A comprehensive course in marine biology can lead to careers other than the typical position of ___________ aquarium curator, conservationist, or environmental consultant.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
researcher; the degree creates opportunities for a variety of roles,
researcher, the degree creates opportunities for a variety of roles
researcher, the degree creates opportunities for a variety of roles
researcher; the degree creates opportunities for a variety of roles:
Correct Answer: D
Choice D is the best answer. A semicolon separates independent clauses. The colon introduces the list of roles.
Choice A is incorrect because a comma cannot introduce a list after a clause. Choice B is incorrect because a dash is not used to separate the independent clauses here. Choice C is incorrect because it creates a run-on.