Biological Physics
The Bachelor of Science in Biological Physics at Rice University provides students with an interdisciplinary education that integrates physics, biology, and quantitative analysis to study the physical principles underlying biological systems. This four-year, full-time program emphasizes understanding how molecular, cellular, and organismal processes can be analyzed and modeled using physical and mathematical approaches. Students explore topics such as biophysics, molecular dynamics, statistical mechanics, and computational modeling, developing analytical and experimental skills necessary to investigate complex biological phenomena with precision.
Throughout the curriculum, students engage in laboratory work, computational simulations, and collaborative research that apply theoretical concepts to biological questions. The program encourages interdisciplinary learning by combining insights from cell biology, chemistry, biochemistry, and applied mathematics, enabling students to develop holistic models of biological systems. Faculty mentorship and access to state-of-the-art laboratories allow students to design experiments, analyze data, and interpret results within the framework of physical laws. Graduates leave the program equipped to bridge the gap between physics and biology, applying quantitative and analytical skills to research and problem-solving in scientific and technological contexts.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Biological Physics
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Science
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 04 January 2026
- Location: Rice University, United States
- Field of Study: Physics
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Physics and Biology
- General Physics I & II with Labs
- General Biology I & II with Labs
- Calculus I & II
- Academic Writing and Critical Thinking
Year 2 – Core Biophysics and Quantitative Methods
- Molecular and Cellular Biology
- Statistical Mechanics
- Biophysics Laboratory
- Linear Algebra and Differential Equations
Year 3 – Advanced Modeling and Applications
- Computational Biology and Simulation
- Soft Matter and Biological Materials
- Elective: Systems Biology, Neurophysics, or Biochemical Physics
- Research Methods and Experimental Design
Year 4 – Capstone and Independent Research
- Senior Seminar in Biological Physics
- Independent Research Project or Honors Thesis
- Advanced Elective: Structural Biology, Bioinformatics, or Biophysical Imaging
- Applied Laboratory or Computational Project
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Biological Physics BS program at Rice University are prepared for careers in biomedical research, biophysics, computational biology, biotechnology, and healthcare innovation. Many pursue advanced degrees in physics, biology, biomedical engineering, or computational science, preparing for leadership roles in academic and industrial research. Alumni work as research scientists, computational modelers, lab managers, or bioinformatics specialists, applying their quantitative and analytical skills to investigate biological systems. The program equips graduates to analyze complex biological processes, develop computational and experimental models, and contribute to scientific discovery and technological advancement in interdisciplinary fields.
Why Choose This Program
Rice University’s Biological Physics program offers a rigorous, interdisciplinary, and research-intensive education that integrates physics, biology, and computational analysis to study living systems. Students benefit from mentorship by faculty experts, access to advanced laboratory and computational resources, and opportunities for independent research and collaborative projects. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, preparing students to tackle complex biological and physical problems with precision. With hands-on laboratory experience, computational modeling, and exposure to interdisciplinary research, students develop analytical, technical, and problem-solving skills essential for careers in biophysics, computational biology, and related scientific fields.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: 713-348-7423
Email: admission@rice.edu
Address: Office of Admission – MS 17, 109 Lovett Hall, 6100 Main Street, Houston, TX 77005, United States
