Biophysics University of British Columbia

Overview

The Biophysics honours degree at the University of British Columbia provides a rigorous interdisciplinary education that bridges the gap between physics and the biological sciences. Students explore life at every level, from individual atoms and molecules to complex organisms and environments, while mastering quantitative analysis. This specialised pathway is designed for those aiming for high-level research roles or professional medical training.

Why Biophysics at University of British Columbia?

Students benefit from studying at one of the top physics departments in Canada, which maintains an outstanding international reputation for research excellence. The programme is delivered as a prestigious, tight-knit honours stream, ensuring that upper-year students receive individualised attention through small class sizes. Facilities include the Applied Biophysics research laboratory, which develops innovative tools for biomolecule manipulation by combining engineering and molecular biology.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: CAD 51041 per year
• National fee: CAD 6079 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on the physical principles of biological systems and advanced mathematical modelling. Modules may include:

• Biology of the Cell
• Dynamics and Waves
• Structure and Bonding in Chemistry
• Intermediate Experimental Physics
• Elementary Differential Equations
• Cell Biology
• General Biochemistry
• Electricity and Magnetism
• Biophysics
• Enzymology
• Honours Thesis
• Applied Solid State Physics

Careers with Biophysics

Graduates are highly prepared for entry into competitive professional schools, including medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and veterinary science. Many alumni pursue doctoral studies in structural biology or physics at world-leading institutions. Career opportunities also exist in the pharmaceutical industry and clinical medical biophysics. Previous graduates have secured roles as resident physicians, medical physics residents, and clinical researchers within healthcare organisations.