Program Overview
Through core courses, electives, and research opportunities, students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, preparing them for careers in academia, medicine, research, and technology. The program is STEM designated and offers both on-campus and online options.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Biophysics, BS
This program focuses on using the methods and theories of physics to study biological systems. Students gain a working understanding of the principles that govern all scales of biological organization, from the molecular processes of life to organisms and ecosystems. The program provides a strong foundation in physics, mathematics, and biology, with opportunities to conduct independent research and work directly with faculty in the field.
Program Objectives:
- Prepare students for careers in academia, medicine, renewable energy, research, and technology.
- Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Enhance communication skills through written and oral presentations.
- Equip students with the ability to conduct independent research and collaborate effectively in a team environment.
Program Description:
The Biophysics BS program offers students a rigorous curriculum that integrates physics, mathematics, and biology. The program highlights the interdisciplinary nature of biophysics and prepares graduates for careers in a variety of fields. The program consists of three main components:
- Core courses: These courses cover the fundamental principles of physics, mathematics, and biology relevant to biophysics. Examples of core courses include:
- Physics: Mechanics, Electricity and Magnetism, Thermodynamics, Quantum Mechanics
- Mathematics: Calculus, Linear Algebra, Differential Equations
- Biology: Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Genetics
- Elective courses: Students can choose from a wide range of elective courses to tailor their program to their specific interests. Examples of elective courses include:
- Biophysical Chemistry
- Computational Biophysics
- Medical Physics
- Neurobiology
- Bioinformatics
- Research opportunities: Students are encouraged to participate in research projects with faculty members. This provides them with hands-on experience in applying the concepts learned in the classroom to real-world problems.
Outline:
The Biophysics BS program consists of 120 credit hours, including 42 credit hours of core courses, 36 credit hours of elective courses, and 18 credit hours of research and/or internship experiences.
Core Courses:
- Physics (18 credit hours): Mechanics, Electricity and Magnetism, Thermodynamics, Quantum Mechanics
- Mathematics (12 credit hours): Calculus, Linear Algebra, Differential Equations
- Biology (12 credit hours): Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Genetics
Elective Courses:
Students can choose from a wide range of electives to customize their program based on their interests. Examples include:
- Biophysical Chemistry
- Computational Biophysics
- Medical Physics
- Neurobiology
- Bioinformatics
Research and Internship Opportunities:
Students are encouraged to participate in research projects with faculty members or complete internships in industry. This provides them with valuable hands-on experience and helps them develop important research skills.
Assessment:
Students in the Biophysics BS program are assessed through a variety of methods, including:
- Exams: Written and oral exams are used to assess students' understanding of the material covered in lectures and labs.
- Homework assignments: Homework assignments are designed to help students practice and apply the concepts they are learning.
- Research projects: Students' research projects are evaluated by their faculty mentors based on the quality of their research, their data analysis, and their ability to communicate their findings effectively.
- Presentations: Students are expected to present their research findings at conferences or in scientific publications.
Teaching:
The Biophysics BS program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members who are actively engaged in research. The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures: Lectures are used to introduce students to the fundamental concepts of biophysics.
- Labs: Labs provide students with hands-on experience applying the concepts learned in lectures.
- Discussions: Discussions allow students to engage with the material in a more interactive way and to ask questions about the concepts being covered.
- Seminars: Seminars feature guest speakers who are experts in their field and provide students with an opportunity to learn about cutting-edge research.
Careers:
Graduates of the Biophysics BS program are prepared for a variety of careers in academia, medicine, renewable energy, research, and technology. Some examples of potential career paths include:
- Biophysicist: Biophysicists conduct research to understand the physical principles that govern biological systems.
- Bioengineer: Bioengineers use engineering principles to design and develop new medical devices and therapies.
- Bioinformatician: Bioinformaticians analyze biological data to identify patterns and relationships that can be used to improve human health.
- Science teacher: Science teachers play an important role in educating the next generation of scientists.
Other:
- The program is offered on-campus in Tempe, Arizona, and online.
- The program is STEM designated, which means that international students may be eligible for an extension of their F-1 visa.
- The program has a strong track record of preparing students for graduate school or careers in research.
