From two-year technician paths to research degrees — and where rules apply.
Life science has routes at every level:
- Technician roles (like biological or lab technicians) are often reachable with a two-year associate degree plus hands-on training — a great way in.
- Research roles (biochemist, medical scientist) usually need a four-year degree and often a graduate degree.
- Clinical and regulated roles (like medical laboratory work) require specific degrees and certifications, because patient health depends on them.
Match the route to the target job: check the real requirements before committing years.