Home page

Biophysics


Overview

Biophysics programs teach people about mechanisms that influence biological processes.

Biophysics programs include topics such as:

Concentrations

In biophysics programs, students may be able to specialize in molecular biophysics.

Schools

Community colleges and other two-year schools offer associate degree programs in biophysics. An associate degree usually takes two years to complete. After earning an associate degree students can transfer to a college or university for further study.

Many colleges and universities offer bachelor's degrees in biophysics. A bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study.

Many universities offer graduate degrees in biophysics. A master's degree typically requires two years of study beyond a bachelor's degree. Doctoral (PhD) degree programs usually require two or more years of study beyond the master's degree.

See schools that offer this program.

Related Educational Programs

Related Careers

Careers Directly Related to this Program of Study

Other Careers Related to this Program of Study

Program Admission

You can prepare for this program by taking courses in high school that prepare you for college. This typically includes four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies, and two years of science. Some colleges also require two years of a second language.

Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:

Graduate Admissions

Admission to graduate programs is competitive. You need a bachelor's degree in biophysics, physics, chemistry, engineering, mathematics, or computer science. You also need good grades and good test scores. If your undergraduate program was not in biophysics, you may need to complete some prerequisite courses in physics, biochemistry, or biology.

Additional requirements at some schools include:

Typical Course Work

Program Courses

This undergraduate program typically includes courses in the following subjects:

No matter where you go to school, you're likely to take a set of "core" courses similar to the list above. Once you've completed those courses, you can take advanced courses in biophysics.

Graduate Program Courses

Graduate programs may include:

Graduate students usually focus on one particular application. Typical courses vary by specialty. All require original research. A list of common graduate requirements is below:

Things to Know

A bachelor's degree prepares you for graduate studies or for an entry-level position as a research assistant or lab technician. It can be a good preparation for medical, dental, and veterinary school.

A postdoctoral research assignment can help you gain experience before finding a permanent research position.

Schools

East Side Area

Central Washington University

Walla Walla University

Washington State University - Pullman

Whitman College

King-Snohomish Area

University of Washington - Seattle

Spokane Area

Whitworth University