More is better in biology. A BS will barely get you a lab-tech position. With an MS, you're best off topping out of lab work and doing marketing or other crossover business role. PhDs call all the shots in labs, funding, and research. There's a very strong link between education and status (and pay) in biology. Payscales generally are lower than in computers, though careers tend to be more stable.

My own experience is in the pharmaceutical and genetic engineering industries.