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Applied Biological Sciences (Applied Biological Sciences) ,BS

Applied Biological Sciences (Applied Biological Sciences), BS

Academic programs / Undergraduate degrees / Applied Biological Sciences (Applied Biological Sciences)

Ecology, Environmental Science, Microbiology, Physician Assistant, Plants, Public Health, Zoology, animal, approved for STEM-OPT extension, predental, premed

Are you interested in pre-med, pre-dental or other professional programs related to human health? Would you like to apply biology knowledge and lab skills to solve challenges and innovate? An applied biology major is great for making the cross-discipline connections you'll use in careers or advanced degrees.

Program description

The BS program in applied biological sciences offers students solid foundations in biology and related sciences while allowing them to focus on an area of special interest.

Students learn about fundamental principles such as movement of energy and matter, exchange of genetic information, as well as the structure and function of relationships that govern life processes. They also learn about ethical and policy challenges that can arise when applying biological principles to social issues.

In this program, students contextualize knowledge through experience-based learning activities, including:

  • case studies
  • faculty-guided research and service-learning projects
  • field trips
  • hands-on laboratories and field experience
  • internships

This major is eligible for the Western Undergraduate Exchange program at the following location: Polytechnic campus. Students from Western states who select this major and campus may be eligible for reduced nonresident tuition at a rate of 150% of Arizona resident tuition plus all applicable fees. Students should click the link for more information and eligibility requirements of the WUE program.

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.

Global opportunities
Global experience

With more than 300 programs available in more than 65 countries, Global Education programs allow students to tailor their educational experience to their unique interests and skill sets. Those in applied biological sciences are able to expand their knowledge of how science impacts society in a variety of cultures, and they can acquire a global perspective, preparing them to lead in a future-focused career. Students earn ASU credit for completed courses while staying on track for graduation, and they may apply financial aid and scholarships toward program costs.

Career opportunities

Graduates may pursue entry-level careers in wildlife and restoration ecology, urban horticulture and secondary education. The general program in applied biological sciences prepares graduates to succeed in graduate and professional schools in disciplines such as:

  • biological research
  • dentistry
  • environmental biotechnology
  • human health
  • medicine
  • physical therapy
  • secondary education

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
5.1%
$99,550
4.4%
$155,040
3.7%
$211,300
4.8%
$144,440
5.2%
$83,930
9.8%
$99,930
5.2%
$81,990
3.9%
$87,300
* 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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