Central Washington University

What you'll study

The Physical Sciences degree combines core and elective coursework across major physical science disciplines so you develop quantitative problem‑solving skills and practical laboratory experience. Typical core subjects include classical mechanics, electricity and magnetism, general chemistry, earth and environmental science, introductory astronomy and calculus. Students progress from foundational courses in mathematics and laboratory techniques to more specialised units and independent research.

• Foundations: calculus, linear algebra or applied mathematics, scientific computing and statistics.
• Physics: mechanics, electromagnetism, modern physics and laboratory methods in physics.
• Chemistry: general and organic chemistry, analytical methods and chemical laboratory practice.
• Earth & environmental sciences: geology, climatology or hydrology options, plus field methods.
• Astronomy & planetary science: observational astronomy, astrophysics fundamentals (elective).
• Research and capstone: senior seminar, capstone project or undergraduate research experience supervised by a faculty member.

Many students tailor the degree by choosing electives or minors (for example in mathematics, computer science, environmental science, or education) and complete coursework or placements that prepare them for teacher certification or technical employment. Laboratory safety, instrumentation and data analysis are emphasised throughout.

Entry requirements

Admission is at the undergraduate level. Applicants are expected to hold a secondary school diploma or equivalent with strong performance in mathematics and at least one laboratory science. Typical preparation includes courses in algebra, trigonometry or calculus, and high‑level secondary science (physics, chemistry or earth science).

Central Washington University considers whole‑profile applications that may include high school grades, transcripts, personal statements and any standardised test scores the applicant chooses to provide. Transfer students are evaluated on completed college coursework; prior credit in calculus, physics or chemistry will be applied toward degree requirements where appropriate. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates leave the programme with broad scientific knowledge, laboratory skills and quantitative abilities that fit a range of entry‑level roles and pathways. Common career directions include:

• laboratory technician or technologist in industrial, environmental or analytical labs;
• research assistant positions in university or government labs;
• environmental monitoring and field technician roles with consultancies or agencies;
• technical roles in manufacturing, instrumentation, energy or applied materials firms;
• secondary school science teacher (additional teacher certification required);
• progression to graduate study in physics, chemistry, earth sciences, environmental science or engineering.

Students often complement academic study with internships, undergraduate research and community partnerships to build practical experience and employer networks.

Why study at Central Washington University

Central Washington University offers a student‑centred learning environment with relatively small class sizes and direct access to faculty mentors, making it well suited for undergraduates seeking hands‑on scientific training. The Ellensburg campus provides easy access to regional field sites and outdoor laboratory opportunities in the Cascade and Columbia Plateau areas, supporting earth and environmental science learning. CWU emphasises undergraduate research, applied learning and internship connections that help students move into the workforce or prepare for graduate study.