Physics Department — Chico State Skip to Main Content
California State University, Chico

Physics Department

The Physics Department has but one single mission: to provide the highest quality undergraduate education in physics. We undertake the rigorous training of students in our discipline and assist in building a strong scientific foundation for students in other degree programs. The discipline we share with our students has value not only for the technical skills it cultivates, but also for its contribution to human culture by encouraging critical thinking, curiosity, and an open mind.

Explore Our Programs

  • Two students work on a device in the hydrocold lab.

    Physics BS

    Our physics program is a doorway to infinite possibilities. Your curiosity about the forces and elements that govern everything from microscopic particles to galaxies light-years away will be nurtured, and you’ll be given the scientific skills and research experience to forge a career in this exciting field—as a scientist, educator, academic researcher, and more.

  • Giovanni Paz-Silva working in the Roth Planetarium and leading in the Society of Physics Students

    Astronomy Minor

    Follow your curiosity across the cosmos. A minor in astronomy will give you a broad foundation in astrophysics and applied sciences. You’ll work with passionate faculty using cutting-edge telescopes and technology to conduct meaningful research that seeks to answer deep questions about the nature of the universe.

  • A student wears a protective headset and runs a lab test.

    Physics Minor

    Curious about how the universe works? Immerse yourself in the fundamental science of physics and expand your career opportunities in a variety of fields. From microscopic particles to distant galaxies, you'll gain essential scientific skills and research experience for careers as a scientist, educator, researcher, and more

Student Resources

  • Student Success Center

    Drop in for help or schedule an appointment with the support team dedicated to your success.

  • Clubs and Organizations

    Explore a variety of student clubs and organizations within the College of CME. Join a club to make friends and develop professional connections.

About Us

  • Students work on optics and lasers in a physics lab

    Research

    Explore the department's research opportunities.

  • A student works on measurements with lasers, fiber optics, data transmission, and holography.

    Scholarships for Future Teachers

    The Mathematics and Science Teacher Initiative (MSTI) at California State University, Chico is focused on recruiting students to become math and science teachers. This special scholarship program awards scholarships up to $5,000. 

Two students drop pumpkins from the top of Butte Hall.

The Great Pumpkin Drop

Does gravity work? Are you sure? When was the last time you got together with some local physicists and checked if gravity was working by dropping pumpkins 50 feet down onto Trinity Commons?

Join the Society of Physics Students and the Department of Physics at Chico State in a comedic and educational experiment to test how and why things fall. There will be science, jokes, and plenty of falling pumpkins. The event is free and open to the public.

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