March 19, 2025 The broad field of biology encompasses a variety of sub-disciplines that run the gamut — from biophysics and genetics to nutrition, zoology, and environmental science. If you've been thinking about pursuing a career that involves protecting the planet and its precious resources, now could be an ideal time to get the ball rolling. Specifically, a Bachelor of Science in Biology degree may be the stepping stone you need to explore a range of fulfilling environmental science careers.
Why a Biology Degree Is a Strong Foundation for Environmental Careers
Is a biology major right for you? For those looking to break into the environmental sciences, this path can certainly be a sensible choice.
Biology and the Environment
A degree in biology can instill expertise in a wide range of subjects, including:
- Ecology
- Conservation
- Genetics
- Microbiology
- Environmental science
A strong foundational background in these areas is essential in many careers in environmental biology, particularly when it comes to protecting ecosystems, managing natural resources, and developing sustainable solutions.
Key Environmental Knowledge Gained from a Biology Degree
What exactly can you learn in a biology degree program? Here are a few areas of environmental protection and environmental science where you can develop a deeper knowledge through a biology major:
- Environmental regulations and policies – Understand laws related to conservation, pollution, and sustainability.
- Sustainability and conservation principles – Apply knowledge of climate change, renewable energy, and resource management.
- Understanding of ecosystems and biodiversity – Study species interactions, conservation biology, and ecological systems.
- GIS and remote sensing – Use mapping technology to analyze ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and environmental changes.
How These Proficiencies Can Translate to Environmental Careers
Meanwhile, the ability to study, analyze, and interpret environmental data is crucial to success in an environmental career. These skills could aid you in future professional endeavors that may include analyzing ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and environmental changes.
What Can You Do with a Biology Degree? Top Environmental Careers for Biology Majors
For those looking to make a difference in their work, pursuing a career in the environmental sciences or environmental protection can be a great way to put your skills and knowledge to work in a way that's exciting and rewarding. While the following is by no means a comprehensive list, it does offer a solid starting point when it comes to popular biology major careers that involve advocating for and protecting our planet.
Environmental Scientist
An environmental scientist studies the impact of human activity on the environment — including ecosystems, water, air, and soil. These professionals need strong data collection and research skills, along with a firm grasp of environmental laws and regulations. Additionally, environmental scientists must be able to analyze data (including ecological and chemical data) and generate reports based on their findings.
Other skills required in this field include:
- GIS and remote sensing (mapping and tracking environmental changes)
- Problem-solving (developing solutions for pollution control and conservation)
Most often, environmental scientists work for government agencies (like the Environmental Protection Agency), consulting firms, research institutions, and universities. In some cases, they may also be hired by corporations looking to minimize their own impact on the planet. So, if you're interested in Environmental Protection Agency careers, this could be a suitable path.
Environmental Consultant
Meanwhile, environmental consultants are responsible for advising businesses, government agencies, and developers on the various environmental risks and regulatory compliance issues related to their work. This role often entails carrying out environmental impact assessments as well as helping clients develop strategies to reduce their own pollution, waste, and carbon footprints.
Environmental consultants need an extensive knowledge of environmental law, risk assessment, and data analysis. Because they often work on larger-scale projects, they should possess strong communication skills when working with others — as well as an understanding of sustainability principles.
These professionals may be hired by environmental consulting firms or employed directly by corporate sustainability firms, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations.
Renewable Energy Specialist
Seeking a career centered on researching and developing sustainable energy solutions? A role as a renewable energy specialist can allow you to explore solar, wind, hydro, and biofuel energy alternatives while evaluating the environmental impact and efficiency of these options. Renewable energy specialists also help businesses and governments make the transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy technologies.
Working as a renewable energy specialist requires knowledge and skills related to:
- Energy science
- Regulatory policies
- Data analysis and modeling
- Collaboration with engineers and policymakers
Many professionals in this line of work are hired by renewable energy companies, but they may also work for government energy agencies, utility companies, and even research institutions.
Sustainability Coordinator (Entry-Level)
Biology degree graduates may also be able to pursue work as sustainability coordinators. These entry-level professionals are responsible for reducing waste, helping organizations implement more sustainable business practices as a means of minimizing their environmental impact, and pursuing corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals.
Sustainability coordinators should have a solid understanding of sustainability principles and best practices as well as strong data collection and reporting skills. Basic proficiency in project management can also prove valuable in this type of role.
Oftentimes, sustainability coordinators are hired directly by corporate sustainability departments, government agencies, or universities and research institutions. Some nonprofit environmental organizations may also recruit for this role.
Environmental Educator
Interested in using your biology degree to teach? An environmental educator can educate students, communities, and entire organizations about conservation, sustainability, and environmental science. Professionals in these roles may be responsible for leading guided nature walks, hosting museum tours, and handling other hands-on environmental activities with learners. They may also work with nonprofits to raise awareness of specific environmental issues and advocacy efforts within the community.
Working as an environmental educator requires skills in communication, public speaking, and storytelling — plus robust knowledge of curriculum development, community outreach, and advocacy.
Environmental educators usually work for schools and universities, or they may be hired by nature centers, museums, zoos, state/national parks, or nonprofit organizations.
Wildlife Technician
Wildlife technicians assist wildlife biologists in research, habitat restoration, and population monitoring. They are responsible for performing critical fieldwork research and data collection as well as leveraging GIS and mapping skills. Additional skills necessary to work as a wildlife technician include outdoor survival and navigation, a knowledge of animal behavior and ecology, and basic laboratory techniques.
Usually, wildlife technicians are hired by government agencies and research institutions or universities, although they may sometimes work in zoos and wildlife rehabilitation centers or environmental nonprofits.
How a Biology Degree Prepares You for Environmental Careers
As a multidisciplinary field, biology encompasses a range of subfields that may be applicable to careers in environmental science. In this sense, a biology degree program can provide you with the practical knowledge and skills needed to thrive in numerous environmental roles.
Coursework That Provides Real-World Skills
While no two biology degree programs will be exactly alike, undergraduate biology programs like the one through Shawnee State University often offer coursework in the following topics:
- Ecology and Conservation Biology for conservation and wildlife careers.
- Environmental Chemistry, applicable to pollution analysis and environmental law.
- Marine Biology and Oceanography for careers in marine conservation.
- Data Science and GIS Mapping for environmental consulting and research.
Hands-On Experience Through Labs and Fieldwork
In addition to traditional coursework, Shawnee State University's biology program offers ample opportunities for hands-on experience that helps students apply what they've learned in the classroom to real-world scenarios. This includes chances to work one-on-one with knowledgeable faculty members in dedicated research lab spaces, along with field-based research opportunities during the spring and summer months.
On campus, several active biology clubs regularly meet and invite speakers to campus, too, offering a chance for students to get involved with the community. Internship opportunities may also be available, during which students can put their skills into practice and prepare for future careers in their respective fields.
Ready to Help Protect the Planet? Learn More About the Biology Bachelor's Degree at Shawnee State University Today!
If you're eager to commit your professional life to making the world a better place, a vast range of careers in biology and environmental science may be worth exploring. Of course, numerous careers in environmental science and related fields require extensive formal education and specialized skills — many of which can be developed in the right bachelor's in biology program.
At Shawnee State University, we're proud to offer a bachelor's degree in biology that's designed to prepare students for rewarding careers in environmental science and related fields. Plus, with opportunities to work in dedicated research labs with our knowledgeable faculty members, students can gain the hands-on experience they need.
Learn more about our Bachelor of Science in Biology program by requesting further information or exploring the curriculum for yourself. You can also take the next step by completing your online application for admission.