Department of Physical Sciences

Bachelor of Science in Physical Science

The baccalaureate degree in physical science offers a program of study in which the student can elect a major emphasis in the physical sciences department. The curriculum is designed with enough flexibility so that students may prepare for a number of professions that require technical skills and a broad physical sciences background. It is well suited for students anticipating the teaching of science in the secondary schools and for students planning a military career as it affords a desirable general scientific background.

To qualify for a baccalaureate degree in physical science, the student must complete the following minimum number of semester hours: eight hours in biology, eight hours in chemistry, eleven hours in physics, four hours in geology, and eleven hours in mathematics. The student must also complete additional hours in four of the following subject areas: chemistry, engineering, geology, mathematics, physics, and physical science (BIOL/ENVS/PHSC 1004 Principles of Environmental Science, PHSC 1013 Introduction to Physical Science,PHSC 1021 Physical Science Laboratory, GEOL 1004 Essentials of Earth Science may not be counted in these hours).

Curriculum

The matrix below is a sample plan for all coursework required for this program.

1See appropriate alternatives or substitutions in "General Education Requirements". A specific general education core course does not have to be taken in the semester listed, any other part of the general education core at any time is acceptable as well.
2Excluding GEOL 1004 Essentials of Earth Science, MATH 3003 Foundations of Number Systems, MATH 3033 Methods of Teaching Elementary Mathematics, MATH 4113 History of Mathematics, BIOL/ENVS/PHSC 1004 Principles of Environmental Science, PHSC 1013 Introduction to Physical Science, and PHSC 1021 Physical Science Laboratory.
3Must complete both the PHYS class and one upper division elective (PHYS course offered in alternating years) (upper division = 3000-4000 level)