Office of the Registrar
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.
Other Resources
Admissions: 509-963-1211 | admissions@cwu.edu
Financial Aid: 509-963-1611 | FinancialAid@cwu.edu
Scholarship Information: 509-963-1611 | Scholarships@cwu.edu
Transfer Center: 509-963-1390 | transfer@cwu.edu
Veterans: 509-963-3028 | VA@cwu.edu
International: +1-509-963-3612 | intladm@cwu.edu
CWU News
Online Master’s of Education program now offers special education endorsement
May 15, 2024
by Rune Torgersen
Lenny Price brings Detroit perspective to CWU Jazz
May 15, 2024
by University Relations