Online Bachelor of Science 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.

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:

Program Field of Study
Bachelor of Science
Program Focus
Biological Sciences
Program Name Abbreviation
Biological Sciences (BS)
Program Category
Degree Image
A biology degree online graduate handling plant specimens.
Program Description Intro

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.

Plan Code
LABSCBS
Program code
UGLA
Start Date
Areas of Interest
Courses Summary

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. This hands-on component may be completed during a one-week session at ASU’s Tempe campus or an approved, accredited institution near you.

Learn more about the on-campus lab experience and how to prepare.

Total Classes
39
Total Hours
120
Total Classes Tooltip
Class number may be less for transfer students.
Total Credit Hours
120
Total Hours Tooltip
Required number of credits to complete this degree.
Program Fee Code
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences - Sciences Programs
Courses Section Title
Online biology degree courses
CIP code
26.01
Title
Experienced and exceptional biological science faculty
Description

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
Title
Transform your skills in a new era of biology education.
Accolade title
A college dedicated to developing tomorrow’s biological science leaders
Accolade Description

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.

Accolade item
Accolades Title
31,572
Accolades Description

currently enrolled students

Accolades Title
$161 million
Accolades Description

in research expenditures in FY23

Accolades Title
21
Accolades Description

interdisciplinary schools and departments

Accolades Title
100+
Accolades Description

undergraduate degrees

Accolades Title
150+
Accolades Description

graduate degrees

Accolades Title
Top 9
Accolades Description

for humanities research, according to the National Science Foundation

Admission requirement title
How to apply
Manual Cost
false
Weeks per Class
7.5
Academic Career
Undergraduate
Program fee code for resident
UPO305
Program fee code for non-resident
UPO305
Program Description Title
An innovative degree that prepares you for a career in biological sciences
override admission requirement
Off
Apply Now URL
https://webapp4.asu.edu/uga_admissionsapp/?term=2261&session=SESA&campus=ONLNE
Slug
biological-sciences-bs
Program Generated Code
UGLA-LABSCBS
Title
Will my diploma say ‘online’?
Description

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.”

Schedule to talk
Academic Partner
Entity Type
Program highlights
Program Features