Biophysics ,BS
Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, Biology, Physical Sciences, Radiology, Researcher, Science, approved for STEM-OPT extension, biomedical, chemistry, medical, physics, premed
Are you interested in quantitative sciences but also have a passion for understanding life? Learn how physics, chemistry and biology intersect, and prepare to solve today's mysteries in life sciences and medicine.
The Bachelor of Science program in biophysics uses the methods and theories of physics to study biological systems. This includes gaining a working understanding of principles that govern all scales of biological organization, from molecular processes of life to organisms and ecosystems.
Students are exposed to novel learning methods and laboratory experiences, with additional opportunities to conduct independent research and work directly with faculty in the field. This strong foundation prepares students to seek roles within academia, medicine, renewable energy, research and technology.
In addition to reviewing the guidelines in the Concurrent Program Options section below, students interested in pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences are advised to visit The College's website for more information and requirements.
This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 24 months. This OPT work authorization period may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension at ASU's International Students and Scholars Center website.
The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing a degree through ASU Online.
- College/school:
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Location: Tempe or Online , ASU Local
- Second language requirement: No
- STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes
- First required math course: MAT 265 - Calculus for Engineers I
- Math
intensity: Substantial
General university admission requirements:
All students are required to meet general
university admission requirements.
First-year | Transfer | International | Readmission
Current ASU students who wish to change their major to biophysics should have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50 for all critical classes they have completed.
Students should visit the Change of Major form for information about how to change a major to this program.
ASU offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. Applicants may view the program’s ASU Online page for program descriptions and to request more information.
It is now possible to earn an ASU degree with ASU Local, an integrated college experience in which students take advantage of in-person success coaching and programming experiences on site while completing one of 130+ undergraduate online degree programs, all of which come with online faculty interaction and tutoring support.
ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use MyPath2ASU® to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.
ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and they help students save time and money in their college journey.
Study abroad affords students the opportunity to gain valuable experience in a diverse set of programs in many countries around the world. Students can study biophysics abroad through a wide set of opportunities related to physics, chemistry and biology.
Graduates with the heightened skills in communication, critical thinking and leadership they acquired through study abroad may stand out in a competitive field. More information on available programs can be found on the Global Education website.
The wide variety of applicability of the principles of biophysics allows for great flexibility in the choice of career or further education.
Graduates have the necessary background for career paths in the biotechnology, chemical and medical industries.
Graduates are also well prepared for medical school or advanced graduate study in biochemistry, biophysics, neurobiology, pharmacology, physics or radiology.
Example job titles and salaries listed below are not necessarily entry level, and students should take into consideration how years of experience and geographical location may affect pay scales. Some jobs also may require advanced degrees, certifications or state-specific licensure.
| Career | *Growth | *Median salary |
|---|---|---|
|
4.7%
|
$49,650
|
|
|
4.8%
|
$144,440
|
|
|
3.7%
|
$97,710
|
|
|
4.9%
|
$57,380
|
|
|
9.8%
|
$99,930
|
|
|
4.7%
|
$142,850
|
|
|
3.6%
|
Not available
|
|
|
6.7%
|
$103,810
|
Department of Physics
|
PSF 470
physics.undergrad@asu.edu
480-965-3561
3 year programs
These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.
Accelerated master's
These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).
Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
