Overview
The University of Twin Cities Offers Big-City Life in the Midst of Academic Research and Biophysical Science Studies
Located in Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota, the University of Twin Cities offers students enrolled in the graduate program for a M.S. or Ph.D. in Biophysical Sciences and Medical Physics a well-rounded post-secondary education.
As part of the University of Minnesota's highly esteemed campus, UTC provides students with the option to pursue research and technological careers focusing on the role of physics in medicine and biology. Easy access to entertainment options and outdoor activities while pursuing an advanced degree attracts students from all types of backgrounds to the U of M graduate program.
Interdisciplinary Faculty Members Facilitate Thesis Studies in the Department of Radiology in the UTC Graduate Program
As part of the UTC Department of Radiology, the courses required for the master's degree and doctor of philosophy degree are enhanced by faculty with interdisciplinary backgrounds. Many of the school's faculty members have experience in radiobiology, physics, engineering, computer science, physiology, dentistry, genetics, and biochemistry.
Many research opportunities alongside these faculty members exist for students to expand upon their traditional in-classroom education, which is combined with real-world work experience. These research areas may focus on molecular biophysics, medical imaging, and magnetic resonance imaging, and spectroscopy. Other thesis and research projects focus on radiobiology, radiation therapy physics, mathematical biophysics, and computation. These research projects may also lead to internship or assistantship positions with the university in the future.
One very special part of the biophysical sciences and medical physics graduate program is that it is designed for any student wishing to eventually become a hospital-based medical physicist. This program requires core coursework, laboratory experiments, and faculty-directed study that include quality assurance, testing, purchasing, and radiation safety work.
In order to apply to the program, students must have completed related undergraduate work, shown they have had adequate practical experience, or taken one of several informal exams. Students should have a background steeped in intermediate physics, physical chemistry, intermediate mathematics, biostatistics, computer programming, biology, physiology, and biochemistry. All applications must also be accompanied by three letters of recommendation and timely GRE scores. Students may apply and begin studies during either the fall or spring semesters.
Those pursuing a master's degree may do so by choosing a program with or without a thesis. Students employed full-time are encouraged to pursue the thesis option, as it can relate to their current work projects. The non-thesis program is better suited for students hoping to work in government or hospital settings where technical expertise is more important than research. The thesis or project is conducted under the direction of a faculty member, and students must pass an oral exam before pursuing their chosen option.
Ph.D. degree students are required to pass a written exam after their first year of core coursework studies. These include physics, medicine, and biology. In addition, an oral exam for their thesis research plans must be passed. Ph.D. students must complete 24 thesis credit hours and 12 additional credits of a minor or supporting program to be considered for their degree award.
Students Enjoy a Wide Range of Activities and Entertainment Options While Pursuing a Biophysical Sciences Degree
The University of Twin Cities campus is much larger than many towns in the state of Minnesota. Nearly 70,000 students and faculty enjoy interdisciplinary studies in the midst of the activities of St. Paul and Minneapolis, and near the famous Mississippi River. When not studying or conducting research in the on-campus facilities, students take a break from their academic careers to absorb the local culture, live music, and activities available on the UTC campus.
Several live music venues attract regional and national acts on a year-round basis, as well as serve as the stage for local students and community performers. During the summer, a ride on the Minnesota Centennial Showboat offers unique live entertainment options for musical theater fans. The Bell Museum Auditorium allows larger acts to schedule a stop at UTC, and The Whole caters to local talent and one-man shows. In addition, School of Music students and faculty are frequently featured in free concerts and recitals scheduled at the West Bank Arts Quarter.
Art fans flock to the Weisman Art Museum and Larson Gallery, as well as the Nash or Reedy Gallery featuring student artwork and several rotating exhibits year-round. Throughout campus, the school's connection to the surrounding community is clear with the many public art samples featured throughout.
Students may also venture into St. Paul and Minneapolis to enjoy one of the many conventions that are scheduled in the city each year, or even just to visit the local zoo or enjoy some designer shopping and relaxing dining options. Many also enjoy hiking, mountain biking, or water sports on the Mississippi River.
Other popular activities among students enrolled in the graduate program are taking a mini-course in a non-academic subject, or participating in student unions and activities. Sports fans enjoy many recreational and Big Ten teams for both spectator and participatory options for entertainment.
