Minor in Biological Physics

Overview

The Biological Physics minor is for non-Physics majors or minors and requires 11 to 12 credits within the Department of Physics (depending on the University Physics sequence taken), and 6 credits from the Department of Biology. In addition to a calculus-based introductory sequence of physics courses, students will take the 300-level Biological Physics I course.

Biological physics covers a vast array of research topics, from the molecular scale to whole organisms and populations. It is an inherently interdisciplinary subject, where the fields involved (physics, biology, neuroscience, etc.) strengthen each other. The methods of physics have influenced how biology research is conducted, and basic questions in biology and neuroscience have attracted the attention of both experimental and theoretical physicists. A biological physics minor is designed to strengthen the quantitative and problem-solving skills for non-physics majors with interest in biological questions. 

Curriculum Requirements

A minor in biological physics consists of a University Physics Sequence (3 options), BIL 150 and BIL 160, and Biological Physics (PHY 325).  All courses at the 300-level or higher must be taken at UM.