Online Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences – Biology and Society
Are you interested in navigating the complexities of how biology and society intersect? Arizona State University’s Bachelor of Science in biological sciences with a concentration in biology and society offers you 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 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: 01/13/2025
Total classes: 40
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 120
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.
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. Additional practical learning opportunities may include at-home lab kits, in-person lab sessions, internships and research.
What’s the relationship between biology and society?
Biology plays an integral part in our social context. Biological research may impact society in diverse ways, such as adapting water systems, curing human diseases and protecting our planet.
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
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. Additionally, depending on your elective choices, you’ll also have the opportunity to complete lab experiences in person on ASU's Tempe campus.
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 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.
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.
