Auburn University at Montgomery

What you'll study

The Physical Sciences degree provides a broad curriculum that combines fundamental courses in physics, chemistry and earth/atmospheric science with supporting mathematics and laboratory work. Students typically take sequential modules in calculus and linear algebra to support analytical work, introductory and intermediate physics (mechanics, electricity and magnetism, waves and optics), general and physical chemistry, and earth science topics such as geology, meteorology or environmental science depending on elective choices.

• Core physics: classical mechanics, electromagnetism, thermal physics and introductory modern physics.
• Chemistry and materials: general chemistry with laboratory, physical chemistry concepts, and introductory materials or analytical chemistry options.
• Mathematics: calculus series, differential equations and statistics for scientists.
• Earth and atmospheric science: geology, meteorology or environmental science electives that provide context for applied physical problems.
• Laboratory and research: hands-on laboratory courses, instrumentation and measurement, data analysis, and a capstone project or directed research under faculty supervision.
• Electives and flexibility: options to take courses in computer programming, instrumentation, remote sensing, or to pursue a minor in a related discipline such as mathematics or environmental studies.

The programme emphasises experimental skills, scientific communication, quantitative problem solving and independent research. Students can tailor the degree toward preparation for graduate study, secondary teaching certification pathways (where available), or direct entry into technical and laboratory roles.

Entry requirements

AUM admits students who have completed secondary education with college-preparatory coursework, including mathematics through precalculus or calculus and at least two laboratory sciences. Typical applicants will present a high school diploma or equivalent; transfer applicants submit college transcripts showing completion of introductory math and science courses.

• Academic qualifications: college-preparatory high school coursework or an equivalent post-secondary record. Students transferring from other institutions should have completed relevant introductory courses with passing grades.
• Placement and preparation: placement testing may be used to determine appropriate entry level for mathematics and science courses; students with limited preparation may be advised to take preparatory courses.
• International applicants: required to meet AUM's general international admission standards, including evidence of English language proficiency through recognised tests or institutional waivers.
• Additional considerations: some students will be encouraged to demonstrate interest in science through extracurricular activities, laboratory experience, or community college coursework in STEM subjects.

Career prospects

Graduates with a broad Physical Sciences bachelor’s degree move into a variety of technical and professional roles or continue to graduate study. The programme prepares students for employment that values quantitative and laboratory skills as well as scientific problem solving.

• Laboratory and technical roles: laboratory technician, quality control analyst, environmental field technician, or materials testing technician in industry and government labs.
• Applied science and industry: positions in manufacturing, energy, environmental consulting, instrumentation and technical sales.
• Education and outreach: secondary-school teaching (with appropriate certification), museum or science-centre education, and public outreach roles.
• Further study: many graduates pursue specialised master’s or doctoral programmes in physics, chemistry, earth sciences, engineering or applied fields, or professional degrees in areas such as medicine or engineering.
• Research and internships: undergraduate research and internships strengthen prospects for laboratory and research-assistant roles and provide pathways into graduate research programmes.

Why study at Auburn University at Montgomery

Auburn University at Montgomery offers a supportive campus environment with relatively small class sizes that allow close interaction with faculty. The university emphasises undergraduate teaching and provides opportunities for hands-on laboratory experience and mentored research projects under faculty supervision.

• Faculty mentorship: access to faculty with active teaching and research interests who supervise undergraduate projects and independent study.
• Practical experience: laboratory classes, capstone projects and internship links with regional employers help students develop applied technical skills.
• Support services: academic advising, tutoring and career services tailored to help students plan coursework, internships and post-graduation options.
• Flexibility: the programme’s interdisciplinary structure allows students to customise their studies with electives and minors to match career goals or graduate-school preparation.