Molecular Biosciences and Biotechnology, BS


Explore how biological systems function at the molecular level and how that knowledge drives innovation in health care, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology. You'll study molecular biological processes that shape health and disease while gaining extensive hands-on laboratory experience with techniques such as molecular cloning, PCR and protein analysis.

Program Description

Molecular Biosciences and Biotechnology degree description

The Bachelor of Science program in molecular biosciences and biotechnology program explores the molecular foundations of life and their application to modern biotechnology. You study how biological systems can be engineered for advancements in medicine, agriculture and environmental sustainability. The curriculum integrates molecular genetics, microbiology, genetic engineering, biochemistry and biotechnology to prepare you for diverse scientific and professional pathways.

Through laboratory research, internships and capstone courses, you develop molecular and biotechnical expertise. Working alongside faculty mentors, you design experiments; analyze data; and explore the ethical, scientific and commercial aspects of biotechnology. You may also participate in collaborative research programs that provide individualized guidance and professional development.

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

Learning Outcomes

  • Demonstrate capacity for scientific thinking by applying relevant background knowledge to analyze and/or develop scientific explanations.
  • Demonstrate preparedness for graduate/professional degree programs and/or employment.
  • 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.

 

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:
  • Additional Program Fee: Yes
  • Second Language Requirement: No
  • Math Intensity: Moderate
  • Initial Math Course: MAT 251 - Calculus for Life Sciences
Required Courses (Major Map)

Major Map on-campus archive

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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:

Biology
Explore biology through a flexible master's degree that adapts to your goals. Deepen your knowledge of the life sciences and build strong conceptual foundations in frontier areas of modern biology. You can study with faculty experts and tailor your path to your interests.

Biology Program Website | Locations: TEMPE,ONLNE

Microbiology
Master the hidden world of microbes and turn that expertise into work that serves the greater good. This program prepares you to make a real difference through the study of the smallest forms of life.

Microbiology Program Website | Locations: TEMPE

Computational Life Sciences
Be part of the data-driven revolution in the life sciences. Build advanced skills in data analysis, modeling and informatics that complement experimental methods and prepare to answer complex biological questions.

Computational Life Sciences Program Website | Locations: TEMPE,ONLNE

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

Biochemistry (Medicinal Biochemistry)
Bridge biochemistry with synthetic chemistry, pharmacology and computational drug discovery. With its distinct emphasis on structure, properties and synthesis from the molecular perspective in a biological context, this program equips you to tackle complex challenges both in and beyond the lab.

Biochemistry (Medicinal Biochemistry) Program Website | Locations: TEMPE

Molecular and Cellular Biology
Explore the fundamental molecular events at the very core of all life. Investigate how living systems truly work and build the deep scientific expertise to pursue the questions that fascinate you most.

Molecular and Cellular Biology Program Website | Locations: TEMPE

Public Administration
Step into public sector leadership by connecting with accomplished faculty and a group of standout peers. You build skills alongside driven colleagues and mentors who help you grow into an effective leader.

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.

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Career Outlook

Careers this molecular biosciences and biotechnology degree prepares you for

Graduates are prepared for careers in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, agriculture and environmental science, or for advanced study in molecular and cellular biology and environmental sustainability. With expertise in molecular biology and biotechnology, they contribute to innovations in energy, health care and biomanufacturing across academic, industrial and government sectors.

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:

Bioinformatics Scientists


  • Growth: 4.7%
  • Median Salary*: $98,920.00
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Bioinformatics Technicians


  • Growth: 7.1%
  • Median Salary*: $81,490.00
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Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary


  • Growth: 7.3%
  • Median Salary*: $84,620.00
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Clinical Research Coordinators


  • Growth: 8.2%
  • Median Salary*: $167,220.00
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Geneticists


  • Growth: 4.7%
  • Median Salary*: $98,920.00
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Natural Sciences Managers


  • Growth: 8.2%
  • Median Salary*: $167,220.00
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Water Resource Specialists


  • Growth: 8.2%
  • Median Salary*: $167,220.00
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Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists


  • Growth: 12.6%
  • Median Salary*: $103,410.00
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Molecular and Cellular Biologists


  • Growth: 4.7%
  • Median Salary*: $98,920.00
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Nanosystems Engineers


  • Growth: 3.7%
  • Median Salary*: $122,930.00

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



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Global Experience

Students gain valuable, resume-enhancing experience when studying abroad. Students majoring in molecular biosciences and biotechnology can expand their knowledge of how science impacts society in a variety of cultures and how technology and culture intertwine across the globe.

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

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.