ACADEMIC CATALOG >>
2008-2009
PHY (Physical Science)
PHY 101 Physical Science (3)
Basic principles and discoveries in astronomy, geology, physics, and chemistry.
Corequisites: PHY 102 (Lab).
PHY 102 Physical Science Lab (1)
Corequisites: PHY 101.
PHY 103 Physical Geology (3)
Physical/ chemical makeup of Earth and processes giving rise to its present
form. Three credit lecture, one-credit lab, two required field trips. Corequisites: PHY
104 (Lab).
PHY 104 Physical Geology Lab (1)
One credit lab. Corequisites: PHY 103.
PHY 105 Environmental Science (3)
An exploration of environmental issues including population growth, energy use,
global climate change, air-water-solid waste pollution, resources, stewardship,
solutions and sustainability. Through readings, lecture, and discussion we will
examine geological, biological., chemical, economic, political, and social
aspects of environmental issues on personal, local, national, and global
scales. Corequisites: PHY 106 (Lab).
PHY 106 Environmental Science Lab (1)
Hands-on exercises and discussion of topics covered in PHY 105.
Corequisites: PHY 105.
PHY 203 Scientific Discovery (3)
The course will examine the nature and dynamics of discovery in the biological,
physical and social sciences by studying some of history's great discoverers.
The contribution of the discoveries to human culture is examined in light of
moral issues, forbidden knowledge and progress. Basic scientific assignments
will assist in illustrating the dynamics of discovery and the implications of
discovery. Prerequisites: MAT 110 (Recommended).
PHY 210 General Physics I (4)
Basic principles of physics; classical mechanics, electricity and magnetism,
thermodynamics, other selected topics. Prerequisites: MAT 115 or equivalent.
Corequisites: PHY 211 (Recitation), PHY 212 (Lab).
PHY 211 General Physics I Recitation (0)
Corequisites: PHY 210.
PHY 212 General Physics I Lab (1)
One-credit lab. Corequisites: PHY 210.
PHY 304 Introduction to Geology (3)
The course is designed around field trips and theory that center on the science
of geology for students with little or no earth science background. Subjects
include, but are not limited to: earthquakes, mountain ranges, dinosaur bones
and tracks, causes of repeated mass extinctions, minerals, igneous rocks,
volcanoes, sedimentary rocks, metamorphic rocks, mountain building and geologic
time.
PHY 309 Introduction to Astronomy (3)
The intent of this course is to give the student a brief survey of astronomy
with an emphasis on origins, constellations and identification thereof, and
space exploration. Lesser topics include but are not limited to the history of
astronomy, astronomers of past and present, the solar system and beyond.
PHY 310 General Physics II (4)
Thorough, systematic study of the foundations of classical and modern physics.
Intended primarily for students preparing for careers in medicine, physical
therapy, science education, and graduate work in other sciences. Sequence
begins with kinematics and dynamics, explores the theories of gravitation and
electricity, and ends with a study of nuclear physics, cosmology, and other
selected topics. Prerequisites: MAT 115 or a working knowledge of college-level
algebra and trigonometry. Corequisites: PHY 311 (Recitation), PHY 312 (Lab).
PHY 311 General Physics II Recitation (0)
Corequisites: PHY 310.
PHY 312 General Physics II Lab (1)
One credit lab. Corequisites: PHY 310.
PHY 340 Modern Physics and Methods (4)
A study of physics concentrating on the 20th century. This includes
introductions to quantum mechanics, relativity, atomic physics, nuclear
physics, and the nature of light. Mathematical methods in both modern and
classical physics, as an extension to PHY 210 and 310, will also be emphasized.
Prerequisites: PHY 310, MAT 141 or higher.
PHY 350 Internship (1-12)
Supervised experience in a professional setting. Pass/Fail; may be repeated for
credit. Junior standing.
PHY 390 Directed Study (1-3)
Guided independent investigation of a topic selected in consultation
with the major or minor advisor. See Academic Policies for guidelines. Dean's
approval required. Graded; may be repeated for credit.
PHY 397 Special Topics (1-3)
Guided group investigation and discussion of a selected topic. Graded;
may be repeated for credit.
PHY 450 Internship (1-12)
Supervised experience in a professional setting. Pass/Fail; may be repeated for
credit. Senior standing.
PHY 480 Physics Research Project (2-6)
Individualized research project under the direction of the physics advisor.
PHY 490 Directed Study (1-3)
Guided independent investigation of a topic selected in consultation with the
major or minor advisor. See Academic Policies for guidelines. Dean's approval
required. Graded; may be repeated for credit.
PHY 497 Special Topics (1-3)
Guided group investigation and discussion of a selected topic. Graded; may be
repeated for credit.
PHY 498 Teaching Assistantship (1)
Supervised and limited preparation and delivery of lectures, tutoring of
students, laboratory preparation, and assisting in the preparation and grading
of examinations. Pass/Fail; may be repeated for credit.
Note: Certain courses may be offered only through the College of Undergraduate Studies (CUS) or the College of Adult and Graduate Studies (CAGS). Students should refer to their specific degree program in the Catalog or consult their academic advisor to confirm which courses are available in their program. For those course numbers that are similar or identical, “CUS” or “CAGS” will be used to differentiate.
