An overview of the Department of Physics
The Department of Physics at Wolkite University was established under the College of Natural and Computational Sciences to provide high-quality education, promote scientific inquiry, and contribute to Ethiopia’s development through advanced training and research in physical sciences. Physics is central to understanding the natural world and is foundational to much scientific and technological advancement.
Since its establishment, the department has offered a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Physics program with the goal of preparing graduates who are equipped with theoretical knowledge and practical skills in classical and modern physics. In response to the growing need for high-level professionals, the department has also initiated a Master of Science (MSc) in Physics, focusing on specialized and research-oriented training.
The department supports the teaching of physics across various programs including engineering, health sciences, and computer science, and is engaged in multidisciplinary research, laboratory training, and community service activities.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program – BSc in Physics
The BSc in Physics program is designed to:
ü Provide a comprehensive foundation in core areas of physics such as mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, quantum physics, optics, electronics, and statistical physics.
ü Develop students’ experimental skills through laboratory courses.
ü Strengthen students’ abilities in mathematical modeling and computational physics.
Program Features:
ü Strong emphasis on theory, practical experiments, and project work.
ü Final-year research project on a relevant physics topic.
ü Preparation for careers in education, industry, applied science, and postgraduate studies.
Postgraduate Program – MSc in Physics
The MSc in Physics program aims to:
ü Train students for academic, industrial, and research careers.
ü Encourage original research through thesis work on locally relevant scientific or technological problems.
Requirements:
ü Completion of coursework and seminars.
ü Submission and defense of a research-based thesis.
Objectives/Goals
The Department of Physics strives to:
- Deliver high-quality physics education that meets national and international academic standards.
- Produce graduates with solid theoretical and experimental skills who can contribute to education, industry, and research.
- Conduct and promote research that advances knowledge in fundamental and applied physics.
- Support interdisciplinary learning through physics instruction to students in engineering, computer science, and natural sciences.
- Engage in community service by applying physical science knowledge to address local and regional challenges.
- Foster professional development of academic staff through research, training, and international collaboration.
Duties and Responsibilities
The Department of Physics at Wolkite University is responsible for:
Academic Delivery
ü Planning, coordinating, and evaluating undergraduate and graduate teaching programs.
ü Developing and revising curricula in alignment with national and global standards.
ü Supporting student learning through mentorship, tutorials, and laboratory guidance.
Research and Innovation
ü Encouraging research by staff and students in priority areas of physics.
ü Organizing seminars, workshops, and conferences.
ü Establishing research collaboration with other universities and institutions.
Administrative Duties
ü Preparing strategic and annual operational plans for the department.
ü Managing human, financial, and material resources of the department.
ü Reporting academic and operational performance to the college and university management.
Community Engagement
ü Providing training, consultancy, and scientific services to local communities.
ü Promoting science awareness through school outreach and public lectures.
ü Applying physics knowledge to local problem-solving in areas like renewable energy and instrumentation.
Quality Assurance
ü Monitoring the quality of education, research, and service delivery.
ü Supporting continuous improvement and institutional accreditation efforts.
ü Ensuring compliance with university policies and national academic regulations.