Physics
PHY 1101: General Physics (5)
Offerings
The first quarter of a general introduction to physics, intended for biology and premed majors. Covers mechanics. Typically offered: Autumn.
Attributes: WK Fundamental Science
PHY 1102: General Physics (5)
Offerings
The second quarter of a general introduction to physics, intended for biology and premed majors. Covers heat, sound, fluids, waves, and optics. Typically offered: Winter.
Prerequisites: PHY 1101: C- or better
PHY 1103: General Physics (5)
Offerings
The third quarter of a general introduction to physics, intended for biology and premed majors. Covers electricity, magnetism, circuits, and modern physics. Typically offered: Spring.
Prerequisites: PHY 1102: C- or better
PHY 1110: Introduction to the Nature of Science (5)
Offerings
Provides a lecture, demonstration and discussion course in the physical sciences. Examines the scientific method in light of what it does and does not do. Covers selected scientific concepts and theories, drawing most of the examples from the field of physics.
Equivalents: CHM 1110
Attributes: WK Applied Science
PHY 1121: Physics for Science and Engineering (5)
Offerings
In this course, students will explore foundational ideas of motion, force, and energy through a discussion-based, exploratory approach. Emphasis will be placed on the development of the student's identity as a scientist and on building representations to model physical phenomena. All class sessions will involve active participation of the student in the process of constructing and refining scientific ideas through discussion and experimentation.
Attributes: WK Fundamental Science
Prerequisites: MAT 1234 can be taken concurrently: C- or better
Fees:
Physics Materials Fee (refundable)
PHY 1122: Physics for Science and Engineering (5)
Offerings
In this course, students will explore foundational ideas of rotation, heat and fluids through a discussion-based, exploratory approach. Emphasis will be placed on the development of the student's identity as a scientist and on building representations to model physical phenomena. All class sessions will involve active participation of the student in the process of constructing and refining scientific ideas through discussion and experimentation.
Prerequisites: PHY 1121: C- or better
AND MAT 1234: C- or better
Fees:
Physics Materials Fee (refundable)
PHY 1123: Physics for Science and Engineering (5)
Offerings
In this course, students will explore foundational ideas of waves, optics and electricity through a discussion-based, exploratory approach. Emphasis will be placed on the development of the student's identity as a scientist and on building representations to model physical phenomena. All class sessions will involve active participation of the student in the process of constructing and refining scientific ideas through discussion and experimentation.
Prerequisites: PHY 1122: C- or better
Fees:
Physics Materials Fee (refundable)
PHY 1135: Astronomy: Individual and the Universe (5)
Offerings
An integrative general introduction to astronomy, including astronomical observation and measurement, the solar system, extragalactic phenomena and cosmology. Includes the scientific method and worldview implications.
Attributes: WK Fundamental Science
PHY 1140: The Physics of Sound (5)
Offerings
Fundamentals of simple harmonic motion, nature of sound, transmission and reception of sound, pitch, quality, loudness, musical intervals, diatonic equal tempered scales, musical instruments, acoustics of instruments, acoustics of buildings, modern research in sound and acoustics.
Attributes: WK Fundamental Science
PHY 1142: Earth System Science (5)
Offerings
An interdisciplinary introduction to the processes, interactions and development of the earth's biosphere, geosphere and hydrosphere. Special emphasis will be given to current environmental issues and environmental stewardship.
Attributes: WK Fundamental Science
PHY 1910: Special Topics in Physics Seminar (1)
Offerings
Provides a direct study of current problems and research areas in physics such as astrophysics, chaos and complexity, particles and fields, and relativity. May be repeated for credit 2 times.
Prerequisites: PHY 1101 can be taken concurrently: D or better
OR PHY 1102 can be taken concurrently: D or better
OR PHY 1103 can be taken concurrently: D or better
OR PHY 1121 can be taken concurrently: D or better
OR PHY 1122 can be taken concurrently: D or better
OR PHY 1123 can be taken concurrently: D or better
PHY 2010: Physics MCAT Preparation (1)
Offerings
This course is intended to augment the introductory physics courses in the specific physics topics which are covered on the MCAT examination. Faculty will serve as resources for a student-directed review of prior MCAT examinations.
Prerequisites: PHY 1103: D or better
OR PHY 1123: D or better
PHY 2321: Intermediate Physics (5)
Offerings
Introduction to the physics of the 20th century: relativity, waves and quanta with applications to areas of contemporary physics such as atoms, nuclei, particles and solids.
Prerequisites: (PHY 1123: C- or better
OR PHY 1103: C- or better)
PHY 2571: Concepts in Physical Science for Educators I (3)
Offerings
The first in a two-course sequence, this course is a laboratory-based study of selected topics in physical science, including energy transfer and transformation, daily and annual motion of the sun, and physical changes. Emphasis is on depth of understanding, scientific reasoning skills, and the development of pedagogical content knowledge. This course is designed to engage students in the practices of scientists and engineers and models reformed teaching practices that are guided by results from research in science education, cognitive science, and the professional development of teachers. This course is a preparation for teaching K-8 physical science based on the next Generation Science Standards. (Formerly PHY 2568 Development of Concepts in Physical Science II). Typically offered: Autumn.
Equivalents: PHY 2568
Attributes: WK Applied Science
PHY 2572: Concepts in Physical Science for Educators II (4)
Offerings
The second in a two-course sequence, this course is a laboratory-based study of selected topics in physical science, including force and motion, light, phases of the moon, and chemical reactions. Emphasis is on depth of understanding, scientific reasoning skills, and the development of pedagogical content knowledge. This course is designed to engage students in the practices of scientists and engineers and models reformed teaching practices that are guided by results from research in science education, cognitive science, and the professional development of teachers. This course is a preparation for teaching K-8 physical science based on the next Generation Science Standards. (Formerly PHY 2567 Development of Concepts in Physical Science I). Typically offered: Winter.
Equivalents: PHY 2567
Attributes: WK Applied Science
Prerequisites: PHY 2571: C- or better
PHY 2950: Special Topics in Physics (1-5)
Offerings
A course studying a special interest topic in physics and physical science. Topics and credits may vary between offerings. May be repeated for credit up to 15 credits.
PHY 3011: Global Climate Change: Scientific, Social and Moral Implications (5)
Offerings
Understanding human influences on the Earth's climate is one of the most exciting scientific challenges of our time. We have learned a tremendous amount about our planet but the complexity of climate prevents us from making precise predictions. The majority of climate scientists agree that dramatic action may be needed very soon, yet effective responses could radically alter our lifestyles and economic systems. In this course we will engage with the complexity of climate science and energy policy. We will work together to construct strategies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and we will critically consider the implications of these strategies. This course will be project based with a strong emphasis on specific, tangible actions to address the challenge of climate change in a manner that is sustainable and equitable.
Attributes: Honors Course, Upper-Division, Ways of Engaging
PHY 3110: Mechanical Modeling and Analysis (3)
Offerings
This course will introduce students to tools, techniques and strategies for analyzing complex mechanical phenomena. Students will use sensors and video to collect force and motion data from real systems. Theory, mathematical and computational methods will be used to develop semi-empirical models for physical systems. Topics covered may include: velocity dependent forces, oscillations, vector force fields, orbital mechanics, non-inertial reference frames, and Lagrangian mechanics.
Attributes: Upper-Division
Prerequisites: MAT 3237: D or better
AND PHY 1123: D or better
PHY 3137: Greece/Geneva Study Abroad: Contemporary Physics & Eastern Christianity (5)
Offerings
Engages students in the examination of multiple perspectives in the contemporary so-called faith-science culture wars through a scientific account of cosmological origins and the structure of matter at very small and very large scales on one hand, and engagement with a Greek Orthodox Christian worldview on the other. Students in small learning groups are immersed in the complexities of the issues and evaluate different responses to them than those often offered in the Christian West.
Attributes: Upper-Division, Ways of Engaging
Restrictions: Freshman, Sophomore students are excluded.
PHY 3211: Acoustics (5)
Offerings
EGR 3500 is a preferred prerequisite. A first course for engineering and physics students in the field of Acoustics and Noise Control Engineering. This course will cultivate a foundational understanding of fundamental acoustical principles such as simple harmonic oscillators, lumped element analysis, sound fields in bounded and unbounded spaces, human response to noise, and environmental and safety issues. Applications will include Helmholtz resonators, loudspeaker enclosures, room acoustics, environmental noise, and HVAC noise and vibration control.
Equivalents: EGR 3211
Attributes: Upper-Division
Prerequisites: (PHY 1101: C- or better
AND PHY 1102: C- or better
AND PHY 1103: C- or better)
OR (PHY 1121: C- or better
AND PHY 1122: C- or better
AND PHY 1123: C- or better)
AND MAT 3237: C- or better
AND MAT 3238: C- or better
Fees:
Contemp Music Ctr - CCCU Fees (non-refundable)
PHY 3311: Experimental Methods I (3)
Offerings
In this course students will be introduced to advanced methods, tools and cognitive tasks required for contemporary scientific investigation and experimental research. Students will participate collaboratively in the design and implementation of benchtop research projects in physics and related fields. Students will use computers for collecting, analyzing and modeling experimental data. Special emphasis will be given to strategies for constructing and testing quantitative models for physical phenomena.
Equivalents: EGR 3311
Attributes: Upper-Division, WK Applied Science, Writing "W" Course
Prerequisites: PHY 1103 can be taken concurrently: C- or better
OR PHY 1123 can be taken concurrently: C- or better
Fees:
Engineering Materials Fee (refundable)
PHY 3312: Experimental Methods II (3)
Offerings
In this course students will build on knowledge and skills developed in Research Methods I in order to gain greater ownership of the strategies required for autonomous experimental research. Students will participate collaboratively in the process of forming their own research questions and constructing a plan for investigating these questions. Students will use computers for collecting, analyzing and modeling experimental data.
Attributes: Upper-Division, WK Applied Science, Writing "W" Course
Prerequisites: PHY 3311: C- or better
Fees:
Engineering Materials Fee (refundable)
PHY 3313: Experimental Methods III (3)
Offerings
In this course students will build on knowledge and skills developed in Research Methods I & II in order to take full ownership of an autonomous laboratory investigation. Students will participate collaboratively in the processes of: forming a focused research question, writing and refining a research proposal, constructing, testing, calibrating and modifying experimental apparatus, developing and executing data collection and analysis protocols, and synthesizing and presenting research findings.
Attributes: Upper-Division, Writing "W" Course
Prerequisites: PHY 3312: D or better
Fees:
Engineering Materials Fee (refundable)
PHY 3315: Electricity and Magnetism I (3)
Offerings
The first of a two-course sequence, this course studies electrostatics, magnetostatics, boundary conditions, electromagnetic waves, and introduction to applications. Typically offered: Autumn.
Equivalents: EE 3315
Attributes: Upper-Division
Prerequisites: MAT 3238: C- or better
AND (PHY 1103: C- or better
OR PHY 1123: C- or better)
Fees:
Engineering Materials Fee (refundable)
PHY 3340: Quantum Mechanics I (3)
Offerings
The first of a two-course sequence, this course studies basic wave mechanics, quantum mechanical operators, dynamics of the wave function, traveling waves, and bound states. Typically offered: Winter.
Attributes: Upper-Division
Prerequisites: PHY 2321: C- or better
AND MAT 3237: C- or better
PHY 3401: Thermal and Statistical Physics (3)
Offerings
This is the second course of a two course sequence and studies heat, thermodynamics, elementary kinetic theory, and statistical physics. Typically offered: Winter.
Attributes: Upper-Division
Prerequisites: EGR 3500: C- or better
Fees:
Physics Materials Fee (refundable)
PHY 3700: Mathematical Methods for Physics and Engineering (3)
Offerings
This class studies Fourier series, Laplace's equations, separation of variables, boundary value problems , Lorentz transforms and Hamiltonian mathematics. . Typically offered: Alternate Years.
Attributes: Upper-Division
Restrictions: Freshman students are excluded.
Prerequisites: MAT 3237: D or better
AND MAT 3238: D or better
PHY 4101: Astrophysics of Stars (5)
Offerings
Introduction to stars (physical and observational), hydrodynamics of self-gravitating fluids, statistical mechanics and equations of state, energy transport, astrophysical nuclear reactions, stellar models, advanced topics. Typically offered: Varies.
Attributes: Upper-Division
Prerequisites: MAT 3237: D or better
AND PHY 1123: D or better
PHY 4242: Atmospheric Science (2-5)
Offerings
Studies structure and composition of the atmosphere, radiative and convective processes: dynamics and distribution of the atmosphere; cloud physics; introduction to climatology and the upper atmosphere. Typically offered: Varies.
Attributes: Upper-Division
Prerequisites: (PHY 1103: D or better
OR PHY 1123: D or better)
AND MAT 3237: D or better
PHY 4311: Optics and Lasers (5)
Offerings
General theory of geometrical optics, physical optics, fiber optics and optical devices. Lectures and laboratory each week. Typically offered: Alternate Years.
Equivalents: EE 4311
Attributes: Upper-Division
Prerequisites: PHY 1103: D or better
OR PHY 1123: D or better
PHY 4315: Electricity and Magnetism II (3)
Offerings
The second of a two-course sequence, this course continues the study of electrostatics, magnetostatics, boundary conditions, electromagnetic waves, and is an introduction to applications such as skin effect, reflections, waveguides, antennas and optics. Includes computer and laboratory experiments. Typically offered: Spring.
Attributes: Upper-Division
Prerequisites: (PHY 3315: C- or better
OR EE 3315: C- or better)
PHY 4340: Quantum Mechanics II (3)
Offerings
The second of a two-course sequence, this course is a continuation of the study of basic wave mechanics, quantum mechanical operators, dynamics of the wave functions, traveling waves, and bound states. Typically offered: Spring.
Attributes: Upper-Division
Prerequisites: PHY 3340: C- or better
PHY 4515: Science Teaching Immersion Experience (1-3)
Offerings
Taught collaboratively by university faculty and experienced K-12 teachers, this course provides an immersion experience into teaching and learning at the precollege level. Course project(s) include adaptation of a physics or physical science lesson/unit, its implementation in the classroom and the assessment of learning outcomes and/or student engagement. May be repeated for credit up to 6 credits.
Attributes: Upper-Division
PHY 4520: Preparing to Teach (2)
Offerings
Preparation for teaching across the curriculum using instructional materials that have been guided by results from education research. Includes supervised teaching practicum. May be repeated for credit 5 times.
Attributes: Upper-Division
Restrictions: Freshman students are excluded.
PHY 4899: Natural Sciences Seminar (1)
Offerings
A capstone experience for seniors that explores current natural sciences topics in an interdisciplinary setting. Seminars addressing current research advances, ethical issues in science or the intersection of science, vocation and Christian faith are presented by faculty, students and guest scholars. Discussion and reflection incorporate appropriate readings. A minimum of two quarters of seminar must be completed during the senior year to fulfill the senior capstone requirement. May be repeated for credit 3 times.
Equivalents: BIO 4899, CHM 4899
Attributes: Upper-Division
Restrictions: Physics Majors only. Post-Baccalaureate, Senior students only.
Prerequisites: PHY 2321: D or better
PHY 4900: Independent Study (1-5)
Offerings
Student works independently with a faculty member on a mutually agreed upon topic. May be repeated for credit up to 5 credits.
Attributes: Upper-Division
PHY 4905: Independent Study in Physics (1-5)
Offerings
The area of study to be mutually agreed upon by the student and a physics faculty member. May be repeated for credit up to 5 credits.
Attributes: Upper-Division
PHY 4930: Physics Practicum (1-5)
Offerings
Physics Practicum May be repeated for credit up to 5 credits.
Attributes: Upper-Division
PHY 4940: Internship in Physics (1-5)
Offerings
Provides a significant learning experience to be obtained in a closely supervised work-study program. May be repeated for credit up to 5 credits.
Attributes: Upper-Division
Restrictions: Freshman, Sophomore students are excluded.
PHY 4950: Special Topics in Physics (1-5)
Offerings
An advanced course studying a special interest topic in physics and physical science. Topics and credits may vary between offerings. May be repeated for credit up to 15 credits.
Attributes: Upper-Division
Restrictions: Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Engineering Science, Mathematics, Physics Majors only. Freshman students are excluded.
PHY 4970: Undergraduate Research (1-5)
Offerings
Independent research directed toward satisfaction of requirement of senior project for graduation with major in physics. May be repeated for credit up to 5 credits.
Attributes: Upper-Division
Restrictions: Freshman, Junior, Sophomore students are excluded.
Prerequisites: PHY 3313: D or better