Cell / Molecular Biology Career

Question

I was interested in getting my degree in physics, but this requires a lot of math. I am currently at a very basic algebra level and I am signed up to take Calculus in 2 weeks. I don't think I can learn calculus in 2 weeks and I am running out of time. I am already a sophomore. If I start taking algebra or calculus it will s***w up my schedule and I will probably be in school for another year.

I was looking at the Cell and Molecular Biology / Biotechnology degree (thats what it is called), it only requires 1 math course (statistics).

What kind of career options would I have with this degree? What would the starting pay be for someone with just a B.S? Is this a good option? I do not plan to get a PHD

Answer 1

With a BS in biology, I became a computer game programmer.

Answer 2

Pursuing a MoBio degree because you're not good at math is probably a bad idea.  It can be a great field if you're actually interested in biology.  All of my MoBio friends are either doing grad work or have research jobs.  One friend is actually doing research on breast cancer - it's phenomenal and rewarding work, but you have to be interested in it!  He has posters of metabolic pathways in cancer on his bedroom walls.  If you can't see yourself showing that level of enthusiasm, I'd reconsider.  

I went to an engineering school and many people turned to biology as the "easy" choice.  The classes may be easier at a given school, but that doesn't mean you'll be any good in the field.  On the other hand, the odds are high that you'll end up working in another field entirely, so don't stress too much about your major.  I was a MoBio major, and now I work in semiconductor/microwave circuit manufacturing.  Never even finished my B.S., never needed to so didn't waste the money.

Answer 3

Cell and molecular biology degree at the B.S level could lead to several options for a career.

Laboratory technician in research...in industry or at a university (Laboratory Laboratory Technician in a clinical lab (ie Hospital)

Sales representative for a biological supply company such a Fisher or VWR.  

Of course there is also the teaching route public schools are dying for science teachers and often offering big bonus's but you might need the M.S. for that

Many universities have summer internship programs for students to experience working in the labs. Perhaps you could look into one as an option to see if you like it.

Either way with only a BS salaries wont start much above $23-25K a year. You might want to consider at least a MS...often if it is in research you can get the university to PAY YOU ...a stipend to attend classes and help out in the lab during the school year.

Good Luck

Answer 4

My sister is a molecular ecologist. She has a B.Sc., masters and a phd. She is making about 79,000 a year teaching at a unversity. It is the start of her second year teaching. For some one with just a bachelors or even a masters the options are limited. You have to be good at what you do, you have to do field research (collect samples) all the time. It took my sister 18 years to get where she is now. You are also always competing for jobs against other people. Not everyone gets a job.