Physics Major: Biophysics & Medical Physics Track

Students should consult with an advisor before choosing a major track in physics. This track is intended as a bridge to an advanced degree in the health sciences for those interested in medical research, admission to medical school, preparation for work in a hospital or clinic situation, or industrial jobs in biomedical instrumentation.

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MAJOR

Students must declare their intention to major in physics by the time they have completed 60 semester hours, and complete between 33 and 43 credit hours in physics (depending on the track chosen) to receive the degree of bachelor of science in physics. No grade below a C (2.0) can be used to meet the requirements for the major. At least 12 credit hours of the requirements for the major must be completed at the downtown Denver campus.

A senior thesis is required for all students wishing to graduate with departmental honors. For all other students, the faculty encourages a senior thesis or project.

Required Physics Courses (33 credit hours)

• PHYS 2311. General Physics I: Calculus-Based, 4 credit hours
• PHYS 2321. General Physics Lab I, 1 credit hour
• PHYS 2331. General Physics II: Calculus-Based, 4 credit hours
• PHYS 2341. General Physics Lab II, 1 credit hour
• PHYS 2811. Modern Physics I, 4 credit hours
• PHYS 3120. Methods of Mathematical Physics, 3 credit hours
• PHYS 3211. Analytical Mechanics, 4 credit hours
• PHYS 3411. Thermal Physics, 3 credit hours
• PHYS 3711. Junior Lab I, 2 credit hours
• PHYS 3811. Quantum Mechanics, 3 credit hours
• PHYS 4331. Principles of Electricity and Magnetism, 4 credit hours

Required ancillary courses (16 credit hours):

• MATH 1401. Calculus I, 4 credit hours
• MATH 2411. Calculus II, 4 credit hours
• MATH 2421. Calculus III, 4 credit hours
• MATH 3195. Linear Algebra and Differential Equations, 4 credit hours

Required courses specific to biophysics and medical physics track (20 credit hours):

• BIOL 2051. General Biology I, 3 credit hours
• BIOL 2061. General Biology II, 3 credit hours
• BIOL 2071. General Biology Laboratory I, 1 credit hour
• BIOL 2081. General Biology Laboratory II, 1 credit hour
• CHEM 2031. General Chemistry I, 3 credit hours
• CHEM 2038. General Chemistry Laboratory I, 1 credit hour
• CHEM 2061. General Chemistry II, 3 credit hours
• CHEM 2068. General Chemistry Laboratory II, 2 credit hours
• A probability and statistics course to be approved by advisor, 3 credit hours