Inside Accelerated Biology Degrees Online

Arizona State University – Online B.S. in Biological Sciences

Arizona State University’s online biology program can be completed in three years or less. One unique aspect of this program is its use of narrative storytelling tools, which allow you to step into virtual environments to solve biology problems.

The curriculum covers a range of topics, such as cell biology and ecosystems. Students can choose between five concentrations, including biomedical sciences and neurobiology. Their program is also designed with pre-med students in mind, aligning with the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) prep and med school requirements.

You could also complete this bachelor’s degree as part of an accelerated online master’s in biology program, allowing you to earn your graduate degree in one additional year.

• Program Format: Hybrid | Weeklong, in-person organic chemistry lab required
• Credential Offered: Bachelor of Science
• Program Length: 3 years or less

Concord University – Online B.S. in Biology

Through Concord University’s CU-Rise program, you can complete your degree in three years. Summer classes use a hybrid format, with online lectures and a one-week, on-campus lab intensive.

Concord University’s three-year plans allow students to follow biomedical sciences, pre-PA or PT, or organismal and field pathways. This would allow you to tailor your education to your future career.

Concord also offers a 3+1 option for students who earn early acceptance to medical, dental, or pharmacy school. This pathway lets you count your first year of professional school toward your bachelor’s degree.

• Program Format: Mostly on campus, with hybrid summers
• Credential Offered: Bachelor of Science
• Program Length: 3 years

Western Governors University – Online B.S., Science Education (Secondary Biology)

Western Governors University offers an online biology program specifically for those who want to teach middle or high school science, particularly biology. The National Science Teachers Association recognizes the curriculum, which covers biology, heredity, ecology, and other science topics, along with teaching methods.

WGU students get hands-on experience through at-home lab kits, augmented reality simulations, and clinical experience.

• Program Format: Hybrid | Online courses with in-person clinicals and student teaching
• Credential Offered: Bachelor of Science
• Program Length: Within 38 months (just over 3 years) for most students

Bottom Line:

Accelerated online biology programs may work best for driven students with strong study habits and who do well with self-directed learning. These programs save time, but you still need to put in the effort to get the full value and succeed.

Strengthen Your Science Foundation

Having a strong science foundation can give you more confidence and help ensure you won’t feel lost when the material gets more advanced. It can also help you participate more actively in class discussions and group work.

To strengthen your science foundation:

• Review core biology, chemistry, and math concepts.
• Use supplemental resources (like Khan Academy) for tricky topics.
• Familiarize yourself with standard lab procedures and tools.

Fully Engage in Online/Hybrid Components

Successful accelerated biology degree students fully engage with all components of their programs to understand the material and be able to apply it later. To engage in online or hybrid accelerated learning:

• Participate actively in discussion forums and virtual labs.
• Ask questions and proactively take advantage of office hours to avoid falling behind.
• Form study groups with classmates through video calls or online platforms to review material together.

Leverage Program Resources

It’s important to know what resources are available and to take advantage of these resources early and often. To leverage program resources:

• Connect with your academic advisor for guidance.
• Use tutoring, writing centers, and study support services to stay ahead.
• Take advantage of career services for internships and lab access for hands-on experience.

Maintain Work-Life-Study Balance

If you’re not careful about setting boundaries, burnout can affect your academic performance, your work, and your personal life.

Here are some ways to maintain work-life-study balance:

• Block non-negotiable time for rest, healthy eating, and physical activity.
• Set realistic weekly goals.
• Build a support system, including friends, mentors, and study groups, to stay connected.

Master Time Management

Strong time management can help you stay on task, reduce anxiety, and make space for rest and family. To master time management:

• Use a planner or digital calendar to track assignments, exams, and other activities.
• Break large projects and study sessions into smaller, manageable chunks.
• Set timers for focused work sessions.

Stay Organized

A clear, organized system can help avoid last-minute scrambles, reduce stress, and give you more mental space to focus and be prepared. Consider the following to stay organized:

• Keep digital and physical class materials sorted in folders (color-coding works well) with clear labeling systems.
• Back up important documents to cloud storage to avoid losing work.
• Review your calendar weekly or daily to plan for deadlines.