Online Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences

Learn biology like you never thought possible with first-of-a-kind, adaptive courses and immersive learning experiences. In Arizona State University's Bachelor of Science in biological sciences program online, you’ll use world-class technology to develop a broad understanding of biology disciplines. Upon graduation, you’ll be prepared for further education and a variety of science-focused career paths.

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Quick facts

Next start date:

Next start date: 03/17/2025


Total classes:

Total classes: 39

Weeks per class:

Weeks per class: 7.5

Total credit hours:

Total credit hours: 120

Degree questions, answered

Have questions about the Biological Sciences (BS)? Fill out this form and we’ll get in touch!

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An innovative degree that prepares you for a career in biological sciences

As a biological sciences major, you’ll develop knowledge that ranges from the cellular level to entire ecosystems.

This program investigates genetic and environmental causes of diversity, evolution, the interplay of organisms and their environments and how these factors influence health and disease. You’ll encounter biological processes that can take anywhere from picoseconds to millennia to complete.

Additionally, this program’s innovative courses enable new ways of learning and applying skills. Narrative storytelling tools such as Dreamscape Learn allow you to explore virtual worlds as a scientific investigator. In this interactive 2D environment, you’ll gather and analyze data to solve realistic problems in biology. Actively participating in the story will deepen your understanding and strengthen your problem-solving skills. Other practical learning opportunities may include at-home lab kits, in-person lab sessions, internships and research.

Attend our upcoming webinar to learn more about ASU’s online undergraduate biological sciences programs. Sign up.

Choosing the right biology degree for you

If you're looking to study and train in multiple disciplines of biology, this is the right program for you. It’s also a good fit if you’re wanting more exposure to the life sciences before deciding whether to declare one of the concentrations below.

You’ll have the option to enroll in one of five concentrations focused on a particular aspect of biology, in addition to building core skills and knowledge in the field. The available concentrations are:

Prepare for postgraduate studies

If you’re seeking to continue on to a master’s degree or PhD, this program can prepare you for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT®). The curriculum also aligns with recommendations from the American Medical Colleges and the Howard Hughes Medical Committee.

Not interested in taking the MCAT®? After completing this program, you’ll be equipped with the foundational knowledge to pursue non-medical graduate degrees in a variety of fields of biology.

This bachelor’s degree can be completed as part of an Accelerated Master’s program. When accepted, you can earn a master’s degree in as little as one year after completing your undergraduate degree. This opportunity saves you time and money while giving you advanced knowledge in your field. Applicable master's degrees include:

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.”

Transform your skills in a new era of biology education.

Online biology degree courses

The program’s curriculum provides a broad study of the field with courses in biology, biochemistry, ecology, genetics and more.

You can expect to complete nearly all of your classes online. However, the organic chemistry lab course requires in-person attendance. All in-person work may be completed during a one-week session at the Arizona State University Tempe campus or an approved accredited institution near your location.

Learn more about our in-person labs.


The jobs this online biology degree prepares you for

This program prepares you for careers in research, lab work and fields where knowledge of biology and scientific abilities are key. You could be ready for a wide range of careers from healthcare, to research, to working in zoos and aquariums. It’s also designed to provide the necessary background to pursue advanced education. Career examples include:

Biological Sciences Professor


Growth: 8.6 %
Salary: $81,650

Biologist


Growth: 3.9 %
Salary: $87,300

Clinical Trial Manager


Growth: 4.8 %
Salary: $144,440

Dentist


Growth: 4.4 %
Salary: $155,040

Environmental Protection Specialist


Growth: 6.1 %
Salary: $76,480

High School Teacher


Growth: 1.0 %
Salary: $62,360

Medical and Health Services Manager


Growth: 28.4 %
Salary: $104,830

Pharmacist


Growth: 2.6 %
Salary: $132,750

Veterinarian (Vet)


Growth: 19.7 %
Salary: $103,260

Experienced and exceptional biological science faculty

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

Experienced and exceptional biological science faculty

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

I am a future

You’re considered a first-year student for application purposes if you’ve never attended college or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours.

Learn how to apply.

Don't meet admission requirements?

You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.

To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.

*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.

Don't meet admission requirements?

You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.

To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.

*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.

A college dedicated to developing tomorrow’s biological science leaders

The College of Liberal Arts and 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.

25,500+


currently enrolled students

$170 million


in research expenditures in 2022

23


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.

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