May 14, 2024  
ARCHIVED 2014-2015 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
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ARCHIVED 2014-2015 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions

Curriculum

The courses listed herein have been approved by the faculty as authorized by the Board of Trustees. Courses are subject to change through normal academic channels, and information about new courses approved after publication of this catalog can be obtained in the Office of the Registrar or from appropriate departments. Typically, 13.5 hours per week of combined class and study time are expected for each three credit hour course.

The frequency of offering each course is determined by the department or division as demand indicates. Course numbering is intended to reflect the level of preparation which a student should have to enroll in a specific course, but courses are not numbered according to difficulty within a hundred series. Courses numbered below 100 affect the cumulative grade point average, but are not applied to the 120 credit hours required for graduation at North Central College.

Course Descriptions

Prerequisites (if any) and the General Education Requirement(s) which each course fulfills (if any) are noted following each course description.

If a course qualifies as an Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI) General Education course, then an IAI code appears to the right of the course title. The letter codes are C (Communications), F (Fine Arts), H (Humanities), L (Life Sciences), M (Mathematics), P (Physical Sciences) and S (Social Behavioral Sciences). Note that some courses meeting NCC general education requirements are not approved by the IAI. Students intending to transfer to another school participating in the IAI are strongly encouraged to take only courses approved by the IAI for general education core requirements.
 

Music
  

  • MUS 325 - Percussion Techniques

    1.50 credit hours
    A study of the performance techniques of the various percussion instruments found in the band and orchestra. Students study teaching techniques appropriate for the instruction of the instruments at various levels.

    Prerequisite(s): MUS 201 .


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • MUS 328 - Diction for Singers

    1.50 credit hours
    Instruction in Italian, German, and French diction as it applies to vocal music. Coursework includes use of the International Phonetic Alphabet and the preparation and in-class performance of representative vocal solos in each language studied. Required for all Music Education majors in choral track; recommended for all those studying voice.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • MUS 329 - Vocal Pedagogy and Techniques

    1.50 credit hours
    The study of the vocal instrument and techniques for proper use. Emphasis is on healthy production and the establishment of a technique to be used with young or amateur singers. Required for Music Education majors in the choral track; recommended for any student studying voice.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • MUS 331 - Instrumental Lessons

    0.00, 0.50, 1.00 credit hours
    Available to qualified juniors and seniors who have demonstrated the stipulated proficiency in their major performing area by passing with distinction a Jury-Exam at the end of the sophomore year where each plays approximately 15 minutes of memorized music. 1/2 hour lessons=0.5 credit; 1 hour lessons=1 credit; 0 credit option only for students who have reached 12 credit hour full time limit.

    Prerequisite(s): MUS 231 .


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  
  

  • MUS 343 - Advanced Musicianship

    1.00 credit hours
    Advanced level work with sight singing and ear training including modal, atonal, and contemporary idioms. Special projects involving transcriptions and dictation from students’ areas of interest. Must be taken concurrently with MUS 370 .


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • MUS 344 - Elements of Conducting

    2.00 credit hours
    Basic conducting technique, including posture, position of the arms and hands, simple patterns, cueing and releases. Introduction to score preparation and rehearsal technique.

    Prerequisite(s): MUS 370  and MUS 343 ; or instructor consent.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • MUS 360 - Jazz Composition and Arranging

    3.00 credit hours
    Advanced topics in jazz composition and arranging introduced through the exploration and analysis of the jazz repertory. Topics include writing in various tonal forms, writing for rhythm section and arranging for small jazz ensembles and various big band formations.

    Prerequisite(s): MUS 261  or instructor consent


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • MUS 370 - Performance and Analysis

    3.00 credit hours
    Advanced analytical techniques for tonal and post-tonal music. Topics include large-scale score analysis, harmonic analysis, reductive analysis and rhythmic analysis. Other topics include issues in cognition and perception and computer-assisted analysis. Must be taken concurrently with MUS 343 .

    Prerequisite(s): Prerequiste: MUS 202 , MUS 209 .


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • MUS 380 - Ethnomusicology

    3.00 credit hours
    An intensive study of musical structures from an ethomusicological perspective. The musics include, but are not limited to, Indian raga, arabic maqam, Javanese gamelan, Irish-Anglo folk, Eastern European folk traditions, Australian aboriginal music, Native American musics and West-African rhythm. The course will include critical analysis and study of notation, aesthetic principles and various cultural aspects of world musics.

    Prerequisite(s): MUS 201  and MUS 209 ; or instructor consent.
    ACR: Intercultural.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • MUS 382 - Computer and Electronic Music

    3.00 credit hours
    (Same as IMS 382 .) Basic concepts and techniques of computer music research, composition, and performance. Topics include digital audio signal processing, MIDI, computer programming for music, sound analysis and synthesis, algorithmic processes and various stylistic approaches to making electronic music. Students with advanced programming skills will be allowed to focus on software development and those with a stronger interest in musical creation may focus on various software and performance techniques.

    Prerequisite(s): Instructor consent.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  
  
  
  

  • MUS 408 - Advanced Choral Conducting and Techniques

    3.00 credit hours
    Advanced conducting technique as related to the choral ensemble. Further study on score preparation and rehearsal techniques, using standard choral repertoire as a basis for study.

    Prerequisite(s): MUS 202 , MUS 209  and MUS 344 .


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • MUS 490 - Seminar in Music

    3.00 credit hours
    Topics of interest to the music major, such as philosophy of music, music and the community, marching band techniques or electronic music applications.

    Prerequisite(s): Instructor consent.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  
  

NCC Courses

Courses which address the College at large but do not fit into either a department or interdisciplinary program receive the College initials as prefix identification: NCC. Faculty from all divisions teach NCC courses. No major or minor is granted under this designation.
  

  • NCC 095 - Applied Principles of Learning and Memory

    1.50 credit hours
    This course teaches students basic principles of learning and memory. The emphasis is on how to encode information so that it can be recalled later and how to retrieve information effectively. Learning styles are assessed and discussed. Students are given multiple opportunities to practice learning and memory strategies. This course does not count toward graduation. It does count towards full-time status.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • NCC 100 - Exploration

    1.00 credit hours
    Many students want to explore a variety of majors, either because they are interested in many areas or because they do not know the kinds of opportunities different fields offer. In this course students conduct projects that help them to develop and refine life skills (such as self-assessment, research, interviewing, writing, discussion, reflection) which will assist them in choosing their majors and ultimately their careers.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • NCC 120 - Information Research Strategies

    1.50 credit hours
    This course guides students in becoming life-long learners and effective and efficient users of information. Students who take this course develop the ability to recognize a need for information, efficiently locate information relevant to the need, critically evaluate information, select the most authoritative resources and effectively communicate that information to accomplish an identified purpose. Students build upon existing skills and understandings to advance their abilities to draw upon new information in ethically-informed and resourceful ways.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • NCC 297 - Non-Credit Internship/Cooperative Learning I

    0 credit hours
    Students use and further develop skills related to their career goals in an introductory internship/cooperative learning experience of their choice. Designed to be a first experience in a particular field; most appropriate for students with no previous career-related experience (typically freshmen or sophomores). Official recognition of completed non-credit internship/cooperative learning experience is included on a student’s transcript.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  
  

  • NCC 397 - Non-Credit Internship/Cooperative Learning II

    0 credit hours
    Students use and further develop skills related to their career goals in an internship/cooperative learning experience of their choice. Most appropriate for students who have had rudimentary exposure to their field and who desire a more comprehensive experience. Official recognition of a completed non-credit internship/cooperative learning experience is included on a student’s transcript. May be repeated.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • NCC 497 - Non-Credit Internship/Cooperative Learning III

    0 credit hours
    Students use and further develop skills related to their career goals in an advanced internship/cooperative learning experience of their choice. Designed for students with prior internship/cooperative internship or work experience in their field who desire a more in-depth experience and the opportunity to function as a professional. Official recognition of a completed non-credit internship/cooperative internship experience is included on a student’s transcript. May be repeated.

    Prerequisite(s): Senior standing and completion of a 397-level internship.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

Neuroscience
  

  • NSC 100 - Introduction to Neuroscience

    3.75 credit hours
    This course provides an introduction to the structure and function of the nervous system. Topics include its contributions to a range of behaviors and phenomena including sensation and perception, homeostasis, biological rhythms, emotions, learning and memory, consciousness and psychopathology. Laboratory required.

    Core: Science (Lab).


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • NSC 300 - Neuroscience

    3.75 credit hours
    Core principles of nervous system function. This course includes topics on behavioral, organismal and molecular aspects of nerve function in organisms ranging from invertebrates to humans. Laboratory required.

    Prerequisite(s): NSC 100 , BIO 151  and CHM 141 ; BIO 152  recommended.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

Nuclear Medicine Technology
  

  • NMT 405 - Medical Terminology

    1.00 credit hours
    The medical terminology course will consist of a study of root words, prefixes, and suffixes of medical vocabulary. A combination of learning exercises and chapter quizzes will be utilized. Emphasis is on application of terminology through the use of chapter objectives, learning exercises, and critical thinking exercises. As an independent study, students may choose to progress more rapidly than the assignment schedule.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • NMT 410 - Management and Methods of Patient Care

    2.00 credit hours
    Skills in problem solving, critical thinking, and decision-making are developed, as well as oral and written communication skills. Career skills are enhanced through the study of the interview process, resume writing and administrative duties including budgeting, medical and legal considerations and political issues affecting health care. Special emphasis is placed on participation in a quality control program and scheduling guidelines. The course focuses on basic measures necessary to provide quality patient care, basic principles of record keeping and procedures for maintaining confidentiality of information.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission into the NMT program.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • NMT 412 - Radiation Safety and Protection

    3.00 credit hours
    Supervised practice and procedures for the receipt, handling, transporting, storage, usage, record keeping, disposal and decontamination of radioactive materials. Emphasis is placed on licensing and regulations set forth by local, state and federal agencies. Academic and clinical instruction teach radiation safety techniques which allow students to minimize exposure to themselves, the patient, the public and fellow workers. Regulations regarding therapeutic dosages and follow-up procedures are explained.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission into the NMT program.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • NMT 414 - Radiation Detection and Instrumentation

    2.00 credit hours
    Evaluation, maintenance and function of instrumentation used in imaging and in the laboratory. Principles and theory of the following topics are covered: PET and scintillation camera operation and performance, radiation measurements, event counting activity, pulse height spectra, detection efficiency, uniformity, relative sensitivity, spacial linearity and resolution testing. Quality assurance procedures for PET scanner include radial, tangential and axial resolution, sensitivity, linearity, uniformity, attenuation accuracy, scatter determination and dead time corrections.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission into the NMT program.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • NMT 421 - Radiation Physics and Instrumentation

    3.00 credit hours
    Theory and physical principles associated with atomic structure, nucleus and quantum physics related to radioactive decay. Properties of the elements and the production of characteristic x and gamma rays, anger electrons and Bremstrahlung. Instruction on the modes of decay, radiation dosimetry and interaction of ionizing radiation with matter. Basic physics, instrumentation, and radiochemistry of Positron Emission Tomography (PET).

    Prerequisite(s): Admission into the NMT program.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • NMT 425 - Diagnostic Nuclear Imaging Clinical Practicum I

    4.00 credit hours
    Supervised clinical education that gives the student the opportunity to perform a variety of patient procedures on both SPECT and PET imaging systems for all diagnostic, therapeutic, nonimaging in-vivo and in-vitro procedures. Clinical competencies are developed in patient care, positioning techniques, analyzing images and the selection of imaging parameters and collimators. Develops knowledge of integrated computer systems designed for use with clinical gamma cameras, Single Photon Emission Computed Tomogrpahy (SPECT), and Position Emission Tomography (PET) images. The clinical practicum is designed to promote independent critical thinking, balanced responsibility, organization and accountability in the student. The student will demonstrate competence in all procedures presented.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission into the NMT program.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • NMT 426 - Diagnostic Nuclear Imaging Clinical Practicum II

    4.00 credit hours
    A continuation of NMT 425 . This course entails a supervised clinical education that gives the student the opportunity to perform a variety of patient procedures on both SPECT and PET imaging systems for all diagnostic, therapeutic, nonimaging in-vivo and in-vitro procedures. Clinical competencies are developed in patient care, positioning techniques, analyzing images, and the selection of imaging parameters and collimators. Develops knowledge of integrated computer systems designed for use with clinical gamma cameras, Single Photon Emission Computed Tomogrpahy (SPECT) and Position Emission Tomography (PET) images. The clinical practicum is designed to promote independent critical thinking, balanced responsibility, organization and accountability in the student. The student will demonstrate competence in all procedures presented.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission into the NMT program.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • NMT 430 - Clinical Nuclear Imaging Procedures

    3.00 credit hours
    Course emphasis is on the theory and techniques of clinical procedures used in nuclear medicine imaging. Areas emphasized include patient care, developing acquisition parameters, imaging techniques, radionuclide identification, energies, half-lives and principles of radionuclides in imaging and nonimaging procedures. The student continues to develop an increased degree of competence in performance of the skills related to critical thinking and problem solving.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission into the NMT program.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • NMT 432 - Radionuclide Chemistry and Radiopharmacy

    3.00 credit hours
    The chemical, physical and biological properties of radiopharmaceuticals used in diagnosis and therapy are covered. The course examines the performance of all radionuclide quality control and quality assurance procedures. Principles of decay and half-life, tissue localization, chemical impurities, generator systems, dose preparation and techniques of good laboratory practices and cell labeling are all included in this course.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission into the NMT program.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • NMT 434 - Radiation Biology

    2.00 credit hours
    The emphasis is upon the knowledge of cell structure and function as a basis for understanding both cellular and organ responses to the effects of ionizing radiation, radionuclides, and radiation oncology. The course develops the understanding of units of exposure, organ dose calculation and body distribution.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission into the NMT program.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • NMT 436 - Computer Applications

    3.00 credit hours
    The course covers the operations and maintenance of computer hardware and software. The emphasis is on data collection, analysis and processing used in clinical imaging and application of computer devices and memory usage. Also emphasized are SPECT and PET quality control procedures.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission into the NMT program.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • NMT 438 - Clinical Correlation - Pathology

    3.00 credit hours
    The course focuses on the study of the structure and function of human cells, issues, organs, and systems. It covers the clinical interpretation of organ systems, with emphasis on immunology, anatomy and physiology, which provides a basis for understanding abnormal or pathological conditions as applied to nuclear medicine. Causes, symptoms and treatments of disease are discussed as well as its effect on the images. In addition, the student is scheduled to observe the interpretation of images with the physician staff.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission into the NMT program.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • NMT 440 - Computed Tomography and Cross Sectional Anatomy

    0 credit hours
    Introduction to the fundamental concepts and principles of computed technology and its role in medical imaging. Specific topics include physics and instrumentation of CT scanning, image production and cross-sectional anatomy of the head, neck, thorax, abdomen and pelvis. Emphasis is placed on patient considerations, patient safety, and radiation protection.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.

Philosophy
  

  • PHL 100 - Introduction to Philosophy

    3.00 credit hours
    An examination of basic questions in philosophy, such as how we can know anything, whether God exists, how moral judgments can be justified, whether people have souls and whether people have free will.

    Core: Humanities.
    ACR: Religion and Ethics.
    IAI: H4 900


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PHL 110 - Ethics

    3.00 credit hours
    An examination of alternative bases for morality and the arguments by which moral claims are justified.

    Core: Humanities.
    ACR: Religion and Ethics.
    IAI: H4 904


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PHL 210 - Professional Ethics

    3.00 credit hours
    Professional ethics in selected career fields including law, business and biomedicine. Students may apply basic concepts to the career of their choice, relate their personal ethics to professional ethics, and become better informed consumers of professional services. This course begins with an examination of the alternative bases for making moral judgments.

    Core: Humanities.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PHL 215 - Bioethics

    3.00 credit hours
    After a brief overview of ethical theory and the philosophy of medicine, the moral dimensions of the following topics are considered: the health care professional-patient relationship (e.g., truth-telling, informed consent and confidentiality), euthanasia and physician-assisted death, abortion and maternal-fetal conflicts, the new reproductive technologies, human genetics, research involving human and animal subjects, the allocation of health care resources, managed care, public health and health care policy. The course is intended to be self-contained, and the emphasis on the topics may change from year to year.

    Prerequisite(s): Sophomore standing.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PHL 220 - Aesthetics

    3.00 credit hours
    (Same as: ART 270 .) An examination of aesthetic experience, the norms which govern aesthetic judgment and the significance of the idea of beauty in our experience of art and nature.

    Core: Humanities.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PHL 225 - Environmental Ethics

    3.00 credit hours
    (Same as: ENV 225 .) After a brief examination of philosophical ethical frameworks, the following will be considered: the history of environmental ethics; the problem of the “moral status” of nonhuman animals and other aspects of nature: the environment and “the good life,” ethical issues related to population growth, sustainability, diminishing/vanishing resources and the use of cost benefit analysis in environmental policy.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PHL 230 - Logic

    3.00 credit hours
    An examination of inductive and deductive reasoning, formal and informal fallacies and rules and procedures for evaluating arguments.

    Core: Humanities.
    IAI: H4 906


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PHL 235 - Existentialism

    3.00 credit hours
    An introduction to existentialism as a 19th and 20th century philosophical and literary movement. Authors discussed typically include Dostoevsky, Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, Heidegger, Sartre, Unamuno and Merleau-Ponty.

    Core: Humanities.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PHL 240 - Philosophy and Literature

    3.00 credit hours
    An introduction to the relationship between philosophy and literature through examination of ways in which philosophical ideas and methods can be used to analyze, understand or criticize literature and critical writing about literature.

    Prerequisite(s): ENG 196  or a philosophy course.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PHL 241 - Philosophy of Law

    3.00 credit hours
    (Same as: PSC 241 .) An introduction to the concept of law, including such topics as the nature of law, liberty and law, justice, legal responsibility, punishment and theories of legal interpretation.

    Prerequisite(s): PSC 103  or a philosophy course.
    Core: Humanities.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PHL 260 - Ancient and Medieval Philosophy

    3.00 credit hours
    Part one of the History of Philosophy sequence; Ancient Greece through the 16th century.

    Core: Humanities.
    ACR: Religion and Ethics.
    IAI: H4 901


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  
  
  
  
  
  

  • PHL 310 - Ethical Theory

    3.00 credit hours
    An examination of topics in contemporary and/or classical ethical theory. Course may focus on key figures in ethical theory or issues in normative ethics and metaethics. Topics have included virtue ethics, feminist ethics and relationships between normative ethical theory and social or natural sciences.

    Prerequisite(s): PHL 110 .


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PHL 320 - Philosophy of History

    3.00 credit hours
    An investigation of the nature of history and the nature and limits of historical knowledge.

    Prerequisite(s): Junior standing.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PHL 341 - Classics of Political Philosophy

    3.00 credit hours
    (Same as: PSC 341 .) A survey of the history of Western political thought.

    Prerequisite(s): Any 200-level political science course or two philosophy courses.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PHL 343 - Economic and Social Justice

    3.00 credit hours
    (Same as: PSC 343 .) A brief introduction to the concept of justice, followed by an examination of the alternative views of distributive justice. Alternatives include the various forms of liberalism (contractarianism, libertarianism and utilitarianism), Marxism, communitarianism, feminism and postmodernism.

    Prerequisite(s): Previous course in philosophy, economics, history, political science or sociology and anthropology.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PHL 344 - Religion and the Political Order

    3.00 credit hours
    (Same as: REL 344 .) A historical survey of primary texts engaging the intersection of religion and political theory, as well as the relationship between political leadership and religious/ethical values. Emphasis is placed upon Western political philosophers shaped within the traditions of Judaism, Christianity and/or Islam, as well as upon the themes of theocracy, civil religion, and secularization. Thinkers studied may include Plato, early Christian authors, Eusebius, John Chrysostom, Augustine, Al-Farabi, Maimonides, Averroes, Aquinas, Marsillus of Padua, Reformation authors, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau or De Tocqueville.

    Prerequisite(s): Any two courses in Philosophy, Religious Studies or Political Science.
    ACR: Leadership, Ethics and Values.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PHL 360 - Philosophy of Religion

    3.00 credit hours
    (Same as: REL 360 .) An examination of the basic issues in the philosophy of religion, including the relation of faith and reason, the problem of the existence and nature of God, and the nature and significance of religious experience.

    Prerequisite(s): Previous course in philosophy or religion.
    ACR: Religion and Ethics.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PHL 361 - Science and Religion: Conflict or Dialogue?

    3.00 credit hours
    (Same as: REL 361 .) This course examines the contemporary dialogue between science and religion in relation to different Western and Asian religious traditions. The course considers the implications of recent scientific theories for understanding and assessing the belief systems of various theistic and non-theistic religions.

    Prerequisite(s): Junior standing, one course in science.
    ACR: Intercultural Seminar.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PHL 370 - Philosophy of Science

    3.00 credit hours
    An inquiry into the nature of scientific evidence, laws, explanations, and theories, as well as the nature of the relationship between the natural and social sciences.

    Prerequisite(s): Previous course in philosophy or a natural science course.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PHL 380 - Epistemology and Metaphysics

    3.00 credit hours
    An examination of such topics as theories of knowledge, truth, and justification of belief, the problem of skepticism, the mind-body problem, the problem of universals and theories of being.

    Prerequisite(s): One of PHL 100 , PHL 270  or PHL 280 .


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  
  
  

  • PHL 490 - Philosophic Problems: Seminar

    3.00 credit hours
    Examination of a major philosopher or central problem in one of the areas of philosophy such as philosophy of mind, metaphysics, epistemology or value theory.

    Prerequisite(s): Philosophy major or minor; Junior or Senior standing.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  
  

Physics
  

  • PHY 100 - Principles of Physics

    3.50 credit hours
    As an introduction to the concepts of physics, this course is intended for nonscience majors. Utilizing a conceptual approach, selected topics in mechanics, sound, electricity and light that relate to our daily experience are explored. Does not count towards a physics major. May not be taken after successful completion of any higher level physics course. Laboratory required.

    Prerequisite(s): High school algebra or MTH 095 .
    Core: Science (Lab).


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PHY 105 - Physics of Music

    3.50 credit hours
    Concepts of physics to understand musical instruments, musical recordings and musical acoustics. Students will become familiar with the production and propagation of sound, the physical principles underlying selected musical instruments, including the human voice and the methods scientists use to solve problems. The focus is on conceptual, rather than highly mathematical, understanding. Laboratory required.

    Prerequisite(s): High school algebra and the ability to interpret graphs.
    Core: Science (Lab).


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PHY 115 - College Physics I

    4.00 credit hours
    The first in a sequence of two algebra-based physics courses. Topics include the study of motion using Newton’s Laws and the conservation of energy principle, rotational motion, thermodynamics and fluid mechanics. Laboratory required. Credit may be earned for only one of the following sequences: PHY 115 and PHY 116  or PHY 141  , PHY 142 , and 143 (PHY 143A  or PHY 143C ).

    Prerequisite(s): MTH 121  and MTH 122 ; or high school algebra and trigonometry.
    Core: Science (Lab).


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PHY 116 - College Physics II

    4.00 credit hours
    The second in a sequence of two algebra-based physics courses. Topics include: electricity and magnetism, optics, waves and sound. Laboratory required. Credit may be earned for only one of the following sequences: PHY 115  and 116 or PHY 141 , PHY 142  and 143 (PHY 143A  or PHY 143C ).

    Prerequisite(s): PHY 115 .
    Core: Science (Lab).


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PHY 121 - Principles of Astronomy

    3.00 credit hours
    The study of celestial phenomena, the sun and solar system and the observable universe with emphasis on astronomy as a scientific activity with great relevance to the perception and comprehension of our world. Laboratory experiences include the study and practice of observational techniques for the night sky with emphasis on the interplay of observation and theory and applications in the science of astronomy. Students may not receive credit for both PHY 121 and PHY 122 .

    Prerequisite(s): MTH 122  or high school trigonometry.
    Core: Science.


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PHY 122 - Principles of Astronomy with Lab

    3.50 credit hours
    The study of celestial phenomena, the sun and solar system and the observable universe with emphasis on astronomy as a scientific activity with great relevance to the perception and comprehension of our world. Full laboratory experiences include the study and practice of observational techniques for the night sky as well as an exploration of physical principles relevant to astronomical and astrophysical application. Laboratory required. Students may not receive credit for both PHY 121  and PHY 122 .

    Prerequisite(s): MTH 122  or high school trigonometry.
    Core: Science (Lab).


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PHY 141 - Physics I

    3.00 credit hours
    The first in a sequence of introductory physics courses. The study of motion using Newton’s Laws and the conservation laws for energy and linear momentum. Laboratory required. Credit may be earned for only one of the following sequences: PHY 115  and PHY 116  or PHY 141, PHY 142 , and 143 (PHY 143A  or PHY 143C ).

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent enrollment in MTH 141  or MTH 151 .
    Core: Science (Lab).


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PHY 142 - Physics II

    3.00 credit hours
    A continuation of PHY 141 . Static equilibrium, rotational motion, conservation of angular momentum, oscillatory and wave motion, sound, geometric and physical optics. Calculus is used. Laboratory required. May not take PHY 142 after PHY 116 .

    Prerequisite(s): PHY 141  or PHY 115 ; MTH 141  or MTH 151 .
    Core: Science (Lab).


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PHY 143A - Physics III (Algebra-Based)

    3.00 credit hours
    A continuation of PHY 142 . Electrical and magnetic forces and phenomena are described using the concept of the field. Introduction to electrical circuits. Other topics include fluid mechanics, heat, temperature, phases transitions and radioactive decay. Laboratory required. Credit may be earned for only one of the following sequences: PHY 115  and PHY 116  or PHY 141 , PHY 142  and 143 (A or PHY 143C ).

    Prerequisite(s): PHY 142 .


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PHY 143C - Physics III (Calculus-Based)

    3.75 credit hours
    A continuation of the PHY 142 . Electrical and magnetic forces and phenomena are described using the concept of the field. Coulombs law, the electric and magnetic fields, electric potential, electromagnetic induction, Maxwell’s equations, DC electrical circuits, radioactive decay. Calculus is used. Laboratory required. Credit may be earned for only one of the following sequences: PHY 115  and PHY 116  or PHY 141 , PHY 142  and 143 (PHY 143A  or C).

    Prerequisite(s): PHY 142  and MTH 152 .


    Click here for the schedule of classes.
  

  • PHY 151 - Special Relativity

    1.00 credit hours
    Introduction to the theory of special relativity. Topics include the Principle of Relativity, Lorentz transformations, relativistic energy and momentum.

    Prerequisite(s): PHY 141 .


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  • PHY 210 - Electronics

    3.00 credit hours
    Survey of electronics with focus on application to scientific instrumentation. Topics include an overview of DC and AC circuits, diodes, transistors, operational amplifiers, logic gates and digital applications. The course focuses on applied learning in the laboratory. Two hours of lecture and two 3-hour laboratory sessions per week. Laboratory required.

    Prerequisite(s): PHY 143A  or PHY 143C ; MTH 152 .


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  • PHY 245 - Physics V: Quantum Physics

    2.00 credit hours
    An introduction to quantum physics. Statistical interpretation of the wave function, the Schrödinger equation, analysis of one-dimensional potentials, introduction to the hydrogen atom and the electronic structure of atoms.

    Prerequisite(s): PHY 244  and MTH 152 .


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  • PHY 251 - Physics of Solids

    2.00 credit hours
    Introduction to the electrical, thermal and magnetic properties of materials, with emphasis on the role played by quantum mechanics. Topics include quantum statistics, thermal properties of solids, band theory, electrical conduction, semiconductors, magnetic properties of solids.

    Prerequisite(s): PHY 245 .


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  • PHY 252 - Nuclei and Particles

    2.00 credit hours
    Introduction to the sub-disciplines of nuclear and particle physics. A phenomenological survey of topics that may include nuclear interactions and processes, models of the nucleus, introduction to the standard model of particle physics, introduction to experimental methods in nuclear and particle physics, physics beyond the standard model.

    Prerequisite(s): PHY 151 ; PHY 245  or CHM 341 .


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  • PHY 253 - Astrophysics and Cosmology

    2.00 credit hours
    Introduction to the sub-disciplines of astrophysics and cosmology. A phenomenological survey of topics that may include celesial mechanics and orbital dynamics, stellar evolution and structure, galactic evolution and structure, exotic objects, big bang theory, the standard model of cosmology.

    Prerequisite(s): PHY 151 ; PHY 245  or CHM 341 .


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  • PHY 315 - Engineering Statics

    3.00 credit hours
    Classical mechanics with application to engineering problems. Topics include equivalent systems of forces, centroids, analysis of trusses and frames, machines and forces due to friction.

    Prerequisite(s): MTH 254  and PHY 141 .


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  • PHY 321 - Classical Dynamics

    3.00 credit hours
    The study of Newtonian mechanics using intermediate level mathematics. Topics include the harmonic oscillator, gravity and planetary motion, motion of rigid bodies and systems of particles and an introduction to the Lagrangian formalism. Mathematical and computer techniques are used to solve complex problems.

    Prerequisite(s): PHY 142 , MTH 254  and MTH 256 .


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  • PHY 340 - Thermodynamics

    4.00 credit hours
    (Same as: CHM 340 .) A study of the relationship of temperature to other properties of matter, using both macroscopic and microscopic viewpoints. Applications to chemical equilibrium, phase transitions and thermal properties of gases and solids. Laboratory required.

    Prerequisite(s): MTH 152 ; PHY 143A  or PHY 143C .


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  • PHY 355 - Applied Mathematical Techniques

    3.00 credit hours
    (Same as: MTH 355 .) Topics in applied mathematics, including series solutions, systems of linear and nonlinear differential equations, integral transforms (Fourier or Laplace transforms), Fourier series, partial differential equations and a survey of applications from the physical sciences, life sciences and economics.

    Prerequisite(s): MTH 254  and MTH 256 ; or MTH 315 .


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  • PHY 420 - Electricity and Magnetism

    3.00 credit hours
    The theory of electromagnetic fields and waves, including electrostatics, magnetostatics, steady and time varying currents, dielectrics and Maxwell’s equations.

    Prerequisite(s): PHY 143C  and MTH 254 .


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  • PHY 441 - Quantum Mechanics

    3.00 credit hours
    The physical interpretation and mathematical formalism of quantum mechanics. Topics include the Schrödinger equation, one-dimensional and three-dimensional potentials, angular momentum, the hydrogen atom, operator methods, matrix mechanics, Dirac notation and approximation methods.

    Prerequisite(s): PHY 245  and MTH 254 ; MTH 256  or MTH 300 .


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  • PHY 450 - Advanced Laboratory

    1.00-3.00 credit hours
    Students work independently on experiments in physics undertaken with the guidance of a faculty member. May be repeated with new content.

    Prerequisite(s): PHY 210  and PHY 245 .


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