A major in physics gives students the opportunity to master fundamental laws and model-building techniques, awakens them to the power of the universe, and supports knowledge in mathematics, engineering, and other fields. Physics students develop high-demand skills, such as numeracy, problem solving, data analysis, and the communication of complex ideas, that are valued in industry and all types of organizations.
Physics Degree Options
UW Bothell offers two degrees in Physics—the Bachelor of Science (BS) and the Bachelor of Arts (BA)—and a minor in Physics.
The Bachelor of Science in Physics (BS) allows students to pursue a rigorous curriculum focused on the study of the universe from the largest galaxies to the smallest subatomic particles.The degree includes the traditional areas of physics and has four possible (non-transcripted) concentrations: general physics, astrophysics, biophysics and condensed matter.
The Bachelor of Arts in Physics (BA) combines a rigorous curriculum covering the foundations of physics with a career track for students who want to become middle or high school teachers.
The Physics minor is an excellent choice for students in other STEM majors, especially Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mathematics and Chemistry. By pursuing the Physics minor, you demonstrate to prospective employers or graduate schools the depth and rigor of your academic preparation and laboratory experience.
Physics Major Goals
Through the physics major, students will be gain the ability to:
- Apply critical thinking skills and quantitative reasoning abilities to the physical world.
- Apply the principles and theories of physics to a variety of areas in the sciences and other evidence-based endeavors .
- Understand the history, organization, and underlying principles of physics and the application of these principles to the physical world.
- Anticipate and assess trajectories of technological change in a variety of industries using physics, along with critical thinking abilities developed in physics courses.
- Utilize thermodynamics, modern physics, and other physics principles, in the design and optimization of new technologies.
- Understand the ethical implications of physics in nature and society.
- Teach physics in secondary schools.
Physics Research at UW Bothell
Physics faculty at UWB are helping to expand our knowledge of the world. Faculty research focuses on areas such as gravitational wave astronomy and improving student outcomes in Physics courses. Research is an integral part of the Physics program at UWB. Physics majors actively participate in research by designing and carrying out experiments, writing scientific papers and presenting at regional and national conferences.
Read more about faculty and student research
Career Possibilities for Physics Majors
Studying Physics at UWB provides students with the knowledge and hands-on experience to be successful physicists and also to pursue careers in many diverse sectors. Our Physics graduates are fully prepared to enter a wide variety of occupations or to pursue further studies at graduate or professional schools. Physics graduates find satisfying and rewarding work in a wide array of industries and organizations, including:
- Research laboratories
- Space and astronomy
- Medical science
- Engineering
- Technology
- Energy
- Manufacturing
- Geophysics and Meteorology