Introduces students to the tools of physics. A topic is selected as the focus of the course which allows students to analyze phenomena, model their behavior, and solve problems: Alternative Energy, Physics in Movies and Television, and the Physics of Superheroes. Specific content may vary by course section subtitles but all sections repeat core concepts. Only one section may be counted for course credit.

A study of the structure and evolution of the universe. Topics include how astronomers observe and interpret phenomena, models of the solar system, life cycle of stars, and current models of the universe.

A study of earth science including topics such as tectonics, interior structure of the Earth, rocks and rock cycles, oceanography, meteorology, and Earth-Sun interactions. The physical principles associated with earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanoes, hurricanes, and tornadoes are explored.

A study of earth science including topics such as tectonics, interior structure of the Earth, rocks and rock cycles, oceanography, meteorology, and Earth-Sun Interactions. The physical principles associated with earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanoes, hurricanes, and tornadoes are explored. The laboratory component covers the detection techniques and analysis of earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanoes, hurricanes, and tornadoes.

Mechanics, heat, and waves. Laboratory course. Prerequisite: Co-requisite MATH 130 and PHYS GP1

An introduction to the scientific process as it pertains to the physical world with an emphasis on the topics of mechanics (Newtonian, quantum, and statistical), waves, and heat. This course is taught in a hands-on, discovery-based style with lab, computer, and course work integrated into each class meeting. The course meets three times a week for two hours at a time and does not have a separate lab section. Prerequisite: Co-requisite MATH 130

Electricity, magnetism, and optics. Laboratory course. Prerequisites: PHYS 210, or PHYS 230, or PHYS 235, and MATH 130. Co-requisite: PHYS GP2

An introduction to the scientific process as it pertains to the physical world with an emphasis on the topics of electricity, magnetism, and optics. This course is taught in a hands-on, discovery-based style with lab, computer, and course work integrated into each class meeting. The course meets three times a week for two hours at a time and does not have a separate lab section. Prerequisite: PHYS 210, or PHYS 230, or PHYS 235, and MATH 130

Mechanical and electromagnetic waves. Fourier analysis and vector calculus. Prerequisite: PHYS 220, or PHYS 240, or PHYS 245. Co-requisite MATH 260

Phenomenological basis of atomic and subatomic physics. Laboratory course. Cross-listed as CHEM 410 Advanced Physical Chemistry. Prerequisite: PHYS 220, or PHYS 240, or PHYS 245. Co-requisite: MATH 260

Analog circuits, digital circuits, and semiconductor devices. Prerequisite: PHYS 240, or PHYS 245, or PHYS 220 plus consent of instructor

Electrostatics, electromagnetic fields, currents, and Maxwell's equations. Prerequisite: PHYS 305

Mathematical formalism of quantum theory. The Schrodinger equation and operator algebra. Bound state solutions and angular momentum. Prerequisite: PHYS 305 and either PHYS 315 or CHEM 310

Independent research in physics conducted in conjunction with a specific faculty member. Research topics selected on an individual basis. Results of the research are typically presented at a national scientific meeting in the spring, and a final research report is written.

The laws of thermodynamics, classical and quantum distribution functions, and an introduction to statistical mechanics. Prerequisite: MATH 140 and PHYS 220, PHYS 240, or PHYS 245

Central force problem, Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formalisms, and special relativity. Prerequisite: PHYS 305

A topics course studying the properties, evolution and origin of the universe based on Einstein’s theory of gravity, and cosmology. Topics may include curved space-time, black holes and worm holes, the big bang, multiple universes, and the particle physics of the early universe. No prior knowledge of general relativity is necessary. This course can be repeated for additional credits as long as the section topics are different. Consult the online course schedule for information about the topics currently scheduled to be taught.