Science

An online chemistry degree provides a foundation of knowledge applicable to a variety of career paths, such as forensics, environmental sciences, teaching and more.

Grounded in physical science, this liberal arts degree complements a range of other interests and may be a good option for those looking to earn an additional degree. For example, chemistry can be combined with law for patent work, with economics for sales and marketing careers and with computer science for careers in bioinformatics and computational chemistry. Additionally, this degree is often pursued by those who are interested in teaching science at K-12 levels.

If you’re looking to pursue a scientific research career, you should consider ASU Online's Bachelor of Science in biochemistry instead. Those looking to pursue a career in health care should consider the Bachelor of Science in medicinal chemistry. For more information about pre-health education and ASU’s tailored pre-health advisor program, please visit our pre-health website.

The skills you’ll gain from a BA in chemistry

Both the lectures and lab courses in this online chemistry degree equip you with problem solving and critical thinking skills that are beneficial for nearly any career path you choose.

Upon graduation, you’ll be well-versed in specialized chemistry knowledge and competencies, such as:

• Compound analysis.
• Laboratory experiment procedures.
• Material structure and composition.
• Nanoscience.
• Scientific language and citations.
• Substance analysis at the molecular level.
• Synthesizing materials.
• Toxicology processes.

Gain hands-on experience with our in-person chemistry labs

In this program, you’ll complete both online and in-person lab courses. Organic chemistry includes a seven-day in-person lab component, while biochemistry requires five days. These on-campus sessions take place in the summer and provide valuable hands-on experience needed to pursue a variety of chemistry career paths.

Courses also feature eScience lab kits delivered to your home. These experiences equip you with essential technical skills and strengthen your ability to work in teams in a lab setting. After conducting experiments, you’ll analyze and document your work using scientific language and citations.

In this program, you’ll learn through a combination of courses and hands-on learning experiences. You’ll also gain an understanding of how living organisms interact with the natural world, as well as how to reduce human interference with these natural processes. Upon graduation, you’ll be equipped with a wide skill set applicable to a variety of areas of conservation biology and ecology, such as:

• Animal and plant physiology
• Behavioral ecology
• Community and landscape ecology
• Population biology
• Restoring degraded ecosystems

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.

Understanding conservation ecology

Conservation ecology is an applied science that focuses on preserving biological diversity and maintaining healthy ecosystems. Conservation ecologists are concerned with evaluating and reducing the human impact on Earth’s biodiversity. In the field and at the policy level, ecologists use practical strategies to mitigate risks of species extinction and promote the sustainable use of biological resources.

Conservation ecology involves a multipronged approach: Protecting the integrity of existing ecosystems, investigating causes for degradation and reestablishing optimal conditions. The work of conservation ecologists reaches a wide array of ecosystems, including forests, grasslands, rivers, urban landscapes, wetlands and more.

Does this program prepare for roles in wildlife conservation and wildlife biology?

Yes, this program can support a variety of career opportunities in the field, such as park ranger, fish and wildlife biologist, soil conservationist and more. Some conservation and wildlife biology roles, such as those in academia and research, require additional study and training.

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:

• Master of Science in biology
• Master of Science in computational life sciences

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.

This bachelor’s degree can also 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:

• Master of Science in biology
• Master of Science in computational life sciences

This program is the world’s first online accredited undergraduate astronomy degree. With custom-built classes and innovative coursework, this program makes learning astronomy online convenient, compelling and tailored to your learning needs.

The curriculum includes:

• Groundwork in mathematics and physical sciences.
• Topical courses focused on diverse fields within astronomy and planetary science.
• Exposure to the engineering and computational tools and techniques used to carry out research.

As a student in this program, you’ll gain skills in coding, communication and problem solving, including how to break down and tackle complex problems applying modern statistical data analysis techniques using computers.

Who’s this program a good fit for?

This program is ideal for students interested in obtaining a quantitative understanding of the science of the solar system and beyond. In this math-intensive program, an interest in math will help set you up for success and be prepared to utilize it throughout all upper-division courses. Upon graduation, you’ll be equipped with broad training in the scientific foundations and fundamentals of space exploration, including ongoing advancements in the field.

What you can do with a bachelor’s in astronomy

Upon completing this program, you can pursue careers in fields that value scientific knowledge. These types of careers involve the use of modern statistical data analysis techniques. You may also find jobs within K-12 STEM teaching, writing and journalism, science policy or statistical data analysis and computer programming.

Additionally, because this astronomy degree focuses on critical thinking and innovative problem-solving, it may prepare you for law school or other graduate school opportunities related to this skill set. However, if you plan to apply to a graduate program in astronomy or astrophysics, or pursue a path as a university professor or professional astronomer, you’ll need additional advanced coursework in mathematics and physics, as well as in-person research experience. To meet these graduate school requirements, you should consider pursuing the on-campus Bachelor of Science in earth and space exploration with a concentration in astrophysics program.

This program offers an in-depth exploration of the fundamentals of chemistry and biomolecules, making it an ideal choice for pre-health students or those seeking a liberal arts degree grounded in laboratory-based physical science. You’ll dive into biology, organic chemistry and physics, alongside courses in liberal arts and a foreign language. As you progress, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of how chemical processes enable living organisms to function, with a focus on how cells communicate through molecular and atomic-level processes.

The skills you’ll develop

As a biochemistry major, you’ll develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for STEM careers. You’ll explore how biochemists contribute to drug discovery, pathogen control and environmental remediation while gaining a deep understanding of molecular and atomic processes that drive biological systems. Alongside scientific knowledge, you’ll strengthen your cultural and quantitative skills through liberal arts courses.

You’ll also complete in-person courses for organic chemistry and biochemistry in an accelerated format, typically taking less than two weeks. These hands-on experiences enhance the legitimacy of your online degree and equip you for a career in STEM. While you may be able to take these courses at an approved institution near you, equivalencies aren’t guaranteed, so work with your advisor to confirm transfer eligibility.

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

How does this BA compare to a BS in biochemistry?

When comparing a BA and BS in biochemistry, this BA offers a more well-rounded education with a foreign language requirement and electives that enhance cultural competencies and quantitative skills. However, if your goal is to pursue a career in scientific research or a PhD in the sciences, our Bachelor of Science in biochemistry is a better option for you.

The BS program includes more advanced calculus math courses which are essential for research-focused careers. This BA, while less math-intensive, still provides a strong foundation in biochemistry, making it an excellent choice for those interested in broader career paths or further study in interdisciplinary fields.

Whether you choose the BA or BS, you’ll have support from academic, career and pre-health advisors throughout your program. You’ll receive personalized guidance on health-related graduate pathways and career options. Advisors will also help connect you with local research, clinical internships and community service opportunities. For more information, please visit our pre-health website.