PHYS 303 - Biophysics

Units: 3 ; Breadth Area: GE-UDB
A descriptive exploration of the intersection between biology, medicine, and physics. Topics of study include, for example, ultrasound, X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and the important discoveries enabled by these techniques.

Strongly Recommended Preparation: Upper division status (greater than 60 earned semester units) and completion of lower division Areas B1-B3.
Prerequisites: Completion of GE Areas A1, A2, A3 and B4 with grade C- (CR) or better.
Possible Instructional Methods: Entirely On-ground, or Entirely Online.
Grading: A-F or CR/NC (student choice).
Breadth Area(s) Satisfied: GE-UDB - Upper Division Science Inquiry and Quantitative Reasoning
Course Typically Offered: Fall & Spring

Student Learning Outcomes - Upon successful completion of this course students will be able to:
1. Students will demonstrate knowledge of Physics underlying various biological phenomena and medical technologies explored in class, such as ultrasound, X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging.

2. Students will demonstrate understianding of the nature of science and scientific inquiry as it applies tot he use of physical principles and experimental techniques to understand biological processes and the experimental and empirical methodologies used to investgate biophysical questions.

3. Students will critically analyze scientific claims and data by algebraic solutions, order-of-magnitude estimates, interpretation of graphical and tabular data and basic statistics.

UD-B. Upper-division Science Inquiry and Quantitative Reasoning Learning Outcomes

demonstrate advanced and/or focused science or quantitative content knowledge in a specific scientific field, using appropriate vocabulary and referencing appropriate concepts (such as models, uncertainties, hypotheses, theories, and technologies);
apply advanced quantitative skills (such as statistics, algebraic solutions, interpretation of graphical data) to scientific problems and evaluate scientific claims;
demonstrate understanding of the nature of science and scientific inquiry and the experimental and empirical methodologies used in science to investigate a scientific question or issue; and
apply science content knowledge to contemporary scientific issues (e.g., global warming) and technologies (e.g., cloning), where appropriate.