Biology, BS

The Biology, BS at Arizona State University gives students plenty of opportunities to learn through practical work, not just classroom study. Laboratory-based courses, faculty-guided research, internships and field investigations help students apply biological concepts to real scientific questions. Students can also work alongside faculty researchers, develop their scientific communication skills and gain experience that can support future careers or graduate study.

Students can build practical experience through these program-specific opportunities:

• Hands-on laboratory learning: Core biology courses include laboratory experiences where students can apply concepts through practical investigation. Courses such as LSC 322 Fundamentals of Ecology Laboratory and BIO 354 Cell Biology Laboratory provide dedicated opportunities for hands-on learning.

• Independent research: Students can take part in independent research under the guidance of ASU faculty. Research opportunities can involve areas such as human health, disease and environmental systems.

• Faculty research laboratories: Students may work alongside faculty members on research projects and develop experience with scientific investigation. ASU notes that some undergraduate researchers have had opportunities to publish their work in scientific journals and present their findings at regional and national scientific meetings.

• Internships: Students are encouraged to complete internships that allow them to apply their biology knowledge in professional environments and gain experience relevant to their future career interests.

• Field investigations: The program's learning outcomes include conducting laboratory and field investigations, giving students opportunities to investigate biological questions using scientific methods beyond the traditional classroom environment.

• Specialized research facilities: Students can benefit from research environments within ASU's School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences, including facilities such as the Animal Behavior Lab, Drosophila Injury Response Lab, Eukaryotic Genetics Lab, Herpetology Lab, Microbial Biosignatures Lab, Molecular Endocrinology Lab, Proteomics and Functional Genomics Core Facility, and Soil Biogeochemistry Lab.

• Interdisciplinary research: As part of ASU's New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences, students can approach biological topics from an interdisciplinary perspective and connect biology with other areas of science.

• Global learning opportunities: ASU offers more than 300 Global Education programs, giving students opportunities to gain international exposure through study, research and internship experiences.

• Scientific communication: Students develop experience communicating biological information and scientific evidence through written and oral work, helping them become more confident when presenting scientific ideas and research findings.

• West Valley campus facilities: The program is based at ASU's West Valley campus, providing students with access to laboratory and learning facilities within a close-knit campus environment.

The Biology, BS at Arizona State University prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in biological research, healthcare, environmental science, education and industry. The combination of laboratory work, quantitative research and practical learning helps students build the scientific, problem-solving and communication skills needed for employment or further study.

Typical career paths include Biological Scientist, Medical Scientist, Molecular Biologist and Climate Change Analyst. Students can also explore opportunities in laboratory and field research, medicine, teaching, scientific journalism, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, environmental consulting and conservation.

Students can strengthen their career prospects through:

• Career and academic support: Students receive academic guidance through the School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences and can use research and internship opportunities to gain experience relevant to their career goals.

• Employment and salary prospects: ASU lists median salaries of $98,920 for Biological Scientists, $82,220 for Climate Change Analysts, $93,750 for Life Scientists, $103,410 for Medical Scientists, $98,920 for Molecular Biologists, $127,410 for Scientists/Biochemists, $140,910 for Pharmacists and $130,100 for Veterinarians. ASU notes that these figures are not necessarily entry-level salaries and that some careers may require additional qualifications.

• Research and industry opportunities: Laboratory experience can prepare students for roles such as laboratory technician or research associate in university and government research settings, hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology companies, agricultural organizations and food-processing industries.

• Field-based careers: Students who develop field-study experience can pursue entry-level opportunities with private companies and state or federal agencies, including positions such as wildlife biologist, environmental consultant and conservation officer.

• Research experience: Students are encouraged to conduct independent research with faculty mentors or through internships. Some students have gone on to publish their research in scientific journals and present their findings at scientific meetings, giving them valuable experience for research-focused careers.

• International work opportunities: The Biology, BS is STEM-OPT extension eligible. Qualifying F-1 international students may be eligible for an additional 24 months of U.S. work authorization after the standard 12-month Optional Practical Training period.

• Long-term accreditation value: Arizona State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. ASU explains that accreditation demonstrates that its academic programs meet high academic standards and that the resulting degree is recognized by employers and respected by graduate schools.

• Graduation outcomes: Graduates can move into careers across business, laboratory and field research, medicine, publishing, scientific journalism and teaching. The program also provides a foundation for graduate or doctoral study in areas such as human or veterinary medicine, pharmacy, dentistry and scientific research.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the Biology, BS, students can continue into master's, doctoral or professional programs related to biology, biological data science, forensic science, medicine, veterinary medicine, pharmacy, dentistry and scientific research. ASU also offers accelerated bachelor's-plus-master's pathways that can allow eligible students to complete both degrees in as little as five years, with options including Biological Data Science (Biotechnology), MS; Biological Data Science, MS; and Forensic Science, MS.