Students should make academic advising appointments through the Advising Portal.
For advising questions, please email: biophys-sso@umich.edu
Some general advising questions may also be answered through the Advising Maizey.
Biophysics Major
The Biophysics major prepares students for careers in biophysical sciences, medical sciences, and related fields. The major also helps students prepare for MD/Ph.D. programs and other advanced professional training.
Students begin with foundational coursework in:
- Math
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
Students then move into advanced biophysics coursework and complete required research for hands-on experience.
Biophysics majors choose one of two tracks:
- Biological Physics Track
- Structural Biology Track
Students should work with an advisor to choose the track that best fits their academic interests and career goals.
Major Requirements and Sample Course Plans
Review the major requirements and sample course plans:
Biophysics Major Advising
Biophysics advisors help students plan their path through the major. Advisors can help with:
- Understanding requirements for the Biological Physics Track and Structural Biology Track
- Choosing courses
- Selecting a major track
- Exploring career opportunities for students with Biophysics degrees
- Preparing for graduate school, medical school, or MD/Ph.D. programs
- Understanding whether the Biophysics major supports a student’s long-term academic or professional goals
In exceptional circumstances, major advisors may approve changes to departmental requirements. However, advisors cannot change college-level requirements.
Required Advising Meetings for Biophysics Majors
Students must meet with a Biophysics advisor at the following points:
- To declare the Biophysics major: Students are encouraged to declare the major as early as possible. Students do not need to complete all prerequisites before declaring.
- To declare a track within the major: Students may declare a track during the initial major declaration meeting or at a later advising appointment.
- To file a major release form: Students usually complete this form during the first term of their senior year.
- To request changes involving exceptions to course requirements: Students must meet with an advisor before making changes to a major plan that requires an exception.
Biophysics Minor Advising
Biophysics advisors can help students understand minor requirements and choose coursework that complements their major.
Students completing a Minor in Biophysics must meet with an advisor to complete a minor release form. This usually happens during the first term of the student’s senior year.
Review the minor requirements: Biophysics Minor Requirements
Honors in Biophysics Advising
Students interested in Honors in Biophysics should meet with an advisor to discuss program requirements.
To be eligible for Honors in Biophysics, students must have a minimum GPA of 3.4.
Honors students must also:
- Complete all requirements for their chosen Biophysics major track
- Complete an honors thesis
- Take one additional Biophysics elective
For detailed honors advising, students should visit the LSA Honors Advising Portal.
Review the honors requirements: Honors in Biophysics Worksheet
