About a third of Binghamton University students go on to graduate or professional school after graduation, so it is not surprising that so many of our students consider graduate school at some point throughout their undergraduate career. Ultimately, graduate school is a deeply personal decision, however, there are two main factors that may indicate that it is a good option for you:
- Graduate school is required for your career interests.
- You are passionate about specializing in a specific content area and contributing to research and knowledge in that space.
Now, it is not uncommon for students (particularly in the sciences) to consider graduate school because they feel it is required for all careers in the field, and that is a pretty big misconception. Here are three examples of science related careers that do not required graduate degrees:
Clinical Research Coordinators plan and oversee research projects ensuring compliance with all protocols and clinical objectives. Individuals who thrive in these roles are active listeners, have strong attention to detail, and are great problem solvers. The field is expected to grow rapidly in the next few years and most of these roles require a bachelor’s degree or certificate.
Quality Control (QC) Analysts perform tests on raw materials and environmental samples to ensure regulatory compliance and lab safety. Industries that typically hire QC Analysts include pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, food production, cosmetics, and manufacturing. The median salary for this role in the United States is $58,000. With experience, there are career growth opportunities to positions such as Senior QC Analyst, Quality Assurance Manager, or Regulatory Affairs Specialist.
Medical Laboratory Technologist
Medical Laboratory Technologists perform a variety of tests to support the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases. These healthcare professionals work with bodily fluids, tissues, and other samples, playing a crucial role in patient care by providing accurate and reliable test results and analyses. Those interested in this field typically possess strong knowledge of biology and medicine , along with skills in customer service and administrative tasks.
Learn more about these careers—and thousands of others using O*NET.