Seattle University

What you'll study

This programme provides a foundation across the core physical sciences—classical and modern physics, general and analytical chemistry, and earth & space sciences—supported by mathematics and statistics. You will take a mix of required core courses and electives, allowing you to tailor study towards a particular discipline or maintain a broad interdisciplinary focus.

• Core modules: introductory and intermediate courses in mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, general chemistry, analytical techniques and earth system science.
• Laboratory and practical work: hands-on laboratory courses in physics and chemistry, fieldwork in earth sciences, and training in experimental design, instrumentation and data analysis.
• Mathematics and computation: calculus, linear algebra, differential equations and coursework in scientific computing or programming for data analysis.
• Advanced electives: options commonly include quantum mechanics, physical chemistry, environmental geoscience, planetary science, materials science and spectroscopy.
• Capstone or research project: opportunities for an independent research project or capstone study supervised by faculty, often culminating in a written report and oral presentation.
• Interdisciplinary options: courses and minors in areas such as environmental studies, data science, engineering fundamentals or science policy to broaden career preparation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong performance in secondary-level mathematics and science. Typical evidence includes:

• A recognised secondary school qualification (for example a US high-school diploma with relevant coursework) or equivalent international qualifications.
• Preparation in mathematics (algebra, precalculus/calculus) and at least one laboratory science such as physics or chemistry at high-school level; higher-level courses are advantageous.
• For international applicants, an appropriate national secondary credential or the International Baccalaureate with higher-level science/maths is acceptable.
• Successful applicants typically present academic transcripts, a personal statement describing interest in the physical sciences, and one or two academic references; transfer applicants must supply college transcripts and course descriptions.

Seattle University considers the whole application, including course rigour, recommendations, and alignment with the university’s Jesuit mission. Specific admission criteria and prerequisite course lists should be confirmed with the admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates with a broad bachelor’s in physical sciences are well placed for a wide range of careers or further study. Common destinations include:

• Laboratory technician or research assistant roles in academic, industrial or government labs.
• Environmental consultant, geological or atmospheric technician positions for firms and public agencies.
• Technical roles in local industry sectors such as aerospace, energy, materials and biotechnology, particularly with additional specialised training.
• Secondary school science teacher (typically following completion of teacher certification requirements).
• Progression to graduate study: specialised master's or PhD programmes in physics, chemistry, earth sciences, materials science, engineering or data science.
• Careers in data analysis, instrumentation, scientific writing, regulatory science and science policy, where quantitative and analytical skills are valued.

Undergraduates also gain experience relevant to non‑technical careers through internships, project work and communication training.

Why study at Seattle University

Seattle University offers a close-knit campus environment with small class sizes and accessible faculty, which supports one-on-one mentoring and undergraduate research opportunities. The university’s Jesuit tradition emphasises ethical reasoning, community engagement and service—elements that are woven into science education through applied projects and community partnerships.

Located in a region with a strong technology, aerospace and biotech sector, students have access to local internship and employment opportunities as well as collaborations with research groups and agencies in the Pacific Northwest. The programme’s flexibility enables students to pursue interdisciplinary minors or certificate programmes, preparing them for both specialised graduate study and a broad set of career paths.