The BS program in molecular biosciences and biotechnology encompasses many of the cutting-edge disciplines in life sciences research. Biotechnology is an exciting, rapidly growing field with major applications in agriculture (green biotechnology, leading to improved crops or production of vaccines in plants), health care (red biotechnology, leading to better therapeutics, diagnostics and personalized medicine) and industry (white biotechnology, leading to sustainable production of energy, enzymes and chemicals).
This molecular biosciences and biotechnology degree program focuses on the interface between molecular biology and biotechnology. The interface drives major advancements in knowledge and applied research and development, such as the development of next-generation biomedical products or biofuels. Hands-on research and the capstone course with both science and business or entrepreneurial components round out this exciting program.
This program is available as an accelerated degree program. Students may visit this website to learn more about accelerated degree programs: 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 program within the School of Life Sciences. Students should speak with their academic advisor for any further questions.
Degree Offered
Molecular Biosciences and Biotechnology (BS)
Liberal Arts and Sciences, The College of
Location
Tempe
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
The molecular biosciences and biotechnology degree program provides an excellent background and training for a growing number of careers that incorporate this innovative area of the molecular life sciences. Independent research and courses with classroom plus lab components result in a solid base of knowledge and practical expertise in biotechnology and the molecular biosciences, providing many options for further education or for entering the workforce.
Many molecular biosciences and biotechnology graduates enter graduate programs in a molecular biosciences and biotechnology-related area. A number also enroll in medical school, other health-related professional programs or in other advanced programs. Graduates also have the knowledge and technical skills to enter the biotechnology workforce in an area matching their expertise and interest.
The molecular biosciences and biotechnology program has a faculty mentoring program which provides students with the opportunity to speak with faculty regarding career choices, selection and timeline of major courses and of independent research projects, and much more.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Bioinformatics Scientists | 8% | $76,690 |
| Bioinformatics Technicians | 11% | |
| Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary | 15.2% | $78,240 |
| Clinical Research Coordinators | 9.9% | $118,970 |
| Geneticists | 8% | $76,690 |
| Natural Sciences Managers | 9.9% | $118,970 |
| Water Resource Specialists | 9.9% | $118,970 |
| Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists | 13.4% | $82,090 |
| Molecular and Cellular Biologists | 8% | $76,690 |
| Nanosystems Engineers | 6.4% | $97,250 |
* 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