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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.

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Quick facts

Next start date:

Next start date: 08/20/2026


Total classes:

Total classes: 12

Weeks per class:

Weeks per class: 7.5

Total credit hours:

Total credit hours: 30

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Degree questions, answered

Have questions about the Biology (MS)? Fill out this form and we’ll get in touch!

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Pursue a variety of careers in life sciences

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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.


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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:

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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.
A person stands against a starry background, wearing a navy blue top and gray pants.

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.

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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

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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.

Two people, one in an ASU maroon graduation cap and gown with a flower lei, standing outdoors near palm trees.

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.

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