10 Best Online Biology Degrees in 2025

Biology is a broad field that encompasses the study of living organisms. A degree in biology creates the foundation for a variety of careers including medicine, animal science, and environmental science.

Most of the time, degrees in the biological sciences are offered on campuses, but online students have a few degree options including affordable online biology degrees. Keep reading to discover 10 schools with the best online biology degrees.

Featured Online Biology Degree Programs

Biology programs aren't commonly offered online, but there are a few colleges and universities that offer online bachelor's degrees in biology. We've featured 10 of these programs below in alphabetical order.

1. Arizona State University

Arizona State University is a public research university in the Phoenix metropolitan area. They offer a large selection of online degree programs, including a Bachelor of Science in biological sciences.

This program helps students develop a broad understanding of biology disciplines. Four concentrations are available:

• Biology and society
• Biomedical sciences
• Conservation biology and ecology
• Genetics, cell, and developmental biology

Students in this program will learn through a variety of methods, including textbooks, lectures, and VR and XR technologies.

2. Florida International University

Florida International University is a public research university based in University Park, Florida. It offers an online Bachelor of Arts in biological sciences.

Students in this program will be exposed to a wide range of biological topics and develop critical thinking, cutting-edge science knowledge, and other useful skills.

This program also offers students the option to choose a minor or a track of interest to go alongside their biology degree to focus their curriculum on their learning and career goals.

3. Kean University

Kean University is a public university headquartered in Union, New Jersey. It offers several biology degrees, including a Bachelor of Arts in biology online.

This degree provides the foundation in biology for any number of different career pathways and is the most flexible degree option for students.

However, this online degree is not recommended for students who plan to pursue careers working in scientific laboratories or who plan to apply for graduate school or any type of clinical degree such as medical school.

4. Louisiana State University

Louisiana State University is a public research university in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. It offers an online Bachelor of Science in biology with a concentration in modern biology.

Most coursework will be done online, and students can complete labs on campus during a week-long summer residency or complete the labs at the college of their choice.

Graduates of this program will be well-prepared for careers in the biological sciences, including jobs such as medical technologists, medical research associates, and laboratory managers.

5. Mayville State University

Mayville State University is a public university in Mayville, North Dakota. It's part of the North Dakota State University system and offers a Bachelor of Science in biology online.

Students in this program will have the freedom to focus on their primary area of interest within the field of biology. A minor is also required.

Mayville State's biology program also offers opportunities to get involved in biological research and actively participate in the biology and overall science community.

6. Oregon State University

Oregon State University is a public research university in Corvallis, Oregon. It offers an online Bachelor of Science in biohealth sciences.

This degree helps students deepen their understanding of human health by exploring how biological science is applied to human health and society.

The program is designed for students seeking a degree with an interdisciplinary background in the life sciences, physical sciences, social sciences, and public health, but not for those who want to advance to a health-related professional school.

7. Unity Environmental University

Unity Environmental University is a private university based in New Gloucester, Maine. It offers environmentally-focused programs, including a Bachelor of Science in marine biology and sustainable aquaculture online.

Students gain practical skills that set them on the path to becoming champions for marine conservation and sustainable aquaculture. The program has a special emphasis on sustainable practices.

This program prepares students for a broad range of careers helping protect, preserve, maintain, and grow marine organisms and environments, or pursue further study in graduate school.

8. University of Alaska Fairbanks

The University of Alaska Fairbanks is a public research university in College, Alaska, just outside of Fairbanks. It offers an online Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in biological sciences.

The Bachelor of Arts combines an in-depth study of the science of life with an interest in the human condition, while the Bachelor of Science offers a modern and global perspective on the biological sciences.

Both programs are designed for students who are interested in the science of life, but the BA requires more credits in social science and humanities, while the BS requires more credits in natural science.

9. University of Florida

The University of Florida is a public research university in Gainesville, Florida. It's the flagship university in the State University System of Florida and offers a Bachelor of Arts in biology online.

Students in this program receive broad training in biology with enough flexibility to specialize in the subdiscipline of their choice. The curriculum and degree are interdisciplinary.

This major prepares students for careers in education, the allied health professions, and interdisciplinary fields such as environmental or biotechnology law, science journalism, bioscience management, and more.

10. Washington State University

Washington State University is a public research university in Pullman, Washington. It offers an online Bachelor of Science in biology through its Global Campus.

This degree program instills a broad base of knowledge in the biological sciences with courses that cover molecular and cell biology, physiology, and the development of animals and plants.

Graduates of this program will be prepared to advance their current careers or pursue employment in medical support professions, wildlife-related careers, and other jobs requiring biological expertise.

What Will I Learn With an Online Bachelor of Science in Biology?

Most online degree programs in biology include core courses in:

• General biology
• Biochemistry
• Molecular biology
• Organismal biology
• Cell biology

Many programs also offer specialized biology courses that cover topics like:

• Microbiology
• Ecology
• Evolutionary biology
• Genetics
• Biotechnology

Additionally, the majority of online biology degrees allow students to choose electives so they can tailor their degrees to their interests. Many also require a capstone project where students will show off what they've learned.

Admission Requirements for an Online Biology Degree Program

Admissions requirements for biology degrees can vary from institution to institution, but you'll typically need to be proficient in English and submit your high school GPA and transcripts. Some programs also require ACT/SAT scores.

Depending on your college or university, you may need to fulfill prerequisites in general chemistry, organic chemistry, and advanced math before you can begin the biology major.

FAQs about Online Biology Degree Programs

Below are some frequently asked questions about online biology degree programs.

Is It Possible To Get a Biology Degree Online?

While online programs in biology are not particularly common, a few colleges and universities, including the ones listed above, offer these programs. Some may require students to appear on campus for a short time to complete labs.

Can You Get a Biology Degree in 2 Years?

Some colleges offer two-year associate degrees in biology. Additionally, if you already have an associate degree, you may be able to transfer credits and complete your remaining bachelor's degree requirements in two years.

Is a Biology Degree Useful?

Biology degrees can be very useful, depending on your career goals. These degrees create a great foundation for fields like healthcare, pharmaceuticals, public health, and research.

Are Online Degrees Respected?

Online degrees are more common than ever, and as a result, there is an increasing respect for online bachelor's degrees by employers and graduate schools.

What Can I Do With a Bachelor's Degree in Biology?

Many careers are available to those with bachelor's degrees in biology, including:

• Biologists
• Biomedical technologist
• Conservation scientist
• Geneticist
• Marine biologist

Additionally, a bachelor's degree in biology is a great foundation for medical school, veterinary school, or pharmacy school.

Who Should Consider an Online Bachelor of Science in Biology?

An online Bachelor of Science in biology is a great option for those wanting careers in:

• Health sciences
• Biotechnology
• Environmental policy

These are also great options for those who are balancing commitments such as:

• Working adults
• International students
• Those seeking flexibility

High school graduates and transfer students who plan on earning a degree in biology should look at biology programs to ensure they meet admissions requirements.

Earn an Online Bachelor's Degree in Biology

Only a few colleges and universities offer online bachelor's degrees in biology. Check out the programs above to find the perfect online program for you today.