Interdepartmental Program
No
Explore the intersection of physics and biology with Iowa State University's Biophysics graduate program. Our program offers an interdisciplinary curriculum designed to prepare students for careers at the forefront of biophysical research, medical physics, and biotechnology.
Collaborate closely with renowned faculty on cutting-edge studies in molecular dynamics, biomolecular structure, cellular mechanics, and biophysical imaging techniques. Gain hands-on experience through advanced laboratory work, computational modeling, and collaborative research projects. Whether your aspirations involve understanding biological systems at the molecular level, developing medical imaging technologies, or advancing biotechnological applications, Iowa State provides the expertise and resources to excel in unraveling the complexities of living systems through biophysics.
Degrees Offered:
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
- Master of Science (M.S.)
Area(s) of Specialization:
- Biophysics
- Cell Biology
- Computational Biology
- Enzymology
- Gene Regulation
- Immunobiology
- Metabolic Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Nutritional Biochemistry
- Plant Biochemistry
- Signal Transduction
- Structural Biology
How long does it take to earn a degree?
- Median time to earn the doctorate: 5.3 years (Methods)
- Median time to earn the master’s: No data
Learning Goals
- The Master's and Ph.D. degrees with thesis are designed to train students in the ability to independently conceive and carry out original research in an area of interest. Advanced degree graduates become qualified to pursue or to continue basic and applied research careers in academia, government, and industry
- Demonstrate understanding and thorough knowledge of the literature relevant to the area of study
- Define research objectives of significance and develop testable hypotheses related to those objectives
- Conduct research by appropriate means to test hypotheses
- Analyze research results appropriately, integrating them into the existing knowledge of the discipline
- Clearly and accurately communicate information (as for instance, in the publication of research findings or in classroom teaching)
- Understand how skills acquired by activities related to coursework, research, teaching, and scholarship facilitate the initial step toward a variety of lifetime career goals
515-294-3317
Allison Ringholz
bbmbapps@iastate.edu
Roy J. Carver Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Molecular Biology
Graduate Programs
1210 Molecular Biology Building
2437 Pammel Drive
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011-1079
Program Homepage
Application Requirements
Application Deadlines:
January 7 for full consideration for PhD rotation program that begins in the fall of that year. No deadline for direct admission in fall, spring or summer to a faculty research group for Master's or PhD.
Application Details:
This program is open to domestic and international students.
Application Instructions
Admission Requirements
Graduate College Requirements:
- 4 year Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
- Academic Records/Transcripts
- Minimum 3.0 GPA (Program may alter requirement.)
- Proof of English Proficiency.
Program Specific Requirements:
- Program Requires GRE: No
- Program Requires GMAT: No
- Program Will Review Without TOEFL or IELTS: No
International Requirements:
- Financial Statement: Application
- English Proficiency Minimum:
| TOEFL Paper (PBT) |
550 |
| TOEFL Internet (iBT) |
79 |
| IELTS |
6.5 |
| PTE |
53 |
| Duolingo (approved through spring 2026) |
115 |
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
swn@iastate.edu
