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Molecular Biosciences and Biotechnology ,BS

Molecular Biosciences and Biotechnology, BS

Academic programs / Undergraduate degrees / Molecular Biosciences and Biotechnology

Anesthesiologist, Biology, Biotechnology, Disease, Genetics, Histology, Medicine, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Pharmaceutical, Plants, Science, approved for STEM-OPT extension, biochemistry, life sciences, pre-health

Are you fascinated by the interplay between biology and technology? Are you eager to make a difference through groundbreaking research? Dive in and explore the rapidly expanding field of biotechnology.

Program description

In the BS degree program in molecular biosciences and biotechnology, students discover advanced disciplines in life sciences research and explore the exciting and rapidly growing field of biotechnology.

They examine the interface between molecular biology and biotechnology that drives major advancements in knowledge and applied research and development.

In addition to coursework, students gain hands-on research and business experience through a capstone course with world-renowned faculty. Students also have access to a dedicated mentoring program that provides them with the opportunity to engage in independent and collaborative research projects and receive feedback and advice on career choices, internships and more.

This program is available as an accelerated degree program.

In addition to the guidelines in the Concurrent Program Options section below, students interested in pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences are advised to visit The College's website for more information and requirements.

STEM-OPT for international students on F-1 visas

This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 36 months. This OPT work authorization term 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 the degree through ASU Online.

At a glance
  • Second language requirement: No
  • First required math course: MAT 251 - Calculus for Life Sciences
  • Math intensity: Moderateprogram math intensity moderate

Required courses (Major Map)
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 master's degree in as little as five years. It is offered as an accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree with:

Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. 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.

Program learning outcomes

Program learning outcomes identify what a student will learn or be able to do upon completion of their program. This program has the following program outcomes:

  • Demonstrate capacity for scientific thinking by applying relevant background knowledge to analyze and/or develop scientific explanations.
  • Effectively communicate complex scientific concepts, ideas, and reasoning with appropriate use of relevant sources and evidence.
  • Demonstrate preparedness for graduate/professional degree programs and/or employment.
Global opportunities
Global experience

Students gain valuable, resume-enhancing experience when studying abroad. Students majoring in molecular biosciences and biotechnology can expand their knowledge of how science impacts society in a variety of cultures and how technology and culture intertwine across the globe.

With more than 300 programs available, studying abroad allows students to tailor their experience to their specific interests and skill sets. The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences recommends these study abroad programs for students majoring in molecular biosciences and biotechnology.

Career opportunities

The Bachelor of Science degree program in molecular biosciences and biotechnology provides students with a solid base of knowledge and practical expertise that will enable them to pursue advanced research and graduate study in biological sciences, medicine, sustainability and technology.

The program also prepares students with critical thinking, hands-on research and business entrepreneurship that will prepare them for direct entry into a wide variety of careers in a dynamic and expanding field. Graduates pursue positions in agriculture (green biotechnology, leading to improved crops or production of vaccines in plants); health care (red biotechnology, leading to better therapeutics, diagnostics and personalized medicine); and industry (white biotechnology, leading to sustainable production of energy, enzymes and chemicals).

Career example titles and salaries listed below are not necessarily entry level, and students should take into consideration how years of experience, geographical location, and required advanced degrees or certifications may affect pay scales.


Career *Growth *Median salary
3.9%
$87,300
6.2%
$71,700
8.6%
$81,650
4.8%
$144,440
3.9%
$87,300
4.8%
$144,440
4.8%
$144,440
9.8%
$99,930
3.9%
$87,300
3.3%
$104,600
* 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
What are accelerated programs?
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

3 year programs

These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.

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. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. 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.
What are concurrent programs?
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.
What are joint programs?
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.

What constitutes a new program?
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the “New Programs” option.
What are online programs?
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
What is the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE)?
The Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) is a program in which residents of western states (other than Arizona) may be eligible for reduced nonresident tuition. See more information and eligibility requirements on the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program.

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