Undergraduate Scholarships and Awards
The Department of Physics at Western Michigan University offers a variety of scholarships and awards for undergraduate students.
Donors may designate gifts in support of our scholarship programs. Search for Physics and select a fund of your choice.
Presidential Scholar
Each year, the Department of Physics names one outstanding graduating physics major as its Presidential Scholar. The recipient is recognized at a dinner hosted by the presidents of Western Michigan University and the Faculty Senate.
Haym Kruglak Student Teaching Excellence Award
Dr. Haym Kruglak was a WMU professor of physics from 1954-77. He established this fund to recognize a senior physics with secondary education major who demonstrates outstanding effort in practice teaching.
Nathan L. Nichols Physics Scholarship
Dr. Nathan Nichols was a WMU professor of physics from 1955-80. This scholarship was established by his family and friends to recognize high-achieving physics majors. The undergraduate committee will review all registered physics majors to determine scholarship awardees.
Dr. Larry Oppliger scholarship in physics
Dr. Larry Oppliger was a WMU professor of physics from 1963-93 and department chair from 1974-80. He also served as chair of the Department of Science Studies from 1993-2001. This scholarship was established to support undergraduates seeking a secondary education teaching track in physics or a physics major or minor. The undergraduate committee will review all registered physics majors and minors to determine scholarship awardees.
Paul Rood Physics Scholarship
Dr. Paul Rood was chair of the WMU Department of Physics from 1944-64 and a professor here for 48 years. Established through a generous gift from the Rood family, these scholarships are awarded to outstanding physics students. The undergraduate committee will review all registered physics majors to determine scholarship awardees.
Charles J. Wilcox Memorial Award
(part of the department of physics quasi endowment)
Made possible by donations from family and friends in memory of former graduate student Charles Wilcox, this award is given annually to an outstanding graduating physics major at WMU.
Physics course awards
College of Arts and Sciences International Study Scholarships
The WMU College of Arts and Sciences invites qualified undergraduates to apply for funds to help support their study abroad experience. See the College of Arts and Sciences scholarship page for an application and more information.
Other financial aid
Please check the Office of Financial Aid for additional awards.