Microbiology, BS

On this page:
Admission Requirements Next Steps Affording College Career Outlook Global Experience Request Information
  1. Degree Programs
  2. Undergraduate Degrees
  3. Microbiology, BS

Investigate the unseen world of bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms and how they shape life, health and the environment. Develop laboratory and analytical skills to prepare for your career by uncovering how microbiology drives innovation and discovery in science and society.

Program Description

The Bachelor of Science program in microbiology examines microorganisms and their vital roles in health, biotechnology and the environment. Students study microbial genetics, physiology, diversity and ecology to understand how microbes interact with other organisms and influence biological and environmental systems.

Through laboratory and field experiences, students gain practical skills in experimental design, microscopy, molecular techniques, and data analysis. Coursework integrates microbiology, bacterial physiology, biochemistry, bacterial genetics, and advanced bacteriology labs to explore how microbes contribute to medicine and global society. Students may work alongside faculty on research projects and may complete internships that connect classroom learning with applied experiences.

The program is available as an accelerated degree option. Students pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences should consult The College's website for additional requirements and opportunities.

Learning Outcomes

  • Demonstrate capacity for scientific thinking by applying relevant background knowledge to analyze and/or develop scientific explanations.
  • Demonstrate mastery in performing and interpreting results of microbiology lab tests.
  • Effectively communicate complex scientific concepts, ideas, and reasoning, with appropriate use of relevant sources and evidence.

A new approach to teaching biology

As a biology student at Arizona State University, you are part of a new movement to reinvent science learning, designed to prioritize your needs and empower you to not only succeed but be transformed into a future leader and problem solver.

ASU’s adaptive and flexible teaching model levels the playing field for all learners, allowing anyone to understand complex concepts and gain the confidence to take on scientific challenges in a growing field. 

Here, you will apply biological models through immersive exploration and hands-on discovery. Explore a 24,000-square-foot Natural History Collection, the only insectary of its kind in Arizona and several research opportunities for online students, which set our programs apart from other institutions across the globe. Together, we’ll learn how to visualize and build a better world.

Microbiology Diagnostic Exam

The Microbiology Diagnostic Exam is used to determine whether you have adequate background from an existing microbiology class (MIC 205) to skip MIC 220 and still be competitive in upper division microbiology classes. If you successfully pass this exam, you may take any course that has MIC 220 as a prerequisite and utilize MIC 205 as the prerequisite instead.

The diagnostic exam consists of multiple-choice questions and is broken into eight subject areas, each of which can be taken independently as time permits. Each section contains ten questions, which must be answered in one sitting.

To start, contact your advisor to enroll you in the Canvas course. We highly recommended that you review the practice exam, which will give you an idea about the questions and testing format in the diagnostic test.

If you have questions or concerns regarding the diagnostic exam please call Undergraduate Advising at (480) 727-6277

 

For more information on requirements and recommendations specific to this degree please see our Did you know for on-campus degrees page.


At a Glance: program details
  • Location:
    Tempe campus
  • Additional Program Fee: Yes
  • Second Language Requirement: No
  • Math Intensity: Moderate
  • Initial Math Course: MAT 117 - College Algebra
Required Courses (Major Map)

Major Map

Major Map on-campus archive

eAdvisor Tracking Tool




Admission Requirements

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.

Freshman Transfer International Readmission


Transfer Options

ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use the Transfer Map search to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.

ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and help students save time and money in their college journey. Students may learn more about these programs by visiting the admission site: https://admission.asu.edu/transfer/pathway-programs.


Change of Major Requirements

A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.

Students should refer to https://changingmajors.asu.edu for information about how to change a major to this program.


Flexible Degree Options

Accelerated program options

This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years.
It is offered as an accelerated bachelor's and master's degree with:

Global Management (Global Development and Innovation)
Gain the ability to integrate economic, cultural and political variables in working to solve critical societal development issues, such as raising standards of living. You'll have opportunities around the world to tackle some of humanity's most difficult and urgent challenges.

Global Management (Global Development and Innovation) Program Website | Locations: DTPHX

Computational Life Sciences
Be part of the data-driven revolution in the life sciences. Today's breakthroughs rely on powerful computational methods that extend beyond the bench, enabling once impossible discoveries. In this program, you'll gain advanced skills in data analysis, modeling and informatics that complement experimental approaches, preparing you to tackle complex biological questions.

Computational Life Sciences Program Website | Locations: TEMPE,ONLNE

Global Management (Creative Industries and Design Thinking)
Are you seeking a leadership role in a global organization? This concentration offers applied learning opportunities and internships in settings around the world. You'll gain hands-on experience and learn from the diverse perspectives of a global cohort of classmates.

Global Management (Creative Industries and Design Thinking) Program Website | Locations: DTPHX

Global Management (Digital Audience Strategy)
Where business meets creativity, and strategy meets design. You can become tomorrow's global leader, equipped with the tools to inspire audiences, craft digital experiences, and drive innovation on a worldwide scale.

Global Management (Digital Audience Strategy) Program Website | Locations: DTPHX

Global Management (Sustainable Tourism)
Prepare for leadership roles in the global tourism arena. You'll be equipped with the skills needed to transform global enterprises --- skills that are increasingly important as ecotourism grows and the tourism industry adopts sustainability practices.

Global Management (Sustainable Tourism) Program Website | Locations: DTPHX

Global Management (Sustainability Solutions)
Learn powerful new strategies and tactics to make sustainability a driver of organizational engagement, cost savings and innovation. You'll become an expert leader who can transform sustainability practices in your chosen field.

Global Management (Sustainability Solutions) Program Website | Locations: DTPHX

Global Management
Gain hands-on experience and learn from the diverse perspectives of a global cohort of classmates. This program offers applied learning opportunities, 16 concentration options and practical internships in global settings.

Global Management Program Website | Locations: DTPHX

Global Management (Public Administration)
There is a cross-sectoral need for professionals who have both public administration mastery and next-generation global management skills and experience. As a future executive or manager, you'll be equipped with these sought-after skill sets.

Global Management (Public Administration) Program Website | Locations: DTPHX

Global Management (Global Entrepreneurship)
Acquire the expertise needed to conceive and execute innovative global ventures. Through rigorous coursework and in-depth exposure to current multicultural business practices, you'll master the principles of management for global entrepreneurial enterprises.

Global Management (Global Entrepreneurship) Program Website | Locations: DTPHX

Global Management (Global Health Care Delivery)
Are you seeking a leadership role in the rapidly growing health care industry? Through this concentration, you'll gain a repertoire of global management skills and experience tailored specifically to health care.

Global Management (Global Health Care Delivery) Program Website | Locations: DTPHX

Global Management (Global Business)
Become a leader through mastery of global business management principles and practices. You'll gain an understanding of the economic, political and social factors driving change and how decisions affect global markets. Attain the perfect balance of practical and people skills to inspire, influence and drive global success.

Global Management (Global Business) Program Website | Locations: DTPHX

Molecular and Cellular Biology
Do you want to understand the fundamental molecular events at the core of all life? You'll gain skills in contemporary techniques and have the opportunity to tailor the program around your research and career interests.

Molecular and Cellular Biology Program Website | Locations: TEMPE

Global Management (Global Digital Transformation)
Thrive in global markets and respond to the challenges of the global and digital landscape of today's interconnected world. Customize your degree and acquire digital skills in marketing, design, product development, automation and data analytics.

Global Management (Global Digital Transformation) Program Website | Locations: DTPHX

Biology
Deepen your knowledge of the life sciences and build strong conceptual foundations in frontier areas of modern biology.

Biology Program Website | Locations: TEMPE,ONLNE

Microbiology
When you become an expert in microbes, you'll be able to contribute to the greater good. Learn how microbes impact human health and the environment, and receive theoretical and practical training in your chosen area of interest.

Microbiology Program Website | Locations: TEMPE

Global Management (Nonprofit Leadership and Management )
Are you a globally minded person who demands a purpose-driven career? Prepare for impactful roles in nonprofit organizations around the world as you gain the knowledge necessary to produce meaningful, rewarding work that enhances communities.

Global Management (Nonprofit Leadership and Management ) Program Website | Locations: DTPHX

Global Management (Public Policy)
Are you seeking a career as a policy analyst or leader in public service? Join graduates around the world who are involved in the formulation, approval, implementation and evaluation of public policy.

Global Management (Public Policy) Program Website | Locations: DTPHX

Global Management (Global Legal Studies)
Engage in experiential learning and build your skills in global management and legal analysis --- skills that are in demand among multinational corporations, international nonprofit organizations, governments and nongovernmental organizations around the world.

Global Management (Global Legal Studies) Program Website | Locations: DTPHX

Public Administration
Prepare yourself as a results-oriented, strategic leader capable of keen decision-making through this prestigious, flexible degree program. Become a leader in the public sector by engaging with distinguished faculty and a cohort of exceptional peers.

Public Administration Program Website | Locations: DTPHX,HAINA,ONLNE


Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. During their junior year, eligible students will be advised by their academic departments to apply.

Next Steps to attend ASU

Learn about our programs

Request information about this program

Apply to a program

Apply now to this program

Visit our campus

Schedule a visit

Affording College

Tuition calculator

Estimate tuition and fees

Scholarships

Find scholarships

Financial aid

Find financial aid

Card image cap

Career Outlook

Graduates are prepared for careers in research, biotechnology, environmental science, public health and the national STEM workforce. The degree also provides a strong foundation for graduate or professional study in microbiology, medicine and environmental studies. Graduates have scientific and technical skills valued across academic, government and industry settings.

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:

Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary

  • Growth: 7.3%
  • Median Salary*: $83,460.00
  Sun Icon

Clinical Research Coordinators

  • Growth: 3.7%
  • Median Salary*: $161,180.00

Cytotechnologists

  • Growth: 1.7%
  • Median Salary*: $61,890.00

Food Scientists and Technologists

  • Growth: 6.5%
  • Median Salary*: $85,310.00
  Sun Icon

Genetic Counselors

  • Growth: 9.3%
  • Median Salary*: $98,910.00
  Sun Icon

Occupational Health and Safety Technicians

  • Growth: 8.5%
  • Median Salary*: $58,440.00
  Sun Icon

Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists

  • Growth: 1.7%
  • Median Salary*: $61,890.00

Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists

  • Growth: 8.7%
  • Median Salary*: $100,590.00
  Sun Icon

Microbiologists

  • Growth: 4.1%
  • Median Salary*: $87,330.00

Molecular and Cellular Biologists

  • Growth: 1.2%
  • Median Salary*: $93,330.00

* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Sun Icon Bright Outlook | Leaf Icon Green Occupation


Card image cap

Global Experience

Students gain valuable, resume-enhancing experience when studying abroad. Microbiology students are able to expand their knowledge of how microbes impact people and society in a variety of cultures, and challenge themselves to adapt and persevere in a new and exciting culture.

With more than 300 programs available, study abroad enables students to tailor their experience to their distinct interests and skill sets. The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences recommends these study abroad programs for students majoring in microbiology.

Program Contact Information

If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.

  • [email protected]
  • 480/727-6277


Concurrent degree programs are specially designed academic programs which provide high-achieving undergraduate students the opportunity to complete two distinct but complementary bachelor degrees at the same time. Students must meet minimum admissions standards for both programs and be accepted individually by both colleges offering the concurrent program.
Students pursuing concurrent degrees earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. ASU offers students two ways to earn concurrent degrees: by choosing a predetermined combination or creating their own combination. Predetermined combinations have a single admissions application and one easy to follow major map. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor. Either way, concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests.
Accelerated bachelor's and master's degree programs are designed for high-achieving undergraduate students who want the opportunity to combine undergraduate coursework with graduate coursework to accelerate completion of their master's degree. These programs feature the same high-quality curriculum taught by ASU's world-renowned faculty.
ASU students may accelerate their studies by earning a bachelor's and a master's degree in as little as five years (for some programs) or by earning a bachelor's degree in 2.5 or 3 years.

Accelerated bachelor's and master's degree programs are designed for high-achieving undergraduate students who want the opportunity to combine undergraduate coursework with graduate coursework to accelerate completion of their master's degree. These programs, featuring the same high-quality curriculum taught by ASU's world-renowned faculty, allow students to obtain both a bachelor's and a master's degree in as little as five years.

Accelerated bachelor's degree programs allow students to choose either a 2.5- or a 3-year path while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students can opt to fast-track their studies after acceptance into a participating program by connecting with their academic advisor.
This is only the first required math course. This program may contain additional math courses; See Major Map for details.
The level of intensity represents a measure of the number and academic rigor of math courses required.
The level of intensity represents a measure of the number and academic rigor of math courses required. Courses included in the General level: MAT 142
The level of intensity represents a measure of the number and academic rigor of math courses required. Courses included in the Moderate level: MAT 117, MAT 119, MAT 170, MAT 210, SOS 101, CPI 200
The level of intensity represents a measure of the number and academic rigor of math courses required. Courses included in the Substantial level: MAT 251, MAT 265. MAT 266, MAT 267, MAT 270, MAT 271, MAT 272, MAT 274, MAT 275
A rolling deadline means that applications will continue to be reviewed on a regular basis until the semester begins. International students should be mindful of visa deadlines to ensure there is time to produce necessary visa documents. Applicants are encouraged to complete and submit application materials as soon as possible for consideration.
A final deadline means that all applications and application materials must be received by Graduate Admissions by the deadline date. Applications that are incomplete may not be considered after the final deadline. Applications that are submitted past the final deadline may not be considered.
A priority deadline means that applications submitted and completed before the priority deadline will receive priority consideration. Applications submitted after the priority deadlines will be reviewed in the order in which they were completed and on a space available basis. An application is complete after all materials are received by Graduate Admissions.
ASU School of Life Sciences
Facebook X/Twitter LinkedIn YouTube Instagram
An academic unit of
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

Contact us

Support ASU

Academics
Undergraduate degrees Graduate degrees Online degrees
Admission
Undergraduate admission Graduate admission Pre-med FAQs
About
Charter initiatives Mission and vision Teaching and Learning Center
Repeatedly ranked #1 for innovation, sustainability, and global impact
Maps and Locations Jobs Directory Contact ASU My ASU
Copyright and Trademark Accessibility Privacy Terms of Use Emergency