College of the Sciences
Astronomy
Minor
Minor in Astronomy
At CWU, the sky is not the limit, but just the beginning.
In our Astronomy Minor program, we invite you to become part of an exploration, where the distant galaxies aren't abstract concepts, but tangible realities. Our classes cover both theory and practice, covering celestial phenomena and the cutting-edge science that illuminates them. As an Astronomy Minor, you will explore fundamental concepts in astronomy, astrophysics, and planetary science and gain hands-on experience operating our roof-top observatory. Combine the Astronomy Minor with any degree to indulge your passion for the stars or pair it with a Physics BS or BA to gear up for a career in astronomy research or space sciences.
Questions? Contact Us.
Department of Physics
Create Your Future
What You'll Study
Academic Catalog | Physics Department Website
Courses
- PHYS 301 - Stellar Astrophysics
- PHYS 303 - Observational Astronomy
- PHYS 304 - Astrobiology: Origins and Search for Life in the Universe
- PHYS 317 - Modern Physics I
- PHYS 363 - Optics
Introductory Astronomy
- PHYS 101 - Introductory Astronomy I
Introductory or General Physics
- PHYS 111 - Introductory Physics I with Laboratory
- PHYS 112 - Introductory Physics II with Laboratory
- PHYS 113 - Introductory Physics III with Laboratory
OR
- PHYS 181 - General Physics I with Laboratory
- PHYS 182 - General Physics II with Laboratory
- PHYS 183 - General Physics III with Laboratory
Calculus
- MATH 172 - Calculus I
- MATH 173 - Calculus II
Seeing Stars
Discover the Lydig Planetarium, where you can explore the night sky, 3D models of the solar system, distant galaxies, and the known universe. Learn to navigate the night sky with overlays of constellations and coordinate systems.
Experiential Learning
Measure the brightness of stars as you are trained to operate a small observatory and how to use a charge-coupled device (CCD) camera to collect stellar photometry data.
Laboratory Experience
As an Astronomy Minor, you’ll jump into lab courses from the start by selecting from two sets of three labs that utilize our state-of-the-art lab equipment.
Building Community
Join our award-winning Astronomy Club which hosts monthly public planetarium shows and star-gazing parties and allows you to make connections and grow your network.
Apply
Discover how to apply to your program of choice at Central.
Financial Aid
Our Financial Aid staff are here to help you navigate financial aid.
Student Life
Pursue your interests in a supportive community. Learn more.
Visit
The best way to discover what makes CWU so special is to experience it yourself.
Why Study Astronomy at Central?
- CWU offers small class sizes, ensuring personalized attention and support for students.
- Our programs focus exclusively on preparing our undergraduate majors. Our courses use research-based practices taught in workshop-style formats instead of traditional lectures.
- Take advantage of hands-on learning in our seven state-of-the-art labs designed for advanced learning and experimentation.
- Our degrees can serve as on-ramps to high-demand careers in engineering, medical physics, STEM teaching, and more.
