M University of Minnesota
CONTACT INFORMATION
School of Physics & Astronomy
116 Church Street S.E.
Minneapolis, MN, 55455
Phone: 612-624-7375
Fax: 612-624-4578
Contact | Directory

Physics with a Biological Emphasis

Students who are interested in entering bioscience, biomedicine, or medicine will find this degree an attractive option. Physics applies to biology at all levels, from the basics of biosystems to biomedical engineering. This degree can be very useful to students who want to pursue a career in biomedical industry. It also provides a strong foundation for students interested in pursuing an advanced degree in molecular biology, physiology, medical physics, biomedical engineering, or medical school. Combined with the physics core curriculum this biological emphasis gives students powerful tools to achieve their goals.

Course Work

Biology Emphasis: Additional Programmatic Requirements (34-36 cr)

Credits

Chem 1021,1022 Chemical Principles I, II

8

Chem 2301 Organic Chemistry I

3

BioC 3021 Biochemistry

3

Biol 1009 General Biology (Counted in the CLE requirement)

The four advanced physics courses or substitutes listed below. Two of these are included in the upper division physics core. 

(6-8)

Phys 4001

4

Phys 4002

4

Phys 4101, or Chem 3502, Physical Chemistry II

3

Phys 4201, or Chem 3501, Physical Chemistry I

3

Technical electives in biology and related areas
at the upper division level or above with approval of advisor

14

When choosing the appropriate courses for the biology requirement students will have the opportunity to consult with faculty who have expertise in these areas. Phys 5401 and 5402, Physics for Biology and Medicine might be of particular interest to students interested in the direct application of physics to biology.