What Factors Influence Human and Animal Behavior?

Students study images of the brainBridge the divide between psychological and biological sciences, focusing on the fascinating dynamics of human and animal behavior, in our behavioral and biological sciences program at the University of Michigan-Dearborn. You’ll investigate the intersections between biochemistry, psychology, genetics, neurobiology, behavior, immunology, and anthropology, in addition to exploring ethical considerations and implications of research.

Where a Behavioral and Biological Sciences Degree Will Take You

The field of behavioral and biological sciences is a rapidly growing area of cutting-edge research and treatment. Your degree will position you to pursue a broad range of careers in education, business, research, and other areas. It also provides a solid foundation for graduate school or professional training, such as medical school.

Career and Salary Outlook

The information in this table is meant to give you an idea of career opportunities with this degree. All information is pulled from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and is meant to be averages across the United States for 2022. Please note that these figures reflect overall averages and may not represent entry-level salaries.

$107,460 Median Salary

Biochemists and Biophysicists (Ph.D. usually required)

Employment of biochemists and biophysicists is projected to grow 7 percent from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.

About 2,800 openings for biochemists and biophysicists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

$92,740 Median Salary

Psychologists (master’s or Ph.D. usually required)

Overall employment of psychologists is projected to grow 6 percent from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.

About 12,800 openings for psychologists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

$70,600 Median Salary

Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists

Employment of zoologists and wildlife biologists is projected to grow 3 percent from 2022 to 2032, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

About 1,500 openings for zoologists and wildlife biologists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

$85,470 Median Salary

Microbiologists

Employment of microbiologists is projected to grow 5 percent from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.

About 1,700 openings for microbiologists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

$81,390 Median Salary

Epidemiologists (master’s usually required)

Employment of epidemiologists is projected to grow 27 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.

About 800 openings for epidemiologists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Program Details

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Application Deadlines

UM-Dearborn has rolling admissions throughout the year, and deadlines depend on your student type. Apply early, priority consideration for financial aid and scholarships may be given to earlier applicants.

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Tuition

Get started early on your financial planning for college. Complete the net price calculator to get an estimate of your cost to attend UM-Dearborn.

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Go Blue Guarantee

Students at UM-Dearborn are eligible for the Go Blue Guarantee - University of Michigan’s landmark promise of free tuition for high-achieving in-state undergraduate students from qualifying backgrounds. Major financial support is available for students who do not fully qualify.

Paying for College

How to Get Involved

Students gather in commons area

At UM-Dearborn, we strongly encourage you to get involved both on and off campus. From joining student organizations and participating in undergraduate research projects to volunteering within the community, you'll find numerous opportunities to enrich your academic journey and prepare for your future career.

Some of the student organizations that may especially interest you include the Undergraduate Society of Psychology and NeuroscienceBiology ClubMinority Association of Pre-Med StudentsPhi Delta Epsilon co-ed pre-med fraternity, Pre-Dental AssociationPre-Optometry ClubPre-PA AssociationPre-Professional Health Society, and the Public Health Society.

Next Steps

Become a part of the UM-Dearborn community and put your dreams to work for you.