Physics Education

Why Study Physics Education at Northwest

Physics education majors at Northwest study the physics curriculum and learn methods to apply it in the classroom. This major prepares students to teach all physics courses at the secondary education level (grades 9-12).

A minor in physics education is designed as a supplement to any education major and certifies students to teach high school physics. Faculty focus on Newton’s Laws and fundamental laws of physics, electricity, magnetism and theoretical physics. After taking the required courses, students can customize their minor from a list of approved electives. For a list of required courses, visit the Academic Catalog.

At Northwest, we believe hands-on experience is the foundation to jumpstart your future career. Students will be required to lead content practicum during which students prepare labs for instructors and teach two lab classes at Northwest. In addition, education practicum courses are "clinical hours" in a high school where students observe, teach and assist high school teachers. One semester of observation occurs at a high school of the student’s choice.