Why major in Biophysics?

What is Biophysics?
Biophysics is the application of physics to biological problems.  Biophysicists use the ideas, instrumentation and computational models of physics to understand living things.  From the molecules within cells to the creation of medical technologies, biophysics has an enormous impact on our daily life.

Where can I go with a degree in Biophysics?
Many of the most important advances in biotechnology and medicine are occurring at the intersection between biology, physics, computer science and engineering.  The biophysics major provides the broad math and science skills necessary to compete in this interdisciplinary environment. More importantly, students are encouraged to think independently.  This establishes problem-solving skills useful throughout life.

Biophysics majors follow many different professional paths after leaving Hopkins.  Many of our majors enter highly ranked graduate programs in biophysics, cell biology, public health, physiology, and neuroscience.  Such programs prepare individuals for careers in basic biomedical research, biotechnology and pharmaceutical R&D, private business consulting, governmental regulatory agencies, science education, science journalism, and many other fields.  A large number of our graduates are accepted each year to medical school, while still others pursue degrees in law or environmental sciences. 

For more information on career opportunities in Biophysics, visit the Biophysical society website, enroll in one of our seminars (250.131 Topics in Biophysics Research or 250.106/300 Careers in Biomedical Sciences) or talk to your faculty advisor.

"The biophysics program has allowed me to think critically and really changed my understanding of the biosciences." Brian Lee, Graduate 2006