$270
Tuition Cost per Credit
2 years
Average Completion*
Explore Life at Its Most Fundamental Level
Every living organism begins with a cell.
Understanding how cells function, communicate, divide, and develop is fundamental to understanding life itself—and to answering some of science’s most important questions about health, disease, genetics, and human development.
The Bachelor of Science in Biology Cellular & Developmental Option at Athens State University provides an in-depth foundation in the biology of cells and the processes through which organisms grow and develop. You’ll build strong knowledge in the biological sciences while developing laboratory, research, analytical, and problem-solving skills that can prepare you for careers in the life sciences or further study in healthcare, biomedical research, biotechnology, and related fields.
Program Overview
The Cellular & Developmental Option provides students with a focused pathway within the Biology degree for exploring life at the cellular, molecular, and developmental levels. You’ll examine the structures and functions of cells, the molecular processes that allow them to communicate and reproduce, and the biological mechanisms that guide the development of complex organisms.
Your studies connect fundamental biological concepts with real-world questions involving genetics, disease, human development, reproduction, cellular dysfunction, and biomedical science. Through laboratory experiences and scientific inquiry, you’ll learn how scientists investigate biological systems and use evidence to understand increasingly complex questions about life.
What Happens Inside a Cell?
Cells are the foundation of life—but they’re anything but simple.
Your studies will help you explore questions such as:
- How do cells communicate with one another?
- How do cells replicate and repair themselves?
- What controls cell growth and division?
- How do genes influence cellular behavior?
- How do cells become specialized?
- What causes cells to malfunction?
- How does a single cell develop into a complex organism?
- How can scientists use our understanding of cells to better understand disease?
These questions connect foundational biology to some of the most important areas of modern science and medicine.
Your Career Advantage Starts Here
A strong foundation in cellular and developmental biology can prepare you for a variety of opportunities across the life sciences and healthcare-related fields.
Explore your career pathways with the Bachelor of Science in Biology – Cellular & Developmental Option, including anticipated salaries, annual job growth, and even active job listings through the Career Concourse portal.
$91k
Natural Sciences Manager Estimated Entry Salary
$134k
Natural Sciences Manager Estimated Median Salary
Estimated salary and employment information based on labor market data provided by Career Concourse and is intended for informational purposes only. Actual salaries and employment outcomes vary based on factors such as experience, location, industry, and employer and are not guaranteed upon degree completion.
Admissions & Aid
Athens State is committed to making a high-quality bachelor’s degree accessible and affordable.
As a degree-completion, transfer-only university designed with working adults in mind, Athens State provides flexible pathways for students completing a bachelor’s degree while balancing work and other responsibilities.
Explore admission requirements, transfer pathways, tuition rates, scholarships, and financial aid to discover how you can complete your degree at Athens State.
Why Choose This Program at Athens State?
Life doesn’t stop while you’re earning your degree. That’s why the Biology bachelor’s degree is offered through flexible course formats, allowing you to complete coursework when it fits your schedule without sacrificing academic quality.
Built for Today’s Professionals
You shouldn’t have to choose between advancing your education and advancing your career. Athens State’s degree programs are designed with working professionals in mind. Flexible learning options allow you to pursue your bachelor’s degree while continuing to meet your professional and personal commitments.
Invest in Your Future The Smart Way
Athens State University is committed to providing an affordable, high-quality education. As Alabama’s most affordable public, state university, we give you the opportunity to earn an advanced degree while making a smart investment in your future, without unnecessary debt.
Learn from Experienced Faculty
Our faculty combine academic excellence with real-world experience, bringing current industry practices into every course. At Athens State, you’re not facing the journey alone — our dedicated, knowledgeable faculty and staff walk alongside you each step of the way, providing personalized guidance and support.
Our Faculty
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*Average completion time varies by student and depends on prior credits
transferred to Athens State and the number of courses taken per semester.
Please consult with your Student Success Coach and faculty advisor for your personalized plan of study.