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The BS program in biological sciences with a concentration in biology and society focuses on training biology students to understand the social context of their science, to ask how and why a biological problem has been and should be studied. Students explore the ways in which policy decisions shape and are shaped by biological research and they investigate the meaning and significance of the life sciences in understanding our complex world.
The biology and society curriculum is highly individualized. This unique degree is home to world-class researchers and teachers in diverse fields, including bioscience ethics, history and philosophy of science, science communication, science education and science policy, all brought together under one program. Students have the opportunity to work with many renowned scholars in independent study and research projects.
This program is available as an accelerated degree program: https://sols.asu.edu/degree-programs/accelerated-bachelor-master-science.
Due to the high volume of overlap in curriculum, students enrolled in a Bachelor of Science degree in the School of Life Sciences may be restricted from declaring a concurrent degree within the school. Students should speak with their academic advisor for any further questions.
Degree Offered
Biological Sciences (Biology and Society) (BS)
Liberal Arts & Sciences, The College of
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
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Affording College
Scholarships
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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
Biology and society students gain the historical, philosophical, political and ethical perspectives needed to explore interactions between the life sciences and related, complex human issues. As a result, the program contributes to better informed and more effective teachers, writers, policymakers, clinicians and researchers in areas related to biology, medicine and society.
As a result of the individualized, skill-based curriculum, biology and society majors are eligible for a broad range of career options. Most graduates have chosen to pursue professional degrees in medicine, law, public health or public policy, or graduate study in biology, ethics, education or history and philosophy of science. Graduates enter the workforce, whether in academia, industry, government or clinical practice, with a deep sensitivity to the complexity of biology in society and the skill to navigate that complexity throughout their careers.
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 |
| Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary | 15.2% | $78,240 |
| Community Health Workers | 18.1% | $38,370 |
| Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health | 11.1% | $69,400 |
| Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education | 7.5% | $59,170 |
| Lawyers | 8.2% | $119,250 |
| Life Scientists, All Other | 9.2% | $74,540 |
| Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists | 13.4% | $82,090 |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | 20.5% | $98,350 |
| Physicians and Surgeons, All Other | 11.4% | # |
* 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