards or benefits. Chegg India shall not be responsible for any losses resulting from such activities.
