Online Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences – Genetics, Cell and Developmental Biology
Arizona State University’s online Bachelor of Science in biological sciences with a concentration in genetics, cell and developmental biology is a one-of-a-kind degree that combines three essential areas of life science. You’ll gain a deep understanding of genetics, cells and developmental biology to prepare you for careers in medicine, biotechnology or medical research. Unlock your possibilities through world-class biology courses that allow you to apply skills, not just pass exams.
Quick facts
Next start date: 08/21/2025
Total classes: 40
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 120
Start your path to careers in genetics, biotech, medicine and more
This program is the first of its kind to integrate three related areas of life science research: cell biology, developmental biology and genetics. Studying these fields together has advanced a better understanding of diseases, regeneration and aging, and promises to prove even more important in the future.
This program offers coursework at the intersection of genetics, genomes and developmental biology. You’ll also gain knowledge of fundamental concepts in biological sciences, chemistry, physics and statistics. Developing scientific process and critical thinking skills will prepare you for a variety of career or professional degrees in genetics, medicine and genomes. Upon graduation, you’ll be prepared for graduate and professional degrees in genetics, medicine and genomes.
How cell and developmental biology relate to genetics
Genetics examines the blueprints of life, providing critical information such as what makes living things unique, how diseases develop and how and when organisms live, survive and thrive.
While genes and genomes provide the instructions for all living things, this machinery of life is enclosed within the boundaries of cells. Since cells provide all activities critical for life, from metabolism to reproduction, cell biology serves as the nexus for understanding cellular function and connections and interactions across cells.
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.”
Elevate your understanding of the natural world through hands-on learning and immersive courses.
Genetics, cell and developmental biology courses
Courses provide knowledge of the fundamental concepts found within the biological sciences, genetics, chemistry, physics and statistics. You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in lab experiences in person on ASU’s Tempe campus.
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 jobs this degree can set you on the path to
Upon graduating, you’ll be well equipped to enter a variety of career fields, including genetics, biotechnology and medicine. You'll also be prepared to continue your pursuit of becoming a physician, dentist, veterinarian or pharmacist in graduate school. Potential career paths include, but aren’t limited to:
Biological Sciences Professor
Clinical Trial Manager
Cytotechnologist
Epidemiologist
Genetic Counselor
Geneticist
High School Teacher
Medical Scientist
Learn from leading experts in biology
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 leading experts in biology
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
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
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.
