Biological Sciences

Begin your studies in biology

Biology plays a key role in scientific advancements that improve our way of life. Biologists assist with medical research by helping develop new medicines and treatments used to prevent, treat or cure diseases such as cancer or Alzheimer's. In agriculture, biological research contributes to the development of genetically engineered crops that provide greater yields and require less pesticide and fertilizer.

Biologists also lead efforts to discover new and improved ways to clean and preserve the environment as well as alternative sources of energy, such as biofuels and biomass.

Entry level jobs in biology include: biological technician, conservation biologist, environmental biologist, microbiologist, zoologist/wildlife biologist, pharmaceutical sales representative or secondary education teacher.

Graduate degrees can lead to careers such as biochemist, biophysicist, medical doctor/scientist, epidemiologist, physical therapist and pharmacist.

Start at Harper. Finish at a four-year university.

The Associate in Science (AS) degree prepares you to transfer to a four-year college or university to complete a bachelor's degree in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, ecology, zoology, and related majors. Speak with your advisor about the best courses to take to meet your academic goals.

Associate in Science—Biology Sample Transfer Plan

Harper also offers institution-specific transfer information to help prepare you to transition to a four-year university. To learn more, visit our Transfer Information page or see your advisor.

Explore Biological Sciences Careers

Learn more about career outcomes for Harper's Biological Sciences degree program. Each career profile offers a complete picture on the local job market, including salaries, open positions, top local employers and more. To learn more, visit our Biological Sciences Careers page.

Biochemists and Biophysicists

* Data sampled April 2025. Visit the Biochemists and Biophysicists career profile for most current data.

$91,446
Median Salary

10.5%
Projected Job Growth (2025-2032)

8
Job Postings

Description:

Study the chemical composition or physical principles of living cells and organisms, their electrical and mechanical energy, and related phenomena. May conduct research to further understanding of the complex chemical combinations and reactions involved in metabolism, reproduction, growth, and heredity. May determine the effects of foods, drugs, serums, hormones, and other substances on tissues and vital processes of living organisms.

Core tasks:

Share research findings by writing scientific articles or by making presentations at scientific conferences.
Teach or advise undergraduate or graduate students or supervise their research.
Manage laboratory teams or monitor the quality of a team's work.
Study physical principles of living cells or organisms and their electrical or mechanical energy, applying methods and knowledge of mathematics, physics, chemistry, or biology.

Quick facts:

Biological Technicians

* Data sampled April 2025. Visit the Biological Technicians career profile for most current data.

$48,609
Median Salary

0.6%
Projected Job Growth (2025-2032)

77
Job Postings

Description:

Assist biological and medical scientists. Set up, operate, and maintain laboratory instruments and equipment, monitor experiments, collect data and samples, make observations, and calculate and record results. May analyze organic substances, such as blood, food, and drugs.

Core tasks:

Use computers, computer-interfaced equipment, robotics or high-technology industrial applications to perform work duties.
Conduct research, or assist in the conduct of research, including the collection of information and samples, such as blood, water, soil, plants and animals.
Monitor and observe experiments, recording production and test data for evaluation by research personnel.
Provide technical support and services for scientists and engineers working in fields such as agriculture, environmental science, resource management, biology, and health sciences.

Quick facts:

Conservation Scientists

* Data sampled April 2025. Visit the Conservation Scientists career profile for most current data.

$62,525
Median Salary

2.5%
Projected Job Growth (2025-2032)

19
Job Postings

Description:

Manage, improve, and protect natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the environment. May conduct soil surveys and develop plans to eliminate soil erosion or to protect rangelands. May instruct farmers, agricultural production managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for stock watering.

Core tasks:

Apply principles of specialized fields of science, such as agronomy, soil science, forestry, or agriculture, to achieve conservation objectives.
Plan soil management or conservation practices, such as crop rotation, reforestation, permanent vegetation, contour plowing, or terracing, to maintain soil or conserve water.
Monitor projects during or after construction to ensure projects conform to design specifications.
Implement soil or water management techniques, such as nutrient management, erosion control, buffers, or filter strips, in accordance with conservation plans.

Quick facts:

Microbiologists

* Data sampled April 2025. Visit the Microbiologists career profile for most current data.

$83,791
Median Salary

-0.2%
Projected Job Growth (2025-2032)

34
Job Postings

Description:

Investigate the growth, structure, development, and other characteristics of microscopic organisms, such as bacteria, algae, or fungi. Includes medical microbiologists who study the relationship between organisms and disease or the effects of antibiotics on microorganisms.

Core tasks:

Isolate and maintain cultures of bacteria or other microorganisms in prescribed or developed media, controlling moisture, aeration, temperature, and nutrition.
Examine physiological, morphological, and cultural characteristics, using microscope, to identify and classify microorganisms in human, water, and food specimens.
Provide laboratory services for health departments, community environmental health programs, and physicians needing information for diagnosis and treatment.
Monitor and perform tests on water, food, and the environment to detect harmful microorganisms or to obtain information about sources of pollution, contamination, or infection.

Quick facts:

Pharmacists

* Data sampled April 2025. Visit the Pharmacists career profile for most current data.

$136,094
Median Salary

1%
Projected Job Growth (2025-2032)

564
Job Postings

Description:

Dispense drugs prescribed by physicians and other health practitioners and provide information to patients about medications and their use. May advise physicians and other health practitioners on the selection, dosage, interactions, and side effects of medications.

Core tasks:

Review prescriptions to assure accuracy, to ascertain the needed ingredients, and to evaluate their suitability.
Assess the identity, strength, or purity of medications.
Provide information and advice regarding drug interactions, side effects, dosage, and proper medication storage.
Analyze prescribing trends to monitor patient compliance and to prevent excessive usage or harmful interactions.

Quick facts:

Physical Therapists

* Data sampled April 2025. Visit the Physical Therapists career profile for most current data.

$103,038
Median Salary

7.6%
Projected Job Growth (2025-2032)

1,338
Job Postings

Description:

Assess, plan, organize, and participate in rehabilitative programs that improve mobility, relieve pain, increase strength, and improve or correct disabling conditions resulting from disease or injury.

Core tasks:

Plan, prepare, or carry out individually designed programs of physical treatment to maintain, improve, or restore physical functioning, alleviate pain, or prevent physical dysfunction in patients.
Perform and document an initial exam, evaluating data to identify problems and determine a diagnosis prior to intervention.
Record prognosis, treatment, response, and progress in patient's chart or enter information into computer.
Evaluate effects of treatment at various stages and adjust treatments to achieve maximum benefit.

Quick facts:

Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education

* Data sampled April 2025. Visit the Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education career profile for most current data.

$80,358
Median Salary

1.9%
Projected Job Growth (2025-2032)

1,460
Job Postings

Description:

Teach one or more subjects to students at the secondary school level.

Core tasks:

Instruct through lectures, discussions, and demonstrations in one or more subjects, such as English, mathematics, or social studies.
Prepare materials and classrooms for class activities.
Establish and enforce rules for behavior and procedures for maintaining order among students.
Establish clear objectives for all lessons, units, and projects, and communicate those objectives to students.

Quick facts:

Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists

* Data sampled April 2025. Visit the Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists career profile for most current data.

$62,845
Median Salary

4.8%
Projected Job Growth (2025-2032)

21
Job Postings

Description:

Study the origins, behavior, diseases, genetics, and life processes of animals and wildlife. May specialize in wildlife research and management. May collect and analyze biological data to determine the environmental effects of present and potential use of land and water habitats.

Core tasks:

Develop, or make recommendations on, management systems and plans for wildlife populations and habitat, consulting with stakeholders and the public at large to explore options.
Inventory or estimate plant and wildlife populations.
Inform and respond to public regarding wildlife and conservation issues, such as plant identification, hunting ordinances, and nuisance wildlife.
Study animals in their natural habitats, assessing effects of environment and industry on animals, interpreting findings and recommending alternative operating conditions for industry.

Quick facts:

Resources

For more information about starting your college education at Harper, please contact Admissions Outreach at 847.925.6700 or fill out our request information form.