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Biology ,BA

Biology, BA

Bioscience, Botany, Cell Biology, Ecologist, Geneticist, Lab Technician, Medicine, Pharmacist, Pharmacy, Plants, Pre-Med, Pre-Vet, Veterinarian, approved for STEM-OPT extension, life sciences, science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)

Curious about the science of life? Study biology through hands-on research and interdisciplinary learning, exploring topics such as diseases and ecosystems, while developing knowledge and skills that open doors to careers in science, health, education and beyond.

Program description

In the Bachelor of Arts program in biology with an emphasis in the natural sciences, you examine the interdisciplinary nature of the life and physical sciences, focusing on how these disciplines intersect and overlap. The program's organization and flexibility enable you to study another subject outside your major simultaneously. You are encouraged to add a minor or concurrent degree in another subject area.

You gain hands-on experience as you work in small groups and one-on-one with individual faculty members. You may participate in pioneering scientific research by assisting in faculty research laboratories, and even publish in top journals and present your results at regional and national scientific meetings.

STEM-OPT for international students on F-1 visas

This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 24 months. This OPT work authorization period may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension at ASU's International Students and Scholars Center website.

The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing a degree through ASU Online.

At a glance
  • Second language requirement: No
  • STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes
  • First required math course: MAT 170 - Precalculus
  • Math intensity: Moderateprogram math intensity moderate

Curriculum

What If: See how your courses can be applied to another major and find out how to change your major.

Concurrent program options
Students pursuing concurrent degrees (also known as a “double major”) earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with their academic advisors, students can create their own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.
Accelerated program options

This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and a master's degree in as little as five years. Accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree programs are designed for high-achieving students who want the opportunity to share undergraduate coursework with graduate coursework to accelerate completion of their master's degree. These programs feature the same high quality curriculum taught by ASU's world-renowned faculty.

This program is offered as an accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree with:


Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master's during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.

Admission requirements

General university admission requirements:

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
First-year | Transfer | International | Readmission

Tuition information
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Change of Major requirements

A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.

Students should visit the Change of Major form for information about how to change a major to this program.

Transfer options

ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use MyPath2ASU® to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.

ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and they help students save time and money in their college journey.

Global opportunities
Global experience

Studying abroad enables students in the biology program to expand their knowledge of how science impacts society through a variety of cultures.

With more than 300 Global Education program opportunities available to them, students are able to tailor their experience to their specific interests and skill sets. Students in these programs build communication skills, learn to adapt and persevere, and are exposed to research and internships across the world, increasing their professional network. Participation in a study abroad program provides students with the heightened cultural competency and strengthened leadership and critical thinking skills that enhance their resumes and help them stand out in a competitive career field. Whether in a foreign country, in the U.S. or online, students in the New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences can explore how their varied fields and interests interact in different settings around the world.

Career opportunities

Graduates are prepared for entry-level jobs in research, nonprofit, education and outreach organizations and for other roles in the life sciences.

Graduates have a wide variety of options, including pursuing graduate studies or seeking careers in areas that include:

  • environmental management and conservation
  • health professions
  • laboratory research
  • primary and secondary school teaching
  • science advisement to businesses and government
  • science writing

Example job titles and salaries listed below are not necessarily entry level, and students should take into consideration how years of experience and geographical location may affect pay scales. Some jobs also may require advanced degrees, certifications or state-specific licensure.


Career *Growth *Median salary
1.2%
$98,920
4.4%
$82,220
1.2%
$98,920
3.7%
$167,220
-1.6%
$72,040
3.7%
$93,750
8.7%
$103,410
4.1%
$87,990
1.2%
$98,920
5.8%
$68,940
* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Bright OutlookBright Outlook

Contact information

Program term definitions

Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master's during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.

Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.

Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the "New Programs" option.

ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.

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