Foundations of Physics
Physics 103

Studies Newton's description of motion in cases which can be handled by algebra. Topics include dimensional analysis, conservation laws, and elasticity theory, with applications across the sciences.

Force, Motion, and Energy
Physics 115

Studies the mechanics of material objects. Topics include Newton's laws, projectile motion, circular motion, momentum, kinetic and potential energy, angular momentum, gravitation, and oscillations. Calculus is used at the level of Calculus I.

Introduction to Robotics
Physics 125 (Computer Science 125)

This course will provide the student with a hands-on introduction to robotics. Via an intensive lab component, the course will introduce and apply concepts in programming, electronics, and mechanical design. Much of the course will focus on a final design project wherein students will be challenged to design, prototype, and build a functional robot whose application is directed at assisting a disabled person. Lectures will introduce lab material, as well as topics in applied robotics, biomechanics, and issues of machine-human interaction.

Waves and Electromagnetism
Physics 216

Topics include: electromagnetism, emphasizing fields and energy; electrostatics; electric circuits; magnetism; induction; and electromagnetic radiation. Introduces both mechanical and electromagnetic wave phenomena. Additional topics chosen according to the interests of the class and instructor.

Waves and Particles
Physics 301

A comprehensive treatment of wave phenomena, particularly light, leading to an introductory study of quantum mechanics. Topics include wave propagation, polarization, interference and interferometry, diffraction, X-ray and electron diffraction, the wave nature of particles, the uncertainty principle, and Schroedinger's equation in one dimension.

Quantum Mechanical Phenomena
Physics 302

The application of quantum mechanics to selected systems. The hydrogen atom and multi-electron atoms are studied in depth, with emphasis on angular momentum, electron spin, and the Pauli exclusion principle. Principles developed are then applied to other systems, such as molecules, Bose and Fermi gases, condensed matter, nuclei and elementary particles, chosen according to the interests of the class and the instructor.

Introduction to Mathematical Methods for Scientists
Physics 303

Topics include infinite series, complex numbers, partial differentiation, multiple integration, selected topics in linear algebra and vector analysis, ordinary differential equations, and Fourier series.

Electronics
Physics 308

This course is a study of electrical circuits and components with emphasis on the underlying physical principles; solid-state active devices with applications to simple systems such as linear amplifiers; feedback-controlled instrumentation; and analog and digital computing devices.

Analytical Mechanics
Physics 315

Newton's great innovation was the description of the world by differential equations, the beginning of physics as we know it. This course studies Newtonian mechanics for a point particle in 1, 2, and 3 dimensions, systems of particles, rigid bodies, and the Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulations.

Methods of Applied Mathematics
Physics 324 (Mathematics 324)

This course is an introduction to theories and techniques important to applied mathematics, such as special functions, calculus of variations, theory of functions of a complex variable, the algebra of vector spaces, solution of partial differential equations, Green's functions, integral transform methods, and probability and statistics. Topics selected according to class interests.

Electromagnetic Theory
Physics 325

This course presents the development of mathematical descriptions of electric and magnetic fields; study of interactions of fields with matter in static and dynamic situations; mathematical description of waves; and development of Maxwell's equations with a few applications to the reflection and refraction of light and microwave cavities.

Statistical Physics and Condensed Matter
Physics 326

Topics include: the development of the general problem of many-particle systems and the laws of thermodynamics from fundamental quantum and probability concepts; applications to ideal gases, paramagnetism, and black-body radiation; and an introduction to the physics of the solid state, including crystal structure, free electron and band theory of metals, lattice vibrations, and specific heats of solids.

Quantum Mechanics
Physics 336

This course is an introduction to formal quantum theory: the wave function and its interpretation, observables and linear operators, matrix mechanics and the uncertainty principle; solutions of one-dimensional problems; solutions of three-dimensional problems and angular momentum; physics and perturbative methods.