Biophysics (BS)
Program Code: U-BPHY-BS
Degree Designation: Bachelor of Science
Department: Physics Department
Website: physics.duke.edu/undergraduate/biophysics-major
Program Summary
Biophysics is the study of quantitative biological questions using insights, concepts, theory, and experimental techniques from physics, as well as knowledge from biology, chemistry, mathematics, and computer science. The major is a good choice for students who like biology and who enjoy thinking quantitatively. The major prepares students for graduate school in biophysics, diverse areas of biology like cell biology, neuroscience, physiology, and health professions like medicine, veterinary school, and dentistry. (But if a student anticipates applying to graduate school in physics, they should consider the Physics major as an alternative.) This major is administered in close cooperation with the departments of biology and chemistry.
An AB in biophysics is also available. Go to Programs by Department to view all related programs.
Academic Requirements
At least 18 units total to complete the major. At least 34 units total to earn a degree.
Prerequisites (8 units)
CHEM 101DL
MATH 122L
MATH 212
MATH 216
MATH 221
MATH 356
PHYSICS 161D
PHYSICS 162D
Required Courses (3 units)
BIOLOGY 201L
PHYSICS 414
PHYSICS 415
Biology (1 unit)
BIOLOGY 202L
BIOLOGY 220
Quantum and Thermal Physics (2-2.5 units)
Option 1
PHYSICS 264L
PHYSICS 363
Option 2
CHEM 310
CHEM 311
CHEM 310L or CHEM 311L
Physics (1 unit)
PHYSICS 361
PHYSICS 362D
PHYSICS 464
PHYSICS 513
Elective (3 units)
A comprehensive list of elective courses is available to students in the degree audit system.