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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

Explore the intersection of biology and technology to address challenges in health, agriculture and sustainability. Gain hands-on experiences while learning how molecular biology drives innovation in biotechnology. Prepare for graduate study or a career in science, medicine or the biotechnology industry.

Program description

The Bachelor of Science program in molecular biosciences and biotechnology program explores the molecular foundations of life and their application to modern biotechnology. Students study how biological systems can be engineered for advancements in medicine, agriculture and environmental sustainability. The curriculum integrates molecular genetics, microbiology, genetic engineering, biochemistry and biotechnology to prepare students for diverse scientific and professional pathways.

Through laboratory research, internships and capstone courses, students develop molecular and biotechnical expertise. Working alongside faculty mentors, students design experiments; analyze data; and explore the ethical, scientific and commercial aspects of biotechnology. Students may also participate in collaborative research programs that provide individualized guidance and professional development.

The program is available as an accelerated degree option. Students pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences should consult The College's website for additional requirements and information.

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 251 - Calculus for Life Sciences
  • Math intensity: Moderateprogram math intensity moderate

Video: Learn about the Molecular Biosciences and Biotechnology degree program at ASUThis video provides an overview of the Molecular Biosciences and Biotechnology degree program at ASU.

Curriculum
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:

Learn more about this program
Graduate advisor
Mitchell Lawson
602-496-1745
mitchell.lawson@thunderbird.asu.edu
General contact
602-496-7100
Learn more about this program
General contact
602-496-0450

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’s learning outcomes include the following:

  • 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 enables 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

Graduates are prepared for careers in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, agriculture and environmental science, or for advanced study in molecular and cellular biology and environmental sustainability. With expertise in molecular biology and biotechnology, they contribute to innovations in energy, health care and biomanufacturing across academic, industrial and government sectors.

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
4.0%
$81,490
7.3%
$84,620
3.7%
$167,220
1.2%
$98,920
3.7%
$167,220
3.7%
$167,220
8.7%
$103,410
1.2%
$98,920
2.1%
$122,930
* 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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