Online Master of Science in Biology
Deepen your knowledge about the life sciences with Arizona State University’s online Master of Science in biology. Encompassing the study of all life, biology has broad applications from addressing public health challenges to climate change. Upon graduation, you’ll be prepared to pursue a variety of careers across industries and make an impact with your biological expertise.
Quick facts
Next start date: 08/21/2025
Total classes: 12
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 30
Pursue a variety of careers in life sciences
This program offers a comprehensive approach to the life sciences, allowing you to strengthen your knowledge of biological concepts, while learning how to communicate this information to others. Providing you with advanced knowledge in biological concepts and skills in data analysis and statistics, scientific writing and critical thinking, this program will prepare you for diverse career paths in life sciences fields.
The curriculum also focuses on interdisciplinary intersections like computational sciences and medicine, so you'll be able to explore career opportunities in teaching, science writing, pharmaceuticals and health care. Additionally, by completing personalized study plans and a capstone project, you'll develop problem-solving skills essential for roles in research and development, health care and education, making you stand out among the competition in a dynamic job market.
Who’s a good candidate for this master’s in biology?
An ideal candidate for this program holds an undergraduate degree in a life sciences-related discipline, although other backgrounds are also considered. If you're looking to enhance your knowledge and skills in biology without pursuing an academic research career, this program can support you on your path. While this program isn’t designed for pursuing a PhD, it does align with careers such as secondary school science teachers, science writers or biological lab workers seeking a deeper understanding of their field.
Will my diploma say ‘online’?
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”
Biology master’s courses
This biology master’s program allows you to customize your study plan based on your interest area. This means that a majority of your courses are electives, with topics ranging from biotechnology and conservation to computational biology and genomics. You’ll also complete a capstone course during your final semester, in which you’ll apply what you’ve learned to your chosen topic.
The jobs this master’s in biology prepares you for
With an expanded understanding of the life sciences, you’ll graduate prepared for a breadth of roles across the public, private and nonprofit sectors. You can also continue on to further graduate studies, such as professional health programs. Potential careers you may pursue include, but aren’t limited to:
Learn from scientists at the forefront of their fields
From Royal Society and American Academy Fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members who include:
- Fulbright American Scholars.
- Guggenheim Fellows.
- MacArthur Fellows.
- Nobel laureates.
Learn from scientists at the forefront of their fields
From Royal Society and American Academy Fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members who include:
- Fulbright American Scholars.
- Guggenheim Fellows.
- MacArthur Fellows.
- Nobel laureates.
How to apply
Applicants to the Master of Science in biology program must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
The largest and most diverse college at ASU
As a part of The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the School of Life Sciences takes a transdisciplinary approach to education with a vast spectrum of degrees in the social sciences, natural sciences and humanities. We inspire students to become socially aware critical thinkers and global citizens.
31,572
students enrolled as of fall 2024
$161 million
in research expenditures in FY23
21
interdisciplinary schools and departments
100+
undergraduate degrees
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
