The BS program in biological sciences with a concentration in genetics, cell and developmental biology integrates the study of three exciting, closely related areas of life science research.
Genetics examines the blueprints of life, such as DNA sequence and gene expression, while cell biology studies the machinery of life enclosed within the boundaries of cells. Developmental biology uses both genetics and cell biology to understand how genes and the environment interact to produce a whole new individual from a single cell as well as understand the various developmental changes that organisms undergo throughout life.
The combined study of genetics, cell biology and development has resulted in a better understanding of many diseases and promises to prove even more important in the future.
This program is available as an accelerated degree program: https://sols.asu.edu/degree-programs/accelerated-bachelor-master-science.
Due to the high volume of overlap in curriculum, students enrolled in this degree are not permitted to declare a concurrent degree combination with any other School of Life Sciences program or with the Bachelor of Science degree in biochemistry from the School of Molecular Sciences. Students should speak with their academic advisor for any further questions.
Degree Offered
Biological Sciences (Genetics, Cell and Developmental Biology) (BS)
Liberal Arts and Sciences, The College of
Major Map
A major map outlines the degree’s requirements for graduation.
Application Requirements
All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.Freshman
Transfer
International
Readmission
Affording College
Scholarships
Find and apply for relevant scholarships.
Financial Aid
ASU has many financial aid options. Almost everyone, regardless
of income, can qualify for some form of financial aid. In fact,
more than 70 percent of all ASU students receive some form of
financial assistance every year.
Career Outlook
Graduates of this concentration have a variety of career options. This degree provides the fundamental coursework necessary for admission into medical, dental, veterinarian, pharmacy or graduate schools or any of the health professions. There also are many employment opportunities that can be pursued upon receipt of the Bachelor of Science with this concentration:
- animal breeder technician
- bioinformaticist
- biotechnologist
- cell culture specialist
- cloning technician
- crime lab technician
- cytotechnologist
- drug design technician
- food and drug inspector
- genetic counselor
- histologist
- in-vitro fertilization technician
- plant improvement specialist
- teacher
- technical writer
- vaccine development technician
Students in this concentration program learn critical thinking skills that can be applied to many scientific problems and professions as well as to the challenges of daily life. Students are encouraged to engage in independent research projects or internship opportunities to develop a better sense of how science is done.
Example Careers
Students who complete this degree program may be prepared for the following careers. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic or clinical positions. Career examples include but are not limited to:
| Career | *growth | *median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary | 15.2% | $78,240 |
| Clinical Research Coordinators | 9.9% | $118,970 |
| Cytotechnologists | 11.5% | |
| Epidemiologists | 8.8% | $69,660 |
| Geneticists | 8% | $76,690 |
| Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education | 7.5% | $59,170 |
| Life Scientists, All Other | 9.2% | $74,540 |
| Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists | 13.4% | $82,090 |
* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
- Bright Outlook
- Green Occupation