Physics

College of Arts and Sciences

Department of Physics & Astronomy

Learn the laws and forces of nature and searching for symmetries, patterns, and properties that define the workings of the universe.

Campuses:

  • Pullman

Degree Types:

  • Bachelor's
  • Certificate
  • Doctorate
  • Master's
  • Minor

Highlights

  • Institute for Shock Physics, a multidisciplinary research organization focusing on condensed matter response in extreme conditions 
  • The Jewett Observatory houses the largest refracting telescope in the state of Washington 
  • Facilities and laboratories provide hands-on experience 
  • Participate in undergraduate research guided by renowned faculty 
  • Owen Science and Engineering Library, the largest of its kind in the Pacific Northwest 
  • Join a math, science, and engineering residence hall, where you can study with your neighbors, get free tutoring, and use the hall’s computer lab 

Specializations

  • Applied Physics 
  • Astrophysics 
  • Planetary Sciences 
  • Standard Physics 

Career

With a Physics degree, you can work in:  

  • Aerospace technology 
  • Nanotechnology 
  • Meteorology and cryptography 
  • Alternative energy science and energy exploration 
  • Medical imaging and diagnostics
  • Sports technologies 
  • Architecture, civil engineering, and materials science 
  • Forensics and law enforcement 
  • Special effects, sound engineering, and design 
  • Science communications
  • Optometry and other health professions

Transfer Students

WSU accepts credit from Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, and CLEP exams, associate degrees, Running Start and more.  

You’re considered a transfer student at WSU if you’ve received college credit post-high school.  

Use our Transfer Course Search Tool to determine what courses you need to take at your current institution to transition to WSU smoothly. 

Admission to WSU and admission to your desired major are two separate processes. Contact your academic department for specific requirements and prerequisites unique to your major.   

Scholarships

Complete the General Scholarship Application to be eligible for 700+ WSU scholarship programs, including ones specifically for a major you’re interested in. Use our search tool to find more scholarships outside WSU.  

Fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) or WASFA (Washington Application for State Financial Aid) to be considered for scholarships, grants, loans, and other forms of aid. 

Internships, Jobs, and Work-study

Find hundreds of student-friendly jobs, internships, and work-study opportunities with our WSU student job board, Handshake. You can also check with departments for internships specific to a major. 

Get advice and learn more at the Academic Success and Career Center. 

Dig Deeper
Find out more about a degree in Physics

Let’s Go

Degree Options

Physics

  • Pullman

Physics

  • Pullman

Physics Teaching Certification

  • Pullman

Contact

Contact your personal admission counselor

Still undecided?
Not sure what to study?

Explore Your Options

Request Information

Loading...