Arizona State University (Tempe campus)
Arizona State University (Tempe campus)

Arizona State University (Tempe campus)

1151 S Forest Ave, Tempe, AZ, United States Arizona, Tempe, USA Visit web page

Biochemistry, BA

Study detals

: Bachelor's degree : Biochemistry, BA LABCHBA : Full time : 48 Month

Requirements

Academic requirements

First-year students must:

  • Have a 3.00 grade point average (GPA) (a "B" or better where "A"=4.00) from a secondary school. Some ASU programs may have higher admission or English proficiency requirements and may consider a minimum ACT or SAT score.
  • Must have three years of high school coursework. (If you are currently in high school, ASU needs to see 9–11 grade coursework. If you have completed high school, ASU needs to see 10–12 grade coursework.)
  • Must have and present a completed high school diploma or certificate.

Conditional admission

ASU may offer conditional undergraduate admission to international applicants to an on-campus program who meet the academic (aptitude) requirements but who are not proficient in English. This offer of conditional admission will give you time to improve your English proficiency before you start classes at ASU. Your conditional admission offer is good for up to three semesters, during which time you must meet one of these requirements to begin your ASU experience.

Competency requirements

International students who completed high school outside the U.S. are required to meet the following competency requirements:

  • Math: four years (algebra I, geometry, algebra II and one course requiring algebra II as a prerequisite).
  • Laboratory science: three years total (one year each from any of the following areas are accepted: biology, chemistry, earth science, integrated sciences and physics).

Provide evidence of English language proficiency (TOEFL 61)

Speciality

STEM-OPT for international students on F-1 visas

This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 24 months. This OPT work authorization period may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension at ASU's International Students and Scholars Center website.

The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing a degree through ASU Online.

Available online

Additional information

Program description

The BA program in biochemistry imparts a foundational understanding of basic chemistry, biomolecular chemistry, cellular function, and liberal arts and languages. The program encourages students to explore biochemistry-related questions and challenges, honing their analytical thinking and problem-solving skills. By integrating liberal arts and language courses with physical sciences, students develop a holistic perspective.

The curriculum encompasses traditional coursework, featuring lectures and laboratory sessions that equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical laboratory skills. Students are encouraged to join faculty research groups, enabling hands-on participation in ongoing scientific investigations. Flexibility in the program structure accommodates individual goals, including the pursuit of dual degrees or specific interests.

Concurrent program options

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

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 plus master's degree with:

  • Global Management, MGM

Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. 

Global opportunities
Global experience 

When studying abroad, students gain valuable experience in a diverse set of programs. Students earn ASU credit for completed courses, while staying on track for graduation.

With their resumes enhanced by the heightened skills in communication, critical thinking and leadership they acquired through the study abroad experiences, graduates stand out competitively in their chosen fields.

Career opportunities

Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in a variety of fields, such as medicine and health, chemical and biotechnology industry, pharmaceuticals, environmental and food science, food production, environmental protection, scientific sales and marketing, and other forms of public service such as policymaking and teaching, patent law and many other technical areas.

Those with a Bachelor of Arts in biochemistry also are well prepared for application to graduate schools, such as medical, dental and pharmacy.