Online Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences – Biology and Society
Learn to navigate the complexities of how biology and society intertwine. Arizona State University’s Bachelor of Science in biological sciences with a concentration in biology and society explores how society shapes science and how science shapes the ways we live and understand our world. In this program, you'll discover how biology affects a range of ethical, historical, philosophical, political and social issues.
Quick facts
Next start date: 06/29/2023
Total classes: 40
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 120
Degree questions, answered.
Have questions about the Biological Sciences – Biology and Society (BS)? Fill out this form and we’ll get in touch!
Why study biology and society?
As a biology and society major, you’ll study science from a humanities perspective. This interdisciplinary bachelor’s degree with a biology and society concentration explores the impact of biology on humanity and our environment. You’ll learn about past and present controversies on applications of biology, including gene editing, human cloning and stem cell research.
The program’s curriculum also covers bioethics, conservation, ecology, genomics and more. You'll engage in scientific inquiry and investigate ethical, historical, philosophical and social issues. You’ll also develop important cognitive skills, such as:
- Critical thinking.
- Problem-solving.
- Interpersonal communication.
- Cultural awareness.
- Teamwork.
These skills prepare biology and society majors to be more effective policymakers, researchers, teachers and writers.
In addition to learning through lectures and textbooks, you can take advantage of at-home lab kits, simulation tools and other innovative learning experiences. You’ll also have the opportunity to utilize virtual reality and 2D labs, including Dreamscape Learn.
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.”
Hands-on experience in an online biology lab
Watch videoBiology, ethics and society courses
You’ll take a range of courses in the online biology and society major. Course topics include bioethics, conservation biology, environmental ethics, history and philosophy of science. You’ll learn about science in contemporary society with a focus on ethics, history and philosophy. Courses may include:
BIO 307: Research Colloquium: Identifying a Research Question
BIO 414: Research Colloquium in Biology and Society II
BIO 311: Biology and Society
BIO 345: Evolution
BIO 181: General Biology I (SQ)
BIO 182: General Biology II (SG)
BIO 340: General Genetics
What can I do with a biology and society major?
You’ll graduate from this biology and society program with an interdisciplinary skill set grounded in science and the humanities, including scientific, intrapersonal and interpersonal skills. As a graduate, you’ll have the knowledge and skills needed for a variety of careers including, but not 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.
- 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.
- Fulbright American Scholars.
- Guggenheim Fellows.
- MacArthur Fellows.
- Nobel laureates.
How to apply
first-year student
You are considered a first-year student for application purposes if you have not attended college at all, or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours (with a minimum 2.50 cumulative GPA).
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain admission to 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 the Earned Admission Pathway is right for you.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain admission to 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 the Earned Admission Pathway is right for you.
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 be socially aware, critical thinkers and global citizens.
25,500+
currently enrolled students.
$140
million in research expenditures in 2018.
23
interdisciplinary schools and departments.
95+
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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