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Biomedical Physics

Includes: Mechanics, Electromagnetics, Genetics, Quantum Physics, Laser Physics, Cell Biology, Professional School Preparation

Biomedical Physics (Biophysics) is an exciting interdisciplinary frontier of science in which the principles and techniques of physics are used to study living things and how they work. For instance, biophysicists have applied laser physics to map cells in three dimensions and reveal bacteria in drinking water, and have developed or improved techniques for analyzing organisms such as EM (Electron Microscopy), CT (Computer-aided Tomography), MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), and X-ray crystallography. Studies of biological systems can also find applications to problems in physics. For example, the DNA of salmon has been found to improve the performance of light emitting diodes, and areas of nanotechnology are founded upon the unique mechanical and electrical properties of DNA. Biophysicists study organisms at all levels of biological organization from the macroscopic (e.g. movement, muscle contractions, breathing) to the microscopic (e.g. cell division, molecular motors, energy generation and conversion, cellular reactions to physical stimuli).

York’s Biomedical Physics program is strong in both physics and biology, with uniquely interdisciplinary courses highlighting their interfaces. The program has a scope sufficiently broad to expose students to knowledge and techniques applicable not only to humans but to all of the kingdoms of life. Students acquire a theoretical and practical understanding of biology, physics, and supporting fields through both lecture- and lab-based courses.

12U Requirements

  • English (ENG4U)
  • Biology (SBI4U)
  • Physics (SPH4U)
  • Advanced Functions (MHF4U)
  • Calculus & Vectors (MCV4U)
  • Chemistry (SCH4U) (recommended)

Requirements

  • Highest level Biology
  • Highest level Physics
  • Highest level Mathematics

Requirements will vary depending on your curriculum, to see a full list of course equivalents, please visit: https://futurestudents.yorku.ca/program/biology/science

Typical First-Year Courses

  • Physics
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Calculus
  • Linear Algebra
  • Computer Use

How to Apply

  1. Complete an Online Application Form.
  2. Pay the application fee.
  3. Submit supporting documents through the York University online portal, MyFile.
    • Within four business days of application, you will receive a confirmation email with your nine-digit student reference number, which will allow you to access your MyFile account and upload your documents.
    • It is important to check your MyFile regularly for any documents you are required to submit and updates to the status of your application.
    • More information about supporting documents, document processing times and decision processing times is available on the I’ve Applied page.

Important Note: Deadlines for each entry period (Fall, Winter & Summer) can be found on the York University Future Students Website.

Careers

A degree from the Faculty of Science opens the door to many different pathways and opportunities. York Science offers an ideal learning environment to achieve your highest potential. Our programs are known for academic excellence, with professors who are committed to your success.

Experiential Education at York provides career support services to students looking to engage in experiential learning, including co-op programs.

The Career Center at York offers free support and resources to students such as career development workshops, one-on-one appointments, networking events, resume help, interview prep, job boards, and more

Career Possibilities

  • Medical Science
  • Forensic Science
  • Radiation Science
  • Biotechnology
  • Environmental Science
  • Agricultural Science
  • Computational Biology
  • Applied Health Sciences
  • Professional Schools – Medicine, Dentistry, Optometry, Pharmacy, etc
  • Education – elementary, high school, college, university
  • Postgraduate Studies/Academic Career