Online Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences – Biology and Society
Learn to navigate the complexities of how biology and society intersect with Arizona State University’s online Bachelor of Science in biological sciences with a concentration in biology and society. This program offers the opportunity to experience science, not just learn it. Using innovative technology, you’ll explore how society shapes science and how science shapes the ways we understand our world. Additionally, you’ll discover how biology affects a range of ethical, historical, philosophical, political and social issues.
Quick facts
Next start date: 08/21/2025
Total classes: 40
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 120
Understanding the direct impact scientific research has on our world
Biology plays an integral part in our social context. And as a biology and society major, you’ll study science from a humanities perspective. Biological research may impact society in diverse ways, such as adapting water systems, curing human diseases and protecting our planet.
The biology and society concentration curriculum covers bioethics, conservation, ecology, genomics and more. You'll engage in scientific inquiry and investigate ethical, historical, philosophical and social issues. It also explores the impact of biology on humanity and our environment. Additionally, you'll learn about past and present controversies of applications of biology, including gene editing, human cloning and stem cell research.
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. Additional practical learning opportunities may include at-home lab kits, in-person lab sessions, internships and research.
The career paths and master’s programs this degree prepares you for
Studying biology ethics gives you a diverse skill set applicable to a variety of careers. Upon graduating, you’ll have quantitative reasoning and scientific abilities, as well as intrapersonal and interpersonal skills. You’ll relate biological concepts to social and historical problems and know how to communicate science ethically. These competencies have proven to be instrumental in both biological and humanities careers. Potential career fields for graduates include environmental law, public policy and public health.
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.”
Learn biology online in ways you never thought possible.
Biology, ethics and society courses
Course topics include bioethics, conservation biology, environmental ethics, and the history and philosophy of science. You’ll examine science in contemporary society with a focus on ethics, historical context and philosophical foundations. Depending on your elective choices, you may also complete lab experiences in person at ASU’s Tempe campus.
Learn more about the in-person lab sessions and how to prepare.
What you can do with a biology and society degree
How does science shape the ways we live in and understand our world? How does society shape the way we do science? This program offers perspectives on these questions, preparing you to become an effective teacher, policymaker, clinician or researcher.
Potential career paths for biology and society majors include, but aren’t limited to:
Bioinformatics Scientist
Biological Sciences Professor
Community Health Worker
Environmental Protection Specialist
High School Teacher
Lawyer
Medical Scientist
Medical and Health Services Manager
Learn from global scientific leaders
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 global scientific leaders
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
first-year student
You’re considered a first-year student for application purposes if you’ve never attended college or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours.
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.
The largest and most diverse college at ASU
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.
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.
