Discover the Science of Life

students working in biology labBiology is an extensive field that includes biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, microbiology, genetics, anatomy, physiology, embryology, ecology, evolution, field biology, and animal behavior. At the University of Michigan-Dearborn, our expert faculty and extensive network of laboratories and science learning centers ensure that as a biology major you’ll receive broad training that opens a world of opportunities.

Whether you plan to seek a biology-related job immediately after graduation, to pursue graduate study in biology or any of the health professions, or to get a secondary teaching certificate in biology, our program will prepare you to pursue your dreams.

Where a Biological Sciences Degree Will Take You

Our biological sciences degree is designed to prepare you for success in a range of fields. Our recent graduates hold jobs like division director, environmental scientist, epidemiologist, faculty member, forensic scientist, laboratory manager, microbiologist, science teacher, senior clinical research associate, wildlife habitat biologist, and others for a variety of employers. Some of these include the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, U.S. Agency for International Development, EnviroSolutions, San Francisco Department of Public Health, Oakland Community College, Michigan State Police, Wayne State University, Elba Laboratories, National Park Service, Dearborn Public Schools, Merck, and DTE Energy.

In addition, our students are regularly accepted into graduate programs in the sciences and professional preparati

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.

$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.

$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.

$78,980 Median Salary

Environmental Scientists and Specialists

Employment of environmental scientists and specialists is projected to grow 6 percent from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.

About 6,900 openings for environmental scientists and specialists 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.

$100,890 Median Salary

Medical Scientists (Ph.D. or medical degree usually required)

Employment of medical scientists is projected to grow 10 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.

About 7,500 openings for medical scientists 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

One aspect of Biology that intrigues me is the unknown factor.

AMAN PATEL, BIOLOGY MAJOR

How to Get Involved

Students working in laboratory

At UM-Dearborn, we strongly encourage students 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 Biology ClubBiochemistry Society, Minority Association of Pre-Med StudentsPhi Delta Epsilon co-ed pre-med fraternity, Pre-Dental AssociationPre-Optometry ClubPre-PA AssociationPre-Professional Health SocietyPublic Health SocietyRestoration Ecology Club, and the Undergraduate Society of Psychology and Neuroscience.  

Next Steps

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