Applied Biotechnology

B.S. in Applied Biotechnology

Boost the biological building blocks of life to make greener technology and products.

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$76,400
Median Industry Pay (U.S. BLS 2023)

today
Fall, Spring, Summer, Winter
Entry Terms

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Tucson
COURSEWORK LOCATION

Reimagining sustainability using live cells

The B.S. in Applied Biotechnology teaches students how to use chemical and biological processes to address the world’s most pressing challenges in food production, health and sustainability. You will develop a solid foundation in microbiology, plant biology, food science and nutrition, and pick one of three emphases to customize your coursework. When you graduate, you’ll be ready for a career in biosciences -- working in agriculture, food or manufacturing.

College is a big investment, but a University of Arizona education may be more affordable than you think. No matter your background or family’s financial situation, you have options to make it manageable.

At Arizona, 9 out of 10 students receive financial aid. That means most students pay less than the estimates shown here. By maximizing your financial aid – scholarships, grants, loans, or work-study – you can lower your costs while earning a degree that will pay you back for a lifetime.

Estimated cost of tuition for first-year and transfer students:

  • Arizona residents: $13,900/yr
  • Non-Arizona residents: $42,300/yr

Get our degree guide to learn how students like you are funding their futures.

Application requirements vary based on your status as a first-time, transfer, international, online or returning student.

  • Students who haven't completed 12+ transferable post-high school college credits are considered a first-time college student, and must meet Arizona's core competency requirements to be eligible to apply.
  • You are considered a transfer student if you have completed 12+ transferable post-high school college credits.
    • If you are under the age of 22 at the start of your desired term, you will need to meet the core competency requirements and have a minimum 2.0 cumulative college/university GPA.
    • If you are 22 or older at the start of your desired term, you will need a minimum 2.0 cumulative college/university GPA.
  • SAT/ACT scores are not required for general admission.
  • You have the option to submit a resume and 500-word personal statement during your application.

Get our degree guide to find out more details about the application process and deadlines.

A degree in agribusiness and applied economics prepares you for careers and graduate programs in agricultural policy, management and business. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for agricultural managers was $83,770 per year and the median pay for economists was $115,730 per year (2023).

Although your career possibilities are limitless, here are some example career paths our students follow:

  • Farm and ranch manager: Hire and supervise farm and livestock workers as you plan, direct, and coordinate efficient, sustainable site operations.
  • Financial analyst: Develop and lead industry research, prepare industry updates, and review and assess emerging risks associated with investing in various industries.
  • Food category manager: Oversee retail operations and serve as the in-store expert on the visual merchandising, management, and sale of certain groups of types of products.
  • Wholesale buyer: Analyze buying trends, sales records, price, and quality to advise companies about purchasing and vendor selection and monitoring.

Build a Degree to Meet Your Interests 

From medical diagnostics and food safety labs to student organizations like the Food Science Club, your applied biotech degree has limitless potential for engaged learning experiences.

Person's gloved hands collecting microbial samples in wetlands.

Students walking at University of Arizona campus.

$1,000,000+ in scholarships

The College of Agriculture, Life & Environmental Sciences (CALES) offers $1 million in exclusive scholarships to our students. Combine these options with university scholarships and support from privately funded scholarships and you're well on your way to achieving your educational goals at a price you can afford.

Resources to Help You Succeed

Get exclusive resources from a college that is dedicated to help you grow as you follow your interests.

  • CALES Learning Lab: personalized academic support – from major-specific resources to tutoring.
  • Student Wellness: resources to help you live a healthier, more resilient life.
  • CALES Career Center: get the tools you need to find, apply and interview for your dream internships and jobs.
Students walking and talking.

Ready to start your career in applied biotechnology?

From our welcoming local community to our sunny campus, every corner holds the promise of new adventures and personal growth. Your journey to a career at the intersection of food production, health and sustainability starts here. Sign up to discover what it means to be a part of the University of Arizona College of Agriculture, Life & Environmental Sciences.

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