Department of Physics

What is PHYSICS?

Physics is the study of the universe and its elements, from investigations in nanoscale science to the evolution of galaxies. Physics involves discovering the fundamental rules that describe matter and energy and thus is the basic science that underlies all of the natural sciences.

Why CWU physics?

The CWU physics curriculum prepares students for professional employment in technical fields as well as for entry into graduate and professional schools. Depending on the career path a student would like to pursue, the Department offers a B.S. in Physics, a B.A. in Physics (which doubles as a teaching degree), an Astronomy minor (which doubles as an emphasis for Physics majors) and engineering opportunities through the dual-degree Physics/Engineering program. These programs are designed to give students flexibility in their career choices as well as making them more marketable, whether as applicants for jobs in the high-tech industry or in their pursuit of an advanced degree.

All CWU physics students work alongside faculty members on research projects. Research areas include acoustics, laser physics, computational physics, physics education and astronomy. Students also participate in outreach programs to the local community through our local chapter of the Society of Physics Students (SPS). These programs range from planetarium shows to physics and laser light programs. The CWU SPS chapter was recognized as an "Outstanding SPS Chapter" by the National Office for the 2007-2008 academic year. This award has been received by the CWU chapter for twelve of the past fifteen years!

Learn more about us

Please browse the menu at left to learn more about our program, the faculty, and our students. If you are considering transferring to Central or beginning your college career and would like to visit the department, please contact the department chair, Dr. Michael Jackson, to make an appointment. We look forward to answering any questions you have about our degree programs or the opportunities our degrees have to offer.