First, some facts. Of the Biology graduates from University at Buffalo we've analyzed , here's how many have used (or NOT used) their degree in their career:
These are estimates based on AI analysis of 22 LinkedIn profiles (see below).
The verdict? On par with the average. Overall, with an average relevance score of 67%, Biology graduates from University at Buffalo have about the same likelihood of finding work in this field as the average graduate across all fields:
And for comparison, here's the chart for all profiles we've looked at across all degrees.
Also, after graduating, 45% of these graduates have pursued further education other than another Bachelor's degree (such as a Masters degree or other), compared to the average across all profiles of 35%. This suggests you may need more than just a Bachelors degree to be competitive as a Biology graduate.
See the details:
Relevance score: 62%We think this person has gone into a career only somewhat relevant to their degree.DEGREE INFOGraduated in 2018 from University at Buffalo with a Bachelor's degree in Biology. No other secondary education since. JOB HISTORY SINCE GRADUATIONQA Lab TechMayer Bros Apple Products Inc. Oct 2018 - Dec 2020 Laboratory Technician Upstate Niagara Cooperative, Inc. Dec 2020 - Jun 2022 Analytical Instrument Technician Mayer Bros Apple Products Inc. Jun 2022 - Present ABOUTI have a passion for finding solutions to problems new and old. I use my diverse experience and skills along with my inherent resourcefulness to develop efficient and effective solutions for use in the laboratory or food manufacturing setting. I take every new project as an opportunity to expand my knowledge and acquire new skills. I have worked as a laboratory analyst in the food manufacturing industry for the past 5 years, specifically with dairy, water, and juice products. Through these experiences I have acquired a diverse range of laboratory skills including proficiency in many analytical and microbiological test methods. In addition, I have gained valuable experience with general laboratory management practices. In my current role as Analytical Instrument Technician at Mayer Brothers Apple Products, I repair and maintain the analytical instruments used in the QA Laboratory including Chromatography instruments (HPLC, IC) and Spectrometry/ Spectroscopy instruments (MS, AAS). An expanding portion of my time is spent on adapting or developing analytical and microbiological test methods along with research and development into new products and technologies. Over the past year, I have designed and managed multiple lab-scale R&D projects and have implemented numerous new test methods, all aimed at improving food quality and safety. My career and personal interests involve all things living, whether it be microorganisms, aquatic and land animals, plants and trees, or fungi. Currently, my interests are focused on mycology, from foodborne molds to edible mushrooms and everything in between! My goals include expanding my knowledge and skillset, specifically in the field of microbiology, to prepare for new and interesting research projects in the future. Reach out to learn more or to discuss shared interests! |
The top 10 most common jobs done by the graduates we've analyzed (ranked most common to least) are:
When we look at the job trajectories of Biology graduates from the University at Buffalo, it appears that the most common roles they take on fall into the healthcare and research sectors, such as dentists, pharmacists, and clinical laboratory technologists. Many of these positions are deeply rooted in biological and health sciences, requiring a solid understanding of biological principles and practices. For instance, roles like General Dentist and Registered Respiratory Therapist draw heavily from the foundational knowledge gained during their Biology studies, demonstrating a clear relevance to their degree. Similarly, jobs related to clinical research, such as Clinical Research Associate or Research Project Assistant, are direct applications of their biological sciences knowledge, confirming the practical utility of their academic background.
However, it's not all biology-related jobs for these graduates. You'll notice that some have ventured into roles like customer service at companies like Thermo Fisher Scientific or even retail management at places like Target, which do not directly utilize biology skills. It's a mixed bag, really; while many graduates find themselves in positions that are highly relevant and apply their biological understanding, others may end up in roles that, while valuable in their own way, don’t necessarily reflect their biological training. Overall, it seems that a significant portion of Biology graduates are employed in relevant scientific or healthcare positions, but there remains a notable number who pursue careers outside the core sciences, highlighting the diverse possibilities their degree offers.
Here is a visual representation of the most common words in job titles for Biology graduates (this is across all Biology graduates we've analyzed, not just those who went to University at Buffalo):
Looking at the career trajectories of University at Buffalo Biology graduates, it seems like many of them have found somewhat successful paths, especially in health-related fields. For starters, a lot of graduates landed jobs that are relevant to Biology right after graduation, with roles in healthcare, research, and pharmaceuticals being quite common. For instance, graduates from 2015 to 2023 have taken on positions like Clinical Pharmacist, Epidemiologist, and various laboratory technician roles. Some even moved into significant roles in management or research within their first few years out of school, which is a good sign if you're considering a career in this field.
However, it's not all sunshine and success stories. A few graduates have drifted into roles that seem a bit disconnected from their Biology degrees, like positions in customer service or sales. And while some have made impressive strides in their careers—like moving into research and development or becoming health program administrators—others are still navigating their early career paths, which can often be a mix of jobs that don't directly align with their studies. Overall, though, many graduates are managing to stay connected to their Biology roots, especially in healthcare and research sectors, which bodes well for future students considering this major.
Getting a Bachelor’s degree in Biology can be a mixed bag depending on your strengths and interests, but it tends to be on the challenging side overall. At the University at Buffalo, you'll dive into a lot of complex topics, from cell biology to ecology, and there’s a fair amount of lab work involved, which can be both fun and demanding. If you’re someone who enjoys science and has a knack for memorizing details, you might find it manageable, but those who struggle with these concepts might find it tougher. It’s not the absolute hardest degree out there, but it definitely requires commitment and a willingness to study. So, if you’re passionate about it, you’ll probably enjoy the journey, but be ready to hit the books!
Most commonly, in the LinkedIn profiles we've looked at, it takes people 4 years to finish a Bachelor degree in Biology.
Looking at these University at Buffalo biology graduates, it seems like there's a mixed bag when it comes to their earnings. The dentist who graduated in 2010 probably makes decent money, since dentists usually pull in a nice salary, especially after a few years. On the other hand, many of the 2014 graduates who started in customer service roles might not be raking it in as much, especially that Disney intern gig, which probably didn’t pay much. The more recent grads are landing roles in nursing and clinical settings, which can be financially solid in the long run, but they may start lower on the pay scale. Overall, while some have likely found good financial footing, others might still be working their way up, making it hard to say everyone is doing great in terms of money.
Here is a visual representation of the most common words seen in the "about" section of LinkedIn profiles who have a Bachelor degree in Biology (this is across all Biology graduates we've analyzed, not just those who went to University at Buffalo). This may or may not be useful:
Here are all colleges offering a Bachelor degree in Biology (ordered by the average relevance score of their Biology graduates, best to worst) where we have analyzed at least 10 of their graduates: