A B.S. degree in biophysics is offered in recognition of the growing interest and need for individuals who can apply the techniques of physics to the problems of biology. The program is built around a strong core of required courses but has sufficient flexibility to allow a student to achieve depth in physics or biology. Through a proper choice of electives an individual may prepare for immediate employment or graduate study in several fields: physics, biology or biophysics. It is also possible to pursue a career in medicine, dentistry and other health related fields.
Changes in the sequence of the plan of study below may be desirable. These must be made in consultation with the student's academic advisor. To see the title of a course in the plan of study, simply pass the cursor over the course's number. To see an overview of a course, click on its number. A list of all physics and pre-engineering courses is found on our Course Descriptions page.
* The School of Arts and Sciences requires all majors to complete a foreign language course at the 202 level or higher. Students not prepared to begin at this level will need to take additional courses in the language, which count as general electives.
** Among the twelve credits of physics/biology electives, at least three credits must be in physics and at least three credits must be in biology. These electives must be selected from courses above the level of PHYS 104. General Physics II and BIO 106. Biological Science II in consultation with the student's advisor.
The comprehensive requirement for biophysics majors is the passing of an oral examination (PHYS 490. Physics Senior Comprehensive) in the second semester of the senior year.