Biology is a broad field that includes anatomy, nutrition, ecology, genetics, and horticulture. There are a variety of in-demand biology careers and also several certifications for both new graduates and experienced professionals.
Biology is everywhere. All living things are made of cells that live, die, and work in perfect harmony to facilitate life.
In case you were wondering how to get a certification in biology, I have explained in key detail, all you need to know.
Before that, you can still have access to online biology free classes in case you prefer online learning.
Table of contents
- What Certifications are in Demand in Biology Majors?
- Why get a Certification in Biology?
- What Requirements do you need to get a Certification in Biology?
- What type of Certifications are needed for Marine Biology?
- What Certifications should I have for a Biology Resume?
- How do I become a Certified Biologist?
- What Are The Best Certifications To Have In Biology?
- #1. Professional Program Certification in Animal Breeding and Genetics
- #2. Certification in Tropical Environmental Sciences
- #3. Graduate Certification in Genetics and Genomics
- #4. Bacteriology. Issues of Safe Work with PBA III-IV pathogenicity groups
- #5. Certified Sterilization Technician
- #6. Certification in Equine Studies
- #7. Zoo and Aquarium Science
- #8. HNC Animal Management
- #9. Animal Management- Level 3
- #10. GCSE Biology
- #11. Science Cambridge Technical Level 2 Extended Certificate
- #12. Level 4 HNC Certificate in Applied Sciences (Biology)
- #13. Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) Degree in Biology
- #14. Developmental Biology. Artificial Insemination
- #15. Biological Methods in Forensics
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
- References
- Recommendations
What Certifications are in Demand in Biology Majors?
The most common in-demand certifications in biology majors are certifications in spectroscopy, microscopy, quantification (Science), biochemistry, experiment, and molecular biology. These certifications are likely to be mentioned by employers during recruitment.
Why get a Certification in Biology?
A certification in biology would allow you to take your studies in the direction you want with its flexibility and an opportunity to explore your interests.
You can take your career into your own hands and steer it in your desired direction.
A biology certification can also validate your expert knowledge more comfortably than before. It will also help position you for appropriate recognition, advancement, and a certain sense of confidence and achievement.
Above all, by becoming a certified biologist, you point to your commitment to your career development and dedication to a broad field which includes anatomy, nutrition, ecology, and genetics, amongst others.
Read Also: Top 10 Careers in Biology That are Marketable in 2023
What Requirements do you need to get a Certification in Biology?
- A completed application
- Cumulative and Science GPA of 3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale
- A bachelor’s degree
- Resume/CV
- Personal Statement describing your reasons for wanting to take up the certification.
- One letter of recommendation.
What type of Certifications are needed for Marine Biology?
There are no certification requirements for marine biology. However, because diving is a large part of marine biology, it is mainly recommended that you become open water certified and take a course in scientific diving.
Several organizations, such as Scuba Schools International, offer open water certification.
When you are done with the open water certification, you will understand the basics of scuba diving, have basic scuba skills, and most probably receive a scuba diver certificate.
What Certifications should I have for a Biology Resume?
Several certifications can go a long way in beefing up your biology resume. Some certifications are Professional Program Certification in Animal Breeding and Genetics, Certification in Tropical Environmental Sciences, Graduate Certification in Genetics and Genomics, and Bacteriology.
Issues of Safe Work with PBA III-IV pathogenicity groups, Certified Sterilization Technicians, and Certification in Equine Studies, amongst others.
How do I become a Certified Biologist?
- Complete a Bachelor’s Degree-
This is the very first step you should take if you are veering toward becoming a certified biologist. Certifications in Biology like microbiologists and wildlife biologists require a bachelor’s degree for entry-level positions.
- Find a Specialty–
In becoming a certified biologist, you should find a specialty that suits you. Doing this prepares you for focused career paths and builds you towards the certification you would later go for.
Many biology degrees let students specialize their skills by pursuing internships, laboratory experience, or work experience.
- Complete an Internship–
Biology internships build the practical experience required to be a certified biologist.
As an intern, you would often work in laboratory settings as a research assistant, or in zoos as a wildlife biology intern, or you could also work in an office while assisting experienced biologists.
- Consider a Biology Certification-
Most employers prefer candidates with certification in biology. You should consider the tuition costs, online options, and concentrations when considering certifications.
You should also go for an area of biology that you enjoy because, odds are, it is what you will be doing for most of your life.
- Gain Experience-
After successfully getting your certification as a biologist, you can apply for jobs to gain experience and boost your career as high as you want it.
- Get Certified as a Certified Biologist.
What Are The Best Certifications To Have In Biology?
Below are the top Biology certifications you can go for this 2023:
- Professional Program Certification in Animal Breeding and Genetics
- Certification in Tropical Environmental Sciences
- Graduate Certification in Genetics and Genomics
- Bacteriology. Issues of Safe Work with PBA III-IV pathogenicity groups
- Certified Sterilization Technician
- Certification in Equine Studies
- Zoo and Aquarium Science
- HNC Animal Management
- Animal Management- Level 3
- GCSE Biology
- Science Cambridge Technical Level 2 Extended Certificate
- Level 4 HNC Certificate in Applied Sciences (Biology)
- Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) Degree in Biology
- Developmental Biology. Artificial Insemination
- Biological Methods in Forensics
#1. Professional Program Certification in Animal Breeding and Genetics
As a biologist, getting this professional program certification in animal breeding and genetics has much to do for you in the long run.
This certification aims to help the world meet the growing demand for food by supporting the animal protein value chain with innovative and sustainable genetic solutions.
You will be certified with all the skills. And also describe how selection and genomic tools can alleviate the effect of monogenic recessive diseases.
In addition, you can now calculate family relationships and inbreeding coefficients in pedigrees and quickly predict the rate of inbreeding for simple situations.
This certification spans 3 months, 4-6 hours per week. The cost of a full certification program costs about $268.20.
#2. Certification in Tropical Environmental Sciences
You are on the right path if you are considering getting a certification in tropical environmental sciences.
This certification would allow you to understand more about the environment locally and globally.
You would be able to appreciate the impact humans are having on the environment and how to manage and heal the environment.
During certification for a bachelor in biology, you would combine practice and theory, be actively involved in scientific research, and have access to engaging and inspiring teaching.
After this certification in biology, you will have the opportunity to interact with stakeholders and end-users. This biology certification is worth it.
#3. Graduate Certification in Genetics and Genomics
Getting a certification in genetics and genomics would help you play a vast role in health and disease.
You would specialize in the study of genes and the way that certain traits or conditions are passed down from one generation to another.
Certification in genetics and genomics can mean a lot for you because you can help health professionals understand what an individual’s genetic makeup means for their health, ultimately delivering more personalized patient care.
If you currently work in health care or you have the desire to show how genetics can be utilized in a health care setting. You should get this certification as a biologist.
#4. Bacteriology. Issues of Safe Work with PBA III-IV pathogenicity groups
This certification gives you all the knowledge and hands-on skill to become a certified bacteriologist and to make a positive, direct impact on medical care.
It would provide you with the latest biomedical instrument and molecular techniques to face challenges in finding and understanding the cause of disease.
You would, however, have to be self-sufficient, precise, and thorough in your work. This certification in biology is an online course.
This means that no visits to the campus you are studying in. Completing the bachelor’s in biology certification would earn you a certificate from the national certifying agency.
#5. Certified Sterilization Technician
This certification in biology opens you up to opportunities that would help you maintain cleanliness, functionality, and inventory of healthcare instrumentation and equipment.
During this program, you will understand the sterilization of instrumentation and equipment through a series of critical steps.
Also, you’ll be certified to ensure that patients avoid infections and that doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals can access the instrumentation and equipment they need immediately.
And in terms of opportunities, you can work in various settings like hospitals, dental or eye care practices, plastic surgery offices, surgery centers, and laboratories.
#6. Certification in Equine Studies
This certification for bachelor’s in biology would embed you with skills required for various careers in the horse industry.
Upon the completion of this biology certification, you would be eligible for internship placement at a variety of top equine operations around the world.
Regarding career opportunities, you can work as a farm manager, trainer/assistant trainer, barn/shedrow foreman, or room/stable hand. You can also work as an exercise rider/ jockey, veterinary assistant, equine administration, and support services.
#7. Zoo and Aquarium Science
This certification for a bachelor in biology provides detailed knowledge about the biology of particular groups of animals often kept in captivity.
It also explains the background in the basic concepts and techniques of animal training, practical management skills required for working with people, budgets, and the time at zoos or aquaria.
Moreso, during this course, you’ll get information on policies and regulations that affect the operations of zoos and aquaria; practical, hands-on experience working with animals and with the personnel at a zoo or aquarium.
To meet the requirement for this biology certification, you must have a bachelor’s degree in either biology, zoology, ecology, environmental studies, animal science, or psychology.
#8. HNC Animal Management
This certification for a bachelor’s in biology is a bedrock if you have a real passion for working with animals.
It is also well suited for you if you currently work in an industry and would like to develop these skills further.
However, the certification combines lectures, group work, practical sessions, and independent research. This does give you not only valuable experience but also skyrockets your chances at awe-inspiring employment opportunities.
And during the course, you will be expected to undertake an industrial experience placement one day per week as part of your studies.
#9. Animal Management- Level 3
This certification for a bachelor’s in biology is designed to give you the practical skills and knowledge needed for a wide variety of jobs in animal care and related industries.
In this biology certification, you would complete extensive work experience. And also have the opportunity to study various specialist units in animal science, business, and industry-related subjects.
Additionally, you’ll have career options in per store or kennels or cattery manager, as an animal care technician, animal rescue center staff, guide dog trainer, or trainee zookeeper.
#10. GCSE Biology
This certification for a bachelor’s in biology covers everything from genetics, cell biology, and the immune system to evolution, reproduction, health, and the environment.
Upon completing this biology certification, you will have developed your knowledge and understanding of biology, including critical theories and principles.
However, you can start the certification program once you have enrolled. The only specific deadline to work towards is your exam.
Note, exam sittings for this certification in biology are usually held once a year, around the middle of the year. With this, you can complete your biology certification in a way that works best for you at a time and place.
Read Also: Top 10 Best Colleges for Marine Biology in the World, 2023 l Cost, Requirements
#11. Science Cambridge Technical Level 2 Extended Certificate
This certification in biology has recently been identified as a growth area to be prioritized due to its world-class capabilities.
This biology certification aims to help you acquire applied skills through presentations, scientific writing, analysis, and interpretation of results.
Upon completion, you may progress to various employment opportunities within the life and health sciences sector, including pharmacy technician, dietetic assistant, cardiology technician, audiology technician, and basic-level pharmacology staff.
#12. Level 4 HNC Certificate in Applied Sciences (Biology)
This biology certification covers many scientific disciplines, including biology, chemistry, physics, and maths.
After acquiring a biology certification in this program, you would have vast job opportunities to work in forensic science, food technology, analytical science, quality control, environmental science, and engineering.
Note to go for this certification, you must be interested in understanding science and how to solve scientific problems.
#13. Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) Degree in Biology
An educational Specialist (Ed.S.) degree in Biology will equip you with the intellectual rigor and problem-solving skills required to make informed and responsible decisions.
It will also help you to engage in reflective assessment, implement positive change, and pursue learning as a lifetime endeavor.
Moreso, the certification would enable you to possess an understanding of diverse cultures, the technological capabilities.
Therefore, if you are interested in education as a specialist, this biology certification should be just right for you.
#14. Developmental Biology. Artificial Insemination
This certification for a bachelor’s in biology gives you the recognition for understanding how interactions among molecules, macromolecules, and macromolecular machines interact.
While taking this biology program, you will learn the basics of cell function, including the complex interactions between cells guide.
And on completing this biology certification, you will be presented with an official certificate document. You can use the credential on a CV/resume or application for advanced study.
#15. Biological Methods in Forensics
This certification is mainly for those whose career interest is in vastly differing fields, such as the natural sciences and criminal justice.
Becoming a forensic biologist is an ideal career choice. Due to the wide range of specialty fields within forensic biology, forensic biology professionals have access to several multi-disciplinary career pathways as forensic anthropologists, forensic chemists, forensic toxicologists, and forensic DNA analysts.
By getting a biologist certification in this program, you can rest assured that jobs in forensic science are on the rise. Your degree must, however, be from a regionally or nationally accredited college or university.
Read Also: 10 BEST MARINE BIOLOGY COLLEGES IN CALIFORNIA, 2023 | COST, REQUIREMENTS
Frequently Asked Questions
This depends quite mainly on the certification you have gotten. However, you can work as a research technician, clinical project manager, conservation scientist, pharmaceutical sales representative, biomedical engineer, dentist, environmental scientist, high school teacher, laboratory technician, or medical researcher.
Yes. More than 75% of biology graduates with certifications are employed full-time between 6-10 months after earning their certificate.
No. Getting work experience in the area of biology you are interested in is crucial but not a prerequisite to getting a certification in biology.
Certified biologists’ salaries vary, depending on the biology certification. However, they earn between $75,000 to $94,000 per year.
To become a certified biologist, depending on the certification you are going for, it would take between 6 months to 1 year.
Conclusion
Biologists in every field have a sense of curiosity for the natural world and a desire to understand the complexities of plants and animals.
Since this field is essentially the study of life, it makes sense that many diverse certifications in biology push the way for various career fields as well.
Biology certifications would help you, as a biologist, to expand in whatever area of biology you have chosen.
References
- https://www.bestmastersdegrees.com/lists/5-in-demand-careers-in-biology
- https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.academiccourses.ng/Certificate/Biology/amp/
- https://mallory.com.au/biology-careers-list/
- https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.academiccourses.com/Certificate/Biology/amp/
- https://www.teaching-certification.com/biology-teacher-certification.html
- https://biology.umbc.edu/undergrad/undergraduate-programs/b-a-in-biology-education/
- https://biology.missouristate.edu/biologyed/certification-requirements.htm
- https://www.stu.edu/news/what-can-you-do-with-a-biology-degree-from-stu/
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