Department of Physical Sciences

Explore. Discover. Solve

East Central University's Department of Physical Sciences brings together the disciplines of Chemistry and Physics. Through hands-on laboratory experiences, close interaction with faculty, undergraduate research, and challenging coursework, students develop the scientific knowledge and problem-solving skills needed for successful careers and advanced study.

Whether you are interested in understanding the composition of matter, exploring the fundamental laws of the universe, preparing for a healthcare profession, becoming a science teacher, or pursuing a career in research and industry, ECU's Physical Sciences programs can help you reach your goals.

Discover Physical Sciences at ECU

Chemistry and Physics help us understand the natural world—from the structure of atoms and molecules to the motion of planets and the behavior of energy and matter. Students in ECU's Department of Physical Sciences learn through classroom instruction, laboratory investigation, scientific analysis, and opportunities to work directly with faculty.

Why Choose ECU?

Small classes and individualized attention
Hands-on laboratory experiences
Undergraduate research opportunities
Close interaction with experienced faculty
Opportunities to present research
Preparation for graduate and professional schools
Scholarship opportunities
Strong foundation in critical thinking and quantitative reasoning

Programs Within the Department

Chemistry Program

Study the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of matter while preparing for careers in research, healthcare, education, industry, or graduate school.

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Physics Program

Explore the laws governing matter, energy, motion, and the universe while preparing for careers in engineering, technology, research, healthcare, and education.

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Hands-On Learning and Undergraduate Research

Students in the Department of Physical Sciences have opportunities to move beyond the classroom through laboratory activities, independent studies, faculty-mentored research, and scientific presentations.

Depending on their interests and academic program, students may participate in projects involving chemical analysis, environmental chemistry, nanomaterials, groundwater science, astronomy, optics, electronics, medical physics, or other areas of faculty expertise.

These experiences help students:

Apply classroom knowledge to authentic scientific questions
Learn to operate laboratory and scientific equipment
Analyze and interpret experimental data
Develop technical writing and presentation skills
Work closely with faculty mentors
Prepare for employment, graduate school, or professional programs

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Supporting Students Across Campus

The Department of Physical Sciences provides essential courses in chemistry, physics, astronomy, and other physical sciences for students throughout ECU.

Degree programs and career pathways:

Biology
Nursing
Environmental Health Science
Mathematics
Computer Science
Education
Allied health fields
Pre-professional healthcare programs

The department also provides foundational coursework for students preparing to enter medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, physical therapy, medical technology, engineering, and other professional fields.

Learn in a Supportive Environment

At ECU, students benefit from small classes and direct access to faculty members who are committed to teaching, mentoring, advising, and student success.

Faculty work closely with students through classroom instruction, laboratory experiences, undergraduate research, and preparation for graduate and professional opportunities.

Scholarships and Student Opportunities

Scholarships may be available to qualified Chemistry and Physics students. Eligibility and application requirements vary by scholarship.

Students may also have opportunities to participate in:

Undergraduate research
Scientific conferences
Departmental and university events
Science outreach activities
Internships
Summer research programs
Professional organizations
Faculty-mentored independent study

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Find Your Path in the Physical Sciences

Not sure which program is right for you?

Choose Chemistry if you are interested in substances, reactions, laboratory analysis, medicine, pharmaceuticals, environmental testing, or molecular science.

Choose Biochemistry if you are especially interested in the connections among chemistry, biology, medicine, and the processes of living organisms.

Choose Physics if you are interested in forces, energy, motion, mathematics, engineering, astronomy, technology, or understanding the fundamental laws of nature.

Choose Medical Physics if you are interested in applying physics to medical imaging, radiation treatment, healthcare technology, or clinical research.

Choose a Teacher Certification Concentration if you'd like to inspire the next generation of scientists.

Contact

College of Health and Sciences
Department of Physical Sciences
Physical & Environmental Sciences Center, Room 101
1100 East 14th Street
Ada, OK 74820
580-559-5410
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Chemistry Scholarships

Molecules of Nature Summer Academy

Physics Scholarships

Physics