Microbiology ,BS
Antibiotics, Biotechnology, Disease, Genetics, Histology, Illness, Immunology, Laboratory Technician, Microbiologist, Microbiology, Microcellular Biology, Science, Virology, approved for STEM-OPT extension, life sciences, pre-health
Investigate the unseen world of bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms and how they shape life, health and the environment. Develop laboratory and analytical skills to prepare for your career by uncovering how microbiology drives innovation and discovery in science and society.
The Bachelor of Science program in microbiology examines microorganisms and their vital roles in health, biotechnology and the environment. Students study microbial genetics, physiology, diversity and ecology to understand how microbes interact with other organisms and influence biological and environmental systems.
Through laboratory and field experiences, students gain practical skills in experimental design, microscopy, molecular techniques, and data analysis. Coursework integrates microbiology, bacterial physiology, biochemistry, bacterial genetics, and advanced bacteriology labs to explore how microbes contribute to medicine and global society. Students may work alongside faculty on research projects and may complete internships that connect classroom learning with applied experiences.
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 opportunities.
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.
- College/school:
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Location: Tempe
- Second language requirement: No
- STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes
- First required math course: MAT 117 - College Algebra
- Math
intensity: Moderate
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.
General university admission requirements:
All students are required to meet general
university admission requirements.
First-year | Transfer | International | Readmission
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.
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 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 mastery in performing and interpreting results of microbiology lab tests.
Students gain valuable, resume-enhancing experience when studying abroad. Microbiology students are able to expand their knowledge of how microbes impact people and society in a variety of cultures, and challenge themselves to adapt and persevere in a new and exciting culture.
With more than 300 programs available, study abroad enables students to tailor their experience to their distinct interests and skill sets. The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences recommends these study abroad programs for students majoring in microbiology.
Graduates are prepared for careers in research, biotechnology, environmental science, public health and the national STEM workforce. The degree also provides a strong foundation for graduate or professional study in microbiology, medicine and environmental studies. Graduates have scientific and technical skills valued across academic, government and industry settings.
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 |
|---|---|---|
|
7.3%
|
$83,460
|
|
|
3.7%
|
$161,180
|
|
|
1.7%
|
$61,890
|
|
|
6.5%
|
$85,310
|
|
|
9.3%
|
$98,910
|
|
|
8.5%
|
$58,440
|
|
|
1.7%
|
$61,890
|
|
|
8.7%
|
$100,590
|
|
|
4.1%
|
$87,330
|
|
|
1.2%
|
$93,330
|
School of Life Sciences
|
LSC 104
sols.advising@asu.edu
480-727-6277
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.
