Program Overview
Biophysics, BS
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.
Program Description
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.
At a Glance
- 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
Curriculum
View 2025 - 2026 curriculum. View curriculum archives.
Concurrent Program Options
Students pursuing concurrent degrees (also known as a “double major”) earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with their academic advisors, students can create their own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.
Admission Requirements
- General university admission requirements: All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
- First-year
- Transfer
- International
- Readmission
Tuition Information
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Change of Major Requirements
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.
Attend Online
ASU Online offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year.
Transfer Options
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.
Global Opportunities
- Global experience: 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.
Career Opportunities
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:
- Biological Technician: 3.5% growth, $52,000 median salary
- Clinical Trial Manager: 3.7% growth, $161,180 median salary
- Inside Sales Representative: 1.9% growth, $100,070 median salary
- Medical Lab Technician: 1.7% growth, $61,890 median salary
- Medical Scientist: 8.7% growth, $100,590 median salary
- Physicist: 4.0% growth, $166,290 median salary
- Radiologist: 2.7% growth, Not available
- Scientist/Biochemist: 5.8% growth, $103,650 median salary
Accelerated Programs
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree. These programs feature the same high-quality curriculum taught by ASU's world-renowned faculty.
Concurrent Programs
Concurrent degree programs are specially designed academic programs which provide high-achieving undergraduate students the opportunity to complete two distinct but complementary bachelor degrees at the same time. Students must meet minimum admissions standards for both programs and be accepted individually by both colleges offering the concurrent program.
Joint Programs
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.
New Programs
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the “New Programs” option.
Online Programs
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year.
Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE)
The Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) is a program in which residents of western states (other than Arizona) may be eligible for reduced nonresident tuition. Students from western states who select this major may be eligible for a reduced nonresident tuition rate of 150 percent of Arizona resident tuition plus all applicable fees.