Engineering and Physical Science
Degrees and Certificates
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Engineering Science, B.S. -
Physics, Minor
Courses
PHYS 100: Conceptual Physics
Exploration of physical concepts, social and philosophical implications, utility and limitations of physics for solution of problems in the modern world. Not intended for potential science majors.
PHYS 101: Astronomy
General introduction to the theories and techniques of astronomy.
PHYS 110: College Physics I
Introductory two-semester sequence to the fields of mechanics, thermal physics, sound, electricity, magnetism, optics, atomic and nuclear physics. This sequence is not suitable for the physics major or minor, nor the chemistry or biology majors.
Prerequisites
MATH 121 or higher.
PHYS 111: College Physics II
Continuation of introductory two-semester sequence to the fields of mechanics, thermal physics, sound, electricity, magnetism, optics, atomic and nuclear physics. This sequence is not suitable for the physics major or minor, nor the chemistry or biology majors.
Prerequisites
MATH 121 or higher and PHYS 110.
PHYS 201: General Physics I
Introduction to mechanics, heat, sound, electricity and magnetism, and optics. Workshop format, providing a background in basic physics for all science majors, including those interested in the health sciences.
Prerequisites
MATH 151.
Corequisites
MATH 151.
PHYS 202: General Physics II
Introduction to mechanics, heat, sound, electricity and magnetism, and optics. Workshop format, providing a background in basic physics for all science majors, including those interested in the health sciences.
Prerequisites
PHYS 201.
PHYS 311: Modern Physics
Introduction to atomic and nuclear physics, quantum mechanics, and the theory of relativity. Laboratory experiments which form the foundation of the modern view of the physical world.
Prerequisites
PHYS 202 and MATH 151 or departmental permission.
PHYS 321: Intermediate Mechanics
Statics and dynamics of rigid bodies with extensive use of vector calculus; Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulations of mechanics.
Prerequisites
PHYS 202 and MATH 253.
Corequisites
PHYS 355 or MATH 353.
PHYS 350: Special Topics
Selected topics in physics chosen by the instructor in response to student needs and interests.
Prerequisites
PHYS 202 and instructor permission.
PHYS 355: Mathematical Methods for Physical Science I
This course introduces some of the mathematical tools required for upper-level physics courses. Emphasis is placed on recognizing the equations that appear repeatedly in many different areas of physics and understanding their solutions. Topics include ordinary differential equations of first & second order, series solution of differential equations, vector analysis, Fourier series, partial differential equations, boundary value problems, and integral transforms.
Prerequisites
MATH 253.
PHYS 361: Electronic Instrumentation
Study of circuits used in scientific instrumentation; emphasis on electrical measurements, digital electronics, and analog circuits; characteristics of transducers and detectors.
Prerequisites
PHYS 202 and MATH 151 or departmental permission.
PHYS 411: Electromagnetic Theory
Systematic study of electromagnetic phenomena with extensive use of vector calculus and Maxwell's equations.
Prerequisites
PHYS 202 and MATH 253.
PHYS 421: Quantum Mechanics
Methods of quantum mechanics including development of Schroedinger equation, its solutions for certain cases, and applications to atomic, nuclear, and solid state physics.
Prerequisites
PHYS 311, PHYS 321, PHYS 411, and MATH 353.
PHYS 460: Independent Study
Individual experimental or theoretical research approved and directed by the department.