Program Overview

University of Missouri Program Details

The University of Missouri offers over 300 degree programs, providing a wide range of academic opportunities for students. One of the programs offered is the BS in Physics with an emphasis on Biological Physics.

Program Description

Physics is the science that studies the structure and properties of matter and transformations of energy. With math as the language and experimental verification as a guide, physical study has established the fundamental laws of nature that are the foundation of all natural science and technology. The study of physics includes learning the general principles and the phenomena that have been discovered and developing the skills that enable such knowledge to be advanced through research. Biological physics is an interdisciplinary area that employs and develops theories and methods of the physical sciences for the investigation of biological systems.

Emphasis Areas

The BS in Physics has several emphasis areas, including:

• Biological Physics
• Astronomy, BS
• Materials Science, BS

Career Paths

Graduates of the BS in Physics program can pursue a variety of career paths, including:

• Computer Systems Analysts
• Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health
• Forensic Science Technicians
• Materials Scientists
• Natural Sciences Managers
• Occupational Health and Safety Technicians
• Physicists
• Physics Teachers, Postsecondary
• Quality Control Systems Managers
• Secondary School Teachers

Program Structure

The program is part of the Computing, Engineering, Math, and Applied Science and Natural, Environmental, and Life Sciences departments.

Research Areas

Biological physics is one of the fastest-growing physics research areas, vital for many other fields, including medicine, bioengineering, and biology. Students specializing in this area have career opportunities in medical centers, research institutes, and biotechnology industries, as well as traditional academic venues. The program includes the study of the general principles and phenomena of physics, as well as the development of skills that enable knowledge to be advanced through research.