Undergraduate

With rapid advancements in technology, it’s now possible to more effectively test, treat and rehabilitate patients. In this program, you’ll learn how to implement innovative developments, manage broad organizational programs and lead transformation processes to help improve testing, treatment and rehabilitation.

This program also explores the principles of innovation, change theory, health care leadership, evidence-based decision making and more. You’ll build a foundation to navigate short- and long-term changes in areas such as communication, leadership, policy and technology, preparing you for various leadership positions in the field.

Who’s a good candidate for this program?

This degree is ideal for those who want to lead changes in our health care systems. A variety of backgrounds complement this program, particularly experience in health management, product innovation and health care.

Upon earning this degree, you can pursue leadership positions across health care settings or take on positions developing innovative solutions for patients. Career paths include health entrepreneurship, hospital administration, business operations and health care management.

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 — saving you time and money while deepening your expertise. Applicable master’s degrees include:

• Master of Healthcare Innovation
• Master of Science in aging

Have you earned or plan to earn an Associate of Applied Science? If so, ask your ASU Online enrollment coach about transferring into our Bachelor of Applied Science in health entrepreneurship and innovation, which is specially designed for those with an AAS.

As you prepare to improve patient outcomes in a leadership role, you’ll explore how to implement innovation, drive change and reduce disruption through hands-on experience and career-focused learning.

You’ll also examine how new policies, methods, systems and tools improve care, reduce risks and bring innovation directly to patients. The coursework will provide you with foundational knowledge and skills in areas such as:

• Change theory
• Collaboration
• Evidence-based decision making
• Leadership
• The principles of innovation

Graduates from this program can pursue entrepreneurial, managerial and administrative roles requiring both strategic thinking and innovative action within health care. Career opportunities include health innovator, medical service manager, innovation direction and health entrepreneur.

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 — saving you time and money while expanding your expertise. Applicable master’s degrees include:

• Master of Health Care Innovation
• Master of Science in aging

How is a Bachelor of Applied Science degree different from a BA or BS degree?

Bachelor of Applied Science degrees are tailored to students who’ve earned an Associate of Applied Science.

• Students who’ve earned an AAS from a regionally accredited institution may transfer 60 credit hours toward their BAS.
• Students who’ve earned an AAS from a regionally accredited Arizona community college may be eligible to transfer up to 75 credits toward their BAS.

An academic advisor can ensure your courses will meet degree requirements. If you don’t have an AAS and aren’t planning to earn one, learn more about ASU’s online Bachelor of Science in health entrepreneurship and innovation.

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:

• Biology and society
• Biomedical sciences
• Conservation biology and ecology
• Genetics, cell and developmental biology
• Neurobiology, physiology and behavior

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:

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

Forensic psychology is the application of psychology to the law, and this online forensic psychology degree concentration combines general training in psychology with specialized course work in criminal law, criminal behavior, the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders and legal decision-making.

A bachelor’s degree such as this — one of the only undergraduate degrees on this topic in the nation — can be your first step on your path to graduate and doctoral education, which are needed to pursue advanced roles in the field. For example, you’ll need to complete a graduate degree to work as a psychologist and becoming a forensic psychologist requires a PhD.

As a forensic psychologist, you may help determine the mental state of criminal defendants. You could also work in other parts of the justice system, including law enforcement or corrections.

Choosing between a BA and BS in forensic psychology

ASU Online offers both a BA and BS in psychology with a concentration in forensic psychology.

This BS program provides more of a foundation in math and science and it emphasizes biological and neuroscientific understanding. The BS is intended to support advanced study through the exploration of topics and concepts in psychology, clinical applications and public policy. As such, you’ll need to take additional lab courses and advanced statistical training. There are also more math and science requirements.

Our Bachelor of Arts in forensic psychology focuses on concepts related to human behavior and the justice system. It focuses less on math and science, instead offering more electives and course selection you can use to customize your undergraduate studies.

Both degrees can be useful for applying to graduate programs, but the BS may be preferable for this.

Criminal psychology vs forensic psychology: How are they different?

Criminal psychology and forensic psychology are two related but distinct fields of study.

• Criminal psychology focuses on the psychology of criminal behavior, including the motives and thought processes that lead individuals to commit crimes.
• Forensic psychology applies psychology to legal issues and the criminal justice system.

Both fields are important for understanding and addressing criminal behavior and improving the effectiveness of the criminal justice system.

Much of this program is similar to a typical BA in psychology curriculum. You’ll take introductory courses, courses in statistics and research methods and courses that cover a variety of areas of psychology.

Additionally, you’ll take a special series of courses covering topics such as abnormal behavior, forensic assessment, psychology in correctional settings, criminology, criminal law and the psychology of juries and witnesses. Plus, ​​several elective courses are available that address topics such as sex crimes and juvenile justice.

This curriculum will lead to you acquiring a better understanding of the mental state of offenders, as well as psychological topics related to the court system. Additionally, you’ll gain general research and data analysis skills that are sought after by many industries.

What can I do with a bachelor’s in forensic psychology?

This program provides you with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue roles such as a behavioral health specialist or social worker. It can also be the first step on your path to graduate and doctoral education, which is needed to pursue advanced roles in the field. For example, you’ll need to complete a graduate degree to work as a forensic psychologist.

BA vs. BS in forensic psychology: The differences between the two

ASU Online offers both a BA and BS in psychology with a concentration in forensic psychology.

This BA program focuses on concepts related to human behavior and the justice system. It focuses less on math and science and instead offers more electives and course selection you can use to customize your undergraduate studies.

The Bachelor of Science in forensic psychology provides more of a foundation in math and science and emphasizes biological and neuroscientific understanding. The BS is intended to support advanced study through the exploration of topics and concepts in psychology, clinical applications and public policy. As such, you’ll need to take additional lab courses and advanced statistical training. There are also more math and science requirements. Both degrees can be useful for applying to graduate programs, but the BS may be preferable for this.

Biochemistry focuses on the chemical processes found in living creatures and organisms. In this program, you’ll explore the structure and properties of matter and apply that knowledge to explain biological processes in living systems. The curriculum covers topics such as thermodynamics, equilibrium theory, states of matter, solutions and chemical kinetics. You’ll learn how to answer key questions about the structure and purpose of a broad range of biological functions through the lens of chemistry.

Completing this program is a step toward submitting competitive applications for advanced science programs. Upon graduation, you’ll be equipped for postgraduate education paths, including medical school and physician assistant programs. You can also pursue master’s degrees in science, pharmacy and dentistry. Additionally, you’ll have access to academic and pre-health advisors who will support your success.

Get hands-on experience with in-person and virtual lab opportunities

This online biochemistry degree includes both online and in-person lab courses. Many of your lab requirements, such as in physics and general chemistry courses, can be completed online using at-home lab kits.

You’re also required to complete the organic chemistry and biochemistry labs in person at ASU’s Tempe campus. During this experience, you’ll learn professional techniques, including scientific theory, technical skills and how to communicate results effectively in writing. You may be able to complete these courses at an approved accredited institution near you, but equivalencies aren’t guaranteed. It’s important to work with your academic advisor to confirm transfer eligibility.

Gaining practical skills in the lab can set you apart when applying to graduate and professional programs in health and the sciences. Learn more about the on-campus sessions and how to prepare.

Choose the right biochemistry degree for your career path

ASU offers three online biochemistry bachelor’s degrees designed to support a variety of academic and professional paths:

• Bachelor of Arts in biochemistry
  • Offers more flexibility in electives and is ideal if you’re pursuing a career that combines biochemistry with other fields, such as education, communication or business.
• Bachelor of Science in biochemistry
  • Emphasizes a strong foundation in chemistry, biology and physics with lab experiences that prepare you for graduate programs and careers in science and medicine.
• Bachelor Science in biochemistry with a concentration in medicinal chemistry
  • Focuses on the design and development of pharmaceuticals and therapeutics, making it a good fit if you’re interested in drug discovery, pharmacology or biotechnology.

If you choose one of the BS degrees, you can apply for 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 computational life sciences

Corporate accounting is a specialized branch of accounting that focuses on the financial management and reporting of a business or corporation. This is an essential function for any business because it provides the foundation for informed decision-making and financial accountability. Key responsibilities of corporate accounting include:

• Analyzing financial information
• Generating reports
• Planning and updating budgets
• Preparing and maintaining records
• Presenting financial research to stakeholders

Additionally, corporate accounting professionals can use their knowledge to offer insight on potential financial issues or opportunities within the company. The coursework for this program combines a core business curriculum with lower- and higher-level managerial accounting courses for a well-rounded education upon graduation.

What you’ll learn in this corporate accounting degree concentration

This program provides an overview of business fundamentals with a focus on analysis and decision-making based on financial information. All of these skills are foundational and enduring needs for every company. As a graduate, you can compete for positions that leverage accounting and provide valuable input about a company’s direction.

Who’s a good candidate for this program?

Good candidates for this program include students looking to enter the business world armed with expertise in various aspects of accounting, including financial reporting, cost accounting, taxation and others. This program also prepares you with the knowledge and competencies needed to put the following credentials within reach:

• Certified management accountant (CMA).
• Chartered global management accountant (CGMA).

Please note: This corporate accounting degree concentration focuses on the needs of businesses and isn’t a direct path to becoming a certified public accountant (CPA). If you’re specifically interested in becoming a public accountant, the Bachelor of Science in accountancy program is highly recommended, as that program will get you much closer to meeting CPA requirements.

This program combines multiple disciplines to connect theory, practice and policy in addressing global challenges. You'll learn to identify and design solutions for critical issues, such as climate change, economic and social development, global conflicts, human rights and urbanization.

The curriculum integrates political science, sociology, history, economics and geography to provide a broad understanding of our interconnected world. Guided by internationally recognized faculty, you’ll explore diverse perspectives and develop innovative solutions to global challenges.

You’ll gain transferable skills in critical thinking, argumentation, research, empirical analysis and writing. Plus, you can participate in global experiences, such as an internship or other international opportunities.

What you can do with a global studies degree

This program prepares you for professional or graduate training, leading to possible careers within governmental organizations, international businesses or global policy entities. If you're already working in your field, it equips you with the expertise to transition into international career opportunities.

Additionally, 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 Arts in global security
• Master of Arts in global security – cybersecurity
• Master of Arts in global security – irregular warfare
• Master of Arts in international affairs and leadership

Morality and politics are foundational elements of philosophy, deeply influencing key concepts like liberty, equality and justice. Moral philosophy plays a vital role in legal systems and is closely connected to political theory. This program enables you to understand how ethical reasoning shapes both classical and modern interpretations of the law.

As one of the first schools to offer a bachelor’s with a concentration in morality, politics and law, this program teaches modern skills in social and political philosophy. It’s ideal for students pursuing careers in law, policy or politics and serves as a strong foundation for law school.

The knowledge and skills you’ll develop

Through coursework, you’ll refine your ability to form arguments, analyze information and communicate effectively. These skills are complemented by training in analytical reasoning and advanced writing, preparing you to engage thoughtfully with complex legal and political issues. You’ll also explore:

• Ethical reasoning.
• Central philosophical issues in law and jurisprudence.
• The meaning and application of foundational political values, such as equality, liberty and justice.

This program teaches you to develop solutions that promote resilient communities, ecosystems and economies. You’ll research current challenges and learn to shape new systems, processes and organizational structures to make a positive impact. In this interdisciplinary major, you can select one of the following tracks as an area of emphasis:

• Economics of sustainability.
• Sustainable ecosystems.
• Sustainable energy, materials and technology.

While earning your sustainability degree, you’ll take part in solutions-oriented courses, experiential learning opportunities and thoughtful community engagement and collaboration. As you solve practical problems, you’ll build analytical skills, practice collaboration and learn about decision-making across various disciplines. You’ll also study how to implement realistic plans and focus on results-oriented research to address local and global challenges.

Who’s a good candidate for this sustainability degree?

As an ideal candidate for this program, you should be motivated to find new solutions for environmental challenges and issues related to sustainable equity. You should also have a positive mindset about the future, an interest in developing strategies to achieve goals, and the ability to work effectively with others.

Having experience working in municipal departments, utility companies, the military or sustainability organizations could also be beneficial but is not required to succeed. Additionally, this program will support you in building abilities that can be applied to careers in policy, governance, international development, urban sustainability and the business world.

How this BS compares to other ASU Online sustainability programs

It’s important to understand the difference between a Bachelor of Science in sustainability and a Bachelor of Arts in sustainability. The BS is best suited for students interested in natural sciences, economics, engineering or related fields. The curriculum for this program places a greater emphasis on math and sciences for you to succeed in these fields. In your courses, you'll learn methods for using environmental resources, understanding environmental regulations and policies and evaluating sustainable technology.

Alternatively, the BA program is designed for students who want to study disciplines in the humanities, social sciences and planning. The curriculum includes a required second language to a higher level and places less emphasis on math and sciences. Coursework explores concepts related to environmental resources and institutions, legal frameworks, property rights and culture.

Please note, this program is also distinct from the Bachelor of Arts in Business – sustainability, which focuses on balancing sustainability with business needs to ensure success.