Physical Science, B.S.

Mission

The mission of the Bachelor of Science in Physical Sciences is to train and mentor students to become skilled scientists who will glorify God and be good stewards of His creation as they serve others in research, education, and industry.

Degree Program

A Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Science is offered upon completion of the University baccalaureate requirements and the departmental requirements.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the Bachelor of Science in Physical Science, students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the foundational principles related to the physical sciences (ULO 1).
2. Demonstrate an ability to solve quantitative, qualitative, and technical problems related to physical science (ULO 1).
3. Demonstrate safe laboratory technique, proper use of appropriate equipment, and suitable results and data analysis (ULO 1).
4. Obtain and use appropriate literature and resource materials related to the physical sciences (ULO 1).
5. Summarize the key issues in science and faith and recognize the harmony possible while studying God's creation (ULO 1, 2, and 3).

Each Program Learning Outcome (PLO) listed above references at least one of the University Learning Outcomes (ULO 1, 2, 3), which may be found in the General Information section of this catalog.

GPA Requirement

To continue in the program a student is required to have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher in their first year of chemistry, physics and/or math courses taken at Biola. Depending on the major, these courses may include: CHEM 105, MATH 150, MATH 151, PHSC 132, PHSC 134, PHSC 233, PHSC 237.

Integration Seminar Requirement

Students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Physical Science degree program are required to take BBST 465 as "Christianity and the Natural Sciences," or another approved Integration Seminar topic (see advisor).

Curriculum Requirements

¹

The prerequisite for CHEM 105 is a passing score on the Chemistry Placement Exam or CHEM 107 with at least a “B-”.

²

See Core Curriculum Program section for details.

Concentration

Secondary Instruction

In addition to the Program Core Requirements listed above, students must complete the following requirements for a total of 70 program credits.

¹

The California Commission on Teacher Credentialing requires that a teaching credential candidate must have completed a minimum 2-credit course that covers the U.S. Constitution or fulfill this requirement by examination. Biola University students may complete this requirement by taking either HIST 200 or POSC 225 with a grade of "C" or better. Students receiving AP college credit for either HIST 200 or POSC 225 will also meet this requirement. Transfer coursework must be reviewed by a credential analyst in the School of Education.

²

Although it does not count toward the major, students may elect to take PHSC 326 as a formal review and preparation for the CSET exams.

³

See Core Curriculum Program section for details.

Secondary Education Minor

The School of Education offers a state-approved professional teacher preparation program which leads to a preliminary single subject teaching credential in the state of California. The Single Subject credential authorizes the holder to teach the specific subject named on the credential. In most cases individuals with this credential will be offered employment in middle schools and high schools. The teacher preparation program can be added as a minor to any major; however, candidates are advised to major in the subject area they wish to teach. Candidates who take the following 17 credits qualify for a Secondary Education Minor:

The Professional Teacher Preparation Program leading to a California Teaching Credential at Biola University is subject to change in response to new legislation. See a credential analyst in the School of Education for current information on completing the requirements for a teaching credential. Students must consult with both their major advisor and a School of Education advisor.

NOTE: The course sequence table is designed by the major department and is one way that the classes will work out properly in sequence for your major. However, there are alternative or flexible ways to rotate some of the classes within the same year/level and sometimes between year levels. Please contact your major department advisor to discuss flexible alternatives in scheduling the sequence of your classes.

Taking coursework during the summer session may also be an option to accelerate your degree path.

See Core Curriculum Program section for a list of approved Core Curriculum courses.

• Physical Science, B.S.
• Secondary Instruction

Physical Science, B.S. (PHSC)

¹

See list of electives in catalog.

Physical Science, B.S. Secondary Instruction (PHSI)

¹

See list of electives in catalog.

²

LEDU 450 (6) and LEDU 452 (6) are not required for graduation; may be completed at graduate level.

NOTE: The course sequence table is designed by the major department and is one way that the classes will work out properly in sequence for your major. However, there are alternative or flexible ways to rotate some of the classes within the same year/level and sometimes between year levels. Please contact your major department advisor to discuss flexible alternatives in scheduling the sequence of your classes.

Taking coursework during the summer session may also be an option to accelerate your degree path.

See Core Curriculum Program section for a list of approved Core Curriculum courses.

• Physical Science, B.S.
• Secondary Instruction

​Physical Science, B.S. (PHSC)

Physical Science, B.S. Secondary Instruction (PHSI)

For students who enroll in more than 18 semester credits, please note the additional cost per credit in the catalog's Financial Information section.