Apr 23, 2024  
2017 - 2018 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2017 - 2018 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions


 

Philosophy

  
  • PHIL 231 - Greek Philosophy


    Fall (3) Staff (GER 4A)

    A critical examination of representative Greek philosophers with special emphasis on Plato and Aristotle. (Cross listed with CLCV 331 )
  
  • PHIL 232 - Medieval Philosophy


    Spring (3) Staff (ALV, GER 4A)

    Analysis of selected writings of major medieval philosophers such as Augustine, Erigena, Anselm, Maimonides, Aquinas, Duns Scotus and Occam.
  
  • PHIL 252 - 17th- and 18th-Century European Philosophy


    Fall (3) Staff (College 200, ALV, GER 4A)

    This course is a critical study of the ideas, culture, world-view, and values of the leading philosophers of early-modern Europe whose work shaped the history of Western thought:  Descartes, Hobbes, Leibniz, Spinoza, Locke, Berkeley, Hume, and Kant. Our study is informed by the context of the Enlightenment and the Scientific Revolution. Possible topics include the nature and existence of God, the existence of a soul, personal identity, the mind-body connection, the reliability of sense perception, knowledge of the external world, the possibility of free will, the cause and justification of political systems, and the basis and content of morality. (This course is anchored in the ALV domain, and also considers aspects of the CSI domain.)
  
  • PHIL 253 - Kant and his Successors


    Spring (3) Staff Prerequisite(s): One course in Philosophy, excluding PHIL 210 and PHIL 301. (CSI, GER 4A)

    An examination of Kant and some of the 19th-century philosophical responses to his philosophy (e.g., Hegel, Marx, Nietzsche).
  
  • PHIL 263 - Twentieth Century Continental Philosophy


    Spring (3) Staff Prerequisite(s): One course in Philosophy, excluding PHIL 210 and PHIL 301.

    This course examines major figures and themes in the tradition of twentieth century continental philosophy. Figures covered include Heidegger, Sartre, Foucault, Barthes, Derrida, Deleuze, and Lyotard.
  
  • PHIL 301 - Symbolic Logic


    Fall (3) Staff (NQR)

    An introduction to the principles of valid reasoning. Special emphasis will be given to modern symbolic techniques and some of their applications.
  
  • PHIL 303 - Ethics


    Fall and Spring (3) Staff (College 200, ALV, GER 7)

    An introduction to the problems of ethics and the nature of ethical reasoning. Included are historically important topics such as hedonism, egoism, utilitarianism and relativism, as well as contemporary moral issues such as abortion, euthanasia and civil disobedience. (This course is anchored in the ALV domain, and also considers aspects of the CSI domain.)
  
  • PHIL 304 - Aesthetics and Philosophy of Art


    Fall (3) Staff Prerequisite(s): One course in philosophy, extensive experience in/of arts or consent of instructor (GER 7)

    A philosophical examination of aesthetic perception and criteria of value. Special attention will be given to the elements of art and the function of form, symbol, expression and truth in art.
  
  • PHIL 305 - Social and Political Philosophy


    Fall (3) Staff (College 200, ALV, GER 7)

    A philosophical examination of major theories dealing with social and political issues such as governmental authority, individual rights, distributive justice, democracy and the importance of community. (This course is anchored in the ALV domain, and also considers aspects of the CSI domain.)
  
  • PHIL 306 - Philosophical Problems


    Fall and Spring (1-3) Staff Prerequisite(s): Variable by topic Prereq/Corequisite(s): Variable by topic. (ALV)

    A study of some major philosophical problems such as those concerning knowledge and reality, morality and conduct, and art and beauty. Special attention will be devoted to philosophical method.(See cross listed courses in, e.g., Music, Modern Languages, and Literature.) This course may be repeated for credit
  
  • PHIL 308 - Topics in Environmental Ethics


    Fall (3) Staff (ALV, GER 7)

    This course examines a number of ethical and political theories concerning the relation between human beings and the environment. It also discusses the obligations of human beings to other species and to future generations.
  
  • PHIL 309 - Philosophy and Public Policy


    Spring (3) Staff (GER 7)

    An introduction to theories of justice, democracy and citizenship, with special emphasis on their implications for law and public policy. Topics may include welfare, health care, education, and state funding of the arts.
  
  • PHIL 310 - Philosophy of Law


    Spring (3) Staff (CSI, GER 7)

    A critical examination of the concepts and arguments used in legal reasoning. Questions to be examined include: the nature of law, the grounds for obedience to law, the relationship of law to morality, and the grounds for legal punishment.
  
  • PHIL 311 - Philosophy of Religion


    Fall or Spring (3) Staff Prerequisite(s): One course in Philosophy, excluding PHIL 210 and PHIL 301. (ALV)

    A philosophical investigation of the nature of religious experience, activity and belief. The course will also include an examination of such topics as those of God, freedom, immortality, arguments for existence of God and the problem of evil.
  
  • PHIL 313 - Philosophy of Science


    Fall or Spring (3) Staff Prerequisite(s): One course in Philosophy, excluding PHIL 210 and PHIL 301.

    A philosophical examination of the nature, validity and significance of scientific inquiry. Special attention will be given to the descriptive, explanatory and predictive aspects of scientific theories.
  
  • PHIL 315 - Biomedical Ethics


    Spring (3) (College 200, ALV)

    This course employs the resources of ethical theory to examine a variety of ethical issues that arise in the practice of medicine and biomedical research. Some of the topics that may be included are: the doctor-patient relationship, confidentiality and informed consent; the practice of research with human subjects and animals; the definition of death and the ethics of organ transplantation; the moral and legal status of abortion and reproductive technologies; euthanasia and its alternatives; the risks and promises of biotechnology; justice and access to health care and medicines; patents and advertisement of pharmaceutical products. (This course is anchored in the ALV domain, and also considers aspects of the CSI domain.)
  
  • PHIL 320 - Philosophy and Feminism


    Spring (3) Staff (GER 7)

    This course examines two ways philosophy and feminism intersect: philosophical arguments are used to support particular feminist theories and to criticize competing theories; and feminist theory is used to criticize traditional philosophical theories of ethics, knowledge, and science.
  
  • PHIL 321 - Existentialism


    Spring (3) Staff (GER 7)

    An examination of important aspects of existentialism with readings in such philosophers as Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, Heidegger and Sartre. Some attention will also be given to the impact of these philosophical movements upon contemporary literature, religious thought and psychology.
  
  • PHIL 325 - Neuroscience and Ethics


    Fall or Spring (3) Staff (College 200, ALV, NQR, GER 7)

    An introduction to the interdisciplinary field of neuroethics, which explores both what the sciences of the mind can tell us about the nature of morality and how we should ethically respond to neuroscientific advances. (This course is anchored in the ALV and NQR domains.) 
  
  • PHIL 335 - Philosophy of Language


    Spring (3) Staff Prerequisite(s): PHIL 301  or consent of instructor

    A survey of recent philosophical questions about language and meaning. Topics such as the following will be considered: reference, analyticity, speech acts, and semantic and syntactic theories. Focus will be on such figures as Russell, Austin, Quine, and Wittgenstein.
  
  • PHIL 345 - Philosophy of Mind


    Fall or Spring (3) Haug Prerequisite(s): One course in Philosophy, excluding PHIL 210 and PHIL 301. (NQR)

    Critical analysis of contemporary theories concerning the nature of consciousness, the concept of the person and personal identity, and some theories of the relation of the mind to the body.
  
  • PHIL 350 - Theory of Knowledge


    Spring (3) Staff Prerequisite(s): One course in Philosophy, excluding PHIL 210 and PHIL 301. (College 200, ALV)

    An examination of contemporary philosophical theories about such topics as the nature of knowledge, criteria for truth, perception, meaning, knowledge, validation of belief and skepticism.  (This course is anchored in the ALV domain, and also considers aspects of the CSI and NQR domains.)
  
  • PHIL 375 - Metaphysics


    Spring (3) Staff Prerequisite(s): One course in Philosophy, excluding PHIL 210 and PHIL 301.

    A study of competing philosophical accounts of the nature of reality and the basic constituents of ontology. Topics may include persons, events, material objects, properties, propositions, and possible worlds.
  
  • PHIL 403 - Advanced Topics in Value Theory


    Fall or Spring (3) Staff Prerequisite(s): Three courses in philosophy or consent of instructor (College 400)

    A study of selected normative and theoretical problems in moral philosophy, such as the justification of ultimate moral principles, theories of social justice, or freedom and moral responsibility. This course may be repeated for credit if there is no duplication of topics
  
  • PHIL 415 - Advanced Topics in Metaphysics and Epistemology


    Fall or Spring (3) Staff Prerequisite(s): Three courses in Philosophy or consent of instructor
      (College 400)

    An advanced study of selected topics on the nature of reality and our knowledge of it. Students are expected to write research papers, present material, and discuss course topics in seminar fashion. This course may be repeated for credit if there is no duplication of topics
  
  • PHIL 422 - Great Philosophers


    Spring (3) Staff Prerequisite(s): Three courses in Philosophy or consent of instructor (College 400, ALV)

    A systematic study of the thought of a great philosopher such as Descartes, Spinoza, Hume or Wittgenstein. The particular philosopher to be studied is designated each time the course is offered. This course may be repeated for credit
  
  • PHIL 431 - Advanced Seminar in Philosophy


    Fall (3) Staff Prerequisite(s): Three courses in philosophy or consent of the instructor. (College 400)

    Special advanced topics of interest to faculty and students will be discussed in seminar fashion. Students in the course are expected to write and present papers for discussion. This course may be repeated for credit
  
  • PHIL 432 - Advanced Seminar in Philosophy


    Spring (3) Staff Prerequisite(s): Three courses in philosophy or consent of the instructor. (College 400)

    Special advanced topics of interest to faculty and students will be discussed in seminar fashion. Students in the course are expected to write and present papers for discussion. This course may be repeated for credit
  
  • PHIL 441 - Independent Study in Philosophy


    Fall (3) Staff Prerequisite(s): Senior standing or eight courses in philosophy and departmental approval prior to registration (ALV)

    Individually supervised study of special topics. (Description of requirements available on philosophy department website.) This course may be repeated for credit
  
  • PHIL 442 - Independent Study in Philosophy


    Spring (3) Staff Prerequisite(s): Senior standing or eight courses in philosophy or departmental approval prior to registration (ALV)

    Individually supervised study of special topics. (Description of requirements available on philosophy department website.) This course may be repeated for credit
  
  • PHIL 460 - Advanced Logic


    Spring (3) Gert Prerequisite(s): PHIL 301  or consent of instructor (NQR)

    Systematic investigation of topics in logic drawn from such areas as system construction, proof theory, modal and deontic logic, and abstract set theory.
  
  • PHIL 495 - Honors


    Fall, Spring (3) Staff Prerequisite(s): Departmental approval prior to registration

    Students wishing to do Honors work in philosophy should submit a written request to the chair by February 15 of their junior year. Students should see the department chair for a detailed statement of the requirements of the Honors program and the specification of the information that is to be included in the written request for Honors study. Note: See section on Major Honors program for general requirements and procedures.
  
  • PHIL 496 - Honors


    Fall, Spring (3) Staff Prerequisite(s): Departmental approval prior to registration (ALV)

    Students wishing to do Honors work in philosophy should submit a written request to the chair by February 15 of their junior year. Students should see the department chair for a detailed statement of the requirements of the Honors program and the specification of the information that is to be included in the written request for Honors study. Note: See section on Major Honors program for general requirements and procedures.

Physics

  
  • PHYS 100 - Concepts and Questions in Physics


    Fall and Spring (4) Staff (College 100)

    An exploration of significant questions, concepts, theories and discoveries in physics and astronomy for first-year students. Although topics vary, the courses also seek to improve students’ communication skills beyond the written word.
  
  • PHYS 101 - General Physics I


    Fall (3) Erlich Corequisite(s): MATH 111  - MATH 112  recommended (NQR, GER 2A)

    PHYS 101-102 is a two-semester calculus-based sequence designed to develop an understanding of the fundamental concepts of physics for students considering majoring in one of the sciences or mathematics.  Emphasis in Physics 101 is placed upon Newtonian mechanics and applications. Co-registration in the laboratory PHYS 101L is not required, but strongly encouraged. Students may receive credit for only one of PHYS 101, 101H, or 107.
  
  • PHYS 101H - General Physics I - Honors


    Fall (3) Vahle Prerequisite(s): Instructor Permission Corequisite(s): MATH 111  - MATH 112  recommended (GER 2A)

    PHYS 101H is an honors section of PHYS 101 that is open to students who have a good preparation for and a strong interest in physics. Physics 101H  offers a more in-depth treatment of topics covered in PHYS 101, and includes more sophisticated examples. Prior exposure to calculus will be assumed. Co-registration in the laboratory PHYS 101L is not required, but strongly encouraged.   Students may receive credit for only one of PHYS 101, 101H, or 107.
  
  • PHYS 101L - General Physics I Laboratory


    Fall (1) Hancock. Corequisite(s): PHYS 101  / PHYS 101H , PHYS 102  /PHYS 102H   (GER 2A Lab)

    Laboratory techniques in general physics.  Two and one half laboratory hours. There is a fee associated with the laboratory.
  
  • PHYS 102 - General Physics II


    Spring (3) Vahala Prerequisite(s): PHYS 101   Corequisite(s): MATH 111  - MATH 112  recommended (GER 2A)

    PHYS 101-102 is a two-semester calculus-based sequence designed to develop an understanding of the fundamental concepts of physics for students considering majoring in one of the sciences or mathematics. Emphasis in Physics 102 is placed upon thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism,
    waves, optics, and applications. Co-enrollment in the laboratory PHYS 102L is strongly encouraged. Students may receive credit for only one of PHYS 102, 102H, or 108.
  
  • PHYS 102H - General Physics II - Honors


    Spring (3) Vahle Prerequisite(s): Instructor Permission Corequisite(s): MATH 111  - MATH 112  recommended (GER 2A)

    PHYS 102H is an honors section of PHYS 102 that is open to students who have a good preparation for and a strong interest in physics. Physics 102H  offers a more in-depth treatment of topics covered in PHYS 102, and includes more sophisticated examples. Prior exposure to calculus will be assumed. Co-registration in the laboratory PHYS 102L is not required, but strongly encouraged.   Students may receive credit for only one of PHYS 102, 102H, or 108.
     
  
  • PHYS 102L - General Physics II Laboratory


    Spring (1) Hancock Corequisite(s): PHYS 101  /PHYS 101H , PHYS 102  /PHYS 102H ) (GER 2A Lab)

    Laboratory techniques in general physics.  Two and one half laboratory hours. There is a fee associated with the laboratory.
  
  • PHYS 107 - Physics for the Life Sciences I


    Fall (3) Sher (NQR, GER 2A)

    PHYS 107-108 is a two-semester algebra-based sequence designed to cover the fundamental concepts of physics for students in the life sciences, including pre-meds.  Emphasis is placed on Newtonian mechanics, fluids and waves. High school science as well as algebra and trigonometry are
    assumed.   Co-registration in the laboratory PHYS 107L is not required, but strongly encouraged.   Students may receive credit for only one of PHYS 101, 101H, or 107. Note:  

    PHYS 101  

  
  • PHYS 107L - Physics for the Life Sciences I Lab


    Fall (1) Hancock Corequisite(s): PHYS 107 , PHYS 108   (GER 2A Lab)

    Laboratory techniques in physics for the life sciences. Two and one half laboratory hours. There is a fee associated with the laboratory.
  
  • PHYS 108 - Physics for the Life Sciences II


    Spring (3) Stevens, Staff Prerequisite(s): PHYS 107   (NQR, GER 2A)

    PHYS 107-108 is a two-semester algebra-based sequence designed to cover the fundamental concepts of physics for students in the life sciences, including pre-meds.  Emphasis is placed on thermodynamics, electric and magnetic fields, simple circuits, optics and some modern physics.  High
    school science as well as algebra and trigonometry are assumed.   Co-registration in the laboratory PHYS 108L is not required, but strongly encouraged.   Students may receive credit for only one of PHYS 102, 102H, or 108.  
  
  • PHYS 108L - Physics for the Life Sciences II Lab


    Spring (1) Hancock Corequisite(s):  

    PHYS 107 , PHYS 108  

      (GER 2A Lab)

    Laboratory techniques In physics for the life sciences. Two and one half laboratory hours. There is a fee associated with the laboratory.

  
  • PHYS 121 - Physics of Music


    Fall (3) (GER 2A)

    Basic concepts of physics, particularly acoustics, needed for an understanding of the properties of sound and music. The course will be in the form of a workshop and students will participate in the performance of experiments which illustrate the ideas.
  
  • PHYS 150 - First-Year Seminar


    Fall or Spring (4) Nelson (College 150)

    An exploration of a specific topic in physics and astronomy. A grade of C- or better fulfills the COLL 150 requirement. Although topics vary, the courses emphasize academic writing skills, reading and analysis of texts, and discussion.
  
  • PHYS 155 - Freshman Research


    Fall and Spring (1-3) Staff Prerequisite(s): Instructor Permission

    Research opportunity for Freshmen having an unusually strong background in Physics. Students will work with an individual faculty member on a research project.
  
  • PHYS 171 - Planetary and Stellar Astronomy


    Fall (3) Hancock (College 200, NQR)

    This course is intended for anyone interested in learning about planetary and stellar astronomy. (Galactic astronomy and cosmology are covered in PHYS 172: Stellar and Galactic Astronomy and Cosmology.) In addition to our coverage of the scientific ground of the subject, we will also discuss the technological advances that have made major discoveries possible. Along the way, we will include two interludes of a week’s duration each that will allow us to explore the wider historical context of the material, via exploration of historical periods that have important Astronomy events in them and also connections to Theater through analysis of the play “Galileo” by Bertolt Brecht and Copenhagen by Michael Frayn. (This course is anchored in the NQR domain, and also considers aspects of the ALV and CSI domains.)
  
  • PHYS 172 - Stellar and Galactic Astronomy and Cosmology


    Spring (3) Nelson (College 200, NQR)

    Star classifications, stellar evolution and stellar remnants, distance scales in the universe, galactic structure and evolution, galactic superclusters. The past history of the universe and the experimental evidence for the big bang. The beginning and the end of the universe. Included will be discussions of the historical ramifications of the discoveries of the early 20th century and the philosophical implications of study of the beginning of the universe (or universes). (This course is anchored in the NQR domain, and also considers aspects of the ALV and CSI domains.)
  
  • PHYS 177 - Astronomy Laboratory (Lab)


    Fall and Spring (1) Hancock Prereq/Corequisite(s): PHYS 171  or PHYS 172   (NQR)

    A series of experiments is undertaken with the goal of understanding both the scientific method of measurement and the laws of nature as they apply to astronomy. Two and one-half laboratory hours There is a fee associated with the laboratory.
  
  • PHYS 201 - Modern Physics


    Fall (4) Novikova Prerequisite(s): PHYS 101 , PHYS 102  or PHYS 107 , PHYS 108   (College 200, NQR)

    20th-century developments in physics. Relativity theory; the nature of space and time, the paradox of the twins, the equivalence of mass and energy. Introductory quantum theory; the particle nature of light, the wave nature of electrons, atomic and molecular structure, the structure of the nucleus and the discovery of new particles. This course is appropriate for all those majoring in science or mathematics. (This course is anchored in the NQR domain, and also considers aspects of the CSI domain.)
  
  • PHYS 208 - Classical Mechanics of Particles and Waves I


    Spring (4) Kordosky Prerequisite(s): PHYS 201  

    The simple harmonic oscillator, coupled oscillations and normal modes, variational methods, Lagrangian and Hamiltonian mechanics, central forces. Overview of relevant mathematical methods.
  
  • PHYS 213 - Introduction to Modern Optics


    Fall (3) Staff (College 200, NQR)

    This course introduces the basic optics concepts and their applications, such as geometrical optics and optical instrumentation design; wave optics and interaction with matter; quantum optics and lasers. Connections to visual arts are explored and practiced. (This course is anchored in the NQR domain, and also considers aspects of the ALV domain.)
  
  • PHYS 251 - Experimental Atomic Physics


    Fall (2) Stevens Prerequisite(s): PHYS 101L  or PHYS 107L ,   or PHYS 108L   Corequisite(s): PHYS 201  

    Fundamental experiments in atomic physics. Modern scientific methods and instruments are used in such classic experiments as the measurement of the speed of light, the Millikan oil drop experiment, the photo-electric effect and optical spectroscopy.
  
  • PHYS 252 - Electronics


    Spring (2) Averett Prerequisite(s): PHYS 102  / PHYS 102L  or PHYS 108  / PHYS 108L  

    Introduction to electronics, with an emphasis on analog circuits. Theory, design, simulation, debugging, and application of circuits using passive and active components.
  
  • PHYS 255 - Sophomore Research


    Fall and Spring (1-3) Staff Prerequisite(s): Instructor Permission

    Research opportunity for Sophomores having an unusually strong background in Physics. Students will work with an individual faculty member on a research project.
  
  • PHYS 256 - Practical Computing for Scientists


    Fall (3) Zhang Prerequisite(s): MATH 112  

    This course will focus on breaking scientific problems into algorithmic pieces that can be solved using computational methods in MATLAB. Root finding, linear and non-linear equations, numerical modeling, optimization, random processes, graphical data presentation and fitting, scientific documentation preparation.
  
  • PHYS 301 - Introduction to Mathematical Physics


    Spring (3) Dudek Prerequisite(s): MATH 212  or MATH 213  

    Vector analysis, complex variables, matrices, series solutions of differential equations, orthogonal functions and partial differential equations.
  
  • PHYS 303 - Classical Mechanics of Particles and Waves II


    Fall (3) Mikhailov Prerequisite(s): PHYS 208  

    Scattering, rigid body rotation, inertia tensor, noninertial frames, continuum mechanics and wave motion, special relativity, nonlinear dynamics and chaos.
  
  • PHYS 309 - Undergraduate Seminar


    Spring (1) Hoatson

    Discussion of contemporary research in physics. Faculty members give survey talks during the first part of the semester. During the second part, students give talks based on their reading and research. May be repeated for credit.
  
  • PHYS 313 - Quantum Mechanics I


    Fall (3) Griffioen Prerequisite(s):  PHYS 201 , PHYS 208  

    Fundamentals of non-relativistic quantum mechanics, solutions of the Schrodinger equation in one and three dimensions, symmetry, identical particles.
  
  • PHYS 314 - Quantum Mechanics II


    Spring (3) Griffioen Prerequisite(s): PHYS 201 , PHYS 208  

    Perturbation theory and other approximate methods, applications of quantum mechanics for atomic, solid state and nuclear physics.
  
  • PHYS 351 - Scientific Instrumentation Laboratory


    Fall (2) Cooke

    Design and construction of digital circuits. Computer-based control of digital devices used in experimental research.
  
  • PHYS 352 - Experimental Modern Physics


    Spring (2) Qazilbash

    Experiments in atomic, nuclear, solid state and elementary particle physics.
  
  • PHYS 355 - Junior Research


    Fall and Spring (1-3) Staff Prerequisite(s): Instructor Permission

    Research opportunity for Juniors having an unusually strong background in Physics. Students will work with an individual faculty member on a research project.
  
  • PHYS 357 - Careers in Physics


    Fall (1) Hoatson

    Presentations and discussion of a wide spectrum of career options for physics graduates. Invited speakers from private enterprises, the public sector, and nonprofit organizations will describe opportunities and experiences in their professions. Course may be repeated for credit when the instructor determines there will not be duplication of material.
  
  • PHYS 401 - Electricity and Magnetism I


    Spring (3) Cooke Prerequisite(s): PHYS 208  

    Development of the theory of electricity and magnetism including electrostatics, magnetostatics and Maxwell’s equations.
  
  • PHYS 402 - Electricity and Magnetism II


    Spring (3) Aubin Prerequisite(s): PHYS 401 

    Continued development of the theory of electromagnetism, Maxwell’s equations, electromagnetic waves and radiation, and special relativity.
  
  • PHYS 403 - Statistical Mechanics and Thermodynamics


    Fall (3) Averett Prerequisite(s): PHYS 201  

    Introduction to quantum statistical mechanics and thermal physics. Definitions of accessible quantum states, entropy, free energy, temperature and partition function for noninteracting systems. Derivation and interpretation of the physical and thermodynamic properties of classical and quantum gases, solids, thermal radiation and diffusive equilibrium.
  
  • PHYS 404 - Quantum Physics: Research Applications


    Spring (3) Novikova Prerequisite(s): PHYS 313 , PHYS 314  

    Applications of quantum physics to modern research topics. The course will focus on areas (to be determined by the instructor) such as : electronic and magnetic properties of solids, atomic and optical physics, or nuclear and particle physics. May be repeated for credit when the instructor determines that there will not be a duplication of material
  
  • PHYS 451 - Physics Research


    Fall and Spring (1-3) Hoatson (College 400)

    Independent study including bibliographic and experimental or theoretical research and a research paper. The student will be required to submit a preliminary draft of the research paper during the first semester and will be expected to work closely with an advisor both in the actual research and in preparation of an acceptable report. If satisfactorily completed, this course will meet the departmental writing requirement.
  
  • PHYS 452 - Physics Research


    Fall and Spring (1-3) Hoatson (College 400)

    Independent study including bibliographic and experimental or theoretical research and a research paper. The student will be required to submit a preliminary draft of the research paper during the first semester and will be expected to work closely with an advisor both in the actual research and in preparation of an acceptable report. If satisfactorily completed, this course will meet the departmental writing requirement.
  
  • PHYS 476 - Modern Astrophysics


    Spring (3) Mikhailov Prerequisite(s): PHYS 303 , PHYS 313  Corequisite(s): PHYS 401 

    An introduction of modern astrophysics. Topics may include stellar characteristics and evolution, galactic structure, cosmology, general relativity and the tools and techniques of astronomy and astrophysics.
  
  • PHYS 481 - Topics in Physics


    Fall (1-3) Staff Prerequisite(s): Consent of instructor

    May be repeated for credit when the instructor determines that there will not be a duplication of material.
  
  • PHYS 482 - Topics in Physics


    Spring (3) Krakauer Prerequisite(s): Consent of instructor

    May be repeated for credit when the instructor determines that there will not be a duplication of material.
  
  • PHYS 495 - Honors


    Fall, Spring (3) Hoatson

    Students admitted to Honors study in physics will be enrolled in this course during both semesters of their senior year. Each candidate will be responsible for (a) reading and discussion of a selected list of books in some specific area of the literature of physics; (b) the preparation and presentation by April 15 of an Honors essay based on the student’s own research, or part of a major research project; (c) satisfactory completion of a comprehensive oral examination on essay and related topics. If successfully completed this course will satisfy the College writing requirement. In addition to the major course requirements, the department requirements for Honors specify PHYS 314 and PHYS 403 , as well as either  PHYS 303 or PHYS 402 , and either PHYS 351 or PHYS 352 . Note: For College provisions governing the Admission to Honors, see catalog section titled Honors and Special Programs. Note: For College provisions governing the Admission to Honors, see catalog section titled Honors and Special Programs.
  
  • PHYS 496 - Honors


    Fall, Spring (3) Hoatson (College 400, NQR)

    Students admitted to Honors study in physics will be enrolled in this course during both semesters of their senior year. Each candidate will be responsible for (a) reading and discussion of a selected list of books in some specific area of the literature of physics; (b) the preparation and presentation by April 15 of an Honors essay based on the student’s own research, or part of a major research project; (c) satisfactory completion of a comprehensive oral examination on essay and related topics. If successfully completed this course will satisfy the College writing requirement. For students graduating before Spring 2015: In addition to the major course requirements, the department requirements for Honors specify PHYS 303  and 351 PHYS 351  , as well as either PHYS 314  or PHYS 402  . For students graduating Spring 2015 or later: In addition to the major course requirements, the department requirements for Honors specify PHYS 314  and PHYS 403  , as well as either PHYS 303  or PHYS 402  , and either PHYS 351  or PHYS 352  . Students graduating in Spring 2015 may choose to use the earlier set of course requirements instead. In applying for Honors, students must submit a proposal to the undergraduate committee during the semester preceding enrollment.
      Note: For College provisions governing the Admission to Honors, see catalog section titled Honors and Special Programs.

Psychology

  
  • PSYC 100 - Critical Questions in Psychology


    Fall and Spring (4) Staff (College 100)

    An exploration of significant questions and concepts, beliefs and creative visions, theories and discoveries in Psychology for first-year students. Although topics vary, the courses also seek to improve students’ communication skills beyond the written word.
  
  • PSYC 150 - First Year Seminar


    Fall or Spring (4) Staff (C150)

    An exploration of a specific topic in Psychology. A grade of C- or better fulfills the COLL 150 requirement. Although topics vary, the courses emphasize academic writing skills, reading and analysis of texts, and discussion.
  
  • PSYC 201 - Introduction to Psychology as a Natural Science


    Fall and Spring (3) McIntosh, Porter, Pilkington, Vishton (College 200, NQR, GER 2B)

    A study of basic principles of behavior, in sensation and perception, conditioning and learning, drives and motivation, response mechanisms and cognitive processes.  (This course is anchored in the NQR domain, and also considers aspects of the CSI domain.)
  
  • PSYC 202 - Introduction to Psychology as a Social Science


    Fall and Spring (3) McIntosh, Pilkington, Ventis (College 200, CSI, GER 3)

    An examination of basic concepts in abnormal, developmental, personality and social psychology, normality and deviation, behavior modification, stages of development, personality traits, motives, attitudes and social perceptions. (This course is anchored in the CSI domain, and also considers aspects of the NQR domain.)
  
  • PSYC 301 - Elementary Statistics


    Fall and Spring (4) Ball, Burk, Dickter, Hilimire, Hunt, Kirkpatrick, Staff Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201  or PSYC 202   Corequisite(s): PSYC 301L (MATH, GER 1)

    An introduction to statistics, both descriptive and inferential, including analysis of variance and correlation. Hypothesis testing and the analysis of research data are strongly emphasized. There is a fee associated with the laboratory.
  
  • PSYC 302 - Experimental Methods


    Fall and Spring (4) Ball, Forestell, Kieffaber, Langholtz, Sinton, Stevens, Staff Prerequisite(s):  PSYC 201 , PSYC 202 , PSYC 301   Corequisite(s): PSYC 302L

    An introduction to empirical research with emphasis upon the methods by which psychological data are obtained. The course will consider naturalistic and correlational methods as well as experimental techniques. Note: Please note other statistics courses cannot be used to replace PSYC 301 as a prerequisite for this course. There is a fee associated with the laboratory.
  
  • PSYC 305 - Sexuality


    Fall and Spring (3) Frieden Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201 , PSYC 202 . Junior or senior standing (GER 3)

    The study of behaviors associated with courtship and reproduction with an emphasis on humans. Topics include biological and environmental determinants of sexual behavior, physiology and psychology of sexual response, and gender differences.
  
  • PSYC 310 - Developmental Psychology


    Fall and Spring (3) Dallaire, Forestell, Sinton, Vishton, Zeman Prerequisite(s): PSYC 202   (College 200, CSI, GER 3)

    A survey of human development from prenatal development through adolescence with emphasis on perceptual, cognitive, and socioemotional processes. (This course is anchored in the CSI domain, and also considers aspects of the NQR domain.)
  
  • PSYC 311 - Cognitive Psychology


    Fall and Spring (3) Ball, Porter, Stevens Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201   (College 200, CSI, NQR, GER 2B)

    The course examines human cognition. Topics include: perception, action, attention, memory, thinking, and language. Students will be introduced to the major theoretical perspectives and important empirical research findings from related fields of cognitive psychology, cognitive science and cognitive neuroscience. (This course is anchored in the CSI and NQR domains.) 
  
  • PSYC 312 - Personality Theory


    Fall and Spring (3) Bisconer, Cone, Thrash, Staff Prerequisite(s): PSYC 202   (CSI, GER 3)

    A survey of contemporary theory in the field with emphasis upon its empirical foundations and future possibilities.
  
  • PSYC 313 - Physiological Psychology


    Fall and Spring (3) Barnet, Hunt, Kieffaber Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201   (College 200, CSI, NQR, GER 2B)

    Physiological basis of behavior with emphasis on mechanisms in perception, learning, emotion and motivation. (This course is anchored in the CSI and NQR domains.) 
  
  • PSYC 314 - Social Psychology


    Fall and Spring (3) Dickter, Pilkington, Porter, Schug, Staff Prerequisite(s): PSYC 202   (CSI, GER 3)

    This course examines the effects of social context on the behavior of the individual, with emphasis on prominent theories and research. Topics include social perception, attitude organization and change, the social consequences of individual motives, interpersonal influence, and the application of social psychology to contemporary social issues.
  
  • PSYC 315 - Foundations of Learning and Memory


    Fall or Spring (3) Barnet, Porter, Staff Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201   (NQR, GER 2B)

    Explores the basis of complex human and animal behavior from a general-process approach seeking to understand evolved processes of learning that apply to many different situations. Topics: why behavior changes, classical and instrumental conditioning, punishment, biological basis of learning, and animal cognition.
  
  • PSYC 317 - Sensation & Perception


    Fall (3) Hilimire, Porter, Stevens, Vishton, Staff Prerequisite(s):  PSYC 201   (College 200, CSI, NQR, GER 2B)

    Survey of topics with specific emphasis on the perceptual experiences in the mind and brain. (This course is anchored in the CSI and NQR domains.) 
  
  • PSYC 318 - Abnormal Psychology


    Fall and Spring (3) Bisconer, Cone, Conway, Frieden, Nichols, Staff Prerequisite(s): PSYC 202   (CSI, GER 3)

    A survey of behavior pathology including the neuroses and psychoses and their relationship to current conceptions of normal personality.
  
  • PSYC 350 - Community Psychology and Prevention


    Fall (3) Cone Prerequisite(s): PSYC 202  

    This course explores community psychology and the role of illness prevention and health promotion in mental health. Contemporary prevention theory emphasizing an ecological and developmental approach to understanding risk and protective factors is presented. State-of-the-art model programs and community-based approaches are highlighted.
  
  • PSYC 351 - Evolutionary Psychology


    Fall (3) Burkett, Kirkpatrick Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201 , PSYC 202 

    An approach to psychological science based on the assumption that human brains/minds were designed by natural selection to solve adaptive problems faced recurrently by our distant ancestors, with important implications for understanding behavior in contemporary environments.
  
  • PSYC 352 - Cross-Cultural Psychology


    Fall or Spring (3) Schug Prerequisite(s): PSYC 202   (College 200, CSI, NQR)

    This course is intended to introduce students to the field of crosscultural psychology. Students will learn about the contributions of cross-cultural research to the field of psychology, and how crosscultural research has expanded our understanding of the applicability of prevalent psychological theories to non-Western populations. (This course is anchored in the CSI and NQR domains.) 
  
  • PSYC 353 - History and Systems of Psychology


    Fall or Spring (3) Porter, Staff Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201 , PSYC 202 

    From Greek Philosophy to the present with special emphasis on the 19th and 20th centuries. The rise of the major systems: Existential and Humanistic Psychology, Structuralism, Functionalism, Gestalt Psychology, Psychoanalysis, Behaviorism. Some current issues such as the “cognitive revolution,” dialectics, genetic epistemology and phenomenological research will be discussed.
  
  • PSYC 354 - Motivation and Emotion


    Spring (3) Dallaire, Hilimire Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201 , PSYC 202  

    Theories and facts of motivation and emotion and consideration of their differences. Emphasis on theory and research.
  
  • PSYC 355 - Cognitive Science


    Spring (3) Porter, Staff Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201 

    This course surveys a variety of theoretical and methodological approaches to the scientific study of intelligent thought and behavior in humans, other animals and machines. We will address questions like: how does the mind work? Can computers be conscious? Does language shape thought? Students will explore possible answers to these questions and others by approaching them from the fields of philosophy, computer science, neuroscience, linguistics and cognitive psychology.
  
  • PSYC 356 - Health Psychology


    Fall or Spring (3) Forestell, Raposa, Sinton Prerequisite(s): PSYC 201 , PSYC 202   (CSI, GER 3)

    An overview of psychological theory, research and practice concerning the prevention, treatment, and progression of illness and the promotion of health. Specific topics include changing health habits, stress, pain, chronic and terminal illness, and the health-care delivery system.
  
  • PSYC 358 - First Language Acquisition


    Fall or Spring (3) Staff Prerequisite(s): LING 220  or ANTH 204  or PSYC 202 

    Introduction to the study of how children acquire their first language. Topics include: the perception and production of speech; word learning; combining words into sentences; communicative competence; theories and methods of investigation. (Cross listed with LING 358 )
 

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