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Biophysics
Introduction
The biophysics background is unique in the approach it takes to studying biological problems from a physics point of view. Much of the technology used in the practice of medicine and dentistry can be better understood with a background in biophysics. Students spend at least one quarter as a physics lab assistant or physics tutor.
Fostering the growth of intellectual curiosity that will extend through postcollege years and building an appreciation of the role of physics in everyday living constitute the general objectives of the Department of Physics. For the Biophysics major there are the additional objectives of adequate preparation for entrance to one of the professional curriculums, for graduate study in physics, or for employment under the Civil Service classification of junior scientist-physicist or in a similar grade in private industry.
Program Overview
Biophysics
Bachelor of Science
Quick Facts
Level
Undergraduate
Location
La Sierra Campus
Duration
106 Units
Accreditation
WASC
- Curriculum Sheet
Description:
Students planning to go on to medical or dental school will be well-prepared by taking the Biophysics BS degree. The biophysics major has a very broad background in the sciences with an emphasis on physics and biophysics. The biophysical background is unique in the approach it takes to studying biological problems from a physics point of view. In addition, much of the technology used in the practice of medicine and dentistry can be better understood with a background in biophysics.
| BIOL 466 | Systems Physiology | 4 | |||||||||
| CHEM 431 | Biochemistry I | 4 | |||||||||
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| MATH 461 | Biomathematical Modeling I | 4 | |||||||||
| MATH 462 | Biomathematical Mode ling II | 4 | |||||||||
| PHYS 308 | Computational Physics | 2 | |||||||||
| PHYS 315 | Modern Physics | 4 | |||||||||
| PHYS 475 | Radiation Physics | 4 | |||||||||
| PHYS 298/498 | Directed Research | 4 | |||||||||
| Any other Biology, Physics or Neuroscience course | |||||||||||
Biophysics
minor
Quick Facts
Level
minor
Location
La Sierra Campus
Accreditation
WASC
- Curriculum Sheet
Description:
A minor typically consists of taking a portion of the classes required for a major in that same subject. To get an idea of what you would be studying, check out the corresponding major. The requirements for your minor will differ by program, so be sure to ask a counselor to know exactly what courses are in store for you.
7% Job Market Growth
$107,460 Median Salary
Many Research Opportunities
Career Outlook
Biophysicists are interested in the physics of living systems and organisms. Frequently a member of an interdisciplinary research team, the biophysicist may be found in hospitals, graduate schools, government research laboratories, and private industrial research and development. A very promising specialty is radiological health physics.
Educational Qualifications
In order to specialize, graduate work is essential. One with a bachelor’s degree usually starts out as a technician and will advance to independent research and leadership with experience, competence in the field, and advanced education. Some may become science teachers in middle schools and high schools, which requires licensure. For more information, contact the School of Education. A Ph.D. in physics, astronomy, or a related field is needed for most jobs, especially jobs that do basic research or for independent research positions in industry. Those with a master’s degree in physics may qualify for jobs in applied research and development for manufacturing and healthcare companies.
Salary
The median annual wage for biochemists and biophysicists was $107,460 in May 2023. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $64,680, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $175,790.
In May 2023, the median annual wages for biochemists and biophysicists in the top industries in which they worked were as follows:
- Wholesale trade $132,210
- Scientific research and development services $124,930
- Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing $102,280
- Colleges, universities, and professional schools; state, local, and private $64,540
Program Stats
Our Alumni Work in these Occupations
- Family Medicine Physicians3
- General and Operations Managers2
- Scientific Research Managers1
- Web Developers and Interface Designers1
- Waiters and Waitresses1
- Environmental Health and Safety Managers1
- Tutors, Teachers, and Instructors1
Our Alumni Work Here
- Northeastern University1
- RENOLIT (U.K.) LTD1
- The Morehouse School of Medicine Inc1
- Uc Riverside School of Medicine1
- Pasadena Cyto Pathology Laboratory Inc1
- University of California1
- Rht Energy Inc.1
Student Learning Outcomes
Biophysics - Competency in Biophysics:
- Students develop the ability to formulate, deconstruct, and solve complex biophysics problems using mathematics up through calculus.
- Students develop depth of understanding in the fundamental subject areas: human body mechanics, properties of biological materials, biomedical imaging, cellular physics and statistical and thermal physics as they relate to physical and biophysical phenomena.
Computer Tools and Instrumentation:
- Students use basic laboratory data analysis techniques, including distinguishing statistical and systematic errors, propagating errors, and representing data graphically.
- Students effectively use mathematical and experimental software packages and equipment necessary for designing and implementing experiments in biophysics and physics.
Communication of Scientific Material to Colleagues and the General Public:
- Students communicate using presentations and written information using appropriate use of software and multimedia modes of communication. The communication should be well-organized, logical, and scientifically sound biophysics and physics.
Preparation for Life After College:
- Students are prepared for graduate study in physics, biophysics or other related disciplines.
- Students are prepared for careers in scientifically oriented jobs in industry and business.
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Partial information in this page was retrieved from Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Biochemists and Biophysicists, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/biochemists-and-biophysicists.htm (visited April 17, 2024).
