BA in Physical Science in Arcata United States | California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt

The Department of Physics and Astronomy provides a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) program focused on physical science. This major offers broader flexibility compared to the physics track, making it suitable for diverse career paths, including middle or high school teaching preparation.


A physics degree equips graduates for a wide array of professions. Typically, students who complement their physics education with specialized expertise or supplementary competencies gain a competitive edge in employment opportunities. Enhancing one's qualifications through coursework in adjacent fields—such as geology, oceanography, statistics, computer science, and mathematics—further boosts career prospects.

Physics students should cultivate: a fundamental curiosity about natural phenomena, strong recall abilities, creativity and practical intuition, a questioning mindset, advanced mathematical proficiency, sustained focus and experimental perseverance, analytical reasoning to interpret data and reach sound conclusions, and a healthy skepticism toward established norms.