Central Washington University | Physics, Bachelor of Science (BS)

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Physics, Bachelor of Science (BS)

Physics, Bachelor of Science (BS)

Program Description

Physicists study how the world works on a fundamental level, from the scale of subatomic particles to galaxies. Physicists are problem solvers who contribute a unique skillset to tackle the world’s challenges including renewable energy solutions and biomedical innovations. CWU Physics students gain the foundational and practical skills they need to enter cutting-edge career sectors in Washington and around the world.

There are several distinct Physics B.S. degree tracks :
•   Physics B.S. (standard track)
•   Physics B.S. with Biophysics Specialization (view Physics B.S. with Biophysics Specialization Transfer MAP)
•   Physics/Engineering Dual Degree Program (see Advising Notes section for information)

Likely Career Paths

Medical Physics
Biomedical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Fundamental research in Astrophysics, Biophysics, Condensed Matter Physics, Acoustics, Optics
Science Teaching
Computer programming / software design
Science writing / journalism

Key Considerations

Cost: University-wide costs (Visit the CWU Financial Aid site for more information). Physics lab classes cost $15-20 per course.

Location: Ellensburg

Primary contact: 509-963-2727| Physics@cwu.edu | CWU Physics

Course Planning

1st and 2nd Year Courses or Areas of Study

CWU Course #	Transfer Course #
*MATH 153	MATH& 141
*MATH 154	MATH& 142
MATH 172	MATH& 151
MATH 173	MATH& 152
CHEM 181 + CHEM 181 LAB	CHEM& 161
CHEM 182 + CHEM 182 LAB	CHEM& 162
PHYS 181	PHYS& 221
PHYS 182	PHYS& 222
PHYS 183	PHYS& 223

*MATH 153 and MATH 154 are not required classes, but may be included as part of the 1st and 2nd year course of study depending on a student's initial math placement.

The Transfer Equivalency Site (TES)provides CWU equivalencies for courses at other colleges and universities.

Advising Notes

It is recommended students pursue and earn an AA-DTA.
Any Washington state DTA (Direct Transfer Agreement) degree will satisfy all general education requirements.
Students transferring with an AS-T (Associate in Science-Transfer) will need to take additional coursework to fulfill CWU general education requirements.
Students are encouraged to contact Physics@cwu.edu to discuss which Physics degree path best fits their goals. It is strongly recommended to work with an academic advisor as soon as possible if considering the Physics/Engineering Dual Degree Program.
A minimum of a 2.25 GPA is required in the program.
Major requirements may change over time; students will be expected to meet the catalog requirements in place at the time they are admitted to the major.

Current Catalog