About Physical Science at K-State

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 can also serve as an undergraduate pathway to certain professional programs.

Physical science disciplines include:

Math
Statistics
Chemistry
Physics
Geology
Geography
Computing and information science

Advising

Physical Science Programmatic Learning Outcomes

The Physical Science learning outcomes reflect an interdisciplinary approach to understanding nonliving systems, combining concepts from chemistry, physics, mathematics, geology, and related fields to equip students with broad scientific reasoning skills and analytical tools for diverse scientific and professional pathways.

Graduates will:

Describe key concepts and connections across physics, chemistry, mathematics, geology, and geography.
Explain how science and math relate to society.
Develop a research question that integrates at least two physical science disciplines, and will explain the connection between the research question and existing disciplinary topics or real-world problems.
Apply analytical and lab skills to study non-living systems.