College of the Sciences
Physics
Bachelor of Science | Major
Bachelor of Science in Physics
In the Physics Department at CWU, you will join a vibrant community of scholars dedicated to understanding the mysteries of the physical universe.
Our curriculum covers the fundamental laws of nature, including classical mechanics, quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, and thermodynamics. Through our hands-on courses and in-depth research projects, you will also gain proficiency in the experimental, computational, and analytical techniques essential for discovering these principles. Upon graduation, you will be equipped with the knowledge and problem-solving skills needed for a career in physics, engineering, and other technical fields. At CWU, we are not just preparing you for a career—we are preparing you for an extraordinary future.
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Department of Physics
Create Your Future
What You'll Study
Academic Catalog | Physics Department Website
Physics Shared Core
General Chemistry
- CHEM 181 - General Chemistry I
- CHEM 181LAB - General Chemistry Laboratory I
- CHEM 182 - General Chemistry II
- CHEM 182LAB - General Chemistry Laboratory II
Mathematics
- MATH 172 - Calculus I
- MATH 173 - Calculus II
- MATH 265 - Linear Algebra I
- MATH 272 - Multivariable Calculus I
- MATH 273 - Multivariable Calculus II
- MATH 376 - Differential Equations I
Physics
- PHYS 289 - How to Succeed as a Physics Major
- PHYS 317 - Modern Physics I
- PHYS 342 - Thermodynamics
- PHYS 351 - Analytical Mechanics I
- PHYS 361 - Computational Physics
- PHYS 363 - Optics
- PHYS 381 - Electromagnetic Theory I
- PHYS 489 - Senior Assessment
- PHYS 495 - Undergraduate Research
Additional Courses
- PHYS 181 - General Physics I with Laboratory
- PHYS 182 - General Physics II with Laboratory
- PHYS 183 - General Physics III with Laboratory
- PHYS 318 - Modern Physics II
- PHYS 331 - Laboratory Practices and Techniques
- PHYS 333 - Experimental Physics I
- PHYS 382 - Electromagnetic Theory II
- PHYS 383 - Electromagnetic Theory III
- PHYS 451 - Analytical Mechanics II
- PHYS 474 - Quantum Mechanics I
Department-Approved Electives
The Right Path
If you are planning a career in physics or in areas where knowledge of basic scientific principles is necessary, then the bachelor of science degree is the right match. This program will prepare you for both an advanced degree (MS or PhD) and for entry into private industry or national lab careers.
Discover Our Labs
Our innovative labs include acoustics, condensed matter, biophysics, optics, computational physics, and an observatory. These facilities, paired with research opportunities, let you apply theoretical principles to real-world physics, accommodating diverse learning styles.
Interesting Choices
Discover courses like the Physics of Acoustics where you’ll research properties of sound and vibrating systems using our anechoic chamber which applies the physical principles of sounds with real-life scenarios such as musical instruments and vocal sounds.
Versatile Degree
Jump into the workforce in a variety of directions. Our graduates find jobs in national laboratories, the aerospace/defense industry, computer chip manufacturing, medical physics, science journalism, engineering, technical sales, education, and more.
Apply
Discover how to apply to your program of choice at Central.
Financial Aid
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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. The median annual salary for physicists in 2023 was $156K according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Physics Lab
Build and test an electron accelerator modeled after devices used in radiation treatment of cancer patients.
Available
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
Business/Operations/Information Technology
Research
Engineering
Technical Sales
Science Journalism
Health Care