Northern Arizona University

What you'll study

The Physical Sciences bachelor's degree at Northern Arizona University provides a broad grounding across physics, chemistry and earth science, emphasising quantitative skills, laboratory competence and scientific reasoning. The programme typically includes core coursework in calculus-based physics (classical mechanics; electromagnetism), introductory quantum concepts, thermodynamics and statistical mechanics, physical chemistry and foundational geology or earth materials. Students also take mathematics modules (calculus, differential equations, linear algebra), laboratory courses that develop experimental technique and data analysis, and instruction in computational methods for modelling and data processing.

Beyond the core, students choose concentrations or elective sequences to tailor the degree toward particular interests—examples include advanced physics topics (optics, condensed matter), environmental and geoscience courses (mineralogy, sedimentology, geochemistry), or chemistry electives (analytical, organic or inorganic chemistry). The programme normally culminates in an integrative capstone experience such as a senior project, research practicum with a faculty member, or an extended laboratory course that emphasises research design and scientific communication.

Entry requirements

Entry to the bachelor's in Physical Sciences requires a secondary school completion (high school diploma or equivalent) with strong preparation in mathematics and science. Typical undergraduate entry expectations include:

• Mathematics: coursework in algebra and calculus where available; demonstrated proficiency in mathematics is important.
• Science: prior study in physics and chemistry at secondary level is recommended.
• Academic record: a competitive academic transcript demonstrating consistent achievement in relevant subjects.
• English language: for international applicants, proof of English proficiency is required (via accepted tests or other institutional pathways).

NAU considers applications holistically; prospective students transferring from community colleges should present college transcripts and any completed STEM coursework. Applicants interested in teacher certification pathways should check additional state and university requirements for education licensure.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Physical Sciences bachelor's from NAU are well placed for a variety of career paths in industry, government and research, or for continued study at graduate level. Common destinations include:

• Research assistant or laboratory technician roles in university, industrial or government labs.
• Environmental and geoscience positions such as environmental consultant, field technician, or roles with natural resource agencies.
• Technical roles in energy, materials, manufacturing or instrumentation companies.
• Data analysis and modelling positions in business, finance or technology sectors where quantitative problem-solving is valued.
• Further professional training leading to careers in engineering, medicine or specialised physical science research through postgraduate study (MSc/PhD).
• Secondary-school science teaching, for graduates who complete the necessary teacher preparation and certification.

Why study at Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University offers this programme with close faculty mentorship, emphasis on undergraduate research and access to distinctive regional resources. Being based in Flagstaff provides proximity to diverse field sites and natural laboratories—useful for earth and environmental science components—and local partnerships with observatories and research organisations support astronomy and physics interests. Class sizes tend to be smaller than at larger research universities, giving students hands-on laboratory time and opportunities to join faculty-led research projects early in their studies.

NAU also provides advising and career services geared to STEM students, internship and practicum connections with regional employers and agencies, and flexibility to combine coursework across departments to create an interdisciplinary study plan that aligns with individual career goals or graduate school preparation.