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Biological & Physical Sciences

Programs and majors in Biological & Physical Sciences can lead to careers in science, math, engineering and geology.

Do any of these things interest you?

  • Conducting research to solve real-world problems.
  • Examining evidence to solve crimes.
  • Designing systems to maximize efficiency.
  • Diagnosing and treating animals.
  • Creating buildings and roadways as an engineer.
  • Studying rocks and dirt to solve engineering problems.

If so, take a look at careers in Biological & Physical Sciences below.

Careers in Biological & Physical Sciences

Mathematician

Similar Job Titles:
Agent-Based Modeler, Computational Scientist, Cryptographer, Cryptographic Vulnerability Analyst, Director of Quantitative Research, Emerging Solutions Executive, Image Scientist, Lead Simulation Modeling Engineer, Research Scientist, Scientist

Description
Conduct research in fundamental mathematics or in application of mathematical techniques to science, management, and other fields. Solve problems in various fields using mathematical methods.

Mathematicians typically: Develop computational methods for solving problems that occur in areas of science and engineering or that come from applications in business or industry.  Apply mathematical theories and techniques to the solution of practical problems in business, engineering, the sciences, or other fields.  Develop mathematical or statistical models of phenomena to be used for analysis or for computational simulation.  Assemble sets of assumptions and explore the consequences of each set.  Maintain knowledge in the field by reading professional journals, talking with other mathematicians, and attending professional conferences.

HourlySalary Current Employment Job Growth

$49.52

$103,010

3,100

▲30%

Regional

Regional

Regional

Regional

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics 2017 wage data and 2016-2026 employment projections

Projections: This occupation currently employs 3,100 people in the state. In the next ten years, employment for this occupation in the United States is expected to increase by 30%.

Visit the Department of Mathematics webpage

Learn more about a career as a Mathematician

Wage Disclaimer: Wage estimates are based on Occupational Employment Statistics and the American Community Survey. Wage estimates are also affected by county-level Economic Modeling Specialists Intl. (EMSI) earnings by industry. Required education level for indicated wage and employment trends available from O*NET OnLine.

Forensic Science Technician

Similar Job Titles
Crime Laboratory Analyst, Crime Scene Analyst, Crime Scene Technician (Crime Scene Tech), CSI (Crime Scene Investigator), Evidence Technician, Forensic Science Examiner, Forensic Scientist, Forensic Specialist, Latent Fingerprint Examiner, Latent Print Examiner

Description
Collect, identify, classify, and analyze physical evidence related to criminal investigations. Perform tests on weapons or substances, such as fiber, hair, and tissue to determine significance to investigation. May testify as expert witnesses on evidence or crime laboratory techniques. May serve as specialists in area of expertise, such as ballistics, fingerprinting, handwriting, or biochemistry.

Forensic Science Technicians typically: Keep records and prepare reports detailing findings, investigative methods, and laboratory techniques.  Collect evidence from crime scenes, storing it in conditions that preserve its integrity.  Testify in court about investigative or analytical methods or findings.  Use photographic or video equipment to document evidence or crime scenes.  Visit morgues, examine scenes of crimes, or contact other sources to obtain evidence or information to be used in investigations.

HourlySalary Current Employment Job Growth

$27.81

$57,850

520

▲17%

Regional

Regional

Regional

Regional

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics 2017 wage data and 2016-2026 employment projections

Projections: This occupation currently employs 520 people in the state.  In the next ten years, employment for this occupation in Nevada is expected to increase by 17%.

Visit the Criminal Justice Program webpage

Learn more about a career as a Forensic Science Technician

Wage Disclaimer: Wage estimates are based on Occupational Employment Statistics and the American Community Survey. Wage estimates are also affected by county-level Economic Modeling Specialists Intl. (EMSI) earnings by industry. Required education level for indicated wage and employment trends available from O*NET OnLine.

Microbiologist

Similar Job Titles
Bacteriologist, Clinical Laboratory Scientist, Clinical Microbiologist, Microbiological Analyst, Microbiological Laboratory Technician, Microbiologist, Microbiology Director, Microbiology Laboratory Manager, Quality Control Microbiologist (QC Microbiologist), Study Director

Description
Investigate the growth, structure, development, and other characteristics of microscopic organisms, such as bacteria, algae, or fungi. Includes medical microbiologists who study the relationship between organisms and disease or the effects of antibiotics on microorganisms.

Microbiologist typically: Isolate and maintain cultures of bacteria or other microorganisms in prescribed or developed media, controlling moisture, aeration, temperature, and nutrition.  Study growth, structure, development, and general characteristics of bacteria and other microorganisms to understand their relationship to human, plant, and animal health.  Examine physiological, morphological, and cultural characteristics, using microscope, to identify and classify microorganisms in human, water, and food specimens.  Provide laboratory services for health departments, for community environmental health programs, and for physicians needing information for diagnosis and treatment.  Investigate the relationship between organisms and disease, including the control of epidemics and the effects of antibiotics on microorganisms.

HourlySalary Current Employment Job Growth

$33.64

$69,960

90

▲10%

Regional

Regional

Regional

Regional

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics 2017 wage data and 2016-2026 employment projections

Projections: This occupation currently employs 90 people in the state. In the next ten years, employment for this occupation in Nevada is expected to increase by 10%.

Visit the Biological Sciences Program webpage

Learn more about a career as a Microbiologist

Wage Disclaimer: Wage estimates are based on Occupational Employment Statistics and the American Community Survey. Wage estimates are also affected by county-level Economic Modeling Specialists Intl. (EMSI) earnings by industry. Required education level for indicated wage and employment trends available from O*NET OnLine.

Ecologist

Similar Job Titles
Ecologist, Environmental Consultant, Environmental Programs Manager, Environmental Protection Agency Counselor, Environmental Services Director, Environmental Sustainability Manager, Research Environmental Engineer, Research Scientist, Researcher

Description
Apply principles and processes of natural ecosystems to develop models for efficient industrial systems. Use knowledge from the physical and social sciences to maximize effective use of natural resources in the production and use of goods and services. Examine societal issues and their relationship with both technical systems and the environment.

Ecologists typically: Identify environmental impacts caused by products, systems, or projects.  Examine local, regional or global use and flow of materials or energy in industrial production processes.  Identify or develop strategies or methods to minimize the environmental impact of industrial production processes.  Prepare technical and research reports such as environmental impact reports, and communicate the results to individuals in industry, government, or the general public.  Analyze changes designed to improve the environmental performance of complex systems to avoid unintended negative consequences.

HourlySalary Current Employment Job Growth

$33.37

$69,400

930

▲13%

Regional

Regional

Regional

Regional

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics 2017 wage data and 2016-2026 employment projections

Projections: This occupation currently employs 930 people in the state.  In the next ten years, employment for this occupation in Nevada is expected to increase by 13%.

Visit the Physical Sciences Program webpage

Learn more about a career as an Ecologist

Wage Disclaimer: Wage estimates are based on Occupational Employment Statistics and the American Community Survey. Wage estimates are also affected by county-level Economic Modeling Specialists Intl. (EMSI) earnings by industry. Required education level for indicated wage and employment trends available from O*NET OnLine.

Civil Engineer

Similar Job Titles
Bridge/Structure Inspection Team Leader, City Engineer, Civil Engineer, Civil Engineering Manager, County Engineer, Design Engineer, Project Engineer, Railroad Design Consultant, Structural Engineer, Traffic Engineer

Description
Perform engineering duties in planning, designing, and overseeing construction and maintenance of building structures, and facilities, such as roads, railroads, airports, bridges, harbors, channels, dams, irrigation projects, pipelines, power plants, and water and sewage systems.

Civil Engineers typically: Inspect project sites to monitor progress and ensure conformance to design specifications and safety or sanitation standards.  Compute load and grade requirements, water flow rates, or material stress factors to determine design specifications.  Provide technical advice to industrial or managerial personnel regarding design, construction, or program modifications or structural repairs.  Test soils or materials to determine the adequacy and strength of foundations, concrete, asphalt, or steel.  Manage and direct the construction, operations, or maintenance activities at project site.

HourlySalary Current Employment Job Growth

$40.75

$84,770

2,510

▲10%

Regional

Regional

Regional

Regional

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics 2017 wage data and 2016-2026 employment projections

Projections: This occupation currently employs 2,510 people in the state.  In the next ten years, employment for this occupation in Nevada is expected to increase by 10%.

Visit the Physical Sciences Program webpage

Learn more about a career as a Civil Engineer

Wage Disclaimer: Wage estimates are based on Occupational Employment Statistics and the American Community Survey. Wage estimates are also affected by county-level Economic Modeling Specialists Intl. (EMSI) earnings by industry. Required education level for indicated wage and employment trends available from O*NET OnLine.

Geologist

Similar Job Titles
Engineering Geologist, Environmental Protection Geologist, Exploration Geologist, Geological Specialist, Geologist, Geophysicist, Geoscientist, Mine Geologist, Petroleum Geologist, Project Geologist

Description
Study the composition, structure, and other physical aspects of the Earth. May use geological, physics, and mathematics knowledge in exploration for oil, gas, minerals, or underground water; or in waste disposal, land reclamation, or other environmental problems. May study the Earth's internal composition, atmospheres, oceans, and its magnetic, electrical, and gravitational forces. Includes mineralogists, crystallographers, paleontologists, stratigraphers, geodesists, and seismologists.

Geologists typically: Analyze and interpret geological, geochemical, or geophysical information from sources such as survey data, well logs, bore holes, or aerial photos.  Plan or conduct geological, geochemical, or geophysical field studies or surveys, sample collection, or drilling and testing programs used to collect data for research or application.  Prepare geological maps, cross-sectional diagrams, charts, or reports concerning mineral extraction, land use, or resource management, using results of fieldwork or laboratory research.  Analyze and interpret geological data, using computer software.  Investigate the composition, structure, or history of the Earth's crust through the collection, examination, measurement, or classification of soils, minerals, rocks, or fossil remains.

HourlySalary Current Employment Job Growth

$43.20

$89,850

770

▲14%

Regional

Regional

Regional

Regional

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics 2017 wage data and 2016-2026 employment projections

Projections: This occupation currently employs 770 people in the state.  In the next ten years, employment for this occupation in Nevada is expected to increase by 14%.

Visit the Physical Sciences Program webpage

Learn more about a career as a Geologist

Wage Disclaimer: Wage estimates are based on Occupational Employment Statistics and the American Community Survey. Wage estimates are also affected by county-level Economic Modeling Specialists Intl. (EMSI) earnings by industry. Required education level for indicated wage and employment trends available from O*NET OnLine.

Geological Technician

Similar Job Titles
Core Inspector, Electron Microprobe Operator, Environmental Field Services Technician, Environmental Sampling Technician, Laboratory Technician, Materials Technician, Organic Section Technical Lead, Physical Science Technician, Quality Control Technician (QC Technician), Research Associate

Description
Test or analyze geological samples, crude oil, or minerals to detect presence of petroleum, gas, or mineral deposits indicating potential for exploration or production or to determine physical or chemical properties to ensure that products meet quality standards.

Geological Technicians typically: Test and analyze samples to determine their content and characteristics, using laboratory apparatus or testing equipment.  Collect or prepare solid or fluid samples for analysis.  Compile, log, or record testing or operational data for review and further analysis.  Assemble, operate, or maintain field or laboratory testing, measuring, or mechanical equipment.  Participate in geological, geophysical, geochemical, hydrographic, or oceanographic surveys, prospecting field trips, exploratory drilling, well logging, or underground mine survey programs.

HourlySalary Current Employment Job Growth

$26.05

$54,190

210

▲15%

Regional

Regional

Regional

Regional

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics 2017 wage data and 2016-2026 employment projections

Projections: This occupation currently employs 210 people in the state.  In the next ten years, employment for this occupation in Nevada is expected to increase by 15%.

Visit the Physical Sciences Program webpage

Learn more about a career as a Geological Technician

Wage Disclaimer: Wage estimates are based on Occupational Employment Statistics and the American Community Survey. Wage estimates are also affected by county-level Economic Modeling Specialists Intl. (EMSI) earnings by industry. Required education level for indicated wage and employment trends available from O*NET OnLine.

Mining Geologist

Similar Job Titles
Mine Engineer, Mine Engineering Manager, Mine Safety Manager, Mining Consultant, Mining Engineer, Planning Engineer, Project Engineer, Safety Coordinator, Safety Engineer, Safety Representative

Description
Conduct sub-surface surveys to identify the characteristics of potential land or mining development sites. May specify the ground support systems, processes and equipment for safe, economical, and environmentally sound extraction or underground construction activities. May inspect areas for unsafe geological conditions, equipment, and working conditions. May design, implement, and coordinate mine safety programs.

Mining geologists typically: Prepare technical reports for use by mining, engineering, and management personnel.  Inspect mining areas for unsafe structures, equipment, and working conditions.  Select or develop mineral location, extraction, and production methods, based on factors such as safety, cost, and deposit characteristics.  Select locations and plan underground or surface mining operations, specifying processes, labor usage, and equipment that will result in safe, economical, and environmentally sound extraction of minerals and ores.  Prepare schedules, reports, and estimates of the costs involved in developing and operating mines.

HourlySalary Current Employment Job Growth

$45.30

$94,240

420

▲5%

Regional

Regional

Regional

Regional

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics 2017 wage data and 2016-2026 employment projections

Projections: This occupation currently employs 420 people in the state.  In the next ten years, employment for this occupation in Nevada is expected to increase by 5%.

Visit the Physical Sciences Program webpage

Learn more about a career as a Mining Geologist

Wage Disclaimer: Wage estimates are based on Occupational Employment Statistics and the American Community Survey. Wage estimates are also affected by county-level Economic Modeling Specialists Intl. (EMSI) earnings by industry. Required education level for indicated wage and employment trends available from O*NET OnLine.

This page includes information from O*NET OnLine by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.

Degrees in This Area of Study

Associate of Science

Biological Sciences (Associate of Science)

Environmental Conservation (Bachelor of Applied Science)

Environmental Laboratory Sciences (Bachelor of Applied Science)

Environmental Management (Bachelor of Applied Science)

Environmental Management (Associate of Applied Science)

Physical Sciences (Associate of Science)

NOTE: Associate of Arts, Business, and Science degrees are intended for transfer to another NSHE institution. Associate of Applied Science degrees are for a specific occupation, intended to respond to the needs of the workforce and may transfer to a NSHE institution offering a Bachelor of Applied Science degree.