Physics - Biological Science
The Physics: Biological Science Bachelor of Arts program at Pennsylvania University is a four-year, full-time undergraduate program designed to explore the intersection of physics and the life sciences. The curriculum combines classical physics, biophysics, molecular biology, and quantitative analysis, equipping students with the tools to investigate complex biological systems through physical principles. Students gain hands-on experience in laboratory experiments, computational modeling, and experimental design, learning to analyze biological phenomena with precision and rigor. The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and applied skills, preparing graduates to address challenges in biomedical research, healthcare technology, and interdisciplinary scientific inquiry.
Throughout the program, students engage in research projects, laboratory courses, and collaborative seminars guided by faculty experts in physics, biology, and biophysics. Emphasis is placed on developing analytical thinking, computational proficiency, and experimental expertise, allowing students to bridge disciplines and contribute to innovative scientific solutions. Graduates leave with the ability to interpret data, design experiments, and communicate scientific findings effectively, building critical reasoning, research competence, technical proficiency, and interdisciplinary insight essential for academic and professional pursuits.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Physics - Biological Science
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Physics
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Physics and Biological Science
- General Physics with Laboratory
- Introduction to Molecular and Cellular Biology
- Calculus and Linear Algebra for Scientists
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Fundamentals
Year 2 – Intermediate Biophysics and Quantitative Methods
- Classical Mechanics and Electromagnetism
- Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics
- Biophysical Methods and Data Analysis
- Genetics and Molecular Biology
Year 3 – Advanced Biophysical Principles
- Protein Structure and Dynamics
- Cellular Biophysics and Membrane Processes
- Computational Modeling in Biological Systems
- Elective: Neuroscience or Biomedical Applications
Year 4 – Capstone and Research Integration
- Independent Research Project or Thesis
- Seminar in Contemporary Biophysics
- Laboratory Practicum and Experimental Design
- Professional Portfolio Development
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Physics: Biological Science program are prepared for careers in biotechnology, pharmaceutical research, medical technology, academic research, and healthcare innovation. Alumni may work as research associates, laboratory scientists, computational modelers, or pursue graduate studies in biophysics, biomedical sciences, or related disciplines. The program equips graduates with a combination of experimental expertise, analytical reasoning, and interdisciplinary knowledge, enabling them to design experiments, analyze complex data, and contribute to cutting-edge research. Graduates are also qualified to work in emerging fields such as bioinformatics, computational biology, biomedical engineering, and medical imaging, applying physics-based approaches to solve biological challenges.
Why Choose This Program
This program is distinguished by its integration of physics fundamentals, biological science, experimental research, and computational analysis within a four-year curriculum. Students benefit from close faculty mentorship, advanced laboratory facilities, and interdisciplinary research opportunities that merge theory with application. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, analytical problem-solving, and scientific communication, preparing graduates to lead in research, biotechnology, and healthcare innovation. For students passionate about understanding biological systems through the lens of physics and applying quantitative methods to solve complex scientific problems, this program offers a rigorous, immersive, and career-oriented pathway to success in both professional and academic settings.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
