Physics

A study for the non-science major of the fundamental principles of physical science with emphasis on their relevant applications.

Special topics course offered in response to student and faculty interest.

This course is designed to introduce students to the science of astronomy and its importance as an influence on our view of human-kind. Topics include the history of astronomy, the motion of celestial objects, models of the solar system, comparative planetology, stars, and life in the universe. Conceptual comprehension of basic astronomy is reinforced through student-guided class discussions, group problem solving, and student presentation.

This is a first semester introductory physics course. Topics include kinematics, dynamics, gravitation, momentum, and energy with an emphasis on applications in the biomedical field.

This is the second half of a two-semester introductory physics sequence. Topics include fluids, waves, sound, light, optics, electricity, and magnetism with emphasis on application in the biomedical field. 

This is a first-semester calculus-based general physics course. Topics include mechanics, kinematics, vectors, forces, Newton's Laws of Motion, gravitation, work, energy, momentum, and conservation laws. Problem solving is an essential part of the course. Classroom engagement activities are used to enhance problem-solving skills and to guide students toward a coherent comprehension of physics.

This is the second-half of a two-semester calculus-based general physics sequence. Topics include fluids, oscillatory motion, waves, sound, optics, electrostatics, electricity, and magnetism. Problem solving is an essential part of the course. Conceptual understanding is reinforced through interactive classroom activities, including group problem solving and discussion questions. 

This course involves experimental studies in mechanics, kinematics, gravitation, forces, momentum, and energy. The laboratory develops skills with basic sensors and measurement of physical quantities. Students work in small groups to record numerical data, assess measurement uncertainty, discuss concepts, and interpret results. Lab reports are assigned to help develop skills in scientific writing and communication. 

This course involves experimental studies in fluids, oscillatory motion, sound, basic electricity, electron charge, and optics. The laboratory develops skills with basic sensors and measurement of physical quantities. Students work in small groups to record numerical data, assess measurement uncertainty, discuss concepts, and interpret results. Lab reports are assigned to help develop skills in scientific writing and communication. 

This course involves experimental studies in mechanics, kinematics, gravitation, forces, momentum, and energy. The laboratory develops skills of measurement of physical quantities. Students work in small groups to record numerical data, assess measurement uncertainty, discuss concepts, interpret results, and communicate results. 

This course involves experimental studies in fluids, oscillatory motion, sound, basic electricity, electron charge, and optics. The laboratory develops skills of measurement of physical quantities. Students work in small groups to record numerical data, assess measurement uncertainty, discuss concepts, interpret results, and communicate results. 

Special topics course offered in response to student and faculty interest.

This course will provide opportunities for freshmen and sophomores to participate in original laboratory research. Students will submit their findings in a formal written report and will give an oral presentation. Students will be expected to spend two to three hours per week in the laboratory and one to two hours per week outside the laboratory for each semester hour credit.

Special topics course offered in response to student and faculty interest.

A study of the modern theories of atomic and molecular structure, chemical bonding and spectroscopy. Three lectures per week. 

Special topics course offered in response to student and faculty interest.

In conjunction with a faculty mentor, the student will formulate and execute an original research project that will culminate in a paper and a presentation. A research proposal form completed by the students and faculty mentor are required to complete registration. The project must meet the Honors Program thesis requirements as well as the expectations of the departmental faculty. 

In conjunction with a faculty mentor, the student will formulate and execute an original research project that will culminate in a paper and a presentation. A research proposal form completed by the student and the faculty mentor is required for registration.