For students interested in pursuing graduate studies or careers in astronomy teaching, outreach, telescope operation, or science journalism, the astronomy minor is an excellent complement to any baccalaureate degree. Students minoring in astronomy will get hands-on experience working with the CWU 0.6-meter research telescope.

Required Courses:

Physics and Astronomy:
PHYS 101 - Introductory Astronomy of Stars and Galaxies
PHYS 201 - Operation and Research Techniques for Small Observatories
PHYS 301 - Stellar Astrophysics I
PHYS 302 - Stellar Astrophysics II
PHYS 317 - Modern Physics I

PHYS 492 - Laboratory Experience in Teaching Physics
OR
PHYS 495 - At least 2 credits of Undergraduate Research

Math Courses:
MATH 172 - Calculus I
MATH 173 - Calculus II

See physics course descriptions here.

Suggested Course Schedules:

PHYS 301, 302, and 201 are offered as a one-year sequence every other year starting in the Fall of even numbered years.

Advice to Prospective and Current Students:

Astronomy minors may not use any courses in this minor as physics major electives.

Students should plan to complete their undergraduate research credits (PHYS 495) as early as possible. Motivated students can start taking PHYS 495 as early as their sophomore year.  Most students will be prepared to do research during their junior year.

Image: The Ring Nebula observed with the 16" telescope.

Photo Credit: Jacob Willard (CWU student), May 16th 2017