Physics Department

Ellensburg
Lind Hall, room 201

509-963-2727
Fax 509-963-2728
www.cwu.edu/~physics
See the Web site for how these programs could be used for educational and career purposes.

Faculty and Staff
Chair
Michael Jackson, PhD

Professors
Michael Jackson, PhD, optics, spectroscopy
Bruce Palmquist, PhD, science education

Associate Professor
Michael Braunstein, PhD, nuclear physics, astronomy

Assistant Professors
Andrew A. Piacsek, PhD, acoustics
Sharon L. Rosell, MS, nuclear physics

Staff
Erin Sargent, secretary
Greg Lyman, instructional and classroom technician

Department Information
Overview
Physics is the study of the universe and its elements—from the interaction of subatomic particles and investigations in nanoscale science, to the motion of everyday objects, to the evolution of galaxies. Physics involves discovering the fundamental rules that describe matter and energy on every scale, hence it is the basic science that underlies all the natural sciences.

Most businesses want people who can analyze complex situations and solve problems. CWU physics majors learn these skills along with computational and electronics skills. The physics curriculum includes theoretical courses as well as laboratory classes and hands-on research that provide the practical training relevant to both graduate school or professional work in science and engineering. Recent acquisitions of state-of-the-art instrumentation in astronomy, acoustical physics, and lasers enrich students’ experience in the laboratory and research setting. Students also have the opportunity to participate in programs outside the formal courses offered by participating in the department’s award-winning Physics Club and Astronomy Club. The CWU physics program offers a BS degree, a BA degree (which doubles as our teaching degree) and engineering opportunities through our dual-degree physics/engineering program.

Department Standards
All students must meet with the physics chair to map out a four-year plan. The student can then select a faculty advisor. All of the faculty members listed above are physics major advisors. Most upper-level physics courses are offered at least every other year. Thus, students who wait too long to meet with an advisor may have their graduation delayed. All physics majors must complete a Physics major portfolio.

Honors Designation
The honors designation in physics recognizes the academic excellence of its majors. Students in the department’s BA and BS programs are eligible for this designation and all physics majors are urged to consider applying. The honors designation in physics is offered in collaboration with Sigma Pi Sigma, the National Physics Honors Society. Please contact the physics department chair for more information.

Physics Department

Programs