College of the Sciences
Biophysics
Bachelor of Science | Major
Physics, BS—Biophysics Specialization
The Biophysics Specialization is where the principles of modern physics converge with the intricacies of biology, providing you with the tools to understand the fundamental mechanisms that drive life.
In this program, you will uncover the physical laws that govern DNA replication, examine the electromagnetic fields of nerve impulses, and explore the quantum mechanics behind photosynthesis. Through specialized courses, research opportunities, and regional industry partnerships, you will have the opportunity to pursue careers or graduate studies in interdisciplinary STEM fields including biophysics, medical physics, and biomedical engineering. These are not just concepts, but real-world studies you will engage in as a biophysics student at CWU.
Questions? Contact Us.
Department of Physics
Create Your Future
What You'll Study
Academic Catalog | Physics Department Website
Physics Shared Core
General Chemistry
- CHEM 181 - General Chemistry I
- CHEM 181LAB - General Chemistry Laboratory I
- CHEM 182 - General Chemistry II
- CHEM 182LAB - General Chemistry Laboratory II
Mathematics
- MATH 172 - Calculus I
- MATH 173 - Calculus II
- MATH 265 - Linear Algebra I
- MATH 272 - Multivariable Calculus I
- MATH 273 - Multivariable Calculus II
- MATH 376 - Differential Equations I
Physics
- PHYS 289 - How to Succeed as a Physics Major
- PHYS 317 - Modern Physics I
- PHYS 342 - Thermodynamics
- PHYS 351 - Analytical Mechanics I
- PHYS 361 - Computational Physics
- PHYS 363 - Optics
- PHYS 381 - Electromagnetic Theory I
- PHYS 489 - Senior Assessment
- PHYS 495 - Undergraduate Research
Biophysics Specialization
- BIOL 181 - General Biology I
- BIOL 182 - General Biology II
- CHEM 183 - General Chemistry III
- CHEM 183LAB - General Chemistry Laboratory III
- PHYS 322 - Molecular Biophysics
- PHYS 323 - Experimental Biophysics
- PHYS 399 - Introduction to Medical Physics
Introductory/General Physics
- PHYS 121 - Introductory Physics for Life Sciences I
- PHYS 122 - Introductory Physics for Life Sciences II
- PHYS 123 - Introductory Physics for Life Sciences III
OR
- PHYS 181 - General Physics I with Laboratory
- PHYS 182 - General Physics II with Laboratory
- PHYS 183 - General Physics III with Laboratory
Department-Approved Electives
Cutting-Edge Biophysical Techniques
Gain expertise in biophysical techniques such as live-cell fluorescence microscopy, molecular biology, and computational modeling, preparing you for careers in medical physics and related fields.
Partnerships and Internships
Our department offers a unique on-ramp to the lucrative and rewarding career field of medical physics, through an established industry partnership that gives students a chance to gain practical experience and get their foot in the door.
Exclusive Undergraduate Focus
CWU's Biophysics Specialization is designed with undergraduates in mind, offering hands-on, research-based courses taught in workshop-style formats, with no traditional lectures.
Personalized Research
Every student in our program can conduct original research projects, working closely with faculty mentors in state-of-the-art labs dedicated solely to undergraduate teaching and research.
Apply
Discover how to apply to your program of choice at Central.
Financial Aid
Our Financial Aid staff are here to help you navigate financial aid.
Student Life
Pursue your interests in a supportive community. Learn more.
Visit
The best way to discover what makes CWU so special is to experience it yourself.
Salaries
The starting salaries for physicists with a BS degree in the private sector range from $60K to $80K per year. The median annual salary for physicists in 2023 was $156K according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
for Biophysics
Utilize our biophysics lab to explore live-cell fluorescence microscopy, molecular biology, and genetics to uncover the physics of living systems.
in Scholarships
Juniors and seniors can apply for Robert R. Vance Scholarship, awarding $5,000 per recipient annually.
Why Study Biophysics at Central?
- CWU offers small class sizes, ensuring personalized attention and support for students.
- Our programs focus exclusively on preparing our undergraduate majors. Our courses use research-based practices taught in workshop-style formats instead of traditional lectures.
- Take advantage of hands-on learning in our seven state-of-the-art labs designed for advanced learning and experimentation.
- Our degrees can serve as on-ramps to high-demand careers in engineering, medical physics, STEM teaching, and more.
Potential Careers
Biophysicist
Biomedical Engineering
Biotechnology Industry
Pharmaceutical Industry
Medical Physicist
Medical Physics Assistants