The Department of Physics and Astronomy (est. 1972) provides curriculum in physics and astronomy to prepare students for careers in those fields. Previously called the Department of Physics, was created in 1972 and placed in the College of Physical and Engineering Sciences. In 1973 the department was moved to the newly formed College of Physical and Mathematical Sciences. The curriculum of the Department of Physics and Astronomy is designed to provide 1) training for students who intend to pursue graduate work in physics or astronomy; 2) preparation for students who intend to enter industrial or governmental service as physicists or astronomers; 3) a fundamental background for other physical sciences and engineering; 4) the broadening program required by the biological science, premedical, predental, and nursing programs; 5) training in the subject matter of physics for prospective teachers of the physical sciences; and 6) a perspective of science and an introduction to the role of physics in the human quest for understanding.