Biological Sciences (Genetics, Cell and Developmental Biology), BS
Study the biological mechanisms that control gene expression, cellular communication and organismal development, gaining deep knowledge in areas that can help you drive advances in medicine and biotechnology.
Quick facts
Locations
Courses
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
Biological Sciences (Genetics, Cell and Developmental Biology) program description
The Bachelor of Science program in biological sciences with a concentration in genetics, cell and developmental biology examines the molecular and cellular mechanisms that drive growth, development and disease. You explore how genetic information is organized, expressed and regulated, and how genes interact with the environment to influence biological function. Coursework integrates genetics, cell biology, molecular biology and developmental biology to reveal how life operates from the molecular to the organismal level.
Through hands-on laboratory experiences, research and internships, you work alongside faculty engaged in investigations into gene expression, cellular dynamics, and developmental processes. The curriculum emphasizes experimental design, data interpretation, and scientific communication, preparing you for professional or academic pathways in the life sciences.
This program is also offered as an accelerated degree option. If you are considering pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, you can visit The College's website for more information and requirements.
Why specialize in genetics, cell and developmental biology at ASU?
ASU emphasizes undergraduate research and interdisciplinary training within a top-tier R1 research environment, and ASU supports your growth as a scientist through hands-on, experimental work. You'll gain direct exposure to modern genetics and molecular biology techniques while working alongside faculty engaged in investigations into gene expression, cellular dynamics and developmental processes. You'll engage with modern lab techniques to study how genes interact with the environment to influence biological function, building the experimental design and data interpretation skills essential for professional and academic pathways.
The concentration takes an innovative, career-connected approach to life sciences education. You'll integrate genetics, cell biology, molecular biology and developmental biology coursework with laboratory experiences, research opportunities and internships that reveal how life operates from the molecular to the organismal level. You'll examine DNA, cellular processes and gene regulation while developing skills in experimental design, data analysis and scientific reasoning that prepare you for biomedical research, graduate programs and careers in the life sciences.
Additional details
You can participate in research programs offered through the School of Life Sciences. These opportunities allow you to apply classroom knowledge to active scientific investigations and build experience that strengthens your preparation for graduate study or professional work.
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.
Current ASU students, see how your courses can apply to another major and find out how to change your major (opens in new window).
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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.
Demonstrate capacity for scientific thinking by applying relevant background knowledge to analyze and/or develop scientific explanations. 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:
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.
Through study abroad programs, 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. Students also are able to engage in community service and outreach activities all around the world, which can help them stand out as they pursue graduate study or a professional career.
With more than 300 programs available, Global Education programs enable students to tailor their experience to their specific interests and skill sets. The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences recommends these programs for students majoring in biological sciences with a concentration in genetics, cell and developmental biology.
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 | Growth | Median Salary | More Information |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biological Sciences Professor | 7.3% | $84,620 | Learn more |
| Clinical Trial Manager | 8.2% | $167,220 | Learn more |
| Cytotechnologist | 2.7% | $62,930 | Learn more |
| Epidemiologist | 18.7% | $87,220 | Learn more |
| Genetic Counselor | 10.4% | $100,040 | Learn more |
| Geneticist | 4.7% | $98,920 | Learn more |
| High School Teacher | -0.2% | $72,040 | Learn more |
| Medical Scientist | 12.6% | $103,410 | Learn more |
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 genetics, cell and developmental biology concentration prepares you for
Graduates are prepared for research and STEM professional careers in genetics, genomics, bioinformatics, medicine, forensics and veterinary science. The program also provides a strong foundation for graduate or professional study in biological and health sciences, including medicine, dentistry, pharmacy and veterinary medicine.
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.
