Physical Science
The Physical Science Interdisciplinary major focuses primarily on the study of nonliving matter. It concerns itself with the theoretical and observable natural phenomena of our world and universe. Cutting across a variety of Physical Science disciplines, it intentionally trades depth of learning for broader scope of inquiry. By offering more latitude in its curriculum design, it often allows students to prepare for less traditional or unique scientific ventures. It also occasionally serves as an undergraduate pathway to certain professional programs.
To best meet individual needs and interests, career goals and the requirements of the major, close cooperation with your advisor is highly recommended. Colina Stanton advises all Physical Science Interdisciplinary majors. Please consult with her if you think this major might fit your goals. Call 785-532-6900 or come to Eisenhower 113 for an appointment.
Program Requirements for the Degree
You must meet the Basic Requirements of the College of Arts and Sciences to obtain an interdisciplinary degree.
37 credit hours are needed in the major. Including:
| MATH 220 | Analytic Geometry and Calculus I | 4 |
| STAT | One of these Statistics courses: STAT 320, 340, 410 or 510 |
3 |
| CHM 210 OR CHM 220 |
Chemistry I Chemical Principles I |
4 5 |
| CHM 230 OR CHM 250 |
Chemistry II Chemical Principles II |
4 5 |
| PHYS 113 OR PHYS 213 |
General Physics I Engineering Physics I |
4 5 |
| PHYS 114 OR PHYS 214 |
General Physics II Engineering Physics II |
4 5 |
| GEOL 100/103 OR GEOG 220 |
Earth in Action & Geology Lab Environmental Geography I |
3/1 4 |
| DAS 499 | Physical Science Senior Report (See description below) |
1 |
| Electives chosen from the following areas: Computing and Information Science - 200 or above Chemistry - 350, 351, 371, 500 or above Geology - 100, 102, 103, 105, 500 or above but not 512 Geography - 221 Mathematics - 221, 222, 240, 510, 551 Physics - 122, 191, 300 or above but not 515 Statistics - 341, 511 or above |
5-9 |
Problems, Seminar or Topics courses are not acceptable unless listed above. At least five elective hours must have a prerequisite. A "C" or better is required in all courses (including transfer work) prescribed for this curriculum (including electives). A 2.0 cumulative GPA is required overall. 124 hours are required overall for graduation. (Students who entered KSU before the fall of 2003 require only 120 hours for graduation).
DAS 499: Physical Science Senior Report allows individual exploration of an area of physical science culminating in a final formal report. This is the Capstone course required of Physical Science Interdisciplinary majors. Permission of the Physical Science advisor is a prerequisite for the course.