One of the key elements that sets ASU Online’s science programs apart is our on-campus laboratory experiences. Respected by professional health programs and the science industry, these in-person lab experiences provide you with a rigorous and legitimate science education, traditionally only available to students pursuing on-campus degrees.
“It has been amazing,” said Brittney Guy, a recent Bachelor of Science in biological sciences with a concentration in biomedical sciences graduate. “I was really stressed about it because I took the classes a long time ago. However, the professors, the TAs and everybody has been so supportive and helpful in making me feel as though I've been here for the last four years. It really put my mind at ease being on-campus, and the labs have just been amazing. Meeting new people and my professors that I only saw on zoom for the last two years has been awesome."
Gain hands-on experience with in-person labs
Hands-on experience with laboratory equipment and procedures is important to the learning process for science majors. For this reason, ASU Online students take the same chemistry and biochemistry laboratory courses as on-campus students. Completed at ASU’s Tempe, Arizona, campus, or at an accredited school near you, these in-person labs equip you with the skills and competencies needed to pursue a successful career in a wide range of disciplines, including biological sciences, molecular science, forensic science, justice studies and more.
How long are the labs and when do they take place?
Summer labs typically run from May to July, with several date ranges to choose from within those months. While the exact dates may vary each year, the final schedule for the upcoming summer is generally released in late January or early February.
Lab times vary, as they’re dependent on the courses taken. In-person lab work extends approximately five days for three-credit lab courses. If you choose to take two courses, these labs can be taken back to back in summer A and summer B sessions.
When registering for these courses, remember to sign up for both the lab and recitation sections. The recitation dates are when assignments will be completed, while the lab dates are when you’ll physically be on campus. The lecture component must be completed a semester prior to the lab component.
In addition to physically coming to the lab, you should allocate 1–2 hours each day for study time while on campus. Keep in mind that you may also have additional classes with labs or other assignments due during the summer. Plan your schedule accordingly to ensure you can manage your workload effectively and make the most of your time in the labs.
