Department of Physics and Astronomy
Chair: Cynthia S. Galovich, Ph.D.
Location: Ross Hall 0232
Telephone: 970.351.2961
Faculty: Wendy Adams, Ph.D.; Jan L. Chaloupka, Ph.D.; Richard D. Dietz, Ph.D.; Cynthia S. Galovich, Ph.D.; Matthew Semak, Ph.D.; Ruwang Sung, Ph.D.; Robert A. Walch, Ph.D.
Emeritus Faculty: Courtney W. Willis, Ph.D.
Course(s) Offered (Prefix):
Program(s) Offered:
Physics B.S.
Astronomy Emphasis
Engineering Physics Emphasis
Mathematical Physics Emphasis
Secondary Teaching Emphasis - Licensure: Science (Grades 7-12)
Physics Minor
Engineering Program (Pre-Engineering)
Small, personalized classes are a hallmark of the Physics and Astronomy Department. The student is assured of consideration and expert guidance, with excellent opportunities to thoroughly develop personal skills at a pace compatible with needs. From the earliest to the most advanced physics courses, the student has direct contact with faculty members.
Research experience is considered to be an essential part of the undergraduate degree. Students become involved in their own research projects under faculty guidance. These investigations often extend over several semesters and are sometimes pursued through cooperative internships in industry, government laboratories, or other universities.
The Physics and Astronomy Department has well-equipped astronomy, electronics, optics, nuclear physics, and introductory physics labs, as well as a darkroom, a student computer lab, a solar telescope facility, and space for undergraduate research. Computer use is thoroughly integrated into the curriculum and each lab has several computers dedicated to data acquisition and analysis. In addition, there is a variety of equipment available for undergraduate research, including high vacuum, audio, nuclear and optics equipment.