Science Writer / Journalist

Also called: Science Journalist

Explains new discoveries in biology and medicine to the public through articles, podcasts, and books.

A day in the life

Interviews a scientist about a new Alzheimer's study, double-checks claims with outside experts, and writes a story that millions might read the next day.

Pay over a career

Starting
$40k
Typical
$72k
High
$130k

Estimate; BLS writers & authors median ~$72k; freelance pay varies.

Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.

Training

Bachelor's degree (4-year), about 4 years after high school. Bachelor's in biology or journalism; science-writing master's programs exist.

Ways in: 4-year college, Graduate school, Self-taught. Training cost: $15k – $60k.

Majors to look at: Biology, Journalism, English.

Outlook

Growing slowly (about 0% over 10 years). Estimate; follows writers & authors.

Will it last? Our AI estimate

Medium risk in 5 years, high in 10. AI drafts explainers and news briefs instantly, shrinking paid writing; original reporting and interviews stay human.

Start now, in high school

Classes: AP English Language, AP Biology, Journalism.

Official data: O*NET occupation 27-3043.

More Science Communication, Policy & Business careers

Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.