Science - Biomimicry or nature-inspired innovation

Display Title
Biomimicry or nature-inspired innovation
Slug
biomimicry-nature-innovation
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Online Master of Science in Biomimicry

Biomimicry draws inspiration from 3.8 billion years of evolution to solve modern challenges in areas such as sustainability, education, health care and design. In this program, you’ll explore biology, design thinking, chemistry and sustainability, gaining a deep understanding of how nature’s strategies can inspire innovative solutions. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and practical application, allowing you to design projects tailored to your career interests. By combining theory with hands-on experience, you’ll develop the skills to transform industries and create sustainable practices rooted in nature’s genius.

Who’s a good candidate for this master’s program?

You may be a good candidate for this program if you’re passionate about making a difference in the world and interested in applying nature’s wisdom to tackle challenges across diverse fields. Sustainability is one of the most frequently mentioned benefits of biomimicry, but its applications go far beyond. An understanding of biomimicry can support a variety of goals, such as creating more vibrant textiles, designing energy-efficient power plants or reimagining business strategies.

Courses offer valuable context to teach you how to connect theory to practice and implement biomimetic principles in your career. While no background in biology or science is required, you should be ready to embrace collaboration, as group and partner assignments are central to the program’s approach.

ASU’s partnership with Biomimicry 3.8

The Biomimicry Center encompasses the joint partnership of ASU and Biomimicry 3.8, a bio-inspired consultancy. Focused on advancing research and education, this center applies nature-inspired methodologies to tackle sustainability challenges on both local and global scales. You’ll engage with a curriculum shaped by this innovative partnership and learn from the field’s foremost thought leaders.

Program Field of Study
Master of Science
Program Focus
Biomimicry
Program Name Abbreviation
Biomimicry (MS)
Program Category
Degree Image
Dewdrops sit on top of purple flower petals.
Program Description Intro

Arizona State University’s Master of Science in biomimicry online explores the connection between biological principles and design. Upon graduation, you’ll understand how to draw inspiration from nature’s evolutionary successes and apply this knowledge to solve complex human challenges. These versatile skills open doors to impactful roles in business, government and nonprofit organizations.

Plan Code
LABMYMS
Program code
GRGF
Start Date
Areas of Interest
Courses Summary

Developed in collaboration with Biomimicry 3.8, this program features courses taught by one of the field’s top leaders. You’ll explore biome-based applications, business case studies, biological strategy research and virtual labs to gain a well-rounded foundation in biomimicry. The program offers flexibility to tailor your coursework and projects to your interests, culminating in a final practicum that provides hands-on experience applying biomimicry principles to your chosen field.

Total Classes
17
Total Hours
30
Total Classes Tooltip
Multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year.
Total Credit Hours
30
Total Hours Tooltip
Required number of credits to complete this degree.
Courses Section Title
Biomimicry master’s courses
CIP code
50.05
Title
Study with innovative thinkers
Description

The College of Global Futures faculty includes internationally renowned thought leaders and researchers. This group of global scholars brings together leading experts to develop transdisciplinary solutions for the world’s most pressing social, economic and environmental challenges. Our faculty members prepare students to create long-lasting change and contribute to a positive future for people and the planet.

Accolade title
Creating tomorrow’s solutions, today
Accolade Description

The College of Global Futures is dedicated to building a sustainable and equitable future for the planet and society. These initiatives support ASU’s overarching commitment to innovation, research and delivering high-quality academic programs. ASU is recognized with peer-reviewed honors from U.S. News & World Report and receives accolades from other prestigious organizations.

Accolade item
Accolades Title
#1
Accolades Description

in the U.S. for innovation for 11 consecutive years, ahead of Stanford and MIT.

Accolades Title
#1
Accolades Description

university in the U.S. in pursuit of United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Accolades Title
#1
Accolades Description

“Cool Schools” for sustainability by Sierra Club for campus sustainability.

Accolades Title
Top 10
Accolades Description

best online bachelor’s programs.

Accolades Title
Top 10%
Accolades Description

best global universities.

Admission requirement title
How to apply
Admission requirement description

Applicants to the Master of Science in biomimicry program must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the College of Global Futures.

Admission requirement item
Title
Application requirements
Description

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or graduate degree from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of a student's first bachelor's degree program, or applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

  • Graduate admission application and application fee.
  • Letters of recommendation.
  • Official transcripts.
  • Personal statement.
  • Up-to-date curriculum vitae or resume.
Title
Additional application information
Description

An applicant whose native language is not English (regardless of current residency) must provide proof of English proficiency.

Letters of recommendation should come from current or former professors and supervisors. Colleagues, classmates and family friends are generally not considered as good candidates for letters of recommendation.

Manual Cost
false
Weeks per Class
7.5-15
Academic Career
Graduate
Program fee code for resident
GSO012
Program fee code for non-resident
GSO012
Program Description Title
Learn to apply nature’s genius to human design
override admission requirement
Off
Apply Now URL
https://webapp4.asu.edu/dgsadmissions/Index.jsp?term=2261&session=REG&campus=ONLNE
Slug
master-science-biomimicry
Program Generated Code
GRGF-LABMYMS
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 features

Online Biomimicry Graduate Certificate

Biomimicry is an emerging discipline that seeks to emulate life’s strategies for human design, with a particular emphasis on sustainability. The natural world offers innumerable examples of renewable, resilient and reliable concepts, from single microscopic organisms to the largest ecosystems.

Drawing on the principles of proven and enduring designs can support a wide range of careers. Industries where biomimicry may be incorporated include:

  • Architecture
  • Business
  • Design
  • Engineering
  • Environmental Science
  • Government administration and leadership
  • Manufacturing
  • Sustainability

Whether you’re enhancing an existing career or exploring new professional horizons, this biomimicry certificate equips you with transformative knowledge and tools. If you’re ready to take your expertise further, our Master of Science in biomimicry program is also available and offers deeper insights into this pioneering discipline.

What you’ll learn in this certificate program

This program is designed to immerse you in the principles of biomimicry and the practical applications of these principles. You’ll discover how to analyze nature’s designs and adapt these designs to solve modern challenges. With opportunities like the biomimicry virtual design lab, you’ll work on real-world projects, collaborating with peers and receiving personalized guidance from expert mentors. By the end of the program, you’ll be equipped to incorporate nature-inspired innovation into your work to create sustainable, adaptive solutions that leave a lasting impact in your field.

ASU is the only university offering both a master’s and a graduate certificate in biomimicry. These programs are in collaboration with Biomimicry 3.8, a leading bio-inspired consultancy group, ensuring you gain unique insights from industry leaders.

Program Field of Study
Graduate Certificate
Program Focus
Biomimicry
Program Name Abbreviation
Biomimicry (Graduate Certificate)
Program Category
Certificate Type
Graduate
Degree Image
Raindrops sit on a leaf in a close-up view, showing an example of a natural system that could be applied to a human-made solution.
Program Description Intro

Arizona State University's biomimicry graduate certificate online empowers you to harness nature's design principles to solve real-world challenges. This program equips you with the tools to develop sustainable solutions and teaches you how to seamlessly integrate these solutions into your career.

Plan Code
LABMYGRCT
Program code
GRND
Start Date
Areas of Interest
Courses Summary

Courses cover the core principles of biomimicry, including biomimicry thinking and life's principles, while showing you how to apply these concepts to your own field. With engaging online coursework and the biomimicry virtual design lab, you'll focus on your specific interests and receive mentorship from experienced instructors. Collaboration with peers on projects will provide hands-on experience to strengthen your skills and knowledge in this cutting-edge field.

Total Classes
5
Total Hours
15
Total Classes Tooltip
Multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year
Total Credit Hours
15
Total Hours Tooltip
Required number of credits to complete this degree
Courses Section Title
Biomimicry certificate courses
Program start date manual
CIP code
50.05
Title
Educational leaders committed to new and effective modes of thinking
Description

The College of Global Futures faculty includes internationally renowned thought leaders and researchers. This group of global scholars brings together leading experts to develop transdisciplinary solutions for the world’s most pressing social, economic and environmental challenges. Our faculty members prepare students to create long-lasting change and contribute to a positive future for people and the planet.

Accolade title
Creating tomorrow’s solutions, today
Accolade Description

The College of Global Futures is dedicated to building a sustainable and equitable future for the planet and society. These initiatives support ASU’s overarching commitment to innovation, research and delivering high-quality academic programs. ASU is recognized with peer-reviewed honors from U.S. News & World Report and receives accolades from other prestigious organizations.

Accolade item
Accolades Title
#1
Accolades Description

in innovation for 10 consecutive years, ahead of Stanford and MIT

Accolades Title
#1
Accolades Description

university in the U.S. in pursuit of United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

Accolades Title
#1
Accolades Description

“Cool Schools” for sustainability by Sierra Club for campus sustainability

Accolades Title
Top 10
Accolades Description

best online bachelor’s programs

Accolades Title
Top 10%
Accolades Description

best global universities

Admission requirement title
How to apply
Admission requirement description

Applicants to the graduate certificate in biomimicry program must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the College of Global Futures.

Admission requirement item
Title
Application requirements
Description

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA in the last 60 hours of their bachelor's program. Alternatively, applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA in an applicable master’s program.

All applicants must submit:

  • Graduate admission application and application fee
  • Official transcripts
  • Personal statement
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Up-to-date curriculum vitae or resume
Title
Additional application information
Description

An applicant whose native language isn't English (regardless of current residency) must provide proof of English proficiency.

Manual Cost
true
Weeks per Class
7.5-15
Academic Career
Graduate
Program Description Title
What is biomimicry?
override admission requirement
Off
Apply Now URL
https://webapp4.asu.edu/dgsadmissions/Index.jsp?term=2261&session=REG&campus=ONLNE
Slug
graduate-certificate-biomimicry
Program Generated Code
GRND-LABMYGRCT
Title
Will my certificate say "online"?
Description

No, Arizona State University’s certificates and diplomas don’t specify whether you earn them online or in person. All certificates, diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”

Schedule to talk
Academic Partner
Entity Type
Program features