College of the Sciences
Physics
Bachelor of Arts | Major
Bachelor of Arts in Physics
The Physics BA program allows you to develop a strong foundation in physical sciences and the problem-solving skills to tackle real-world challenges.
The flexibility of this degree program allows you to chart your own unique educational path. Physics BA graduates are found in diverse career fields such as science education, medicine, patent law, business, and science writing. At CWU, we are not just preparing you for a career—we are preparing you for an extraordinary future.
Questions? Contact Us.
Department of Physics
Create Your Future
What You'll Study
Academic Catalog | Physics Department Website
Courses
- MATH 265 - Linear Algebra I
- PHYS 289 - How to Succeed as a Physics Major
- PHYS 317 - Modern Physics I
- PHYS 318 - Modern Physics II
- PHYS 331 - Laboratory Practices and Techniques
- PHYS 333 - Experimental Physics I
- PHYS 361 - Computational Physics
- PHYS 363 - Optics
- PHYS 489 - Senior Assessment
- PHYS 495 - Undergraduate Research
General Physics
- PHYS 181 - General Physics I with Laboratory
- PHYS 182 - General Physics II with Laboratory
- PHYS 183 - General Physics III with Laboratory
- CHEM 181 - General Chemistry I
- CHEM 181LAB - General Chemistry Laboratory I
- CHEM 182 - General Chemistry II
- CHEM 182LAB - General Chemistry Laboratory II
Calculus
- MATH 172 - Calculus I
- MATH 173 - Calculus II
- MATH 272 - Multivariable Calculus I
- MATH 273 - Multivariable Calculus II
Department-Approved Electives
Teach STEM
This program partially satisfies the requirements for a teaching endorsement in Physics (grades 5-12). Students who successfully complete the Physics BA and STEM Teaching Program are eligible to apply for WA teacher certification.
Enhance Your Learning
Find connection and fun in our award-winning clubs. The Physics Club, Astronomy Club, Biophysics Club, and Rocketry Team are all opportunities to network and establish a support network within the department.
Data Driven
Learn programming languages and computational techniques to simulate physical systems and interpret data with precision, an in-demand skill in all fields.
Communication and Teamwork
Learn to communicate complex scientific ideas clearly, both in writing and verbally along with enhancing your teamwork skills through collaborative projects and experiments.
Apply
Discover how to apply to your program of choice at Central.
Financial Aid
Our Financial Aid staff are here to help you navigate financial aid.
Student Life
Pursue your interests in a supportive community. Learn more.
Visit
The best way to discover what makes CWU so special is to experience it yourself.
Salaries
The starting salaries for physicists with a BS degree in the private sector range from $60K to $80K per year. The median annual salary for physicists in 2023 was $156K according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Labs
Physics students work with cutting-edge equipment in the Department's seven unique laboratories.
Focused
According to the American Institute of Physics (AIP), recent data suggests that approximately 94% of bachelor of physics degree recipients find jobs or enroll in graduate school within a year of graduation.
Why Study Physics at Central?
- CWU offers small class sizes, ensuring personalized attention and support for students.
- Our programs focus exclusively on preparing our undergraduate majors. Our courses use research-based practices taught in workshop-style formats instead of traditional lectures.
- Take advantage of hands-on learning in our seven state-of-the-art labs designed for advanced learning and experimentation.
- Our degrees can serve as on-ramps to high-demand careers in engineering, medical physics, STEM teaching, and more.
Potential Careers
Education
Research Scientist
Data Analyst
Science Education
Technical Writer
Engineering
Business/Operations/Information Technology