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Biological Sciences (Neurobiology, Physiology and Behavior), BS

Explore how organisms think, move and behave. Investigate the biological mechanisms behind neural processes, physiological systems and behavior while developing research and analytical skills through laboratory experiences and faculty-led investigations.

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Researchers analyze samples in a lab, exploring innovative research in ASU's Biological Sciences (Neurobiology, Physiology and Behavior), BS program.

Quick facts

Courses

120 credit hours
Math intensity: Moderate program math intensity moderate
First required math course: MAT 251 - Calculus for Life Sciences
View more details

Additional facts

STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes

International students (F1) can extend U.S. work experience by 24 months.

Accreditation

Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Degree description

Program description

In the Bachelor of Science program in biological sciences with a concentration in neurobiology, physiology and behavior, you examine how animals, including humans, function, think and behave by integrating the study of neurobiology, physiology and behavior. You explore how molecular and cellular processes support the operation of major systems, including neural, muscular, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal and digestive systems, and how evolution and environment influence biological function and behavior.

Coursework emphasizes quantitative analysis, experimental design, and scientific communication. Through laboratory and research experiences, you collaborate with faculty mentors to investigate the mechanisms of animal function and behavior and apply biological principles to biomedical and biological questions.

You may participate in internships or independent research projects to gain professional experience. The program is available as an accelerated degree option. If you are pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees within The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, you should consult The College's website for details and requirements.

Why specialize in neurobiology, physiology and behavior at ASU?

You learn within an R1 research university that integrates neuroscience, physiology and behavioral science across disciplines. Access undergraduate research opportunities and collaborate with research-active faculty investigating the mechanisms of animal function and behavior.

The concentration connects you to interdisciplinary opportunities across the life sciences, health sciences and neuroscience-related fields, and you can work alongside faculty mentors and a community of peers pushing the boundaries of scientific inquiry in the life sciences. You build a strong foundation in neuroscience and physiology and you gain experience in experimental design, data analysis, laboratory techniques and scientific communication through coursework and hands-on research. Career-connected learning experiences position you well for graduate programs and professional paths in biomedical and life science fields.

Additional details

Join research programs through the School of Life Sciences to investigate biological questions and apply your skills beyond the classroom. You may also choose to participate in internships or independent research projects to gain professional experience.

Get to know the Biological Sciences (Neurobiology, Physiology and Behavior) degree at ASU

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Courses

Explore a sample list of courses you may take in this program.

Sample courses
BIO 181 General Biology I
BIO 182 General Biology II
BIO 340 General Genetics
BIO 345 Evolution
MAT 251 Calculus for Life Sciences
CHM 113 General Chemistry I

Course checksheet and curriculum archive

The curriculum checksheet displays this program's required courses and other requirements you must complete for graduation.

What If

Current ASU students, see how your courses can apply to another major and find out how to change your major (opens in new window).

Already completed some college courses? Build on your success.

If you earned college credit outside ASU, our transfer tools map out your progress towards a degree and help you plan next steps.

See how your credits may apply (opens in new window)

What you'll learn

The following learning outcomes highlight some of the knowledge and skills you'll develop to support your future success.

  • Demonstrate capacity for scientific thinking by applying relevant background knowledge to analyze and/or develop scientific explanations.
  • Effectively communicate complex scientific concepts, ideas, and reasoning with appropriate use of relevant sources and evidence.
  • Demonstrate preparedness for graduate/professional degree programs and/or employment.

Admission requirements

Here are the admission and application details

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.

First year (opens in new window) | Transfer (opens in new window) | International (opens in new window) | Readmission (opens in new window)

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

Students should visit the Change of Major form (opens in new window) for information about how to change a major to this program.


Explore expanded study opportunities

This program allows you to obtain both a bachelor's and a master's degree in as little as five years. As a high-achieving student, accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree programs are designed for you to share undergraduate coursework with graduate coursework to accelerate completion of your master's degree. These programs feature the same high-quality curriculum taught by ASU's world-renowned faculty.

This program is offered as an accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree with:

Graduate advisor
Mitchell Lawson
602-496-1745
mitchell.lawson@thunderbird.asu.edu
General contact
602-496-7100
Learn more about this program
Graduate advisor
Mitchell Lawson
602-496-1745
mitchell.lawson@thunderbird.asu.edu
General contact
602-496-7100
Learn more about this program
Graduate advisor
Mitchell Lawson
602-496-1745
mitchell.lawson@thunderbird.asu.edu
General contact
602-496-7100
Learn more about this program
Graduate advisor
Mitchell Lawson
602-496-1745
mitchell.lawson@thunderbird.asu.edu
General contact
602-496-7100
Learn more about this program
Graduate advisor
Mitchell Lawson
602-496-1745
mitchell.lawson@thunderbird.asu.edu
General contact
602-496-7100
Learn more about this program
Graduate advisor
Mitchell Lawson
602-496-1745
mitchell.lawson@thunderbird.asu.edu
General contact
602-496-7100
Learn more about this program
Graduate advisor
Mitchell Lawson
602-496-1745
mitchell.lawson@thunderbird.asu.edu
General contact
602-496-7100
Learn more about this program
Graduate advisor
Mitchell Lawson
602-496-1745
mitchell.lawson@thunderbird.asu.edu
General contact
602-496-7100
Learn more about this program
Graduate advisor
Mitchell Lawson
602-496-1745
mitchell.lawson@thunderbird.asu.edu
General contact
602-496-7100
Learn more about this program
Graduate advisor
Mitchell Lawson
602-496-1745
mitchell.lawson@thunderbird.asu.edu
General contact
602-496-7100
Learn more about this program
Graduate advisor
Mitchell Lawson
602-496-1745
mitchell.lawson@thunderbird.asu.edu
General contact
602-496-7100
Learn more about this program
Graduate advisor
Mitchell Lawson
602-496-1745
mitchell.lawson@thunderbird.asu.edu
General contact
602-496-7100
Learn more about this program
Graduate advisor
Mitchell Lawson
602-496-1745
mitchell.lawson@thunderbird.asu.edu
General contact
602-496-7100
Learn more about this program
Graduate advisor
Mitchell Lawson
602-496-1745
mitchell.lawson@thunderbird.asu.edu
General contact
602-496-7100
Learn more about this program
Graduate advisor
Mitchell Lawson
602-496-1745
mitchell.lawson@thunderbird.asu.edu
General contact
602-496-7100
Learn more about this program
General contact
602-496-0450
Learn more about this program

Approval to pursue the accelerated master's is typically granted during the junior year of your bachelor's degree program. If you are interested, you can learn more about eligibility requirements and how to apply.

When you pursue concurrent degrees (also known as a “double major”), you earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with your academic advisor, you can create your own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.

Global experience

Through study abroad programs, whether in a foreign country, in the U.S. or online, biological sciences students experience distinct biological environments and gain an understanding of worldwide differences in the human condition. They are exposed to a variety of laws, policies and practices in biology-centric environments worldwide and expand their knowledge of how science impacts society.

With more than 300 options available to them, Global Education programs students can tailor their experience to their specific interests and skill sets. They are able to engage in community service and outreach activities, which can help their graduate and professional program applications stand out.

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences recommends these programs for students majoring in neurobiology, physiology and behavior.

Paying for college

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students recieve financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs.

Get an estimate

Build the career and future you want

Our graduates are prepared for a variety of career paths, including:

Career opportunities showing job titles, projected growth rates, median salaries, and links to detailed information
Career Growth Median Salary More Information
Biological Sciences Professor 7.3% $84,620
Family Practice Medical Doctor (FP MD) 3.3% $244,180
Fish and Wildlife Biologist 3.6% $76,780
Genetic Counselor 10.4% $100,040
High School Teacher -0.2% $72,040
Neurologist 6.4% $248,560
Physical Therapist (PT) 11.9% $102,760
Physician Assistant (PA) 21.1% $135,880
Veterinarian (Vet) 9.4% $130,100
Zoologist 5.8% $68,940

Example job titles and salaries listed are not necessarily entry level, and students should take into consideration how years of experience and geographical location may affect pay scales. Some jobs also may require advanced degrees, certifications or state-specific licensure.

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


More about careers

Careers this neurobiology, physiology and behavior concentration prepares you for

Graduates are prepared for careers in neuroscience, physiology, biotechnology, health care and veterinary medicine. They also pursue advanced study in biological and biomedical sciences, including neurobiology, physiology, endocrinology and behavior. With strong research and analytical training, graduates succeed in hospitals, laboratories, government agencies, and scientific industries worldwide.

Contact information

Use the contact information below to get in touch if you're a current student or have general questions.
Prospective students should fill out the Request for Information form.

School of Life Sciences | LSC 104
sols.advising@asu.edu
480-727-6277

Frequently asked questions about degree programs

Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master's during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.

Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.

Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the "New Programs" option.

ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.

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