ASU Online

In this neuroscience program, you’ll study the brain and nervous system, which are two of the most complex biological structures. You’ll have the opportunity to analyze behavior, thoughts, consciousness and emotion related to the nervous system.

You’ll also learn the basic elements of the nervous system and how it functions in relation to cognition, behavior, thought and emotion in humans and animals through field research. Foundations in biochemistry, biology, engineering, mathematics and psychology provide you with a deeper understanding of the structure and function of the brain and nervous system.

Tailor your studies to fit your interests

Neuroscience provides opportunities to uncover the mystery of consciousness and to gain insight into health promotion and maintenance. With a variety of paths you can take, this program allows you to tailor your curriculum to fit your interests and goals. You’ll have the opportunity to select your upper-division courses from four focal areas of neuroscience that use different levels of analysis:

• Behavioral neuroscience: Learn about the biological processes of neural activity and transmission that underlie subsequent behavior, largely using animal models.
• Cellular and molecular neuroscience: Examine the basic biological processes of the neural cells, both individually and as they connect.
• Cognitive neuroscience: Study the correlation between brain processes and our thoughts and experiences of the world using a range of approaches that draw on neuroimaging and cognitive psychology.
• Systems neuroscience: Explore how the billions of neural cells work together in neural networks.

What can you do with a bachelor’s in neuroscience?

Upon graduation, you’ll be prepared for a variety of careers in health and research. While many neuroscience career paths require a master’s- or doctorate-level degree, there are some that don’t, such as a clinical research assistant, health educator and more.

Building skills in computer programming, experimental design, behavioral understanding and data science will equip you as a marketable STEM professional. This degree also provides you with the foundations needed to continue on to medical school; however, it doesn’t prepare you for counseling psychology.

How this program compares to our biological sciences (neurology, physiology and behavior) degree

If you're fascinated by the human brain and nervous system, the BS in neuroscience is ideal for you. This program focuses on cognition, emotion and behavior, offering hands-on research experience and preparation for careers or graduate study in neuroscience, psychology, medicine and other health-related fields.

In contrast, the biological sciences (neurobiology, physiology and behavior studies) program explores multiple physiological systems across species and includes ecological, evolutionary and biomedical perspectives. The neuroscience degree, however, provides an approach that allows translation between both human and animal species, supporting the application of scientific insights to real-world questions about the mysteries of the mind and brain.

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.

Cellular interconnectivity leads to the growth and development of tissues and organs, which is the foundation of developmental biology. Modern developmental biology uses both genetics and cell biology to understand how genes and the environment interact to produce an individual from a single cell as well as understand the various developmental changes that organisms undergo throughout life.

Who’s a good candidate for this program?

This program is ideal if you’re interested in studying classical genetics, genomics, molecular biology, developmental biology, evolution, biochemistry, cellular biology or regenerative medicine. This concentration is also a good fit if you’re considering a career in epidemiology. Check out our article on how to become an epidemiologist.

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

Innovation exists in all spaces from nonprofit organizations and private businesses to academia and the government. This innovation degree provides you with the knowledge needed to analyze the complex relationships between science, technology and society.

In this program, you’ll explore the artistic and humanities aspects of innovation. You’ll also gain an understanding of how advancements in science and technology change the way people live, work and experience the world. Whether you hope to launch a social enterprise, shape public policy or drive sustainable innovation, you’ll graduate prepared to drive equitable solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges.

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 global technology and development.
• Master of Science in public interest technology.

What you’ll learn in the innovation in society BA program

Blending theory and practice, your courses focus on building skills in designing, implementing and evaluating responsible innovation projects. You’ll learn how to analyze the implications of emerging technologies, assess roles of governments and markets in shaping innovation, apply foresight methodologies and communicate about science and technology.

Additionally, you’ll gain an understanding of how to engage with scientists, engineers, corporations and communities to drive innovation that enhance societal values, such as:

• Health and happiness.
• Economic prosperity.
• Justice and peace.
• Privacy and security.
• Sustainability.

What’s the difference between a BA and BS in innovation in society?

The BA in innovation in society degree is an ideal fit for students with a background in the humanities and social sciences. This program is built for those interested in bringing disciplines together to solve 21st century challenges.

This differs from the Bachelor of Science in innovation in society, which is designed for those looking to gain a technical perspective on ways their work can impact the world. The BS in innovation in society has a higher math requirement, as well as other technical courses.

From breakthroughs in artificial intelligence to improvements in renewable energy, emerging technologies can transform society. However, rapid advancement increases the need for responsible, ethical innovation focused on sustainability and social impact.

This degree program equips you to become a leader in shaping the future of innovation. You’ll gain the technical skills needed to educate the public on science and technology, as well as analyze, build and innovate equitable solutions for all.

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 global technology and development.
• Master of Science in public interest technology.

What you'll learn in the innovation in society BS program

Through a combination of coursework, hands-on projects and opportunities for research and internships, you’ll explore the complex relationships between science, technology and society. You’ll also learn how to evaluate the impacts of new innovations on the environment, economy, global community and politics. As a graduate, you’ll have a set of technical skills transferable to nearly every industry, including:

• Analyzing the social, ethical and political implications of emerging technologies.
• Applying foresight methodologies to anticipate the future impacts of science, technology and policy.
• Assessing the role of governments, markets and other actors in shaping innovation.
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams.
• Communicating effectively about science and technology.
• Designing and implementing responsible innovation projects.

What is the difference between a BS and BA in innovation in society?

The Bachelor of Science in innovation in society is tailored for students with a background or interest in the engineering, science and quantitative social science aspects of innovation. With a focus on math, the BS includes required courses related to science, engineering and statistics.

The Bachelor of Arts in innovation in society is a less technical degree better suited for those interested in the arts and humanities. The BA program has lower math requirements and doesn’t require statistics or additional technical electives.

Human systems engineering focuses on designing, developing and evaluating systems that align with human capabilities and limitations. This multidisciplinary field blends computer science, behavioral science, engineering and social psychology, equipping you with the tools to create technologies built with users in mind.

With this program’s concentration in user experience (UX) and focus on human performance science, you’ll develop a deep understanding of human behavior. You’ll learn how to improve computer interface usability and enhance human-computer interactions, making them more accessible and enjoyable.

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 user experience.

The knowledge and skills you’ll develop

This program equips you with a diverse set of skills to tackle real-world challenges. You’ll strengthen your decision-making, programming, reading comprehension and troubleshooting abilities while mastering tools and methods for designing efficient human-computer interactions. The comprehensive skill set you develop will enhance your problem-solving abilities across fields, including product usability, workplace and hospital safety, learning design and sports performance.

Can I become a UX engineer or UX designer with this degree?

Yes, this program enables you to pursue a career as a UX engineer or UX designer. User experience is a rapidly growing field in need of skilled professionals. This program will strengthen your research, analysis and design skills, while also training you in effective communication. These abilities prepare you to lead teams and collaborate with clients and technical experts in a variety of fields, including digital visualization design, human factors research, interaction and interface design, usability testing and more.

Human systems engineering focuses on integrating human factors, such as capabilities and limitations, into technology design to enhance user interaction and efficiency. For instance, human systems engineers might optimize a car's interior displays and controls to ensure that a driver can easily and safely navigate the vehicle. Unlike user experience designers, who focus on the subjective feelings of using an application, human systems engineers analyze behavioral responses to system interactions, such as visual reactions or memory recall. This approach helps tailor technologies to better fit human needs and improve overall functionality.

The knowledge and skills you’ll develop in this program

Throughout this program, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of human performance science and learn how to apply this knowledge to solve real-world problems across multiple domains. By integrating principles of engineering and psychology, this program equips you with the skills to enhance system design for usability, safety and efficiency in contexts ranging from product development and aviation to sports performance and health care.

You’ll develop proficiency in research design, data analysis, writing and verbal presentation, preparing you to address challenges in user experience, patient safety, teamwork and more. As you master the ability to design technology that complements human capabilities and limitations, you'll be well-prepared for a career that demands innovative solutions to enhance safety, comfort and productivity.

Traditionally, when picking a program, students are forced to choose between creative and technical fields. However, this program was created to break the mold and fill the growing demand for employees with multiple skill sets.

This program focuses on fostering a new kind of digital fluency — not only proficiency with design, tools and code, but also the ability to adapt to the rapid change associated with 21st century culture. As a media arts major, you’ll learn about the latest digital tools and systems while immersing yourself in the issues of lived experience in our new connected world.

What you’ll learn in this media arts and sciences program

You’ll master cutting-edge tools, engage in critical reflection of these tools and discuss their impact on our lived experience. Throughout your courses, you’ll also:

• Create images, animations and interactive programs.
• Examine the effects of digital technology on the way we live, communicate, learn and create.
• Experiment with techniques for physical, digital, literary and artistic prototyping.
• Explore techniques in programming in the context of images, sounds, interaction, networking and data visualization.
• Trace our evolution, look at current examples of hybrid cultural processes and discuss possible future trends.
• Learn how to use images, movies, sound files, microphones and cameras.

This program concludes with a hands-on capstone, in which you’ll integrate, extend and apply information, principles, theories and methods learned in previous courses while supervised by your instructor.

Please note: During the semesters spent completing your capstone, you’ll have access to all on-campus computing and fabrication resources, including a digital fabrication lab with 3D printers, a wood shop, laser cutters and an electronics lab.

Careers for media arts majors

As our world continues to evolve, there’s a surging demand for professionals who are both creative and technical. This program supports and fosters digital creativity, helping you stay ahead of the curve in our ever-changing digital culture.

Throughout your courses, you’ll gain computer, media, aesthetics and cultural literacy skills. With these skills and the hands-on experience gained in your capstone, you’ll have the knowledge and experience needed for a variety of jobs, including app designer, web developer, sound artist, UX designer and video game designer.