What courses do you need when transferring to CWU?

The CWU physics department can work with students having all levels of preparation.  With appropriate preparation, students can (and have) completed the Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts physics degree programs within two years (for more information about our degree programs, please see the Degree Programs section below). 

By the time you arrive at CWU, what courses should you have completed? 

• Two quarters of single-variable calculus (CWU's MATH 172 and 173)
• Three quarters of calculus-based introductory physics with labs (CWU's PHYS 181, 182, and 183)

Students entering with the above courses can typically graduate within three years.  If additional courses are completed, particularly courses in mathematics such as Multivariable Calculus I and II (CWU's MATH 272 and 273), and Linear Algebra (CWU's MATH 265), it is possible to complete the degree within two years.  If you do not have the above courses but want to transfer, please contact the Department Chair.

Interested in a sample schedule?  Send the Department Chair an unofficial transcript and he can work with you to develop an appropriate multi-year sample schedule.  Traditional four-year sample schedules can be found in the Programs/Course Schedules tab on the left side of this page.

Not certain how your classes will transfer? Check the Registrar's transfer equivalencies.

Thinking about transferring to CWU? Check Admission's transfer student page for information.

To sign up for the physics major, you will meet with the Department Chair, develop a multi-year course schedule, and fill out the major's application form.

Degree Programs

The Department of Physics offers both Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees.

Follow these links for a description of each program offered:
Bachelors of Science in Physics (BS)
Bachelors of Arts in Physics (BA)
Physics Minor
Astronomy Minor
Dual-Degree in Physics and Engineering
Physics BS with Biophysics Specialization

See a list of all courses from our department offered from 2020 to 2025 in our anticipated courses document.

Scholarships

Scholarship opportunities for transfer students include:

• Physics Department Scholarship
• University scholarships for incoming freshmen including the Dean's Scholarship (tuition waiver)

You will automatically be considered for the Dean's Scholarship if you apply for the Physics Department Scholarship.