Biophysics Major

About our program

Step into a field where physics meets biology — and where you’ll solve biological mysteries, from the intricacies of human DNA to the complexities of diseases. You'll get your hands on the latest technology in labs, work side by side with professors on groundbreaking research and apply your knowledge in real-world settings through internships and service-learning initiatives. 

You’ll be prepared for a wide range of careers, doing things like designing medical instruments, detecting chemicals, modifying microorganisms and improving water sources. 

The biophysics major is designed to cultivate not only your scientific acumen but also your sense of responsibility toward using science for good. By the time you graduate, you'll have a vision of how you can improve the health of people worldwide — and be equipped with the technical skills to make it happen.

Marquette Hall, view from Wisconsin Avenue.

Marquette Hall, College of Arts and Sciences

Benefits you’ll get from Marquette’s College of Arts and Sciences

The ability to make significant positive change in the world requires knowing more than one area well. And since our College of Arts and Sciences is the most academically diverse college on campus, we're the perfect place to prepare for your role as a changemaker. So broaden your expertise by adding at least one additional major or minor to your degree — 73% of our students do. 

What can you do with a major in biophysics from Marquette?

The biophysics major is excellent preparation for graduate, medical, dental and law schools; industrial or government research and development; and teaching. Here’s where some of our graduates have landed.  

  • Ford Motor Co.
  • Kimberly-Clark Corp.
  • Los Alamos National Laboratory
  • Motorola
  • NASA Jet Propulsion Lab
  • National Institute of Standards and Technology
  • Nuclear Regulatory Commission
  • Procter and Gamble
  • Rockwell Automation
  • Scripps Institute of Oceanography
  • Trace Analytical Laboratories
  • U.S. Defense Department

collage of a building and faculty member talking to students

Hands-on learning for career success

While you’re here at Marquette, preparing you for what’s next will be one of our top priorities. So, expect lots of learning by doing, connecting with others who share your passions, and reflecting on how you can Be The Difference.   

 

Professional experience

As a biophysics major, you'll have lots of career options. Help decide the direction you'll take — and get valuable professional experience — with an internship. Internships can include working in a variety of professional settings in Milwaukee and nationwide. Our internship program is here to help you find the best option for you. 

Discover more about Arts and Sciences internships. 

Undergraduate research

You’ll have plenty of opportunities to follow your interests here, like volunteering with a faculty member whose research area intrigues you or completing your own independent study. 

Here are some of the topics our faculty and students are exploring now: 

  • Understanding cosmic rays
  • Studying the effects of cancer, metabolic diseases and therapies on the energy-producing mitochondrial respiratory chain
  • Developing imaging systems and computational tools to study cancer formation
  • Modeling populations of interacting binary stars 
  • Observing the radio emissions from collapsing stars
  • Understanding the evolutionary processes that maintain biological diversity 

Learn more about physics research at Marquette. 

Learn more about biology research at Marquette.

Leadership learning

Become a people-centered leader guided by our Jesuit tradition. Join our E-Lead program sophomore year and you’ll complete a combination of leadership courses and experiences that prepare you to be the drivers of innovation for the common good. You’ll develop the skill set to generate innovative solutions and the mindset to reflect on the impact your work has on the world. Bonus: You’ll graduate with a concentration in leadership, too. 

Explore our E-Lead program. 

Study abroad

Expand your education with a semester abroad. Study program course work at prestigious universities from around the world. Other international opportunities are available for biophysics students through core courses, summer study, language study, faculty-led programs or research. 

Check out our study abroad programs.

 

 

What to expect from a Marquette degree

A Marquette education equips students to thrive professionally and personally through overall student support, career preparation and an extended family that can't wait to meet you. But don't just take our word for it. 

#6

#6 Best College in Job Placement /#1 in Wisconsin

Zippia.com

#55

#55 in Student Outcomes

Wall Street Journal

#12

#12 Best Colleges for Internships

The Princeton Review (private universities)

Aerial of campus
 

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