Department Of Physics
Undergraduate Catalog
The Department of Physics offers majors and minors for the Bachelor of Science and the Bachelor of Arts degrees. Curriculum has been designed for degrees with or without teacher certification. The department provides instruction in physics, applied physics, engineering, astronomy, computational physics, and microelectronics.
The physics and applied physics major curriculum are designed for students wishing careers as professional physicists or who wish to continue their studies at the graduate level in a number of technical areas including engineering. This program prepares students for industrial employment or other careers which utilize analytical or problem solving skills. The various teacher education curriculums are designed for pre-college teachers of science.
The physics department and computer science department jointly offer a series of courses in the fields of microcomputers, electronics, and signal processing for students who wish to prepare for careers in scientific data analysis, computer or computer-based scientific instrumentation, or telecommunications.
Students seeking a bachelor’s degree in the following majors must complete: (1) degree requirements for a Bachelor of Arts or Science degree and (2) University Studies requirements (refer to those sections of this catalog). In addition, courses in the major must be completed as shown below.
Major in Physics
This program is recommended for students who wish to obtain industrial employment or who wish to continue their studies for an advanced degree in physics, engineering, science or applied mathematics. Students who successfully complete this program should have a good understanding of the role of physics within the sciences and within society. Graduates of this program should have a solid understanding of the principles and foundations of classical and modern theories of physics. They will have practiced the methods and techniques of experimental physics; they will have practical experience in utilizing the analytical and modeling tools of physics. This rigorous program of study develops analytical, problem solving and communication skills which are valuable in a wide range of employment areas.
The second major or minor in physics, when chosen appropriately, allow for excellent employment opportunities in education or industry. An excellent example of this type of interdepartmental curriculum is the hardware computer science emphasis which includes a minor in physics. This curriculum prepares graduates for a broad range of careers in acquisition, transmission, and processing of electronic signals.
Required courses in the major (43 semester hours)
Phys 211, 212, 317, 321, 132 or 332, 333, 401, 441, 411, 412, 420; 6 sh Adv Phys.
Recommended support courses* (23 semester hours)
CSci 151; Math 191, 192, 225, 314; Chem 111, 112; Eng 341
*These courses may apply on the second major or minor.
SUGGESTED CURRICULUM OUTLINE (B.S.)
|
Freshman |
Sophomore |
Junior |
Senior |
| PHYS 211*, 212 MATH 191, 192 CHEM 111, 112 ENG 101, 102 CSCI 150 or 151 US PE Activity, 2 sh |
PHYS 321, 333; 132or 332 MATH 225, 314 |
PHYS 317; 9sh (Adv) Minor ,6sh PSCI 220, 221 |
PHYS 401, 10 sh ( Adv) Minor ,12sh US Capstone, 3 sh Elective, 16 sh |
| 32sh | 30 sh | 30 sh | 28 sh |
Total Semester Hours: 120
Mathematics 141 and 142 are required of all students who do not qualify for advanced
standing.
*In order to enroll in Physics 211, a student should have some calculus tools. If in doubt on this point, see the head of the Department of Physics.
Suggested second majors include mathematics, chemistry, computer science, and
biology. Other choices are possible.
Planning for a second major should not be delayed beyond the middle of the sophomore
year. A minor in a second subject may be chosen instead of a second major. The
choice of mathematics as second major allows for four additional courses to be elective.
Many students select minors in both mathematics and computer science.
Second Major in Physics
A student who elects a second major in physics must complete a minimum of eight courses including four advanced courses. The student will consult the department head to choose the specific courses to fit his/her needs and interests.
Minor in Physics
The 20 semester hours (6 courses) required for a minor in Physics are selected with a view toward contributing to the individual student’s educational goals.Most physics minors take one of the following tracks:
1. Non-Calculus: Phys 111, 112, 132,4 and 9 sh (Adv) on approval of departmental advisor.
2. Calculus Required: Phys 211, 212, 317, 321, 333, and 3 sh from 319, 420, 430, 411, 412.
3. Electronics and/or Computer Science: Phys 111 or 211, 112 or 212, 132, 332, and 6 sh (Adv) from 319, 321, 333, 397, 432, 492.
Major in Applied Physics
This program consists of a core of technical courses in physics, chemistry, mathematics, and computer science combined with courses needed to satisfy the University Studies requirements. Beyond that, the student chooses an option consistent with his or her future career plans. The options currently available are Computer Science, Business Applications, and Materials Science. Each of these focused options will earn the student an appropriate minor to satisfy the catalog requirements of a major and a minor.
These options are tightly organized and do not make allowances for electives outside those allowed in the University Studies requirements and within the various specified categories. Advisement plans are handled on an individual basis with a departmental advisor and example plans are available within the physics department.
Core courses for each of the options (90 semester hours)
Math 191, 192, 225, 314, 315;
Phys 101, 132, 211, 212, 321, 333, 317, 319, 3 sh of 441 or 489 (project) or student co-op;
Chem 111, 112;
CSci 151;
Additional University Studies requirements (35 sh).
Computer Science Option (127 Semester Hours)
This course of study provides background for employment in areas requiring physical science and advanced computer applications background. Career area examples which utilize these skills are microcomputers, electronics, signal processing, scientific data analysis, computer based instrumentation, and telecommunications. This program, when appropriate courses are chosen, provides the basic course requirements for entry into various engineering graduate programs including the TAMU electrical engineering masters program. The student desiring entry into advanced engineering programs should consult a departmental advisor for specifics.
Required courses above the core including courses for a minor in computer science
(37 semester hours)
Engr 111, 211;
Phys 412, 432;
CSci 152, 241, 320, 321, 322, 3324, and 6 sh from CSci 330, 359, 424, 430;
Phys 421;
ELEN 314 via TTVN from TAMU.
Business Applications Option (127 Semester Hours)
This course of study provides basic business background in addition to technical expertise. Career examples include scientific entremenural activities, technical sales, and international technical product development.
Required courses including requirements for a minor in general business (34 hours)
Eng 341; 6 sh of foreign language; Phys 332 and 3 sh from Phys 420, 430, 411, 412; CSci 330; Acct 221; Fin 304; Mkt 306; GBus 301; Mgt 307; and 3 sh from Acct 222, GBus 302 or consent.
Materials
Science Option (123-125 Semester Hours)
This option provides for a minor in chemistry with a strong emphasis in the area
of materials science. Graduates of this program are prepared for advanced study and
for employment in companies who utilize modern materials testing methods, fabrication
techniques, and product development based upon electronic and structural properties
of materials.
Required major and support courses including requirements for a minor in chemistry (33-35 semester hours)
15 sh from Phys 411, 412, 414, 420, 421, 430, or MEEN 340, 470 via TTVN from TAMU;
Chem 211, 340, 351, and 2 courses from 415, 352, 415, 441.
Teacher Education Programs
Secondary certification to teach physics and chemistry is achieved through completing
the Major in Physical Science program Secondary certification for teaching all sciences
including physics, chemistry, and biology is achieved through completing the Major in
Science program
The physics department participates fully in certification programs for K-4 teachers
in cooperation with the elementary education department. Students interested in
grades 4-8 certification in science and math-science are also directed to the appropriate
advisor in elementary education.
Students seeking a bachelor's degree in any of the following teacher education programs must complete:
(1) degree requirements for a Bachelor of Arts or Science degree (refer to the bachelor's degree requirements section of this catalog),
(2) University Studies requirements (refer to that section of this catalog),
(3) requirements for admission to and retention in the Teacher Education Program (refer to the Center for Educator Certification and Academic Affairs section of this catalog), and
(4) professional development courses (refer to the appropriate departmental section in this catalog, i.e. Department of Elementary Education or Department of Secondary and Higher Education).
In addition, courses in the major must be completed as shown below.
B.S. in Broadfield Science with a Major in Physical Science
Teacher Certification, 8-12 Physical Science Required courses in the major (50 semester hours)
Phys 161, 111 or 211, 204, 212, 321, 333, 441;
IS 451;
Chem 111, 112, 211, 212, 340;
3 sh advanced Physics or Chemistry;
EnvS 204.
Teacher Education courses (24 semester hours)
SHEd 300, 302, 401, 404, 405;
Rdg 370, 415.
Support courses (15 semester hours)
Psy 300, Math 192, 225;
SpEd 346 or 475;
CSci 126 or ETec 224.
University studies as required.
B.S. in Broadfield
Science with a Major in Chemistry
Teacher Certification, 8-12 Science
Required courses in the major (58 semester hours)
Phys 161, 111 or 211, 212, 321, 333;
Chem 111* and 112* or 107* and 108*, 211, 212, 340;
BSc 101, 102, 203, 204, 307;
ESci 101, 3 sh advanced Earth Sciences.
*May also be used to satisfy other requirements.
Teacher education courses (24 semester hours)
SHEd 300, 302, 401, 404, 405;
Rdg 370, 415.
Recommended support courses (6 semester hours) Psy 300; Math 192; SpEd 356 or 475
University studies courses as required
Undergraduate Courses Offered by the Department of Physics
PHY 111- Foundations of Engineering I
PHY 112- Foundations of Engineering II
PHY 211- Principles of Engineering
PHY 212- Conservation Principles in Thermal Science
Integrated Science Courses (IS)
PHY 152- Integrated Science II
PHY 351- Inquiry: Knowledge and Skills of Science
PHY 451- Science: Past and Future
PHYS 101- Fundamentals of Science and Engineering
PHYS 111- (PHYS 140) College Physics
PHYS 112- (PHYS 140) College Physics
PHYS 132- Basic Electronics for Scientists and Engineers
PHYS 161- (PHYS 141) Astronomy
PHYS 201- Problem Solving in Mechanics
PHYS 202- Problem Solving in Electricity and Magnetism
PHYS 211- (PHYS 242) Mechanics and Heat
PHYS 317- Mathematical Physics I
PHYS 319- Scientific Computing
PHYS 332- Digital Logic and Circuitry
PHYS 333- Wave Motion, Acoustics, and Optics
PHYS 407- Science and Society, Contemporary Issues
PHYS 412- Advanced Electricity and Magnetism
PHYS 414- Thermodynamics and Kinetic Theory
PHYS 418- Undergraduate Research
PHYS 420- Introduction to Wave Mechanics
PHYS 432- Advanced Electronics
PHYS 441- Advanced Physics Laboratory
PHYS 492- Instrumentation and Control
111. Foundations of Engineering I. Three semestesr hours. (2 lecture, 2 lab)
Introduction to the engineering profession, ethics, and disciplines; development of skills in teamwork, problem solving, logic processing, design and drawing; emphasis on computer applications and CAD tools.
112. Foundations of Engineering II. Three semester hours. (2 lecture, 2 lab)
Development of skills in problem solving, design, analysis, estimation and teamwork; utilization of computer tools for documentation and presentation; introduction to logic processing and computer programming; introduction to accounting and conservation principles in engineering sciences.Prerequisites: Engr 111, Math 191.
211. Principles of Engineering I. Three semester
hours (2 lecture, 2 lab).
Unified presentation of conservation principles applied to engineering mechanics
systems in statics and dynamics. Co- or prerequisite: Phys 211.
212. Conservation Principles in Thermal
Science. Three semester hours. (2 lecture, 2 lab)
Theory and application of energy methods in engineering; conservation principles
to investigate “traditional” thermodynamics and internal flow fluids.Prerequisites:
Engr 211 and Phys 212 or concurrent enrollment.
Integrated Science Courses (IS)
151. Integrated Science I. Four semester hours.
(3 lecture, 2 lab)
This University Studies introductory science course is the first course in the
two semester series focusing upon building a sound foundation of basic scientific
principles. The integrated interdisciplinary application of these scientific
principles to the other natural sciences will be emphasized. The overall aim
of the course is to teach the students to effectively apply the acquired background
to critically examine public issues.
152. Integrated Science II. Four semester hours.
(3 lecture, 2 lab)
This University Studies introductory science course is the second course in
the two-semester series. It is a continuation of IS 151. This second course
elaborates upon scientific foundations in order to explain the additional important
principles in the natural sciences. The overall aim of the course is to teach
the students to effectively apply the acquired background to critically examine
public issues.
351. Inquiry: Knowledge and Skills of Science.
Three semester hours.
Science topics and themes are chosen to emphasize broad concepts highlighted
in the Texas and national science standards. Topics will include conservation
laws, systems in nature, the nature of scientific inquiry and presentation of
scientific information. The course will be taught by an inquiry based method,
modeling instructional techniques proved effective by current educational research.
This course is designed for interdisciplinary majors. It will not count toward
a major or minor in the sciences.
Prerequisite: Junior level standing.
352. Science Inquiry II. Three semester hours.
Fundamental physical and chemical processes are exained through literature,
research, and hands-on inquiry based investigations. Science topics and themes
are chosen to emphasize broad concepts in the Texas and national science standards.
Prerequisite: Junior level status.
397. Special Topics. One to four semester hours.
Organized class. May be repeated when topics vary.
451. Science: Past and Future. Three
semester hours.
Major people, discoveries, and the evolution of fundamental concepts and theories
through time are examined through literature, research, and hands-on inquiry
based investigations. Science topics and themes are chosen to emphasize broad
concepts in the Texas and national science standards.
101. Fundamentals of Science and Engineering. One
semester hour.
The nature of science and engineering, recent and projected technological advances,career
opportunities, degree and professional registration requirements, code of ethics,
and professionalism in various career settings is discussed. The impact of science
and engineering on life, health, wealth, environment, and other social areas
is explored.
111. (PHYS 140) College Physics.
Four semester hours (3 lecture, 2 lab).
Mechanics and heat; including one two-hour laboratory period per week.
112. (PHYS 140) College Physics.
Four semester hours (3 lecture, 2 lab).
Magnetism, electricity, sound, and light, including one two-hour laboratory
period per week.
132. Basic Electronics for Scientists and Engineers.
Four semester hours (3 lecture, 2 lab).
AC and DC circuits, semiconductor devices, and linear integrated circuits. Applications
include voltage dividers, timing circuits, power supplies, amplifiers, oscillators,
and filters. Laboratory stresses basic electronic measurements and circuit fabrication
techniques using prototyping hardware and software.
161. (PHYS 141) Astronomy. Four semester
hours (3 lecture, 2 lab).
A descriptive survey of astronomy with emphasis on modern developments in stellar
and galactic astronomy and the role of physical science in the measurement and
interpretation of astronomical data. Included are studies of structure and evolution
of stars and galaxies and of current cosmological theories. One two-hour laboratory
or night telescope viewing session per week.No prerequisite.
201. Problem Solving in Mechanics. One semester
hours.
Extension of concepts developed in introductory mechanics with emphasis on problem
solving techniques.
202. Problem Solving in Electricity and Magnetism.
One semester hour.
Extension of concepts developed in introductory Electricity and Magnetism with
emphasis on problem solving techniques.
211. (PHYS 242) Mechanics and Heat.
Four semester hours (3 lecture, 3 lab).
Mechanics and heat for pre-engineers, physics majors, and others. Prerequisite:
Calculus or consent of the instructor.
212. (PHYS 242) Magnetism and Electricity.
Four semester hours (3 lecture, 3 lab).
Magnetism and electricity, including study of alternating current, for pre-engineers,
physics majors and others. Prerequisite: Calculus or consent of the instructor.
317. Mathematical Physics I. Three semester hours.
Topics include applications of ordinary differential equations, vector calculus
and fourier series to problems in classical mechanics, electricity and magnetism
and wave motion. Matrix methods are applied to eigenvalues problems in rigid
body mechanics and vibrating systems with many degrees of freedom. Prerequisite:
Math 225.
319. Scientific Computing. Three semester hours.
Applications of computers in scientific research. Topics to be covered include
networking for data transfer and remote computing, application of mathematical
packages and simulation software to scientific problems, and graphical display
and analysis of results. Prerequisites: Junior standing and consent of instructor.
321. Atomic Physics. Three semester hours.
A study of special relativity, photoelectricity, atomic structure and spectra,
X-rays, and the wave nature of matter.
332. Digital Logic and Circuitry. Four semester
hours (3 lecture, 2 lab).
This course covers the fundamentals necessary to apply state-of-the-art digital
components to practical problems in computing and scientific research. Components
are constructed, operated, and tested in a laboratory environment. Typical topics
covered are digital information and numbers systems, switching algebra and logic
networks, flip-flops, registers, gates, arithmetic processors such as adders
and counters.
333. Wave Motion, Acoustics, and Optics. Four semester
hours. (3 lecture, 2 lab).
An introduction to vibrational and wave motion with applications to acoustics,
optics, and electromagnetic phenomenon. Prerequisites: Physics 211, 212, or
consent of the instructor.
397. Special Topics. One to four semester hours.
Organized class. May be repeated when topics vary.
401. Current Problems. One semester hour.
Current problems or topics in research, employment, and trends in physics are
considered.
The course may be taken each of four semesters for credit. Prerequisite: Junior
standing.
407. Science and Society, Contemporary Issues.
Three semester hours. (Same as Chem 407)
In this University Capstone science course, two or three contemporary science
issues of importance to global society will be studied. The disciplines of Chemistry,
Physics, Meteorology, Biology, Economics (both US and World), Sociology, and
US and World Politics would be extensively involved in analyzing and understanding
the issues. The economies, political structure, and future goals of the modern
industrial societies as compared to the developing third world nations would
be discussed with regard to actions necessary to resolve the problems. This
course cannot be used for a major or minor in science.
411. Advanced Mechanics. Three semester hours.
A course in the Classical Mechanics of particles and rigid bodies. The methods
of Lagrange and Hamilton are introduced. Prerequisite: Physics 211 or 317.
412. Advanced Electricity and Magnetism. Three
semester hours.
An advanced course in theoretical electricity and magnetism. Prerequisite: Physics
212.
414. Thermodynamics and Kinetic Theory. Three semester
hours.
Introduction to the kinetic theory of matter and to thermodynamics and statistical
mechanics, with applications to physical and chemical systems.
418. Undergraduate Research. Three semester hours.
A conference course designed to enlarge the library and laboratory experiences
of students with decreasing dependence upon the teacher. Problems will be assigned
and progress evaluated by reports and frequent conferences.
420. Introduction to Wave Mechanics. Three semester
hours.
The development of Schroedinger’s Equation of non-relativistic wave mechanics
and its application to simple systems.
421. Materials Science. Three semester hours.
The physical, chemical and electrical properties of metals and semi-conductors
and the relationship between these properties and the electronic and crystal
structures of these materials is studied. Prerequisites: Phys 321 and 333.
430. Optics. Three semester hours.
Fundamentals of geometrical and physical optics and applications to optical
instrumentation.
Prerequisites: Physics 333 or consent of the instructor.
432. Advanced Electronics. Three semester hours
(2 lecture, 2 lab).
Embedded logic design and programming. Topics include micro-controller selection,
peripheral interfacing, low and high-level programming languages, and microcontroller
development tools.
441. Advanced Physics Laboratory. Two semester
hours. (4 lab).
An introduction to the equipment and techniques of experimental physics. Experiments
are selected from a wide range of fields in physics. Research grade equipment
is used in many experiments. May be repeated for up to six hours credit. Prerequisites:
Junior standing in physics and consent of instructor.
489. Independent Study. One to four semester hours.
Individualized instruction/research at an advanced level in a specialized content
area under the direction of a faculty member. May be repeated when the topic
varies.
Prerequisite: consent of department head.
492. Instrumentation and Control. Three semester
hours.
Sensors and actuators in real-time systems. Topics include the physics of sensors
and actuators, sensor signal conditioning, real-time data acquisition, elementary
signal processing, motion control, and software for instrumentation and control.
497. Special Topics. One to four
semester hours.
Organized class. May be repeated when topics vary.
Note: For graduate courses, see Graduate Catalog.
click here to Physics Dept Home page .
While every effort has been made to reflect the information
contained in the current Texas A&M-Commerce Undergraduate Catalog, this
document should not be considered as an official publication of the University.
Copies of the Catalog may be obtained free of charge from the Registrar's Office.