In-demand careers

This program integrates a core business curriculum with the study of economics as a social science. Business courses include accounting, finance, management, marketing, supply chain management and data analytics. Building off this foundation, you’ll delve into micro- and macroeconomic theory, applying these theories to practical problems through statistical analysis.

Additionally, you’ll develop skills to model economic phenomena using algebra, calculus and statistics. You’ll also explore topics ranging from pricing strategy and cost-benefit analysis to environmental policy impact and international exchange rates. Elective courses allow you to explore specialized areas, such as international, financial, labor and development economics.

How this program compares to our liberal arts economics degree

ASU’s online business and liberal arts economics programs both explore how society deals with scarcity and require mathematical and statistical aptitude. However, the program you choose will depend on your interests and career goals.

This online business economics degree is ideal if you’re interested in career paths that draw from practical business knowledge, especially economic theory. As a graduate, you’ll be well-prepared for positions within banking and finance, government, public policy and other fields that demand analytical and quantitative skills.

Alternatively, you may pursue ASU’s liberal arts economics degree online if you’re passionate about economics, but want more flexibility in elective courses. While the economics curriculum is identical, you do not need to complete the business core. This program is a great option if you want to combine economics studies with another field in preparation to work in law, government, politics and more.

In this program, you'll learn about the innovative ways organizations use information technology to drive their success. You'll also gain a variety of targeted skills, such as:

• Business intelligence for competitive advantage.
• Business processes for workflow redesign.
• Data management for decision-making
• Distributed systems for collaboration and globalization.
• Enterprise integration for synergy.
• Management of technology and systems to support organization goals and initiatives.
• Project management.
• Solution development for value creation.

In addition to gaining technical knowledge, you’ll also learn how to engage with key stakeholders, such as staff, employees, suppliers and government officials. This program prepares you to design, build and maintain information technology and systems that support critical business operations and managerial decision-making.

CIS majors: In-demand and highly paid

Currently, there is a shortage of information systems professionals, with many more jobs than graduates. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in roles related to computer and information technology is expected to grow 15% from 2022 to 2023, which is much faster than average for all occupations.

The BLS also reported that the median annual pay in this group of occupations was ​​$100,530 in May 2022. That’s more than double the median earnings of all occupations, which was $46,310 in the same time period. Upon graduating from this program, you’ll have the opportunity to pursue in-demand careers across many industries.

CIS vs. CS: What’s the difference between them?

This online bachelor’s in computer information systems, offered by the W. P. Carey School of Business, focuses on designing, developing and managing software applications and systems. In this program you’ll learn how to embed these systems within a business and leverage their accessibility to create real value. Information systems professionals are the bridge between a business’ goals and the technology needed in order to bring these goals to life. After completing this CIS program, you’ll be well-prepared with technical expertise with a strong business foundation.

The online bachelor’s in computer science program, offered by the Fulton School of Engineering, focuses on the next generation of computer technology. This includes highlighting engineering and software development fundamentals to analyze a variety of applications from artificial intelligence to database systems. In the CS program, you’ll have the opportunity to learn and integrate programming languages such as Java, C and C++ into projects.

This program provides a comprehensive education in electrical engineering while offering specialized knowledge in the generation, transmission and utilization of electric power. You’ll study large-scale energy management and explore emerging technologies related to wind turbines, hydroelectric power and other renewable energy sources. Courses cover electric power plants, nuclear engineering, photovoltaic energy conversion, power system analysis, electrical machinery and more.

Accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, this program meets the commission’s educational standards and prepares you to excel in engineering careers.

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 Science in Engineering in electrical engineering.

What is power engineering?

Electrical power engineering refers to the practice of creating and improving systems for handling electric power. This includes generating power and sourcing energy for intended industrial and consumer applications. Today, demand is deviating from large-scale centralized plants to smaller networked systems. Likewise, other big shifts are happening as the world converts to renewable energy and electric cars. As a power engineer, you can bridge this divide and aid in developing new energy systems and electric grids that carry the world into a cleaner future.

What does an electrical power engineer do?

Electrical power engineers specialize in designing and operating technologies related to the electrical grid and power generation. They work with conventional power sources, such as fossil fuels and nuclear energy, as well as alternative energies, including solar, wind, hydroelectric and geothermal power.

Your job duties may involve electric system analysis, wind turbine design, solar panel development, generator maintenance and more depending on your position. As an electrical power engineer, you’ll also have the opportunity to help develop emerging technologies in the transition to renewable energy and build automated smart grids.

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

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