Online Physical Science Degrees
The physical sciences encompass a broad array of subjects, from physics to geology. For prospective students considering a degree in the field, developing an understanding of the various educational options is important. The following guide serves as an introduction to the different types of online degrees in the physical sciences, the types of classes offered at each degree level, and how earning a degree can position a student for success in a diverse number of professional fields.
Top Online Programs
Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.
ONLINE PHYSICAL SCIENCE SCHOOL DEGREES
While a number of colleges and universities offer online courses in the physical sciences, due to the need for in-the-lab hands-on training, distance learning postsecondary degree programs in the physical science fields are almost non-existent (with the exception of a very few programs in physics and geology). Many of these online programs are presented in a hybrid format that requires some level of in-person on-site attendance in combination with online classes.
Best Online Physical Science Schools
Those interested in physical sciences enjoy the study of chemistry, physics, astronomy and other non-living systems and then go on to careers with a wide range of opportunities. Earning a degree online can can help graduates get a foot in the door in their career of choice because they have added knowledge and possibly work experience to give them a leg up on the competition. To help in the search for the best possible program, we’ve done some research on classes available, services offered and student to teacher ratio so aspiring scientists can make a good choice.
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Rolla, MO- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Missouri University of Science and Technology supports numerous programs from its main campus in Rolla. Enrollees hoping to advance in a physical science-adjacent career will benefit from the college's master of science in geological engineering. Degree-seekers complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining a well-rounded education preparing them for the demands of the field.
Learners seeking further opportunities for study can pursue internships or collaborate with faculty on research projects. The institution notes that 40% of its programs enable online study. Whether in-person or online, enrollees can access institutional resources and receive career and academic guidance throughout their studies.
Missouri University of Science and Technology at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 118
Number of Online Programs: 47
Admission Rate: 79%
Graduation Rate: 66%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 96%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $8,337
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 49%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,154
Average Price After Aid: $13,954
- In-State$9,120
- Out-of-state$27,921
- In-State$10,452
- Out-of-state$29,558
- Retention Rate82%
- Acceptance Rate79%
- Students Enrolled8,088
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment22%
- AccreditationYes
Michigan Technological University
- Houghton, MI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Michigan Technological University supports in-person learning and distance learning opportunities from its main campus in Houghton. The school's profit-increasing strategies in chemical processing certificate program prepares students for future careers through foundational and specialized coursework. Certificate-seekers benefit from rigorous coursework and opportunities to collaborate with faculty through research and more.
Enrollees can often take advantage of online and hybrid offerings, which add flexibility for working students. Distance learners can choose from 11 fully online degrees. Whether in person or online, students can access institutional resources and receive career and academic guidance throughout their studies.
Michigan Technological University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 142
Number of Online Programs: 11
Admission Rate: 74%
Graduation Rate: 70%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 96%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $11,310
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 54%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,100
Average Price After Aid: $17,814
- In-State$16,834
- Out-of-state$36,688
- In-State$20,511
- Out-of-state$20,511
- Retention Rate84%
- Acceptance Rate74%
- Students Enrolled7,027
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment9%
- AccreditationYes
Southern Methodist University
- Dallas, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Southern Methodist University is a private college located in Dallas, Texas. The college's bachelor of science in biophysical sciences equips students with industry-relevant knowledge, preparing them for the demands of a career. Beyond the classroom, enrollees can pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as faculty-driven research projects and internships.
With the college supporting in-person and online study, degree-seekers can pursue their studies at their own pace. Prospective applicants seeking remote study should know that 14% of the college's programs support fully online study. Both in-person and remote students benefit from institutional resources, like academic advising and career services.
Southern Methodist University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 217
Number of Online Programs: 31
Admission Rate: 47%
Graduation Rate: 81%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 82%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: Data not available
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 22%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,269
Average Price After Aid: Data not available
- In-State$50,200
- Out-of-state$50,200
- In-State$40,896
- Out-of-state$40,896
- Retention Rate91%
- Acceptance Rate47%
- Students Enrolled11,824
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment10%
- AccreditationYes
Mississippi State University
- Mississippi State, MS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Mississippi State, Mississippi State University offers a variety of academic programs in person and online. Learners looking to advance in the physical science field should consider the college's master of science in chemical engineering. Beyond the classroom, students can pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as faculty-driven research projects and internships.
Degree-seekers can enroll full or part time and study on campus or online. The institution notes that 10% of its programs enable online study. Enrollees benefit from access to campus resources, such as career services and academic advising.
Mississippi State University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 174
Number of Online Programs: 17
Admission Rate: 54%
Graduation Rate: 61%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 95%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $8,316
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 46%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,783
Average Price After Aid: $16,471
- In-State$8,800
- Out-of-state$23,840
- In-State$8,800
- Out-of-state$23,840
- Retention Rate82%
- Acceptance Rate54%
- Students Enrolled22,226
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment18%
- AccreditationYes
Auburn University
- Auburn, AL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Auburn University offers numerous in-person and online degrees from its main campus in Auburn, Alabama. The college's master of science in chemical engineering equips students with industry-relevant knowledge, preparing them for the demands of a career. Learners seeking supplementary study can benefit from faculty-driven research projects and other collaborative learning opportunities.
Degree-seekers can pursue in person or online learning and enroll full or part time. To date, the college supports 26 online degrees. Regardless of learning modality, distance learners can access institutional resources, such as career services, geared towards student success.
Auburn University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 242
Number of Online Programs: 26
Admission Rate: 81%
Graduation Rate: 79%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 72%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $8,028
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 31%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,347
Average Price After Aid: $23,562
- In-State$9,816
- Out-of-state$29,448
- In-State$9,828
- Out-of-state$29,484
- Retention Rate91%
- Acceptance Rate81%
- Students Enrolled30,460
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment27%
- AccreditationYes
Arizona State University-Tempe
- Tempe, AZ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Arizona State University-Tempe is a public college located in Tempe. The school's bachelor of arts in chemistry provides students with a world-class education. Enrollees benefit from learning opportunities within and beyond the classroom. They can pursue collaborative projects such as faculty-driven research, internships, and more.
Learners can complete the program in person or online. Leading in online education, the college supports one online program. Throughout their studies, degree-seekers can access academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.
Arizona State University-Tempe at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 353
Number of Online Programs: 1
Admission Rate: 86%
Graduation Rate: 63%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 96%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $12,100
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 34%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,207
Average Price After Aid: $14,081
- In-State$10,710
- Out-of-state$28,800
- In-State$11,720
- Out-of-state$26,160
- Retention Rate88%
- Acceptance Rate86%
- Students Enrolled53,286
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
Kansas State University
- Manhattan, KS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Manhattan, Kansas State University provides a flexible, competitive education to students near and far. The school supports programs that equip enrollees with theoretical and practical knowledge, preparing them for careers in their field of choice. In the chemical engineering master's program, degree-seekers benefit from rigorous coursework and opportunities to collaborate with faculty through research and more.
Depending on their needs, students can complete the program in person or online. At the college, 26% of all programs accommodate remote learning. Both in-person and remote students benefit from institutional resources, like academic advising and career services.
Kansas State University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 283
Number of Online Programs: 73
Admission Rate: 95%
Graduation Rate: 65%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 88%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $6,227
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 45%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,300
Average Price After Aid: $18,103
- In-State$9,735
- Out-of-state$25,251
- In-State$10,212
- Out-of-state$23,050
- Retention Rate86%
- Acceptance Rate95%
- Students Enrolled21,719
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment27%
- AccreditationYes
University of North Dakota
- Grand Forks, ND
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
A leader in higher education, University of North Dakota provides educational opportunities to Grand Forks-based students and distance learners. The school's bachelor of science in chemical engineering prepares students for future careers through foundational and specialized coursework. Enrollees benefit from a supportive learning community, customizable study, and a 17-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio.
Enrollees can attend classes online or on campus. Of all programs offered through the college, 30% can be completed fully online. Both in-person and remote students benefit from institutional resources, like academic advising and career services.
University of North Dakota at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 226
Number of Online Programs: 67
Admission Rate: 81%
Graduation Rate: 61%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 92%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,686
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 45%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,672
Average Price After Aid: $15,654
- In-State$8,212
- Out-of-state$14,371
- In-State$10,534
- Out-of-state$18,434
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate81%
- Students Enrolled13,581
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment45%
- AccreditationYes
Iowa State University
- Ames, IA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Iowa State University provides diverse learning opportunities from its main campus in Ames. The college's graduate certificate in biochemistry equips learners with industry-specific knowledge, transferrable skills, and learning experiences that prepare them for the demands of their field. With an 18-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, enrollees benefit from personalized study and the opportunity for collaborative opportunities such as faculty-driven research projects.
Depending on their needs, students can complete the program in person or online. When considering remote study, applicants should know that 10% of the college's programs support online learning. Enrollees can access numerous campus resources throughout their studies, including academic advising and career services.
Iowa State University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 345
Number of Online Programs: 35
Admission Rate: 92%
Graduation Rate: 74%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 90%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,887
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 48%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,966
Average Price After Aid: $15,195
- In-State$8,042
- Out-of-state$23,230
- In-State$9,758
- Out-of-state$24,720
- Retention Rate87%
- Acceptance Rate92%
- Students Enrolled33,372
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment23%
- AccreditationYes
Park University
- Parkville, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Park University supports in-person learning and distance learning opportunities from its main campus in Parkville, Missouri. The school supports programs that equip students with theoretical and practical knowledge, preparing them for careers in their field of choice. The college boasts a 15-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, enabling personalized study and close collaboration through faculty-driven research projects and more.
Degree-seekers can pursue the bachelor's in chemistry at their own pace. To date, the college supports 58 online degrees. Whether in person or online, students can access institutional resources and receive career and academic guidance throughout their studies.
Park University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 87
Number of Online Programs: 58
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 62%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 93%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: Data not available
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 31%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $8,051
Average Price After Aid: Data not available
- In-State$7,999
- Out-of-state$7,999
- In-State$6,012
- Out-of-state$6,012
- Retention Rate66%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled11,415
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment78%
- AccreditationYes
Stanford University
- Stanford, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Stanford University provides diverse learning opportunities from its main campus in Stanford, California. Learners looking to advance in the physical sciences field should consider the college's master's in chemical engineering. Degree-seekers benefit from rigorous coursework and opportunities to collaborate with faculty through research and more.
Depending on their needs, students can complete the program in person or online. Prospective applicants seeking remote study should know that 5% of the college's programs support fully online study. Enrollees benefit from academic and professional guidance through academic advising, career services, and other campus resources.
Stanford University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 227
Number of Online Programs: 11
Admission Rate: 4%
Graduation Rate: 94%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 70%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: Data not available
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 8%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,456
Average Price After Aid: Data not available
- In-State$52,857
- Out-of-state$52,857
- In-State$52,479
- Out-of-state$52,479
- Retention Rate99%
- Acceptance Rate4%
- Students Enrolled17,249
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment5%
- AccreditationYes
Lehigh University
- Bethlehem, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Lehigh University supports numerous programs from its main campus in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The school supports programs that equip students with theoretical and practical knowledge, preparing them for careers in their field of choice. With a 9-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, enrollees pursuing a master's in chemical engineering benefit from personalized study. They can also explore collaborative opportunities such as faculty-driven research projects.
Degree candidates can complete the program on campus or online. The institution notes that 7% of its programs enable online study. All students can access institutional resources and receive personal and professional guidance.
Lehigh University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 187
Number of Online Programs: 14
Admission Rate: 32%
Graduation Rate: 90%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 69%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: Data not available
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 38%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,867
Average Price After Aid: Data not available
- In-State$54,790
- Out-of-state$54,790
- In-State$27,000
- Out-of-state$27,000
- Retention Rate93%
- Acceptance Rate32%
- Students Enrolled6,953
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment6%
- AccreditationYes
Ohio University-Main Campus
- Athens, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Ohio University-Main Campus, a public college based in Athens, provides competitive educational opportunities to learners from all walks of life. The master's in geological sciences prepares students for professional advancement through industry-relevant coursework, lectures, and projects. Degree-seekers benefit from rigorous coursework and opportunities to collaborate with faculty through research and more.
Depending on their needs, students can complete the program in person or online. Of its programs, 14% allow for fully online study. Students seeking academic and career guidance can benefit from the college's many resources, such as career services and academic advising.
Ohio University-Main Campus at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 350
Number of Online Programs: 48
Admission Rate: 82%
Graduation Rate: 65%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 94%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,956
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 51%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,504
Average Price After Aid: $22,521
- In-State$12,612
- Out-of-state$22,406
- In-State$9,444
- Out-of-state$17,436
- Retention Rate82%
- Acceptance Rate82%
- Students Enrolled27,367
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment48%
- AccreditationYes
Northern Arizona University
- Flagstaff, AZ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Northern Arizona University is a Flagstaff-based college supporting academic programs in dual modalities. The college's bachelor of science in astronomy provides students interested in a physical sciences career with a world-class education. Enrollees benefit from learning opportunities within and beyond the classroom. They can pursue collaborative projects such as faculty-driven research, internships, and more.
Working professionals and busy students benefit from the program's flexibility. Enrollees can learn in person or online. Remote students can choose from one of 70 fully online degrees. Students can make use of campus resources, such as academic advising and library services, while enrolled.
Northern Arizona University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 237
Number of Online Programs: 70
Admission Rate: 85%
Graduation Rate: 57%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 95%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $12,831
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 42%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,454
Average Price After Aid: $14,236
- In-State$10,018
- Out-of-state$16,613
- In-State$10,305
- Out-of-state$19,522
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate85%
- Students Enrolled30,733
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Champaign, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign provides a flexible, competitive education to students near and far. Enrollees pursuing the master's in environmental geology benefit from world-class faculty and a well-rounded education. Degree-seekers can pursue research projects and other learning opportunities while enrolled.
Degree candidates can often take advantage of online and hybrid offerings, which add flexibility for working students. Leading in online education, the college supports 33 online programs. Regardless of learning modality, students can access institutional resources, such as career services, geared toward student success.
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 372
Number of Online Programs: 33
Admission Rate: 59%
Graduation Rate: 85%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 64%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $15,442
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 35%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,737
Average Price After Aid: $14,660
- In-State$14,188
- Out-of-state$33,127
- In-State$14,997
- Out-of-state$28,404
- Retention Rate93%
- Acceptance Rate59%
- Students Enrolled51,605
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
- Worcester, MA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Worcester, Massachusetts, Worcester Polytechnic Institute offers a variety of academic programs in person and online. Learners seeking flexibility will benefit from the master's in medicinal plant chemistry. Beyond the classroom, students can pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as faculty-driven research projects and internships.
Enrollees can complete the degree online or on campus. Online programs make up 16% of the college's programs. Whether in person or online, degree-seekers can access institutional resources and receive career and academic guidance throughout their studies.
Worcester Polytechnic Institute at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 116
Number of Online Programs: 19
Admission Rate: 49%
Graduation Rate: 89%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 99%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: Data not available
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 53%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,446
Average Price After Aid: Data not available
- In-State$51,604
- Out-of-state$51,604
- In-State$28,188
- Out-of-state$28,188
- Retention Rate95%
- Acceptance Rate49%
- Students Enrolled6,894
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment14%
- AccreditationYes
Johns Hopkins University
- Baltimore, MD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students looking for a competitive, flexible education should consider Johns Hopkins University. The college's master of science in applied physics equips students with industry-relevant study, preparing them for the demands of a career. Learners benefit from a 6-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, with many chances to interact closely with professors.
Learners seeking further opportunities for study can pursue internships or collaborate with faculty on research projects. When considering remote study, degree-seekers should know that 21% of the college's programs support online learning. Enrollees can make use of campus resources, such as academic advising and library services.
Johns Hopkins University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 362
Number of Online Programs: 76
Admission Rate: 11%
Graduation Rate: 93%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 67%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: Data not available
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 29%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $3,255
Average Price After Aid: Data not available
- In-State$55,350
- Out-of-state$55,350
- In-State$55,350
- Out-of-state$55,350
- Retention Rate97%
- Acceptance Rate11%
- Students Enrolled27,079
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
Allen County Community College
- Iola, KS
- 2 year
- Online
Allen County Community College reaches learners worldwide through its flexible academic programs, available in person and online. The school's associate in physics equips students with a well-rounded education through its rigorous curriculum. The college boasts a 21-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, enabling personalized study and close collaboration through faculty-driven research projects and more.
Learners can earn their degree on campus or online. When considering remote study, applicants should know that 100% of the college's programs support online learning. Enrollees can access numerous campus resources throughout their studies, including academic advising and career services.
Allen County Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 81
Number of Online Programs: 81
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 39%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 86%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $4,378
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 12%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $4,070
Average Price After Aid: $8,668
- In-State$1,800
- Out-of-state$1,800
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate62%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,407
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment73%
- AccreditationYes
Holmes Community College
- Goodman, MS
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Holmes Community College connects learners with competitive educational opportunities through in-person and online programs. The college's associate of arts in chemistry equips learners with industry-specific knowledge, transferrable skills, and learning experiences that prepare them for the demands of their field. Students hoping to deepen their knowledge can collaborate with faculty members on research projects and other endeavors.
Degree candidates can learn in person or remotely. When considering remote study, applicants should know that 94% of the college's programs support online learning. Regardless of learning modality, degree-seekers can access institutional resources, such as career services, geared toward student success.
Holmes Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 105
Number of Online Programs: 99
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 37%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 89%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,557
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 15%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $5,671
Average Price After Aid: $4,977
- In-State$2,600
- Out-of-state$5,180
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate69%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled5,529
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment53%
- AccreditationYes
Crowder College
- Neosho, MO
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Crowder College connects learners with competitive educational opportunities through in-person and online programs. Enrollees hoping to advance in a physical sciences-adjacent career will benefit from the college's associate of arts in physics. The program boasts a 13-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, enabling collaborative endeavors such as faculty-driven research projects.
Degree candidates can learn in person or remotely. Of its programs, 5% allow for fully online study. Enrollees benefit from academic and professional guidance through academic advising, career services, and other campus resources.
Crowder College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 77
Number of Online Programs: 4
Admission Rate: Data not available
Graduation Rate: 35%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 93%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $4,740
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 15%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $4,611
Average Price After Aid: $5,111
- In-State$3,552
- Out-of-state$3,552
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled4,401
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment26%
- AccreditationYes
PHYSICAL SCIENCE SCHOOL DEGREES
Given the scientific nature of the fields of study that fall under the physical sciences heading, it is no surprise that a strong commitment to higher education is a prerequisite to a career in the field. Major areas of study in the physical sciences include astronomy, geology, physics, chemistry, and more. The level of postsecondary education necessary for employment depends on both the specific field of study and the specific job sought. For example, entry-level positions for geologists (such as geological or petroleum technician) are available to graduates with as little as an associate degree. However, astronomers and physicists seeking employment as researchers will have to earn their doctoral degrees to land entry-level positions.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHT:
ONLINE BACHELOR’S DEGREE IN PHYSICAL SCIENCES
Currently, many postsecondary institutions offer individual online courses in physical science. A few schools offer online bachelor’s degrees in science with a specialization in physics for those interested in becoming middle or high school physics teachers. This degree typically runs between 120 and 124 credit hours. Some online programs may require a full-time student teaching component for graduation. Students learn the basics of general science, advanced physics, and teaching methodologies to become qualified teachers in the field. Courses usually cover topics such as calculus, fundamentals of educational psychology, and modern physics. Graduates of an degree programs in the physical sciences should meet qualifications for single subject teaching at secondary schools. However, some school districts or states may have additional teacher requirements for employment.
ONLINE ASSOCIATE IN PHYSICAL SCIENCE DEGREES
An associate degree is a two-year program offered almost exclusively in the United States at junior and community colleges. Associate degrees in the physical sciences provide a basic foundation of knowledge in the given subjects. Anyone considering a career in the physical sciences would do well to forego an associate degree program and seek out an appropriate bachelor’s degree. Along with general education classes, students working on an online physical science associate degree will be required to complete general subject-related courses such as:
| COURSE NAME | OVERVIEW |
|---|---|
| Conceptual Physics | Introduction to important phenomena in physics through description with experimental demonstrations. |
| General Chemistry | Detailed study of basic principles of atomic and molecular structure and bonding, chemical reactions, solutions, gas laws, and more. |
| Introduction to Astronomy | General survey of astronomy that includes the sun, planets, moons, stars, black holes, dark matter, cosmology, and more. |
| Survey of Geology | Introduction to the principles of geology including plate tectonics, earthquakes, volcanoes, and earth structure. |
ONLINE BACHELOR’S IN PHYSICAL SCIENCE DEGREES
Bachelor’s degree programs in the physical sciences, like most other subject areas, can be successfully completed within four to five years. Online coursework will include a foundational general education requirement, a core set of classes in the chosen subject field, and a group of elective courses. The following table provides a sample of the types of courses physical science bachelor’s degree students will be taking:
| COURSE NAME | OVERVIEW |
|---|---|
| Introductory Astrophysics [Astronomy] | Topics include the development of astronomy, electromagnetic radiation, and the origin of the solar system. |
| Observational Astronomy [Astronomy] | Introduction to current optical observation including, infrared, ultraviolet and x-ray techniques. |
| Foundations of Chemical Principles [Chemistry] | Basic chemical principles, with topics that include the structure of the atom, periodic table and trends, covalent and ionic bonding, and others. |
| Principles of Chemical Thermodynamics and Kinetics [Chemistry] | Focuses on the macroscopic properties of chemical systems. |
| Earthquakes and Natural Disasters [Geology] | Addresses issues regarding earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tidal waves, global warming and more. |
| Stratigraphy [Geology] | Study of the principles of lithostatigraphy, biostratigraphy, and sequence stratigraphy. |
| Electricity and Magnetism [Physics] | Magnetic properties of materials, electrodynamics, currents, magnetostatics, and more. |
| Optics [Physics] | Covers geometrical and physical optics, waves, reflection, optical instrumentation, and several other topics. |
ONLINE MASTER’S IN PHYSICAL SCIENCE DEGREES
Master’s degree programs are typically offered for each physical science field (e.g., Master of Science in Physics or Master of Science in Chemistry), or under the generalized title of Master of Science in Physical Science, with a stated emphasis in one of the specific disciplines. A growing trend at many colleges and universities is to allow students to design (under supervision) their own courses of study, combining aspects of two or more physical science fields together, or even combining one or more physical science subjects with an engineering, technology, natural science, or social science discipline. In almost all cases, completing a master’s degree program in the physical sciences will require a time commitment of eighteen to twenty-four months or longer, during which students will encounter courses similar to those on the following list:
| MASTER’S PROGRAM CORE COURSES | OVERVIEW |
|---|---|
| Chemistry and the Atmosphere [General] | Focuses on chemistry as it applies to the Earth’s atmosphere, with topics such as the interaction of solar radiation and atmospheric gases. |
| Environmental History of the Earth [General] | Emphasis on how geologic history has determined the physical and biological environments on Earth today. |
| Diffuse Matter in Space [Astronomy] | Basic equations of fluid dynamics, fundamentals of magnetohydrodynamics and more. |
| Quantum Mechanics for Astrophysics [Astronomy] | Quantum mechanical topics in areas of interest for astrophysics applications. |
| Advanced Analytical Chemistry [Chemistry] | Emphasis on chemical information and modern analytical methods to chemical problems. |
| Medicinal Chemistry [Chemistry] | Study of the chemistry and biological activity of hormones, vitamins, drugs, and other agents. |
| Earthquake Seismology [Geology] | Topics include seismic waves, their recording and management, and the estimation of earthquake source strength, location and mechanism. |
| Environmental Geology and Planning [Geology] | Geologic processes, hazards, minerals and energy resources, and their interaction with planning and regulations. |
| Lattice Gauge Theory [Physics] | Introduction to Lattice Gauge Theory, building on the Wilsonian approach to Quantum Field Theory. |
| Topics in String Theory [Physics] | Modern string theory topics, including aspects of 2d conformal field theory, mirror symmetry, and moonshine. |
ONLINE DOCTORAL DEGREES IN PHYSICAL SCIENCES
As one might expect, a PhD in the physical sciences represents the highest level of academic achievement one can earn in each of the respective fields. Physical science doctorate programs are often offered in highly specialized sub-fields (such as nanoscience, nuclear chemistry, or analytical chemistry) or in an interdisciplinary format, combining two or more specializations. The time commitment to complete a PhD degree program in the physical sciences can vary substantially by specific field and other degree requirements, but individuals can expect to commit between four and ten years or more to their academic pursuit.
WHAT CAN YOU DO WITH A PHYSICAL SCIENCE DEGREE?
Careers in the physical sciences encompass a wide variety of professions and occupations, with employment in teaching and academia, and by government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private firms and businesses.
Career choices vary greatly among the various physical science subjects. The following list offers a brief glimpse at the types of occupations one might expect to find within each of the physical science fields:
