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. 

General introduction to the theories and techniques of astronomy. 

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.

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.

Students will be introduced to engineering fundamentals and will be prepared for success through integration of problem solving and engineering design, ethical decision-making, teamwork, and communicating to diverse audiences. Students will be introduced to the different types of engineering, including aerospace, biomedical, chemical, civil, computer, electrical, environmental, and mechanical engineering.

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.

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. 

Hands-on research experience through assistance in faculty research or approved student-proposed projects.

Hands-on research experience, assisting in faculty research projects.

Hands-on research experience, assisting in faculty research projects.

Hands-on research experience, assisting in faculty research projects.

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.

Statics and dynamics of rigid bodies with extensive use of vector calculus; Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulations of mechanics.

Selected topics in physics chosen by the instructor in response to student needs and interests.

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.

Study of circuits used in scientific instrumentation; emphasis on electrical measurements, digital electronics, and analog circuits; characteristics of transducers and detectors. 

Systematic study of electromagnetic phenomena with extensive use of vector calculus and Maxwell's equations.

Methods of quantum mechanics including development of Schroedinger equation, its solutions for certain cases, and applications to atomic, nuclear, and solid state physics.

Mathematical treatment of modern astrophysics. Astronomical instruments, solar system, stars, interstellar matter, galaxies, quasars, pulsars, cosmology, and astrophotography.

Study of current topics in physics based on survey of primary literature. Focus on oral communication through scientific presentations and small-group discussions.

Laboratory study of various topics selected from the current literature, including nonlinear dynamics, optics, atomic physics, and nuclear physics. 

Series solutions of differential equations, Fourier analysis, partial differential equations, and functions of a complex variable with emphasis on application to physical systems.

Individual experimental or theoretical research approved and directed by the department.

Work experience related to the student's major, jointly supervised by the department and a professional in the field. Although the usual internship will carry either three or six hours credit, a student may elect to arrange an internship carrying between two and six hours credit with the permission of the department. Each hour of credit will require forty hours at the internship site.

Work experience related to the student's major, jointly supervised by the department and a professional in the field. Although the usual internship will carry either three or six hours credit, a student may elect to arrange an internship carrying between two and six hours credit with the permission of the department. Each hour of credit will require forty hours at the internship site.

Independent research in a special topic for honors.

Independent research in a special topic for honors.