Liberal Arts
& Sciences

Physical Sciences

Graduates with a major in “physical sciences” with either a BA or BS degree will have a broad foundation for a range of careers in our technical society. This major is a multidisciplinary program. With a basic foundation in the areas of chemistry, earth science, physics and mathematics, and specialization in an area that would enhance one’s career objective(s), a graduate will be prepared for a range of technical skill employment opportunities, or graduate study in interdisciplinary science fields, or professional school study in business, environmental studies, law or library science and information management.


Salaries

  • Starting Median Salary: Approx: $52,000*
  • After 5 Years Experience: Approx: $66,000

Department Homepage

Quick Facts

  • The Departments of Physical Sciences manages ESU's Johnston Geology Museum, Peterson Planetarium, and the Science and Mathematics Education Center.
  • Faculty and student research has been supported by the NASA JOVE (JOint VEnture) Program, NASA Space Grant, and a variety of other research grants.
  • A spring, 2010 graduate with a major in physical sciences had an internship at the NASA Johnson Space Center, and was subsequently hired for a continuing position. A minor in GeoSpatial Analysis was a real plus for him.

Career Opportunities

  • Environmental fields
  • Graduate school (interdisciplinary studies)
  • Sales or tech positions with scientific companies
  • Product development and manufacturing
  • Professional school study (business, law)
  • Profesional school study (librarianship)

Major Requirements

  • (depending on BA or BS degree):
  • General Education Program
  • Physical Sciences Requirements: 30-39 hours
  • Mathematics Requirements: 5-8 hours
  • Electives: 15 hours

Clubs

  • American Chemical Society
  • Earth Science Club
  • Engineering Club
  • Society of Physics Students
  • Sigma Pi Sigma, physics honorary

August 2008: www.payscale.com: Research Scientist