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)
Biology provides insights into how the life and physical sciences intersect. In this program, you'll have the opportunity to pursue hands-on interdisciplinary experiences, including conducting research on cancer and Alzheimer's disease. Gain a deeper understanding of the scientific study of life, which will enable you to thrive in any career path.
Students in the Bachelor of Arts program in biology with an emphasis in the natural sciences examine the interdisciplinary nature of the life and physical sciences, focusing on the ways in which these disciplines intersect. The program's organization and flexibility enable students to simultaneously study another subject outside their major. Students are encouraged to add a minor or concurrent degree in another subject area.
Students gain hands-on experience as they work in small groups and one-on-one with individual faculty members. Students may participate in pioneering scientific research by assisting in faculty research laboratories, and even publish in top journals and present their results at regional and national scientific meetings.
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:
New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences
- Location:
West Valley
- Second language requirement: No
- STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes
- First required math course: MAT 170 - Precalculus
- Math
intensity: Moderate
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.
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.
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 unique 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 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.
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 |
|---|---|---|
|
3.9%
|
$87,300
|
|
|
6.1%
|
$76,480
|
|
|
3.9%
|
$87,300
|
|
|
4.8%
|
$144,440
|
|
|
1.0%
|
$62,360
|
|
|
5.2%
|
$83,930
|
|
|
9.8%
|
$99,930
|
|
|
5.2%
|
$81,990
|
|
|
3.9%
|
$87,300
|
|
|
5.7%
|
$69,390
|
School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences
|
FAB N101
mnsadvising@asu.edu
602-543-3000
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.
