The online catalog includes the most recent changes to courses and degree requirements that have been approved by the Faculty Senate, including changes that are not yet effective.
Department of Physics and Astronomy
physics.wsu.edu
Webster 1245
509-335-1698
Chair and Professor, B. Saam; Regents Professors, Y. M. Gupta, M. G. Kuzyk; Professors, S. Bose, P. Engels, Y. Gu, P. L. Marston, M.D. McCluskey, S. L. Tomsovic, G. Worthey; Associate Professors, B. A. Collins, M. Duez, M. Forbes; Assistant Professors, V. Baldassare, Q. Guan; Scholarly Professor, F. Gittes; Scholarly Associate Professors, M. Allen, N. Cerruti; Teaching Assistant Professor, A. Guy.
Physics is the study of nature at its most fundamental level. It is the science upon whose principles all other sciences and technologies are based. A major in physics is ideal preparation not only for further study in physics but also for advanced study in biophysics, medicine, astrophysics, geophysics, chemical physics, engineering, meteorology, and computer science. All of these areas also offer potential careers for the physics major.
Courses offered introduce the student to the major physical theories: mechanics, thermodynamics and statistical physics, electricity and magnetism, and quantum physics. Additional undergraduate courses cover optics, atomic physics, nuclear physics, solid state physics, biological physics, and astrophysics. Students test the theories in laboratories and learn experimental techniques needed to work with modern apparatus such as computers, high-vacuum equipment, lasers, and electronic and optical devices.
Active research programs supported by federal grants and contracts are pursued in the following fields: acoustics (scattering, nonlinear processes, and levitation); astrophysics (planetary, stellar, and galactic structure and evolution); astrophysical generation of gravitational waves, gravitational wave data analysis, cosmology; optical properties of semiconductors; biophysics; nanoscale physics and materials, Bose-Einstein condensates, cluster physics; optical physics (femtosecond laser spectroscopy, scattering from doped polymers, nonlinear optics, quantum electronics, Fourier spectroscopy, diffraction catastrophes); physics education (use of microcomputers in teaching and labs); nuclear solid state physics (Mössbauer effect, perturbed angular correlation, positron annihilation studies of defects in solids); shock wave and high pressure physics (chemical and structural response of condensed materials to high dynamic pressures, time-resolved optical spectroscopy, shock and detonation wave propagation, chemical reactions, dynamic mechanical failure); surface and chemical physics (synchrotron SAFS, diamond films, molecular interactions with surfaces, reactive etching of surfaces, photoelectric and thermal emission microscopy); theory (quantum chaos, nonlinear dynamics, mesoscopic systems, phase transitions and critical phenomena, quantum liquids and gases, atomic and molecular physics (ultra-cold atoms, optical pumping, magnetic resonance), classical and quantum gravity, black hole thermodynamics, and low-temperature physics). These research groups offer graduate students the opportunity to pursue original investigations required for advanced degrees. Undergraduate physics majors are encouraged to participate in research through the special-project course (PHYSICS 499) and through part-time jobs that are sometimes available.
The department offers courses of study leading to the degrees of Bachelor of Science in Physics, Master of Science in Physics, and Doctor of Philosophy (Physics).
Astronomy courses at both the undergraduate and graduate levels are administered by the department. Instruction in astronomy is enhanced by the use of a 12-inch telescope at the Jewett Observatory, the Spitz planetarium, and faculty research at LIGO gravitational-wave observatory. Opportunities are available for students to collaborate with faculty to do research projects.
The Department of Physics and Astronomy is a major participant in the Materials Science Program and offers courses and research opportunities leading to advanced degrees in this interdisciplinary program.
Student Learning Outcomes
A student who has completed the undergraduate program in physics will be able to use scientific reasoning to form and test hypotheses; think independently and critically in acquiring, reproducing, and assessing information from a variety of sources; understand the important concepts in each of the four core areas of physics: mechanics, electricity and magnetism, modern and quantum physics, and thermal and statistical physics; apply these concepts in mathematical models to solve theoretical and real-world problems; design and conduct scientific experiments which test new ideas and theories; present concepts and results clearly, both orally and in writing; and be prepared for graduate study and/or careers in physics and related fields.
Transfer Students
Transfer students receive credit for equivalent courses taken elsewhere, but must meet the requirements for graduation listed.
Preparation for Graduate Study
Undergraduate students contemplating graduate work in physics should consider enrolling in PHYSICS 443, 521, 571, and additional math courses.
Schedules of Studies
Honors students complete the Honors College requirements which replace the UCORE requirements.
Applied Physics Option (122 Credits)
Admission to the Major requirements
Students may be admitted to the major upon making their intentions known to the department.
Graduation Requirements
A research experience is required of all students as a PHYSICS 489 project; however, to gain valuable work experience outside the university, students are strongly encouraged to participate in an internship or research experience in industry or a government lab outside of WSU. The summer after the junior year is the most appropriate time for this experience. All students are required to submit an undergraduate thesis to a committee of two physics faculty members in the senior year. PHYSICS 490 will give credit for this effort. The student must earn a C (2.0) or better grade in each of the required physics courses.
| First Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| CHEM 105 [PSCI] | 4 |
| Diversity [DIVR] | 3 |
| ENGLISH 101 [WRTG] | 3 |
| MATH 171 [QUAN] | 4 |
| PHYSICS 188 | 1 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| CHEM 106 | 4 |
| ENGR 120 | 2 |
| HISTORY 105 [ROOT] | 3 |
| MATH 172 | 4 |
| PHYSICS 189 | 1 |
| Second Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| ECONS 101 [SSCI] | 3 |
| Equity and Justice [EQJS] | 3 |
| MATH 220, 225 or 230 | 2 or 3 |
| MATH 273 | 2 |
| PHYSICS 201 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 211 | 1 |
| Foreign Language, if needed1 | 0-4 |
| Option Elective2 | 3 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| Arts [ARTS] | 3 |
| ECONS 102 | 3 |
| MATH 315 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 202 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 212 | 1 |
| Foreign Language, if needed1 | 0-4 |
| Option Elective2 | 3 |
| Complete Writing Portfolio | |
| Third Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| PHYSICS 303 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 320 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 341 | 3 |
| STAT 360 or 370 | 3 |
| Option Elective2 | 3 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| Biological Sciences [BSCI] | 4 |
| PHYSICS 304 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 330 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 342 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 489 | 1 |
| Option Elective2 | 3 |
| Fourth Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| COM 400 [COMM], ENGLISH 301 [WRTG], or ENGLISH 402 [WRTG] | 3 |
| Humanities [HUM] | 3 |
| PHYSICS 443 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 450 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 490 [M] | 1 |
| Option Elective2 | 3 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| Integrative Capstone [CAPS] | 3 |
| PHYSICS 415 [M] | 3 |
| PHYSICS Electives3 | 3 |
| Option Elective2 | 3 |
Footnotes
| 1 | Two years of high school foreign language or at least two semesters of college-level foreign language are required by the College of Arts and Sciences for graduation. |
| 2 | Option Electives (18 credits): Choose from CE, CPT S, E E, ME, and MSE courses not used to fulfill other requirements. |
| 3 | Physics Electives (3 credits): Choose any 300-400-level ASTRONOM or PHYSICS courses not used to fulfill other requirements. |
Astrophysics Option (120 Credits)
The program of courses below is appropriate for students who have had a good experience with calculus in high school and wish to start physics in the first semester at WSU. Students who have placed in MATH 172 can accelerate the math sequence. Students who have not had calculus in high school should defer PHYSICS 201/211 until they have completed MATH 171. Upon consultation with the departmental advisor, modifications can be made in the list of required courses to fit the needs of individual students. The schedule of studies below includes the additional lab credit required for graduation by the College of Arts and Sciences.
Students may be admitted to the physics major upon making their intentions known to the department.
Graduation Requirements
A research experience is required of all students as a PHYSICS 489 project; however, to gain valuable work experience outside the university, students are strongly encouraged to participate in an internship or research experience in industry or a government lab outside of WSU. The summer after the junior year is the most appropriate time for this experience. All students are required to submit an undergraduate thesis to a committee of two physics faculty members in the senior year. PHYSICS 490 will give credit for this effort. The student must earn a C (2.0) or better grade in each of the required physics courses.
| First Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| CHEM 105 [PSCI] | 4 |
| ENGLISH 101 [WRTG] | 3 |
| MATH 171 [QUAN] | 4 |
| PHYSICS 188 | 1 |
| Social Sciences [SSCI] | 3 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| CHEM 106 or 116 | 4 |
| HISTORY 105 [ROOT] | 3 |
| MATH 172 | 4 |
| PHYSICS 189 | 1 |
| PHYSICS 201 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 211 | 1 |
| Second Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| Biological Sciences [BSCI] | 3 |
| MATH 220, 225 or 230 | 2 or 3 |
| MATH 273 | 2 |
| PHYSICS 202 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 212 | 1 |
| PHYSICS 303 | 3 |
| Foreign Language, if needed1 | 0-4 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| Arts [ARTS] | 3 |
| ASTRONOM 390 | 1 |
| MATH 315 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 304 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 330 | 3 |
| Foreign Language, if needed1 | 0-4 |
| Complete Writing Portfolio | |
| Third Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| ASTRONOM 345 | 3 |
| CPT S 111, 121, 131, E E 221, or MATH 300 | 2-4 |
| Humanities [HUM] | 3 |
| MATH Elective2 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 320 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 341 | 3 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| ASTRONOM 435 or 436 | 3 |
| COM 400 [COMM], ENGLISH 301 [WRTG], or ENGLISH 402 [WRTG] | 3 |
| MATH Elective2 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 342 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 410 | 4 |
| PHYSICS 489 | 1 |
| Fourth Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| Diversity [DIVR] | 3 |
| Equity and Justice [EQJS] | 3 |
| PHYSICS 450 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 490 [M] | 1 |
| Technical Elective3 | 3 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| ASTRONOM 435 or 436 | 3 |
| Integrative Capstone [CAPS] | 3 |
| PHYSICS 415 [M] | 3 |
| Technical Elective3 | 6 |
Footnotes
| 1 | Two years of high school foreign language or at least two semesters of college-level foreign language are required by the College of Arts and Sciences for graduation. |
| 2 | MATH Electives (6 credits): Choose from 300-400-level MATH courses not used to fulfill other requirements. |
| 3 | Technical Electives (9 credits, at least 6 must be 300-400 level): Choose from ASTRONOM, CHEM, MATH, or PHYSICS courses not used to fulfill other requirements. |
Planetary Sciences Option (120 Credits)
Students may be admitted to the physics major upon making their intentions known to the department.
| First Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| CHEM 105 [PSCI] | 4 |
| ENGLISH 101 [WRTG] | 3 |
| Equity and Justice [EQJS] | 3 |
| MATH 171 [QUAN] | 4 |
| SOE 100 or PHYSICS 188 | 1 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| CHEM 106 or 116 | 4 |
| HISTORY 105 [ROOT] | 3 |
| MATH 172 or 182 | 4 |
| SOE 103 or ASTRONOM 138 | 3 |
| Second Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| CPT S 111 | 3 |
| MATH 273 or 283 | 2 |
| PHYSICS 201 [PSCI] | 3 |
| PHYSICS 211 [PSCI] | 1 |
| SOE 102 | 4 |
| Foreign Language, if needed | 0-4 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| Biological Sciences [BSCI] | 3 |
| Diversity [DIVR] | 3 |
| MATH 220, 225 or 230 | 2 or 3 |
| PHYSICS 202 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 212 | 1 |
| SOE 210 | 4 |
| Foreign Language, if needed | 0-4 |
| Complete Writing Portfolio | |
| Third Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| MATH 315 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 303 | 3 |
| Social Sciences [SSCI] | 3 |
| SOE 340 [M] | 4 |
| STAT 212 | 4 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| ASTRONOM 435 | 3 |
| Humanities [HUM] | 3 |
| PHYSICS 304 | 3 |
| SOE 350 | 4 |
| SOE 474 [CAPS] [M] | 4 |
| Fourth Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| Arts [ARTS] | 3 |
| ASTRONOM 345 | 3 |
| ENGLISH 402 [WRTG] or COM 400 [COMM] | 3 |
| SOE 356 | 3 |
| SOE 499 or PHYSICS 499 | 1 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| ASTRONOM 450 | 3 |
| SOE 357 | 3 |
| SOE 480 | 3 |
| SOIL SCI 374 | 3 |
| Elective1 | 3 |
Footnotes
| 1 | Free elective (3 credits): Suggested courses are ASTRONOM 436, CHEM 300 or 400 level, DATA 115 or 209, PHYSICS 300 or 400 level, SOE 300 or 400 level, STAT 412. |
Standard Option (120 Credits)
The program of courses below is appropriate for students who have had a good experience with calculus in high school and wish to start physics in the first semester at WSU. Students who have placed in MATH 172 can accelerate the math sequence. Students who have not had calculus in high school should defer PHYSICS 201/211 until they have completed MATH 171. Upon consultation with the departmental advisor, modifications can be made in the list of required courses to fit the needs of individual students. The schedule of studies below includes the additional lab credit required for graduation by the College of Arts and Sciences.
Students may be admitted to the physics major upon making their intentions known to the department.
Graduation Requirements
A research experience is required of all students as a PHYSICS 489 project; however, to gain valuable work experience outside the university, students are strongly encouraged to participate in an internship or research experience in industry or a government lab outside of WSU. The summer after the junior year is the most appropriate time for this experience. All students are required to submit an undergraduate thesis to a committee of two physics faculty members in the senior year. PHYSICS 490 will give credit for this effort. The student must earn a C (2.0) or better grade in each of the required physics courses.
| First Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| CHEM 105 [PSCI] | 4 |
| ENGLISH 101 [WRTG] | 3 |
| MATH 171 [QUAN] | 4 |
| PHYSICS 188 | 1 |
| Social Sciences [SSCI] | 3 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| CHEM 106 or 116 | 4 |
| HISTORY 105 [ROOT] | 3 |
| MATH 172 | 4 |
| PHYSICS 189 | 1 |
| PHYSICS 201 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 211 | 1 |
| Second Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| Biological Sciences [BSCI] | 3 |
| MATH 220, 225 or 230 | 2 or 3 |
| MATH 273 | 2 |
| PHYSICS 202 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 212 | 1 |
| PHYSICS 303 | 3 |
| Foreign Language, if needed1 | 0-4 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| Arts [ARTS] | 3 |
| MATH 315 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 304 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 330 | 3 |
| Foreign Language, if needed1 | 0-4 |
| Complete Writing Portfolio | |
| Third Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| CPT S 111, 121, 131, E E 221, or MATH 300 | 2-4 |
| Diversity [DIVR] | 3 |
| Humanities [HUM] | 3 |
| MATH Elective2 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 320 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 341 | 3 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| COM 400 [COMM], ENGLISH 301 [WRTG], or ENGLISH 402 [WRTG] | 3 |
| MATH Elective2 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 342 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 410 | 4 |
| PHYSICS 489 | 1 |
| Standard Option Elective 3 | 3 |
| Fourth Year | |
| First Term | Credits |
| Equity and Justice [EQJS] | 3 |
| PHYSICS 450 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 490 [M] | 1 |
| Standard Option Electives3 | 6 |
| Technical Elective4 | 3 |
| Second Term | Credits |
| Integrative Capstone [CAPS] | 3 |
| PHYSICS 415 [M] | 3 |
| Standard Option Electives3 | 4 - 6 |
| Technical Elective4 | 3 |
Footnotes
| 1 | Two years of high school foreign language or at least two semesters of college-level foreign language are required by the College of Arts and Sciences for graduation. |
| 2 | MATH Electives (6 credits): Choose from 300-400-level MATH courses not used to fulfill other requirements. |
| 3 | Standard Option Electives (13 credits minimum): Choose from 300-400-level ASTRONOM and PHYSICS courses not used to fulfill other requirements. |
| 4 | Technical Electives (6 credits, at least 3 must be 300-400 level): Choose from ASTRONOM, CHEM, MATH, or PHYSICS courses not used to fulfill other requirements. |
Minors
Astronomy
An Astronomy minor requires ASTRONOM 345, 435 and 436; at least two hours from ASTRONOM 390, PHYSICS 490, or 499; and at least 3 hours from ASTRONOM 135, HISTORY 381, or SOE 103. The minor also requires MATH 273 and PHYSICS 303. These courses have as prerequisites MATH 171, 172, 220, and PHYSICS 201/211 and 202/212. These prerequisites are often required as part of physical science major programs (Chemistry, Computer Science, Earth and Environmental Science, Engineering, and Physics) so that students in these fields will find the astronomy minor more accessible than students in other fields. Credit hours for the minor must include 9 hours of upper-division work earned in WSU courses or through WSU-approved education abroad or educational exchange courses.
Physics
A Physics minor requires PHYSICS 201/211, 202/212, 303, and 304 plus any two courses (6 credits) from the following list: PHYSICS 320, 330, 341, 342, 410, 415 [M], 443, 450, 461, 463, or 465. This makes a total of 20 credits in PHYSICS, of which 12 are upper division. Credit hours must include 9 hours of upper-division work earned in WSU courses or through WSU-approved education abroad or educational exchange courses. Students from outside the College of Arts and Sciences (i.e., College of Engineering) do not have to meet the extra graduation requirements of the College of Arts and Sciences.
Courses
The online catalog includes the most recent changes to courses and degree requirements that have been approved by the Faculty Senate, including changes that are not yet effective. Courses showing two entries of the same number indicate that the course information is changing. The most recently approved version is shown first, followed by the older version, in gray, with its last-effective term preceding the course title. Courses shown in gray with only one entry of the course number are being discontinued. Course offerings by term can be accessed by clicking on the term links when viewing a specific campus catalog.
Physics (PHYSICS)
101 [PSCI] General Physics 3 Course Prerequisite: PHYSICS 111 or concurrent enrollment; MATH 108 with a grade of C or better, a minimum ALEKS math placement score 75%, or passing MATH 140, 171, 202, or 206. Algebra/trigonometry-based physics; topics in mechanics, wave phenomena, temperature, and heat; oriented toward non-physical science majors. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer.
102 General Physics 3 Course Prerequisite: 4 credits of PHYSICS 101 with a C or better, or PHYSICS 101 and 111 with a C or better; PHYSICS 112 or concurrent enrollment; MATH 108 with a grade of C or better, a minimum ALEKS math score 75%, or passing MATH 140, 171, or 202. Algebra/trigonometry-based physics; topics in electricity, magnetism, optical phenomena, relativity, and quantum theory; oriented toward non-physical science majors. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer.
103 Problem Solving for Physics 101 1 Course Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in PHYSICS 101 and 111. Small class environment for students who desire focused attention on problem solving skills as applied to PHYSICS 101 and 111 materials. S, F grading.
104 Problem Solving for Physics 102 1 Course Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in PHYSICS 102 and 112. Small class environment for students who desire focused attention on problem solving skills as applied to PHYSICS 102 materials. S, F grading.
111 [PSCI] General Physics Lab 1 (0-3) Course Prerequisite: MATH 108 with a grade of C or better, a minimum ALEKS math placement score 75%, or passing MATH 140, 171, 202, or 206; PHYSICS 101 or concurrent enrollment. Algebra/trigonometry-based physics lab; topics in mechanics and oscillations; heavy emphasis on group work; oriented toward non-physical science majors. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer.
112 General Physics Lab II 1 (0-3) Course Prerequisite: PHYSICS 102 or concurrent enrollment. Algebra/trigonometry-based physics lab; topics in electricity, magnetism, optical phenomena; heavy emphasis on group work; oriented toward non-physical science majors. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer.
137 Physics and Society 3 Course Prerequisite: Minimum ALEKS math placement score of 45% or MATH 103 or higher with a C or better. Enrollment not allowed if credit already earned for PHYSICS 408. Interactions of physics with society; energy; air and water pollution; recycling; communications and computers; physics and war; physics and art. Recommended preparation: UCORE [QUAN]. Credit not allowed for students who have earned credit for PHYSICS 408.
150 [PSCI] Physics and Your World 3 Survey of physics as found in everyday phenomena; including many hands-on activities and home experiments. Typically offered Summer Session.
188 First-Year Seminar I 1 Faculty will present current research interests and opportunities in physics; questions and discussion. Taught annually each fall. Typically offered Fall. S, F grading.
189 First-Year Seminar II 1 Course Prerequisite: PHYSICS 188. Continuation of PHYSICS 188; faculty will present current research interests and opportunities in physics; questions and discussions. Typically offered Spring. S, F grading.
201 [PSCI] Physics for Scientists and Engineers I 3 Course Prerequisite: PHYSICS 211 or concurrent enrollment; MATH 171 with a C or better, or credit for or concurrent enrollment in MATH 172, 182, 273, or 315. Calculus-based physics; topics in motion and dynamics of particles and rigid bodies, vibrations, wave phenomena, and the laws of thermodynamics. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer.
202 Physics for Scientists and Engineers II 3 Course Prerequisite: 4 credits of PHYSICS 201 with a C or better, or PHYSICS 201 and 211 with a C or better, or PHYSICS 205 with a C or better; PHYSICS 212 or concurrent enrollment; MATH 172 or 182 with a C or better. Calculus-based physics, topics in electricity, magnetism, electromagnetics, D/C and A/C circuits, optics, reflection, refraction, interference, diffraction, polarization. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer.
203 Problem Solving for Physics 201 1 Course Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in PHYSICS 201 and 211. Small class environment for students who desire focused attention on problem solving skills as applied to PHYSICS 201 materials. S, F grading.
204 Problem Solving for Physics 202 1 Course Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in PHYSICS 202 and 212. Small class environment for students who desire focused attention on problem solving skills as applied to PHYSICS 202 materials. S, F grading.
205 [PSCI] Physics for Scientists and Engineers I - Honors 5 (3-5) Course Prerequisite: MATH 171 with a C or better, MATH 172 or concurrent enrollment, MATH 182 or concurrent enrollment, MATH 273 or concurrent enrollment, or MATH 315 or concurrent enrollment. Calculus-based physics, honors section; mechanics, sound, and thermodynamics. Typically offered Spring.
206 Physics for Scientists and Engineers II - Honors 5 (3-5) Course Prerequisite: 4 credits of PHYSICS 201 with a C or better, or PHYSICS 201 and 211 with a C or better, or PHYSICS 205 with a C or better; MATH 172 with a C or better or MATH 182 with a C or better. Calculus-based physics, honors section; electricity, magnetism, light, topics in modern physics. Typically offered Fall.
211 [PSCI] Physics Lab for Scientists and Engineers 1 (0-3) Course Prerequisite: MATH 171 with a C or better, MATH 172 or concurrent enrollment, MATH 182 or concurrent enrollment, MATH 273 or concurrent enrollment, or MATH 315 or concurrent enrollment; PHYSICS 201 or concurrent enrollment. Calculus-based physics lab; topics in motion and dynamics of particles and rigid bodies, vibrations, waves; heavy emphasis on group work. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer.
212 Physics Lab for Scientists and Engineers II 1 (0-3) Course Prerequisite: PHYSICS 202 or concurrent enrollment; PHYSICS 201 with a C or better or PHYSICS 205 with a C or better; MATH 172 with a C or better or MATH 182 with a C or better. Calculus-based physics lab; topics in electricity, magnetism, electromagnetics, circuits, optics, reflection, refraction, interference, diffraction, polarization; heavy emphasis on group work. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer.
303 Modern Physics I 3 Course Prerequisite: 4 credits of PHYSICS 202, or PHYSICS 202 and 212 or concurrent enrollment, or PHYSICS 206 or concurrent enrollment; MATH 220 or concurrent enrollment or MATH 230 or concurrent enrollment. Quantum and relativity theories with applications to atomic, solid state, nuclear and elementary particle physics. Typically offered Fall.
304 Modern Physics II 3 Course Prerequisite: PHYSICS 303. Continuation of PHYSICS 303. Typically offered Spring.
320 Mechanics 3 Course Prerequisite: MATH 315 or concurrent enrollment; MATH 220 or concurrent enrollment or MATH 230 or concurrent enrollment; 4 credits of PHYSICS 202, or PHYSICS 202 and 212, or PHYSICS 206. Particle motion in one-, two-, and three-dimensions; motions of systems of particles; rigid body motion; Lagrange's equations. Typically offered Fall.
322 [PSCI] Sound Waves and Music 4 (3-3) Course Prerequisite: MATH 103 or higher with a C or better or a minimum ALEKS math placement score of 45%. Multi-disciplinary introduction to the acoustics of musical sound with a hands-on approach, including human hearing and perception. Typically offered Fall.
330 Thermal Physics 3 Course Prerequisite: 4 credits of PHYSICS 202, or PHYSICS 202 and 212, or PHYSICS 206; MATH 273 or 283. Thermal behavior of systems; energy and entropy; equations of state; changes of phase; elements of continuum and statistical approaches. Typically offered Spring.
341 Electricity and Magnetism I 3 Course Prerequisite: 4 credits of PHYSICS 202, or PHYSICS 202 and 212, or PHYSICS 206; MATH 315 or concurrent enrollment. Electrostatic fields, magnetic fields, dielectric and magnetic media. Typically offered Fall.
342 Electricity and Magnetism II 3 Course Prerequisite: PHYSICS 341. Continuation of PHYSICS 341. Maxwell's equations; electromagnetic waves, special relativity. Typically offered Spring.
408 Physics and Society 3 Course Prerequisite: Junior standing. Interactions of physics with society; energy; air and water pollution; recycling; communications and computers; physics and war; physics and art.
410 Electronics 4 (2-6) Course Prerequisite: 4 credits of PHYSICS 202, or PHYSICS 202 and 212, or PHYSICS 206. Laboratory construction and investigation of electronic circuits employed in research instruments. Typically offered Fall.
415 [M] Quantum Physics Laboratory 3 (2-3) May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 6 credits. Course Prerequisite: PHYSICS 304. Experiments in modern and quantum physics, fundamental interactions of radiations with matter. Typically offered Spring.
443 Optics 3 Course Prerequisite: PHYSICS 341 or concurrent enrollment. Polarization, interference, coherence, and diffraction phenomena of the electromagnetic spectrum; optics of solids; laser resonators; gaussian beams; ABCD matrices. Typically offered Fall.
450 Introduction to Quantum Mechanics 3 Course Prerequisite: MATH 315; PHYSICS 303. Introduction to quantum theory with applications to atomic physics. Typically offered Fall. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
455 Quantum Technologies and Computation 3 Fundamentals of quantum mechanics required for quantum computing and quantum information science; technologies and platforms that enable quantum applications to computing, simulation, and advance sensing. Credit not granted for both PHYSICS 455 and PHYSICS 555. Offered at 400 and 500 level. Typically offered Fall.
461 Introduction to Atomic and Molecular Physics 3 Course Prerequisite: PHYSICS 304. Introduction to atomic and molecular physics; spectroscopy. Typically offered Spring.
463 Introduction to Solid State and Materials Physics 3 Course Prerequisite: PHYSICS 304. Introduction to the physics of solids; crystal structures, lattice vibrations, and electron theory. Typically offered Spring. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
465 Introductory Nuclear Physics 3 Course Prerequisite: PHYSICS 304. Nuclear systematics, apparatus of nuclear research, radioactivity, nuclear-atomic interactions, nuclear reactions and scattering; introductory particle physics. Typically offered Spring. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
466 Biological Physics 3 Course Prerequisite: 4 credits of PHYSICS 202, or PHYSICS 202 and 212, or PHYSICS 206; CHEM 106 or 116; MATH 172 or 182. Fundamental physics and thermodynamics of the cell; mechanics of biomolecular machines. Credit not granted for both PHYSICS 466 and PHYSICS 566. Offered at 400 and 500 level. Typically offered Fall.
481 Advanced Topics V 1-3 May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 6 credits. Topics in scientific and technological areas that have relative significance to physics and astronomy. Typically offered Spring.
489 Thesis Proposal 1 Research project directed by an approved faculty member in support of completing a thesis proposal for PHYSICS 490. Typically offered Fall and Spring. S, F grading.
490 [M] Undergraduate Thesis 1 Course Prerequisite: PHYSICS 489. Preliminary thesis draft of a laboratory or library research experience, oral presentation, and final draft. Typically offered Fall and Summer.
499 Special Problems V 1-4 May be repeated for credit. Course Prerequisite: By department permission. Independent study conducted under the jurisdiction of an approving faculty member; may include independent research studies in technical or specialized problems; selection and analysis of specified readings; development of a creative project; or field experiences. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer. S, F grading.
501 Graduate Seminar 1 Introduction to graduate and interdisciplinary research. Typically offered Fall. S, F grading.
511 Advanced X-ray Characterization 3 Foundations in X-ray diffraction, scattering, and spectroscopy-based characterization methods as applied to a wide range of systems relevant to physics, chemistry, and engineering; hands-on experience with data collection and analysis. (Crosslisted course offered as PHYSICS 511, CHEM 511.) Typically offered Odd Years - Spring.
514 Optoelectronics Lab I 1 (0-3) May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 3 credits. Experiments with optical systems: Imaging, interference, coherence, information storage/processing, gas and solid state lasers, optical fibers, and communications systems. Typically offered Fall.
515 Optoelectronics Lab II V 1 (0-3) to 3 (0-9) May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 3 credits. Experiments in optical physics, physical properties of light, laser physics, waveguides, quantum confined semiconductor structures and ultrafast dynamics and nonlinear optics.
521 Classical Mechanics I 3 Laws of motion as developed by Newton, d'Alembert, Lagrange, and Hamilton; dynamics of particles and rigid bodies. Typically offered Fall. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
522 Classical Mechanics II 3 Continuation of PHYSICS 521. Classical mechanics of liquids and deformable solids; stress, deformation and strain, flow, oscillations and waves.
533 Thermal and Statistical Physics I 3 Thermodynamic laws and potentials, kinetic theory, hydrodynamics and transport coefficients; introduction to statistical mechanics, ensembles, partition functions. Typically offered Spring. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
534 Thermal and Statistical Physics II 3 Phase transitions and critical phenomena, Ginzburg-Landau theory, Bose-Einstein condensation, superfluids, Fermi systems, low-temperature expansions. Typically offered Spring. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
541 Electromagnetic Theory 3 Special relativity and the classical electromagnetic field; emission, propagation, and absorption of electromagnetic waves. Typically offered Spring. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
542 Electrodynamics 3 Interaction of matter and electromagnetic radiation; classical and quantum electrodynamics. Typically offered Fall. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
545 Nonlinear Optics 3 Nonlinear wave propagation theory applied to several nonlinear-optical phenomena; experimental techniques that probe a material's nonlinearity. Typically offered Spring.
546 Quantum Electronics 3 The physics of lasers and of coherent optical radiation generation and propagation. Typically offered Spring.
550 Quantum Theory I 3 Introduction to quantum theory; physical and mathematical foundations; application to atomic systems. Typically offered Fall. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
551 Quantum Theory II 3 Symmetry and invariance; angular momentum theory; approximation methods. Typically offered Spring. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
552 Quantum Theory III 3 Scattering theory; relativistic wave mechanics; quantum field theory. Typically offered Fall. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
555 Quantum Technologies and Computation 3 Fundamentals of quantum mechanics required for quantum computing and quantum information science; technologies and platforms that enable quantum applications to computing, simulation, and advance sensing. Credit not granted for both PHYSICS 455 and PHYSICS 555. Offered at 400 and 500 level. Typically offered Fall.
561 Atomic and Molecular Physics 3 Physics of atoms and molecules using quantum theory. Typically offered Fall. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
563 Physics of the Solid State 3 Lattice vibrations and defects; ionic and electronic conductivities; band theory; magnetic properties; luminescence. Typically offered Fall. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
566 Biological Physics 3 Fundamental physics and thermodynamics of the cell; mechanics of biomolecular machines. Credit not granted for both PHYSICS 466 and PHYSICS 566. Offered at 400 and 500 level. Typically offered Fall.
571 Methods of Theoretical Physics 3 Mathematical methods for theoretical physics; linear algebra, tensor analysis, complex variables, differential equations, integral equations, variational calculus, and group theory. Typically offered Fall. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
575 Advanced Solid State Physics 3 Quantum theory of solids; Green's functions, correlation functions and other field-theoretic methods; magnetism, superconductivity and transport properties. Typically offered Fall and Spring.
581 Advanced Topics in Physics 3 May be repeated for credit. Topics of current interest in advanced physics. Typically offered Fall and Spring. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
590 Seminar 1 May be repeated for credit. Typically offered Fall and Spring. S, F grading.
592 Wave Propagation Seminar 2 May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 4 credits. Waves in the continuum; elastic, plastic, and hydrodynamic waves; shock waves. S, F grading.
598 Teaching Undergraduate Physics Laboratories 1 May be repeated for credit; cumulative maximum 4 credits. Principles and practices of teaching, planning and management of undergraduate physics laboratories; choice and care of equipment. Typically offered Fall and Spring. S, F grading.
600 Special Projects or Independent Study V 1-18 May be repeated for credit. Independent study, special projects, and/or internships. Students must have graduate degree-seeking status and should check with their major advisor before enrolling in 600 credit, which cannot be used toward the core graded credits required for a graduate degree. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer. S, F grading.
700 Master's Research, Thesis, and/or Examination V 1-18 May be repeated for credit. Independent research and advanced study for students working on their master's research, thesis and/or final examination. Students must have graduate degree-seeking status and should check with their major advisor/committee chair before enrolling for 700 credit. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer. S, U grading.
702 Master's Special Problems, Directed Study and/or Examination V 1-18 May be repeated for credit. Independent research in special problems, directed study, and/or examination credit for students in a non-thesis master's degree program. Students must have graduate degree-seeking status and should check with their major advisor/committee chair before enrolling for 702 credit. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer. S, U grading.
800 Doctoral Research, Dissertation, and/or Examination V 1-18 May be repeated for credit. Course Prerequisite: Admitted to the Physics PhD program. Independent research and advanced study for students working on their doctoral research, dissertation and/or final examination. Students must have graduate degree-seeking status and should check with their major advisor/committee chair before enrolling for 800 credit. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer. S, U grading.
Astronomy (ASTRONOM)
135 [PSCI] Astronomy 4 (3-2) Course Prerequisite: ENGLISH 101 or HISTORY 105. Overview of the solar system, stars, galaxies, cosmology, and the history of astronomy. Includes a lab component with occasional evening meetings. Credit not granted for both ASTRONOM 135 and 150. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer.
138 [PSCI] Planets and Planetary Systems 3 Course Prerequisite: ENGLISH 101 or HISTORY 105. Formation and dynamics of planetary systems; major planets: interiors, surfaces, atmospheres; minor planets: moons, asteroids, comets; science missions; extrasolar planets. Typically offered Fall and Spring.
150 Science and the Universe 3 Basic structure and history of science and science reasoning with emphasis on astronomy, observational practice, and data analysis. Credit not granted for both ASTRONOM 135 and 150. Typically offered Fall and Spring.
345 Principles of Astronomy 3 Course Prerequisite: 4 credits of PHYSICS 202, or PHYSICS 202 and 212, or PHYSICS 206; MATH 172 or 182. Planets, the sun, stars, and galaxies; current topics in astrophysics and planetary research. Typically offered Fall.
390 [PSCI] The Night Sky 1 (0-3) Course Prerequisite: Science [BSCI] or [PSCI] UCORE course. Star names, magnitude scales, constellation identification, astronomical coordinates, solar, lunar and planetary motions, practical astronomy. Some outdoor evening time required. Typically offered Summer Session.
435 Astronomy and Astrophysics I 3 Course Prerequisite: 4 credits of PHYSICS 202, or PHYSICS 202 and 212, or PHYSICS 206; MATH 172 or 182. Planets, solar systems, and stars. Typically offered Spring.
436 Astronomy and Astrophysics II 3 Course Prerequisite: 4 credits of PHYSICS 202, or PHYSICS 202 and 212, or PHYSICS 206; MATH 172 or 182. Exotic objects, galaxies, and cosmology. Typically offered Spring.
450 [CAPS] Life in the Universe 3 Course Prerequisite: Mathematics [N] or [QUAN]; junior standing. The natural history of life on earth and prospects for life elsewhere; includes chemistry, biology, geology, physics and astronomy. Recommended preparation: Completion of physical and biological sciences GERs/UCOREs. Typically offered Fall, Spring, and Summer.
511 Astronomical Methods 3 Detectors and telescopes; radio astronomy; interferometry and Fourier methods; data handling; statistics; data mining. Typically offered Fall. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
525 Stellar Astrophysics 3 Numerical modeling of stellar equilibria; equations of state; opacity and radiative transfer; nuclear reactions; stellar oscillations; stellar formation and evolution; compact objects. Typically offered Spring.
526 Galaxies and Radiative Processes 3 Radiative processes, nebular spectra, dust, galaxy structure and dynamics, active galactic nuclei, dark matter, large-scale structure. Typically offered Spring. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.
530 Gravitation and Cosmology 3 Special relativity; 4-vectors; introduction to tensors; examples of space-time metrics; black holes; gravitational waves; gravitational lensing; the Robertson-Walker metric; inflationary cosmology; Big Bang nucleosynthesis; cosmic microwave background radiation; structure formation. Typically offered Fall.
581 Advanced Topics in Astronomy 3 May be repeated for credit. Advanced topics of current interest in astronomy. Typically offered Fall and Spring. Cooperative: Open to UI degree-seeking students.