May 16, 2024  
2018-2019 Undergraduate Catalog (As of 12-14-18) 
    
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2018-2019 Undergraduate Catalog (As of 12-14-18) [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions

 

Physical Education
  

  • PEHD 250 Dance and Rhythms (3)

    Designed to instruct the student in the teaching techniques of dance and rhythmic activities. Practical application will be gained through the teaching of mini-lessons in the class.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • PEHD 252 Outdoor Education (3)

    An introductory course designed to provide the student a number of outdoor adventure experiences that are available in the region. Activities vary and may include rock climbing, sea kayaking, whitewater kayaking and camping. Through these experiential opportunities, a number of new skills and interests should be fostered.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
    Note: Lab fee required; students will need to provide their own transportation to off-campus facilities for some classes.
  

  • PEHD 320 Special Topics in Physical Education (3)

    Studies in topics of current interest designed to supplement offerings in the department or to investigate an additional specific area of physical education.
    Prerequisite(s): PEHD 201  or permission of the instructor.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
    Repeatable: For up to 12 credit hours.
  

  • PEHD 342 Techniques and Strategies of Coaching (3)

    This course will investigate a variety of coaching techniques and strategies. It will provide students with a basic understanding of coaching at all levels: youth, elementary, high school, college and professional. This course is designed to assist coaches in developing effective organizational, motivational and teaching strategies to guide successful programs.
    Course Frequency: Fall and Spring
  

  • PEHD 352 Physical Education in Elementary Schools (3)

    The course is designed to teach basic requirements, principles, and concepts for conducting physical education in an elementary school setting. Focus will be on constructing and implementing developmentally appropriate movement and fitness experiences for elementary school learners from diverse backgrounds, with an emphasis on reflective teaching. Field experiences required.
    Prerequisite(s): PEHD 201  and PEHD 222  or PEHD 223  and acceptance into the Teacher Education Licensure Program.
    Course Frequency: Fall
    Note: Students are responsible for their own transportation to off-campus field experience sites.
  

  • PEHD 352L Physical Education Field Experience in the Elementary Grades (1)

    The course is designed to engage candidates in a structured field experience in K-5 public schools. Candidates are required to complete at least 30 hours divided into three phases: 1. Observations, 2. Assistant teaching and 3. Full teaching - where interns are responsible for planning, implementation., and assessment of student performance.
    Co-requisite(s): PEHD 352 .
    Course Frequency: Fall
  

  • PEHD 355 Sport Psychology (3)

    The scientific study of human behavior in the context of participating in sport and how sport performance is affected by the athlete, the team and its leadership, as well as by the physical and interpersonal environment in which these individuals interact.
    Prerequisite(s): PEHD 201  or EXSC 201 ; PSYC 103 ; or permission of the instructor.
    Course Frequency: Fall and Spring
  

  • PEHD 399 Physical Education Tutorial (3)

    Individual instruction given by a tutor in regularly scheduled meetings (usually once a week).
    Prerequisite(s): PEHD 201 , junior standing plus permission of the tutor and the department chair.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
    Repeatable: For up to 12 credit hours.
  

  • PEHD 403 Physical Education Internship and Practicum (6)

    Candidates are placed in cooperating hospitals, clinics, fitness centers and recreation departments in areas of interest (cardiac rehabilitation, pre-physical therapy, etc.). The practicum is a laboratory class that requires participation in the daily activities of an assigned agency and in on-campus seminars.
    Prerequisite(s): A senior physical education major with a minimum GPA of 2.600 overall. In addition, an application must be submitted to the health coordinator at least one year before the semester in which the internship would be taken. The applicant must be approved by the PEHD department. A candidate may not take PEHD 403 and HEAL 403 . (Participation in the field experience requires satisfactory completion of 12 credit hours at or above the 300 level in health and/or physical education related courses.)
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • PEHD 431 Tests and Measurements (3)

    The course explores the unique measurement tools used for the assessment of human physical performance. Particular emphasis is placed on the design and use of instruments for assessment in body mechanics, sports skills, fitness and motor skills, as well as in the use and interpretation of standardized tests in the field. The application of statistical analysis procedures essential for the evaluation of such measures is included.
    Prerequisite(s): PEHD 201 , junior standing plus MATH 104  or equivalent; knowledge of microcomputers.
    Course Frequency: Fall
  

  • PEHD 452 Physical Education for Middle/Secondary Schools (3)

    The course is designed to place emphasis on curriculum development and planning for teaching and evaluating movement in middle/secondary school physical education. Focus is on constructing and implementing developmentally appropriate movement and fitness experiences for middle/secondary school learners from various backgrounds. Field experiences required.
    Prerequisite(s): PEHD 201  and PEHD 352 .
    Course Frequency: Spring
    Note: Students are responsible for their own transportation to off-campus field experience sites.
  

  • PEHD 452L Physical Education Field Experience in Middle/Secondary Schools (1)

    This course emphasizes planning for teaching and evaluating movement in middle/secondary school physical education. Focus is on constructing and implementing developmentally appropriate movement and fitness experiences. Candidates must complete 5 hours in a health education class, 15 hours in a Middle school, and 10 hours in the high school environment.
    Co-requisite(s): PEHD 452 .
    Course Frequency: Spring
  

  • PEHD 457 Adapted Physical Education (3)

    Course designed to prepare candidates to construct and implement an appropriate physical education and recreation curriculum for the learner that is disabled. Field experience required.
    Prerequisite(s): PEHD 352  and PEHD 452  or permission of the instructor.
    Course Frequency: Fall
    Note: Students are responsible for their own transportation to off-campus field experience sites.
  

  • PEHD 457L Field Experience in Adapted Physical Education (1)

    Adapted physical Education course is designed to prepare Teacher Education candidates for the construction and implementation of appropriate physical education (PK-12) curriculum to learners with a disability. This course involves field experience in a public school environment for at least 30 hours.
    Co-requisite(s): PEHD 457 .
    Course Frequency: Fall
  

  • PEHD 458 Organization and Administration in Physical Education (3)

    A course covering the organization, planning, implementation and administration of physical activity and sport programs.
    Prerequisite(s): PEHD 201  or EXSC 201 ; and senior (90 credit hours plus) status. For teacher licensure majors PEHD 352  or PEHD 452  is a prerequisite.
    Course Frequency: Fall and Spring
  

  • PEHD 499 Bachelor’s Essay (6)

    A year-long research and writing project done during the senior year under the close supervision of a tutor from the department. The candidate must take the initiative in seeking a tutor to help in both the design and the supervision of the project. A project proposal must be submitted in writing and approved by the department prior to registration for the course.
    Course Frequency: Occasional

Physics
  

  • PHYS 101 Introductory Physics I (3)

    A general physics course intended for those students who plan to take only one physics sequence. Subjects covered are: mechanics (vectors, linear and rotational motion, equilibrium, and gravitational fields); heat (mechanical and thermal; properties of solids, liquids, and gases); and wave motion. Upon completion of 101 with a grade of B or better and successful completion of MATH 120 , a student may transfer to PHYS 112 . PHYS 101 is not open to students who have passed PHYS 111  or HONS 157 .
    Co-requisite(s) or Prerequisite(s): PHYS 101L .
    Course Frequency: Fall and Spring
    Note: A working knowledge of algebra and simple trigonometry is assumed.
  

  • PHYS 101L Introductory Physics Laboratory (1)

    A laboratory program to accompany PHYS 101 . Laboratory three hours per week.
    Co-requisite(s) or Prerequisite(s): PHYS 101 .
    Course Frequency: Fall and Spring
  

  • PHYS 102 Introductory Physics II (3)

    A continuation of PHYS 101 . Subjects covered are: electricity (electric fields, AC and DC circuits); magnetism; optics (geometric and physical); and modern physics. PHYS 102 is not open to students who have passed PHYS 112  or HONS 158 .
    Prerequisite(s): PHYS 101  or PHYS 111  or HONS 157 .
    Co-requisite(s) or Prerequisite(s): PHYS 102L .
    Course Frequency: Fall and Spring
  

  • PHYS 102L Introductory Physics Laboratory (1)

    A laboratory program to accompany PHYS 102 . Laboratory three hours per week.
    Co-requisite(s) or Prerequisite(s): PHYS 102 .
    Course Frequency: Fall and Spring
  

  • PHYS 105 Introduction to Meteorology (3)

    Survey of the most important topics in meteorology. Sample topics include cloud formation, violent storms, thunder and lightning, rainbows, rain and snow, climate and forecasting.
    Prerequisite(s): A working knowledge of high school algebra is assumed.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • PHYS 106L Exercises in Weather and Climate (2)

    Exercises for important topics in meteorology, including clouds, forecasting, thunderstorms, tornadoes, hurricanes, and climate change. Concepts will be learned primarily in group-based exercises, supplemented with recorded lecture to provide needed background. Course is intended to be taught in an online format.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • PHYS 111 General Physics I (3)

    Introduction to principles of physics primarily for scientists and engineers. Subjects covered are mechanics (vectors, linear and rotational motion, equilibrium and gravitational fields); heat (mechanical and thermal properties of solids, liquids and gases); and wave motion.
    Co-requisite(s): PHYS 111L .
    Co-requisite(s) or Prerequisite(s): MATH 120  or equivalent or permission of the instructor.
    Course Frequency: Fall and Spring
  

  • PHYS 111L General Physics I Lab (1)

    Introduction to principles of physics primarily for scientists and engineers. Subjects covered are mechanics (vectors, linear and rotational motion, equilibrium and gravitational fields); heat (mechanical and thermal properties of solids, liquids and gases); and wave motion.
    Co-requisite(s): PHYS 111  or permission of instructor
    Course Frequency: Fall and Spring
  

  • PHYS 112 General Physics II (3)

    A continuation of PHYS 111 . Subjects covered are: electricity (electric fields, AC and DC circuits); magnetism; light (geometric and physical optics, spectra); and modern physics (relativity and nuclear physics).
    Prerequisite(s): PHYS 111  or HONS 157 .
    Co-requisite(s): PHYS 112L .
    Co-requisite(s) or Prerequisite(s): MATH 220  or equivalent or permission of the instructor.
    Course Frequency: Fall and Spring
    Note: Upon completion of PHYS 101  with a grade of B or better and successful completion of MATH 120 , a student may transfer to PHYS 112.
  

  • PHYS 112L General Physics II Lab (1)

    A continuation of PHYS 111 . Subjects covered are: electricity (electric fields, AC and DC circuits); magnetism; light (geometric and physical optics, spectra); and modern physics (relativity and nuclear physics).
    Co-requisite(s): PHYS 112  or permission of instructor
    Course Frequency: Fall and Spring
  

  • PHYS 150 Physics of Sound and Music (3)

    An investigation of mechanical and electronic generation of sound; propagation of sound; perception of sound and music; the acoustics of vocal and instrumental music; musical elements such as pitch, loudness, and timbre; and musical constructs such as scales, temperament and harmony. This course is team-taught by physics and fine arts faculty. Lectures three hours per week. A working knowledge of high school algebra is assumed.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • PHYS 203 Physics and Medicine (3)

    The application of physics to a variety of medical issues. Topics include basic concepts such as force and energy as well as more advanced topics such as photophysics and diagnostic instrumentation. Useful for students who intend to become medical professionals and students interested in the applications of physics to medicine.
    Prerequisite(s): PHYS 102  or PHYS 112  or HONS 158 .
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • PHYS 210 Introduction to Air Pollution (3)

    Sources of air pollution, and the influence of anthropogenic and natural processes on air quality. Topics include the atmosphere’ chemical composition, atmospheric chemical reactions, greenhouse gases, global warming and the roles of government in air pollution control.
    Prerequisite(s): PHYS 105  or PHYS 106L  with a grade of C- grade or higher or permission of the instructor.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • PHYS 215 Synoptic Meteorology (3)

    Application of physical principals to synoptic-scale weather analysis and forecasting. Topics include weather observing techniques and weather map analysis, analysis of cyclones, fronts, and jets; temperature and precipitation forecasting techniques; and analysis of soundings and thermodynamic diagrams.
    Prerequisite(s): MATH 120 ; PHYS 101  with a grade of C- or better or PHYS 105  or PHYS 111  or HONS 157 ; or permission of the instructor.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • PHYS 225 Climate (3)

    This course serves as an introduction to the study of Earth’s climate. Topics may include global energy balance, atmospheric radiative transfer, the hydrologic cycle, environmental energy transport, climate sensitivity, and feedback mechanisms.
    Prerequisite(s): PHYS 112  or HONS 158  or PHYS 102  with a grade of C- or better; MATH 220  or MATH 229 ; or permission of the instructor
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • PHYS 230 Introduction to Modern Physics (3)

    An introduction to atomic and nuclear physics. Topics include: relativity, atomic theory, x-rays, wave particle duality and elements of quantum mechanics.
    Prerequisite(s): PHYS 112  or HONS 158 .
    Co-requisite(s) or Prerequisite(s): MATH 221  or permission of the instructor.
    Course Frequency: Fall and Spring
  

  • PHYS 260 NASA Space Mission Design (2)

    Students work on teams with engineering students at another university to design unmanned NASA satellite missions. Student teams interactively participate through presentations, assigned readings, on-line discussions, classroom exercises and dynamic activities, and compete for best mission with final projects being evaluated by a panel of NASA experts.
    Prerequisite(s): ASTR 130  or ASTR 306  or HONS 160  or GEOL 206  or PHYS 102  or PHYS 112  or HONS 158  or permission of instructor.
    Co-requisite(s): PHYS 260L  or PHYS 460L .
    Course Frequency: Fall and Spring
  

  • PHYS 260L NASA Space Mission Design Lab (1)

    Lab students work on teams with engineering students at another university to design unmanned NASA satellite missions. Student teams interactively participate through presentations, assigned readings, on-line discussions, classroom exercises and dynamic activities, and compete for best mission with final projects being evaluated by a panel of NASA experts.
    Co-requisite(s): PHYS 260  
    Course Frequency: Fall and Spring
  

  • PHYS 270 Nanotechnology in Medicine (3)

    An introductory level interdisciplinary course covering nanotechnology and its use in medicine. Students will learn the basic physics behind smart nanobiomaterials, nanobiosensors, and DNA motifs. They will also learn nanotechnology in cancer treatment and drug delivery, medical imaging using quantum dots, nanofabrication, characterization tools used in nanotechnology, and nanotoxicology.
    Co-requisite(s) or Prerequisite(s): PHYS 102  or PHYS 112  or HONS 158  or permission of the instructor.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • PHYS 272 Methods of Applied Physics (3)

    This course is designed to develop skills in applying mathematical tools and concepts developed formally in the mathematics curriculum for use in the undergraduate physics curriculum. The focus will be on the practical problem solving process rather than the abstract or theoretical nature of techniques.
    Prerequisite(s): MATH 221  and PHYS 112  or HONS 158  
    Course Frequency: Spring
  

  • PHYS 298 Special Topics (1-3)

    An examination of an area in physics in which a regular course is not offered.
    Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor and chair.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
    Repeatable: For up to 10 credit hours.
  

  • PHYS 301 Classical Mechanics (3)

    Newtonian dynamics of particles and rigid bodies, relativistic mechanics, Lagrangian and Hamiltonian mechanics and waves.
    Prerequisite(s): (PHYS 112  or HONS 158 ) and (MATH 323  or PHYS 272 ) or permission of the instructor.
    Course Frequency: Spring
  

  • PHYS 302 Classical Mechanics (3)

    A continuation of PHYS 301 .
    Prerequisite(s): PHYS 301 .
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • PHYS 320 Intro to Electronics (4)

    Basic principles of electronics and their application to instrumentation for students preparing for research in applied mathematics, medicine, biology, physics and chemistry. Lectures three hours per week; laboratory three hours per week.
    Prerequisite(s): PHYS 102  and MATH 120  or PHYS 112  or HONS 158  or permission of the instructor.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • PHYS 331 Introduction to Modern Physics II (3)

    A continuation of PHYS 230 . Topics include: statistical mechanics, solid state physics and nuclear physics.
    Prerequisite(s): PHYS 230  or permission of the instructor.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • PHYS 340 Photonics (4)

    An intermediate lecture and lab-based course in modern optics. Topics covered include: the wave equation, interference, diffraction, polarization, holography, spectroscopy, lasers, second harmonic and terahertz generation, optical communication, optical materials, and biophotonics. Lectures three hours per week; laboratory three hours per week.
    Prerequisite(s): PHYS 112  or HONS 158  or permission of the instructor.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • PHYS 350 Energy Production (4)

    The science and technology of solar, nuclear, fuel cell, geothermal, wind, hybrid, and other energy systems. A study of the nature of energy and scientific issues relating to its production, storage, distribution, and use from a physics perspective. Lecture and lab.
    Prerequisite(s): CHEM 111  + (PHYS 112  or HONS 158  or (PHYS 102  + MATH 120 ))
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • PHYS 370 Experimental Physics (4)

    An opportunity for students to develop experimental, analytical and research techniques through lecture and extensive laboratory experiences. Scientific writing and associated skills, such as professional illustrations, graphics, statistical analysis, and use of computational tools are heavily stressed. Student professional goals play a significant role in experiment selection.
    Prerequisite(s): PHYS 230  or PHYS 225  or permission of the instructor.
    Course Frequency: Fall and Spring
  

  • PHYS 381 Internship (1-4)

    A student will gain professional experience as an intern at a private firm or government agency. A written proposal must be approved through the Department Internship Coordinator prior to enrolling in the course. At least 40 hours of work is required for each 1 credit awarded for the course.
    Prerequisite(s): Physics or meteorology majors and PHYS 370  or permission of the coordinator.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
    Repeatable: For up to 4 credit hours.
  

  • PHYS 390 Research (1-3)

    Literature and/or laboratory investigations of specific problems in physics or astronomy. The topic of the investigations will be determined by the interests of the student in consultation with the department faculty. Open to exceptional students and particularly suited to those intending to continue toward a graduate degree.
    Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor and chair.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
    Repeatable: For up to 6 credit hours.
  

  • PHYS 394 Digital Signal and Image Processing with Biomedical Applications (3)

    A systematic presentation of mathematical aspects and the corresponding computational techniques and tools currently used in digital signal and image processing. The topics include signal sampling, temporal and frequency domain representations, filtering, denoising, enhancing, and visualization of signals with emphasis on biomedical data.
    Prerequisite(s): PHYS 112  and PHYS 112L  or HONS 158  and HONS 158L  
    Co-requisite(s): PHYS 394L  
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • PHYS 394L Digital Signal and Image Processing with Biomedical Applications Laboratory (1)

    A systematic presentation of mathematical aspects and the corresponding computational techniques and tools currently used in digital signal and image processing. The topics include signal sampling, temporal and frequency domain representations, filtering, denoising, enhancing, and visualization of signals with emphasis on biomedical data.
    Prerequisite(s): PHYS 112  and PHYS 112L  or HONS 158  and HONS 158L  
    Co-requisite(s): PHYS 394  
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • PHYS 396 Biophysical Modeling of Excitable Cells (3)

    An introduction to the concepts and methods of computer modeling of excitable cells. Topics include basic electrophysiology of excitable cells, biophysics of ion conduction, mathematical modeling of activation/inactivation mechanisms using experimental data, and computer simulations.
    Prerequisite(s): BIOL 111  and (PHYS 112  or HONS 158 ) or permission of the instructor.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
    Cross-listing: BIOL 396  
  

  • PHYS 397 Research Experience Physics/Astronomy (0)

    A student works under faculty supervision to learn a research method, to explore possible research topics, or to continue an ongoing study. The faculty member helps the student to determine the course goals and objectives, and supervises the execution of project. The student will provide a written report to the faculty at the end of the semester. Students will receive a grade of “S” (satisfactory) or “U” (unsatisfactory) for the course.
    Prerequisite(s): Only majors may take a Zero Credit Research course. Permission of the instructor and approval of the department chair.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • PHYS 399 Tutorial (3)

    Individual instruction given by a tutor in regularly scheduled meetings (usually once a week).
    Prerequisite(s): Junior standing plus permission of the tutor and the department chair.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
    Repeatable: For up to 12 credit hours.
  

  • PHYS 403 Introductory Quantum Mechanics (3)

    Wave-particle duality; the wave function; general principles of quantum mechanics; systems in one, two and three dimensions; electron spin; perturbation theory; scattering theory; electromagnetic radiation; systems containing identical particles; and applications.
    Prerequisite(s): PHYS 230  and (MATH 323  or PHYS 272 ) or permission of instructor.
    Course Frequency: Fall
  

  • PHYS 404 Introductory Quantum Mechanics (3)

    A continuation of PHYS 403 .
    Prerequisite(s): PHYS 403  or permission of the instructor.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • PHYS 405 Thermal Physics (3)

    An introduction to quantum statistical mechanics, thermodynamic functions, and the laws of thermodynamics. There is an emphasis on the application of the fundamental concepts to astrophysics, atmospheric physics, low-temperature physics, and solid-state physics.
    Prerequisite(s): PHYS 230  and (MATH 323  or PHYS 272 ) or permission of instructor.
    Course Frequency: Spring
  

  • PHYS 407 Introduction to Nuclear Physics (3)

    An introduction to the theory of the nucleus, including constituents of the nucleus; nuclear forces and structure; natural and induced radioactivity; properties of alpha, beta and gamma radiation; particle accelerators; and fission, fusion and nuclear reactors.
    Prerequisite(s): PHYS 230  or permission of the instructor.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • PHYS 408 Introduction to Solid State Physics (3)

    A survey of the fundamental principles determining the macroscopic properties of solids. The lattice system and the electron system are investigated as a basis for understanding dielectric, magnetic, optical, semiconductive and superconductive behavior in solids.
    Prerequisite(s): PHYS 230  and (MATH 323  or PHYS 272 ) or permission of instructor.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • PHYS 409 Electricity and Magnetism (3)

    An intermediate course in electricity and magnetism. Subjects to be covered will include electric fields, magnetic fields, electric current, Maxwell’s equations, conductors, dielectrics and magnetic materials.
    Prerequisite(s): (PHYS 112  or HONS 158 ) and (MATH 323  or PHYS 272 ) or permission of the instructor.
    Course Frequency: Fall
  

  • PHYS 410 Electricity and Magnetism (3)

    A continuation of PHYS 409 .
    Prerequisite(s): PHYS 409 .
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • PHYS 412 Special Topics (1-3)

    An examination of an area in physics in which a regular course is not offered.
    Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
    Repeatable: May be repeated for credit when course content varies.
  

  • PHYS 415 Fluid Mechanics (3)

    An introduction to fluid mechanics that develops physical concepts and formulates basic conservation laws. Topics include fluid statics, kinematics, stresses in fluids, flow of real (viscous) fluids and compressible flow.
    Prerequisite(s): MATH 323  or PHYS 272  or permission of the instructor.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • PHYS 419 Research Seminar (1)

    This course will normally be conducted in the fall semester of the student’s senior year and consists of successfully preparing and presenting a research proposal. This course is intended to prepare the student for PHYS 420 .
    Co-requisite(s) or Prerequisite(s): PHYS 370  or ASTR 377  or permission of the instructor.
    Course Frequency: Fall and Spring
  

  • PHYS 420 Senior Research (3)

    Conducting, writing, and presenting the results of the research project prepared in PHYS 419 . The presentation must be at a scientific forum approved by the research advisor. This course will normally be taken during the spring semester of the senior year.
    Prerequisite(s): PHYS 419  and permission of the instructor and chair; no credit for both PHYS 420 and PHYS 499 .
    Course Frequency: Fall and Spring
  

  • PHYS 425 Mesoscale Meteorology (3)

    Applications of dynamics and forecasting techniques in diagnosing the organization of mesoscale and convective phenomena. Topics include mesoscale instabilities; boundary layer dynamics; air mass boundaries; convective initiation; convective storms; mesoscale convective systems; tornadoes; flash flooding; and various orographic mesoscale phenomena.
    Prerequisite(s): MATH 221  and PHYS 215 ; or permission of the instructor
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • PHYS 457 Satellite Meteorology (3)

    Satellite meteorology is the measurement of the weather by sensors aboard Earth-orbiting satellites. Topics include satellite orbits and navigation; electromagnetic radiation; instrumentation; image interpretation; atmospheric temperature, winds, clouds, precipitation and radiation.
    Prerequisite(s): One of the following: PHYS 459 , PHYS 425 , PHYS 230 , PHYS 225 , PHYS 215 , PHYS 210 , PHYS 106L  with a grade of C- or better, PHYS 105 ; One of the following: PHYS 102  with a grade of C- or better, PHYS 112 , HONS 158 ; and one of the following: MATH 220  or MATH 229 ; or permission of the instructor    
    Course Frequency: Occasional
    Cross-listing: EVSS 557
  

  • PHYS 459 Cloud and Precipitation Physics (3)

    Essential elements of the physics associated with the study of clouds and precipitation.
    Prerequisite(s): PHYS 112  or HONS 158  
    Co-requisite(s) or Prerequisite(s): MATH 323  or PHYS 272  or permission of the instructor
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • PHYS 460L NASA Space Mission Design Leadership Lab (1)

    Lab students lead local teams and work with engineering students at another university to design unmanned NASA satellite missions. Student teams interactively participate through presentations, assigned readings, on-line discussions, classroom exercises and dynamic activities, and compete for best mission with final projects being evaluated by a panel of NASA experts.
    Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructors.
    Co-requisite(s): PHYS 260 .
    Course Frequency: Fall and Spring
  

  • PHYS 481 Physics Problem Solving (1)

    Physicists are problem solvers. Often, a full solution to a system is unnecessary to grasp the central elements of a problem. This course utilizes the basic tools of a symmetry, limiting cases, scaling, and dimensional analysis to engage in problem solving exercises where speed is more important than a closed-form solution.
    Prerequisite(s): PHYS 370  or ASTR 377  
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • PHYS 499 Bachelor’s Essay (6)

    A year-long research and writing project done during the senior year under the close supervision of a tutor from the department. The student must take the initiative in seeking a tutor to help in both the design and the supervision of the project. A project proposal must be submitted in writing and approved by the department prior to registration for the course. A student may not receive credit for both PHYS 420  and PHYS 499.
    Prerequisite(s): PHYS 419  or permission of department chair
    Course Frequency: Occasional
    Note: A student may not receive credit for both PHYS 420  and PHYS 499.

Political Science
  

  • POLI 101 American Government (3)

    American Government examines the structure, context, functions and problems of American national government.
    Course Frequency: Fall and Spring
    Note: This course is required of all political science majors and minors and must be completed within the first 15 hours of political science courses.
  

  • POLI 102 Contemporary Political Issues (3)

    An introductory course for majors and non-majors that emphasizes the analysis of current domestic and international issues. Issues covered will vary from semester to semester.
    Course Frequency: Fall and Spring
  

  • POLI 103 World Politics (3)

    This course examines the dynamics of international politics, including in-depth coverage of relevant actors, the nature of the state system, cooperation and conflict, global economic interdependence, international institutions and issues like the role of human rights in international affairs.
    Course Frequency: Fall and Spring
  

  • POLI 104 World Regional Geography (3)

    This course introduces students to the key concepts of geography through the lens of different regions of the world. Students explore the dynamics of human existence in different settings, arriving at a holistic understanding of life in the region by considering the interaction of physical and human geographies. The focus is on diversity amid the commonalities of human experience.
    Course Frequency: Fall and Spring
    Cross-listing: GEOG 101 .
  

  • POLI 119 Special Topics in Politics (3)

    This course examines special topics and issues in politics not covered in political science courses. This course may be repeated as topic changes.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
    Repeatable: For up to 9 credit hours.
  

  • POLI 150 Introduction to Political Thought (3)

    This course introduces both a set of key concepts in political theory and the historical development of Western political thought. The student will work with primary and secondary literature in political theory and will gain an understanding of how political theorists ancient, modern and contemporary have attempted to create theories of politics and visions of political order in response to the crises and problems of their time and in light of the work of the political theorists that preceded them.
    Course Frequency: Fall and Spring
  

  • POLI 203 Criminal Justice (3)

    Criminal Justice analyzes the criminal justice system, from defining crimes through arrest to conviction and sentencing, with emphasis on the relationships between actors and institutions in the system and the purposes served by the system.
    Course Frequency: Fall and Spring
  

  • POLI 205 Doing Research in Politics (3)

    An introduction to the techniques and strategies researchers in politics use to study and understand the political world. This course should be taken in the first 15 credit hours of the major.
    Course Frequency: Fall and Spring
  

  • POLI 206 Doing Research in Politics: Introduction to Qualitative Research (3)

    This course introduces students to the qualitative methods that researches use to collect and analyze data and to make causal inferences about political phenomena.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
    Cross-listing: GEOG 206  
  

  • POLI 210 Introduction to Public Administration (3)

    Introduction to Public Administration analyzes the basic principles, functions and practices of public organizations and public management. Emphasis on national government.
    Course Frequency: Spring
  

  • POLI 211 Introduction to Public Policy (3)

    This course examines the cultural, economic, and institutional contexts that shape U.S. public policy. The course examines the processes by which policy problems are addressed and alternate solutions are adopted. Implications for solving public problems and resolving more political disagreements in a manner consistent with democratic ideas are considered.
    Prerequisite(s): POLI 101  or permission of instructor
    Course Frequency: Fall
  

  • POLI 213 State and Local Politics (3)

    This course examines the political institutions and processes of state and local government within the American federal system. The objective of the course is to acquaint students with the issues and complexities of state and local governments in the United States.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • POLI 214 LGBT Politics (3)

    An examination of the movement for gay, lesbian, and bisexual rights in the United States. Course material will include the emergence and evolution of gay and lesbian rights over the past half century, their roles as interest groups and an analysis of their impact on and place in American politics. The course will also include a discussion of the emerging and related struggle for transgender rights.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • POLI 240 Introduction to Comparative Politics (3)

    This course surveys theories and methodologies in comparative politics and applies these to specific country cases. It includes an examination of many comparative concepts and uses these to identify similarities and differences among various countries in the world.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • POLI 245 Cuban Revolution (3)

    This is an in-depth and experiential examination of the Cuban Revolution. Students will live in Cuba for one to three months studying the history, progress and current condition of the revolutionary process in Cuba. Offered as a travel course only.
    Course Frequency: Spring
  

  • POLI 260 International Relations Theory (3)

    This course is designed to familiarize students with the theoretical and analytical tools needed to explore the perennial and pressing questions of international relations. The class includes analysis of key international relations issues from a variety of theoretical perspectives.
    Course Frequency: Fall
  

  • POLI 265 International Political Economy (3)

    The study of International Political Economy (IPE) introduces students to the integral relationship between politics and economics; how politics influences economics and vice versa. As such this course seeks to explore the rules governing global exchange and the winners and losers produced by global economic exchange.
    Course Frequency: Fall
  

  • POLI 266 International Diplomacy Studies (3)

    This course investigates the structure, operation, and prospects of international and/or regional organizations such as the United Nations, Organization of African Unity, Organization of American States, Arab League, etc. The class includes participation in international or regional organization models. A minimum GPA of 2.500 is required for participation.
    Course Frequency: Spring
  

  • POLI 292 Topics in Gender, Theory, and Law (3)

    This class focuses on intersections of issues of gender, political theory, and the law. Topics might include sexual harassment, poverty, and discrimination. Course can be repeated if the topic changes.
    Course Frequency: Fall
    Repeatable: For up to 6 credit hours.
  

  • POLI 293 Ethics and Politics (3)

    Examines the relationship between ethics and politics by exploring ethical issues that arise in public life, including corruption, lies and deception, and organizational dissent. The political, philosophical, and psychological dimensions of these choices are assessed.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • POLI 294 Introduction to Sustainability (3)

    This course will examine the interrelated environmental, economic, and social problems facing humans at local, regional, and global scales around the theme of sustainability.
    Course Frequency: Fall
  

  • POLI 295 Law and Society (3)

    This is a course designed to introduce students to the legal method of deciding disputes through the study of particular areas of legal doctrine. Students will demonstrate the use of analytical principles by confronting intractable issues facing society and comparing their own analyses with that of the judicial system.
    Course Frequency: Fall and Spring
  

  • POLI 301 Bureaucratic Politics and Policy (3)

    Examines the socio-political impacts of modern bureaucracies, how modern bureaucracy has emerged as a “fourth branch” of federal government (including historical development) and its ability to influence policy making with particular emphasis on implementation.
    Prerequisite(s): POLI 101  or permission of instructor
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • POLI 304 American Foreign Policy Process (3)

    American Foreign Policy Process surveys the process by which American foreign policy is made. The course extends beyond the traditional institutions of the presidency and Congress to encompass other actors like courts, the states, the media, the public and the international policy environment.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • POLI 305 Urbanization and Urban Geography (3)

    Urbanization and Urban Geography analyzes the process of urbanization and contemporary urban trends. Topics include the evolution of neighborhoods, social conflict over access to resources and the future or urbanism as a way of life. Students will explore the city through field trips and an analysis of a local issue.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • POLI 306 Urban Policy (3)

    Urban Policy examines the urban service system and policy formulation and implementation processes. The potential implications of policy on people in their everyday lives are assessed using a critical perspective. Specific urban issues, including urban restructuring, crime and terrorism, education, housing, economic development, and sustainability are examined.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
  

  • POLI 307 Environmental Policy (3)

    This course is intended to familiarize students with various ethical frameworks, analytical tools and policy instruments that can be used to evaluate environmental problems and policy options. Specific issues may include citizen participation, environmental equity, the uses and abuses of cost/benefit analysis, science and uncertainty in environmental policy development and the use of regulatory requirements vs. market mechanisms for environmental protection.
    Course Frequency: Spring
  

  • POLI 308 Education Policy (3)

    This course is designed to introduce students to the major federal policy decisions- represented in judicial decisions and federal laws and statutes, 1954 to the present- that serve as principal guidelines for the organization and administration of American public schools. Particular attention will be paid to the impact of these federal policies on the governance, implementation and outcomes of public education at the state and local levels. Issues of access, accountability, delivery systems, funding and quality will be explored. The actors, institutions, processes and influences that help to inform these policy decisions will be explored.
    Course Frequency: Fall
  

  • POLI 309 Health Policy (3)

    This course will focus on American health policymaking, with particular emphasis on the three pillars of health: Access, Cost, and Quality. The course will examine the financing and delivery of health care, the political environment in which health policymaking occurs and the key policy actors that drive federal and state decision-making regarding affordable health care for all Americans. Special attention will be paid to the impact of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (P.L. 111-148), its effect on reducing the number of uninsured Americans and the challenges to its constitutionality.
    Course Frequency: Fall and Spring
  

  • POLI 310 Applications of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) (3)

    This course introduces students to foundational and advanced concepts and theories used to study our physical and human environments using Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Students will learn about the data and methodology for using GIS to understand and solve a variety of policy problems, including those related to environmental, urban, and/or political issues.
    Course Frequency: Fall
  

  • POLI 311 Policymaking in State Legislatures (3)

    This course is designed to introduce students to the methods and processes by which American state legislatures achieve public policy objectives. Attention will be paid to the structure and organization of our 50 state legislatures, decision-making among competing public policy objectives, the development of institutional and individual legislative agenda, responsiveness to electoral and interest groups and the process of moving legislation from proposals to law. The Legislatures of California and South Carolina will serve as primary case studies of two very different examples of legislative structure, organization, and operations.
    Course Frequency: Fall
  

  • POLI 312 Social Welfare Policy and Sustainability (3)

    Social welfare policy involves governmental actions or non-actions that impact the quality of life for its citizens. This course provides an introduction to public policymaking in the United States and to select substantive social welfare policy areas. Rational, political and sustainability frameworks for policy study and analysis are developed across multiple areas of social welfare policy including poverty, disability, welfare, hunger, water quality and resource issues, healthcare, employment, services for children and policies surrounding mental illness and substance abuse. How social welfare policy is impacted by politics, poverty, gender, race and crime and how social and economic resources can be made sustainable in order to alleviate some of these major societal problems will also be explored.
    Course Frequency: Occasional
 

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