Best Genetics Programs

Yes. A bachelor’s in genetics degree is often worth it for students interested in biological science. The degree introduces students to biology. Graduates majoring in genetics gain the appropriate knowledge to pursue careers in research and progress to graduate-level education, including medical school.

When determining whether a degree is worth the time and expense, it is important to review your financial situation. Compare your resources, potential financial aid, and the cost of pursuing your education. With a combination of scholarships, grants, and loans, college is accessible for many people.

Graduates with a bachelor’s in genetics can pursue a career right after college. Possible positions include clinical research assistant, biotech salesperson, and forensic scientist. These careers allow graduates to apply their genetics knowledge in the real world.

What links all jobs you can do with a bachelor’s in genetics is a fundamental understanding of biological science and proof you can tackle complex scientific issues. A bachelor’s in genetics gives you knowledge in the field, and it helps you develop research and learning skills applicable to many positions.

Continuing education is a common tactic to switch specializations, qualify for more senior positions, and increase earning potential. Possible next steps for professionals in genetics include medical school or a Ph.D. to investigate independent research questions. However, graduates go on to all kinds of continuing education programs, including master’s degrees, law degrees, and MBAs.

Graduates also continue to develop in the genetics field outside of school. Many pursue independent research through their work and publish and present it. Even those not publishing may attend conferences and read academic publications to keep up with the latest findings. Some workplaces also offer programs to update their employees on the latest science.

A bachelor’s in genetics opens the door to many well-paying fields. According to Payscale, graduates can work in forensic science and earn over $55,000 on average per year as of June 2022. They can also work as biomedical engineers, who earned an average annual salary of $69,130 as of June 2022.

Higher degrees may lead to even higher-paying careers. When choosing whether to pursue further education, compare potential salary increases to the cost of education.

With a bachelor’s in genetics, the highest-paying jobs include biotech salesperson and clinical researcher. According to Payscale data, these professionals earned average annual salaries of $108,850 as of May 2022 and $69,370 as of June 2022, respectively.

Students looking to maximize income may need to pursue more education. A master’s degree in genetics, along with a Ph.D. and degree in law and business, are common next steps for graduates. Some positions also require further licenses and exams.