Bachelor's Degree Programs in Physical Sciences

<p>Students interested in enrolling in a physical science bachelor's degree program can choose a school that offers a specific major within the physical sciences field, such as chemistry or physics. However, some students may want to earn a bachelor's degree in the broader subject of physical sciences, so they can explore a wide range of science topics. </p> <p>Some physical sciences programs specifically train students to assume a high school teaching position after graduation. To apply for physical sciences teaching programs, students must complete general education requirements or earn their associate's degree before beginning the program. </p> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><td><b>Physical Science Program Options</b></td><td>Major in physical science field, bachelor's degree in physical sciences, teaching programs</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Common Courses</b></td><td>Calculus, chemistry, mechanical engineering, physics, geology</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Online Options</b></td><td>Online courses, online bachelor's degree in science education</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Career Options</b></td><td>Environmental scientist, chemist or materials scientist, environmental engineer</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Median Salary (2020)</b></td><td>$92,120 <i>(Environmental Engineers)</i></td></tr> <tr><td><b>Job Outlook (2019-2029)</b></td><td>3% growth <i>(Environmental Engineers)</i></td></tr> </table><p><i>Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)</i> </p> <h3 id="section---WhatClassesWillITake">What Classes Will I Take?</h3> <p>The bachelor's degree program in physical science blends chemistry, physics, engineering, geology and advanced mathematics. Lab exercises make up a large portion of the class work and offer hands-on experience in conducting experiments and research. Common physical sciences classes include: </p> <ul><li>Mechanical engineering </li><li>Calculus </li><li>Physics lab </li><li>Introduction to geology </li><li>Organic chemistry </li><li>Astronomy </li></ul><h3 id="section---CanIEarnItOnline">Can I Earn It Online?</h3> <p>Online physical sciences bachelor's degree programs are very rare. However, students can take many physical science courses such as chemistry and physics online. Some programs allow students to take year-long general chemistry and organic chemistry sequences entirely online. Exams and assignments can all be completed from home. Special software even allows individuals to participate in virtual lab exercises on their computer. </p> <p>Students can also earn a bachelor's degree in science education online if they want to become an elementary or secondary school physical sciences teacher. Opportunities are available to choose a specific science concentration like physics or chemistry. Some programs may also mail a teaching kit with materials and lab equipment, so that students can gain hands-on practice along with online coursework. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatCanIDoWithMyDegree">What Can I Do with My Degree?</h3> <p>With a bachelor's degree in physical sciences, graduates can become an environmental scientist. The BLS reported that environmental scientist positions were predicted to rise 8% from 2019-2029, which was faster than the average for other job sectors. The BLS stated that environmental scientists and specialists earned an average annual wage of $80,090 in 2020. </p> <p>Opportunities are also available as a chemist or materials scientist after graduation. The BLS reported that this field was projected to grow only five percent from 2019-2029, which was faster than average. According to the BLS, chemists earned an approximate mean yearly salary of $86,410 in 2020. </p> <p>Graduates may also apply for entry-level environmental engineering positions with a bachelor's degree in the physical sciences field. The BLS stated that environmental engineers made an average annual salary of $96,890 in 2020.</p>