Courses Offered

Astronomy Courses

ASTRON 103 Survey of Astronomy
3 cr. Undergraduate.
History of astronomy; planets; stellar evolution, nucleosynthesis; death of stars: white dwarfs, neutron stars, black holes; galaxies and quasars; expansion of the universe, dark matter; the big bang.
Prerequisites: math placement level 10.
General Education Requirements: NS
Last Taught: Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020.

ASTRON 104 Astronomy Laboratory
1 cr. Undergraduate.
Observations of planets, stars, stellar clusters, and galaxies; related experiments. Correlated with Astron 103.
Prerequisites: Astron 103(C) or Astron 211(C).
General Education Requirements: NS+
Last Taught: Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020.

ASTRON 185 Astronomy for Pre-Education Majors
3 cr. Undergraduate.
Space: how we know and what we know; the solar system, stars, galaxies, and the universe. 2 hrs lec, lab.
Prerequisites: none.
General Education Requirements: NS+
Last Taught: Spring 2022, Spring 2021, Spring 2020, Spring 2019.

ASTRON 194 First-Year Seminar:
3 cr. Undergraduate.
Specific topics are announced in the Schedule of Classes each time the class is offered.
Prerequisites: none.
General Education Requirements: NS
Course Rules: Open only to freshmen. Students may earn cr in just one L&S First-Year Sem (course numbers 192, 193, 194).
Last Taught: Spring 2006, Fall 2001, Spring 2001, Fall 2000.

ASTRON 199 Independent Study
1-3 cr. Undergraduate.
For further information, consult dept chair.
Prerequisites: 2.0 GPA; consent of instructor, department chair, and Assistant Dean for Student Academic Services.
Course Rules: May be retaken to 6 cr max.

ASTRON 211 Principles of Astronomy
3 cr. Undergraduate.
Light and matter; planets; stellar evolution, nucleosynthesis; death of stars; white dwarfs, neutron stars, black holes; galaxies, quasars; expansion of universe, dark matter; big bang.
Prerequisites: Physics 120(P) or 209(P) or cons instr.
General Education Requirements: NS
Last Taught: Fall 2021, Fall 2019, Fall 2017, Fall 2015.

ASTRON 289 Internship in Astronomy, Lower Division
1-6 cr. Undergraduate.
Application of basic principles of astronomy in a research, business, organizational, educational, political, or other appropriate setting.
Prerequisites: intro course in astron; 2.25 gpa; cons supervising faculty member.
Course Rules: One cr earned for academic work based on 40 hours in internship. May be retaken to 6 cr max.

ASTRON 299 Ad Hoc:
1-6 cr. Undergraduate.
Course created expressly for offering in a specified enrollment period. Requires only dept & assoc dean approval. In exceptional circumstances, can be offered in one add'l sem. May be retaken w/chg in topic.
Prerequisites: none; add'l prereqs may be assigned to specific topic.
Last Taught: Fall 2007.

ASTRON 400 Astrophysics I
3 cr. Undergraduate.
Introductory astrophysics for students with junior-/senior-level background in mathematics and physics. Light and matter; stars and the sun; extrasolar planets; compact objects.
Prerequisites: Astron 103(P) or 211(P) or cons instr; Physics 309(P); Physics 317(R) recom.
Last Taught: Fall 2020, Fall 2018, Fall 2016, Fall 2014.

ASTRON 401 Astrophysics II
3 cr. Undergraduate.
Continuation of Astron 400; for students with junior-/senior-level background in mathematics and physics. The Milky Way Galaxy; galactic evolution; structure of the Universe; cosmology.
Prerequisites: Astron 400(300)(P).
Last Taught: Spring 2021, Spring 2019, Spring 2017, Spring 2015.

ASTRON 489 Internship in Astronomy, Upper Division
1-6 cr. Undergraduate.
Application of advanced principles of astronomy in a research, business, organizational, educational, political, or other appropriate setting.
Prerequisites: jr st; 300-level or above course in astron; 2.25 gpa; cons supervising faculty member.
Course Rules: One cr earned for academic work based on 40 hours in internship. May be retaken to 6 cr max.

ASTRON 499 Ad Hoc:
1-6 cr. Undergraduate.
Course created expressly for offering in a specified enrollment period. Requires only dept & assoc dean approval. In exceptional circumstances, can be offered in one add'l sem.
Prerequisites: jr st; add'l prereqs may be assigned to specific topic.
Course Rules: May be retaken w/chg in topic.
Last Taught: Spring 2006.

Physics Courses

PHYSICS 100 Quantitative Preparation for Physics
2 cr. Undergraduate.
Introductory course in general physics designed for the student with little or no previous science training.
Prerequisites: Math Placement Level 10.
Course Rules: Fee for 3 cr assessed. Not open to students w/cr in Physics 110(ER), 120(ER), or 209(ER).
Last Taught: Fall 2019, Spring 2015, Fall 2014, Spring 2014.

PHYSICS 107 Physics in Everyday Life
3 cr. Undergraduate.
Selected topics for citizens in a technological world. Emphasis on those aspects of science important to an understanding of our surroundings. For non-science majors.
Prerequisites: Math Placement Level 10 or consent of instructor.
General Education Requirements: NS
Course Rules: May not be taken conc with or after having taken PHYSICS 120(ER) or PHYSICS 209(ER).
Last Taught: Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020.

PHYSICS 108 Laboratory for Physics in Everyday Life
1 cr. Undergraduate.
Experiments correlated with Physics 107.
Prerequisites: Physics 107(C).
General Education Requirements: NS+
Last Taught: Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020.

PHYSICS 110 Physics for the Health Professions
4 cr. Undergraduate.
An introductory course without laboratory for students in health-related pre-professional programs. Topics include mechanics, fluids, heat, sound, electricity, magnetism, electrical devices, optics, and radioactivity. 3 hrs lec, 1 hr dis.
Prerequisites: H.S. general science; Math Placement Level 20.
General Education Requirements: NS
Course Rules: May not be taken conc with or after having taken Physics 120(ER) or 209(ER).
Last Taught: Fall 2021, Fall 2020, Fall 2019, Spring 2019.

PHYSICS 120 General Physics I (Non-Calculus Treatment)
4 cr. Undergraduate.
Mechanics, wave motion, heat, and sound. 3 hrs lec, 2 hrs dis.
Prerequisites: Math Placement Level 30 or grade of C or better in Physics 100(P); HS trig or Physics 100 strongly recom.
General Education Requirements: NS
Course Rules: Any combination of Physics 120, 121, 209, 214, 219 carries max 5 cr toward graduation.
Last Taught: Summer 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Summer 2021.

PHYSICS 121 General Physics Laboratory I (Non-Calculus Treatment)
1 cr. Undergraduate.
Experiments correlated with lecture material of Physics 120.
Prerequisites: Physics 120(C).
General Education Requirements: NS+
Course Rules: Any combination of Physics 120, 121, 209, 214, 219 carries max 5 cr toward graduation.
Last Taught: Summer 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Summer 2021.

PHYSICS 122 General Physics II (Non-Calculus Treatment)
4 cr. Undergraduate.
Electricity, optics, modern physics. 3 hrs lec, 2 hrs dis.
Prerequisites: Physics 120(NP).
General Education Requirements: NS
Course Rules: Any combination of Physics 122, 123, 210, 215, 220 carries 5 cr max toward graduation.
Last Taught: Summer 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Summer 2021.

PHYSICS 123 General Physics Laboratory II (Non-Calculus Treatment)
1 cr. Undergraduate.
Experiments on topics related to the lecture material of Physics 122.
Prerequisites: Physics 122(C).
General Education Requirements: NS+
Course Rules: Any combination of Physics 122, 123, 210, 215, 220 carries 5 cr max toward graduation.
Last Taught: Summer 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Summer 2021.

PHYSICS 185 Basic Physics for Teachers
3 cr. Undergraduate.
Simple machines; work, energy and power; heating and cooling; static electricity and elementary electrical circuits; waves. 2 hrs lec; 2 hrs lab/dis.
Prerequisites: Math 175(P) & cons instr.
General Education Requirements: NS+
Course Rules: Not open for cr to students with cr in Physics courses numbered 110 or above.
Last Taught: Spring 2014, Spring 2013, Spring 2012, Spring 2011.

PHYSICS 194 First-Year Seminar:
3 cr. Undergraduate.
The specific topics are announced in the Schedule of Classes each time the class is offered.
Prerequisites: none.
General Education Requirements: NS
Course Rules: Open only to freshmen. Students may earn cr in just one L&S First-Year Sem (course numbers 192, 193, 194).
Last Taught: Fall 2021, Fall 2019, Fall 2017, Fall 2015.

PHYSICS 199 Independent Study
1-3 cr. Undergraduate.
For further information, consult dept chair.
Prerequisites: 2.0 GPA; consent of instructor, department chair, and Assistant Dean for Student Academic Services.
Course Rules: May be retaken to 6 cr max.
Last Taught: Spring 2016, Spring 2008, Fall 2003.

PHYSICS 209 Physics I (Calculus Treatment)
4 cr. Undergraduate.
Selected topics in mechanics, wave motion, sound, and heat. 3 hrs lec, 2 hrs dis.
Prerequisites: Math 227(C), 228(C), or 232(C).
General Education Requirements: NS
Course Rules: Any combination of Physics 120, 121, 209, 214, 219 carries max 5 cr toward graduation.
Last Taught: Summer 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Summer 2021.

PHYSICS 210 Physics II (Calculus Treatment)
4 cr. Undergraduate.
Continuation of Physics 209. Electromagnetic field theory and optics. 3 hrs lec, 2 hrs dis.
Prerequisites: grade of C- or better in Physics 209(NP); Math 229(C) or 233(C).
General Education Requirements: NS
Course Rules: Any combination of Physics 122, 123, 210, 215, 220 carries max 5 cr toward graduation.
Last Taught: Summer 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Summer 2021.

PHYSICS 214 Lab Physics I (Calculus Treatment)
1 cr. Undergraduate.
Experiments in mechanics, wave motion, heat, and thermodynamics. 3 hrs lab.
Prerequisites: Physics 209(C).
General Education Requirements: NS+
Course Rules: Any combination of Physics 120, 121, 209, 214, 219 carries 5 cr max toward graduation.
Last Taught: Summer 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Summer 2021.

PHYSICS 215 Lab Physics II (Calculus Treatment)
1 cr. Undergraduate.
Experiments in electricity, magnetism, and optics. 3 hrs lec.
Prerequisites: Physics 210(C).
General Education Requirements: NS+
Course Rules: Any combination of Physics 122, 123, 210, 215, 220 carries 5 cr max toward graduation.
Last Taught: Summer 2022, Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Summer 2021.

PHYSICS 219 Physics I: Calculus-Based, Studio Format
5 cr. Undergraduate.
Basic kinematics; Newton. Selected topics in mechanics, wave motion, sound, and heat. 8 hrs lec/lab.
Prerequisites: Math 227(C), 228(C), or 232(C).
General Education Requirements: NS+
Course Rules: Not open to students w/cr in Physics 209. Any combination of Physics 120, 121, 209, 214, 219 carries max 5 cr toward graduation.
Last Taught: Fall 2018, Fall 2017, Fall 2016, Fall 2015.

PHYSICS 220 Physics II: Calculus-Based, Studio Format
5 cr. Undergraduate.
Electromagnetic field theory and optics.
Prerequisites: grade of C or better in Physics 219(NP); Math 229(C) or 233(C).
General Education Requirements: NS+
Course Rules: Not open to students w/cr in Physics 210. Any combination of Physics 122, 123, 210, 215, 220 carries max 5 cr toward graduation.
Last Taught: Spring 2018, Spring 2017, Spring 2016.

PHYSICS 265 Physics and the Energy Problem
3 cr. Undergraduate.
Study of how the laws of physics (particularly 1st and 2nd Laws of Thermodynamics) limit society's options in dealing with scarcity of utilizable energy.
Prerequisites: H.S. algebra; Physics 107(P), 110(P), 120(P), or 209(P).

PHYSICS 270 Introduction to Computational Physics
3 cr. Undergraduate.
Use of computers to solve physics problems, including particle collisions, chaotic systems, planetary motion, and other topics related to relativity and quantum mechanics.
Prerequisites: Physics 209(P); Math 233(C).
Last Taught: Spring 2008, Fall 2006, Fall 2005, Fall 2004.

PHYSICS 289 Internship in Physics, Lower Division
1-6 cr. Undergraduate.
Application of basic principles of physics in a research, business, organizational, educational, political, or other appropriate setting.
Prerequisites: intro course in physics; 2.25 gpa; cons supervising faculty member.
Course Rules: One cr earned for academic work based on 40 hours in internship. May be retaken to 6 cr max.

PHYSICS 296 UROP Apprenticeship
1-3 cr. Undergraduate.
Undergraduate research participation in a project developed with a supervising member of the faculty or staff.
Prerequisites: acceptance into UROP; prior or conc reg in UROP seminar.
Course Rules: One cr for 45 hrs research. May be retaken to 9 cr max in any combination of UROP apprenticeship courses.
Last Taught: Spring 2022, Spring 2018, Spring 2017, Fall 2016.

PHYSICS 297 Study Abroad:
1-12 cr. Undergraduate.
Designed to enroll students in UWM sponsored program before course work level, content, and credits are determined and/or in specially prepared program course work.
Prerequisites: acceptance for Study Abroad Prog.
Course Rules: May be retaken w/chg in topic.
Last Taught: Spring 2015, Summer 2011, Spring 2010, Fall 2009.

PHYSICS 299 Ad Hoc:
1-6 cr. Undergraduate.
Course created expressly for offering in a specified enrollment period. Requires only dept & assoc dean approval. In exceptional circumstances, can be offered in one add'l sem.
Prerequisites: none; add'l prereqs may be assigned to specific topic.
Course Rules: May be retaken w/chg in topic.
Last Taught: Fall 1994, Fall 1991, Spring 1991, Fall 1990.

PHYSICS 305 Medical Physics
3 cr. Undergraduate.
Applications of physics to living systems & medical diagnostics. 3 hrs lec.
Prerequisites: grade of B+ or better in Physics 209(P). (Conc reg in Physics 210 strongly recom).
Course Rules: Primarily for premed students and others in the medical & biological sciences. Approved for Premed Stds Cert Prog.
Last Taught: Spring 2011, Fall 2004, Spring 2003, Spring 2002.

PHYSICS 306 Introduction to Biophysics
3 cr. Undergraduate.
Physical foundations of cellular phenomena; physical laws of complex biological systems; imaging and instrumentation for biophysics. 3 hrs lec.
Prerequisites: Physics 122(P) or 210(P); Chemistry 104(P) or 105(P).
Course Rules: Approved for Premed Stds Cert Prog.
Last Taught: Spring 2022, Spring 2020, Fall 2017, Fall 2015.

PHYSICS 309 Physics III: Modern Physics
3 cr. Undergraduate.
Elementary quantum physics, atomic and molecular physics, solid state and nuclear physics.
Prerequisites: jr st; B- or better in either PHYSICS 210(NP) or PHYSICS 220(NP); B- or better in MATH 233; MATH 234(C) or ELECENG 234(C); or consent of instructor.
General Education Requirements: QLB
Course Rules: Not open for cr to students who have cr in PHYSICS 341.
Last Taught: Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Fall 2020.

PHYSICS 317 Thermodynamics
3 cr. Undergraduate.
Classical thermodynamics, including entropy, the use of thermodynamic potentials, and applications to pressure-volume and other systems. Some basic statistical physics may be included.
Prerequisites: Physics 210(NP).
Last Taught: Spring 2022, Spring 2021, Spring 2020, Spring 2019.

PHYSICS 325 Optics
4 cr. Undergraduate.
Geometric and physical optics, image formation, interference, diffraction, polarization, optical instruments, resolving power, coherence, lasers, holography. Selected experiments in optics. Studio-format course.
Prerequisites: Math 234(P) & Physics 309(C) or cons instr.
Course Rules: Counts as repeat of Physics 325 & 2 cr of Physics 410.
Last Taught: Spring 2022, Spring 2021, Spring 2020, Spring 2019.

PHYSICS 351 Basics of Condensed Matter Physics
3 cr. Undergraduate.
Basic principles of condensed-matter physics. Crystals and amorphous materials; bonding; magnetic, thermal, and transport properties; band theory.
Prerequisites: Physics 309(P) or Chem 311(P).
Course Rules: Counts as repeat of Physics 499 w/same topic.

PHYSICS 370 Analytical and Numerical Methods in Physics
3 cr. Undergraduate.
Solutions to various physics problems. Applications (both analytical and numerical) from mechanics, electrodynamics, quantum mechanics, astrophysics, condensed matter physics.
Prerequisites: B- or better in either Physics 210(NP) or Physics 220(NP); B- or better in Math 233(P); Math 234(C) or ElecEng 234(C); or cons instr.
Last Taught: Fall 2021, Fall 2020, Fall 2019, Fall 2018.

PHYSICS 381 Honors Seminar:
3 cr. Undergraduate.
Selected topics concerning history and the nature of physics as an intellectual discipline.
Prerequisites: soph st; Honors 200(P); cons Honors College dir.
General Education Requirements: NS
Course Rules: May be retaken w/chg in topic to 9 cr max. No cr toward major.
Last Taught: Fall 2017, Fall 2016, Fall 2013, Fall 2011.

PHYSICS 391 Undergraduate Research Participation
1-6 cr. Undergraduate.
Independent research for undergraduates on faculty-supervised research projects.
Prerequisites: Physics 309(P)); 3.25 GPA in physics courses; cons instr.
Course Rules: May be retaken w/chg in topic to 6 cr max; non-repeatable for change of grade.
Last Taught: Spring 2022, Summer 2020, Spring 2020, Fall 2017.

PHYSICS 406 Introduction to Infrared Microspectroscopy
3 cr. Undergraduate.
Microscopy and spectroscopy methods for identification of chemical composition introducing interdisciplinary opportunities in fundamental and industrial applications.
Prerequisites: Bio Sci 150(P) & 152(P); or Physics 209(P) & 210(P); or Chem 102(P) & 104(P); or Chem 105(P).
Last Taught: Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Spring 2015, Spring 2014.

PHYSICS 408 Experiments in Linear Electronics
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Transistor and integrated circuit characteristics; electronic measurement and control.
Prerequisites: jr st; Physics 210(P).
Course Rules: No cr for students w/cr in ElecEng 330(R).
Last Taught: Fall 2020, Fall 2015.

PHYSICS 408G Experiments in Linear Electronics
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Transistor and integrated circuit characteristics; electronic measurement and control.
Prerequisites: jr st; Physics 210(P).
Course Rules: No cr for students w/cr in ElecEng 330(R).
Last Taught: Fall 2020, Fall 2015.

PHYSICS 409 Modern Physics Laboratory
3 cr. Undergraduate.
Selected experiments in modern physics using advanced lab instrumentation.
Prerequisites: jr st; Physics 309(P) or cons instr.
Last Taught: Spring 2022, Fall 2021, Spring 2021, Spring 2020.

PHYSICS 411 Mechanics
4 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Kinematics, vector analysis, conservation laws, oscillations, variational methods, chaos, Lagrangian and Hamiltonian mechanics.
Prerequisites: jr st; Physics 210(NP).
Last Taught: Spring 2022, Spring 2021.

PHYSICS 411G Mechanics
4 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Kinematics, vector analysis, conservation laws, oscillations, variational methods, chaos, Lagrangian and Hamiltonian mechanics.
Prerequisites: jr st; Physics 210(NP).
Last Taught: Spring 2022, Spring 2021.

PHYSICS 420 Electricity and Magnetism I
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Electrostatics, capacitance, boundary value problems, mulipole expansion, dielectrics, magnetostatics, vector potential, magnetic properties of matter, motional emf, inductance, Maxwell's equations in differential form.
Prerequisites: jr st; Physics 210(NP); a grade of B- or better in Math 321(P); or Math 321(P) and a grade of B- or better in Physics 370(P); or grad st.
Course Rules: Counts as repeat of 2 cr of Physics 421.
Last Taught: Fall 2021, Fall 2020.

PHYSICS 420G Electricity and Magnetism I
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Electrostatics, capacitance, boundary value problems, mulipole expansion, dielectrics, magnetostatics, vector potential, magnetic properties of matter, motional emf, inductance, Maxwell's equations in differential form.
Prerequisites: jr st; Physics 210(NP); a grade of B- or better in Math 321(P); or Math 321(P) and a grade of B- or better in Physics 370(P); or grad st.
Course Rules: Counts as repeat of 2 cr of Physics 421.
Last Taught: Fall 2021, Fall 2020.

PHYSICS 422 Electricity and Magnetism II
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Conservation laws in electrodynamics, Maxwell's stress tensor, electromagnetic waves, absorption, dispersion, reflection and transmission of plane electromagnetic waves, wave guides, retarded potentials, radiation, electrodynamics and relativity.
Prerequisites: jr st, C or better in PHYSICS 420(P); or grad st.
Course Rules: Counts as repeat of 2 cr of PHYSICS 421.
Last Taught: Spring 2022, Spring 2021.

PHYSICS 422G Electricity and Magnetism II
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Conservation laws in electrodynamics, Maxwell's stress tensor, electromagnetic waves, absorption, dispersion, reflection and transmission of plane electromagnetic waves, wave guides, retarded potentials, radiation, electrodynamics and relativity.
Prerequisites: jr st, C or better in PHYSICS 420(P); or grad st.
Course Rules: Counts as repeat of 2 cr of PHYSICS 421.
Last Taught: Spring 2022, Spring 2021.

PHYSICS 441 Introduction to Quantum Mechanics I
4 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Historical background and experimental basis, De Broglie waves, correspondence principle, uncertainty principle, Schroedinger equation; hydrogen atom, electron spin, Pauli Principle, applications of wave mechanics.
Prerequisites: jr st; Physics 309(NP); Math 321(C).
Last Taught: Fall 2021.

PHYSICS 441G Introduction to Quantum Mechanics I
4 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Historical background and experimental basis, De Broglie waves, correspondence principle, uncertainty principle, Schroedinger equation; hydrogen atom, electron spin, Pauli Principle, applications of wave mechanics.
Prerequisites: jr st; Physics 309(NP); Math 321(C).
Last Taught: Fall 2021.

PHYSICS 442 Introduction to Quantum Mechanics II
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Continuation of PHYSICS 441, emphasizing perturbation theory and applications to multi-electron systems, including atoms, molecules, and solids.
Prerequisites: jr st; C or better in PHYSICS 441(NP); or grad st.
Last Taught: Spring 2022.

PHYSICS 442G Introduction to Quantum Mechanics II
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Continuation of PHYSICS 441, emphasizing perturbation theory and applications to multi-electron systems, including atoms, molecules, and solids.
Prerequisites: jr st; C or better in PHYSICS 441(NP); or grad st.
Last Taught: Spring 2022.

PHYSICS 489 Internship in Physics, Upper Division
1-6 cr. Undergraduate.
Application of advanced principles of physics in a research, business, organizational, educational, political, or other appropriate setting.
Prerequisites: jr st; 300-level or above course in Physics; 2.25 gpa; cons supervising faculty member.
Course Rules: One cr earned for academic work based on 40 hrs in internship. May be retaken to 6 cr max.

PHYSICS 497 Study Abroad:
1-12 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Designed to enroll students in UWM sponsored program before course work level, content, and credits are determined and/or in specially prepared program course work.
Prerequisites: jr st; acceptance for Study Abroad Prog.
Course Rules: May be retaken w/chg in topic.
Last Taught: Fall 2014, Spring 1998.

PHYSICS 497G Study Abroad:
1-12 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Designed to enroll students in UWM sponsored program before course work level, content, and credits are determined and/or in specially prepared program course work.
Prerequisites: jr st; acceptance for Study Abroad Prog.
Course Rules: May be retaken w/chg in topic.
Last Taught: Fall 2014, Spring 1998.

PHYSICS 498 Undergraduate Physics Seminar
1 cr. Undergraduate.
Talks by faculty, visitors, and students on topics of current interest in physics, astronomy, and other science and engineering fields.
Prerequisites: sr st; Physics 411(C), 421(C), or 441(C).
Course Rules: Cr/no cr only.
Last Taught: Fall 2010, Spring 2010, Fall 2009, Spring 2009.

PHYSICS 499 Ad Hoc:
1-6 cr. Undergraduate.
Course created expressly for offering in a specified enrollment period. Requires only dept & assoc dean approval. In exceptional circumstances, can be offered in one add'l sem.
Prerequisites: jr st; add'l prereqs may be assigned to specific topic.
Course Rules: May be retaken w/chg in topic.
Last Taught: Spring 2013, Spring 2011, Spring 2007, Spring 2004.

PHYSICS 501 Special Topics: Mathematical Models of Physical Problems I
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Selected topics in mathematics for study of the techniques and procedures for stating physical problems in mathematical terms and the physical interpretation of mathematical solutions.
Prerequisites: jr st; Physics 210(P); Math 234(P).
Last Taught: Fall 2021.

PHYSICS 501G Special Topics: Mathematical Models of Physical Problems I
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Selected topics in mathematics for study of the techniques and procedures for stating physical problems in mathematical terms and the physical interpretation of mathematical solutions.
Prerequisites: jr st; Physics 210(P); Math 234(P).
Last Taught: Fall 2021.

PHYSICS 502 Special Topics: Mathematical Models of Physical Problems II
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
More selected topics in mathematical models.
Prerequisites: jr st; Physics 210(P); Math 234(P). Physics 501(R).
Last Taught: Spring 2007, Spring 2006.

PHYSICS 502G Special Topics: Mathematical Models of Physical Problems II
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
More selected topics in mathematical models.
Prerequisites: jr st; Physics 210(P); Math 234(P). Physics 501(R).
Last Taught: Spring 2007, Spring 2006.

PHYSICS 515 Statistical Mechanics
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Brief survey of thermodynamics; statistical mechanics; classical and quantum gases.
Prerequisites: jr st; Physics 317(P) & 441(P).
Last Taught: Spring 2022, Fall 2020.

PHYSICS 515G Statistical Mechanics
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Brief survey of thermodynamics; statistical mechanics; classical and quantum gases.
Prerequisites: jr st; Physics 317(P) & 441(P).
Last Taught: Spring 2022, Fall 2020.

PHYSICS 517 Special Relativity
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Relativistic kinematics, the Lorentz transformation, tensor calculus, applications to motion of particles, electromagnetism.
Prerequisites: jr st; Physics 411(R) & 421(R).
Last Taught: Fall 2017, Fall 2014.

PHYSICS 517G Special Relativity
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Relativistic kinematics, the Lorentz transformation, tensor calculus, applications to motion of particles, electromagnetism.
Prerequisites: jr st; Physics 411(R) & 421(R).
Last Taught: Fall 2017, Fall 2014.

PHYSICS 531 Principles of Quantum Mechanics I
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Vector and Hilbert spaces; Schroedinger equation in 1, 2, and 3 dimensions; systems of many particles; symmetries; angular momentum.
Prerequisites: jr st; Physics 441(P).
Last Taught: Fall 2021, Fall 2020.

PHYSICS 531G Principles of Quantum Mechanics I
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Vector and Hilbert spaces; Schroedinger equation in 1, 2, and 3 dimensions; systems of many particles; symmetries; angular momentum.
Prerequisites: jr st; Physics 441(P).
Last Taught: Fall 2021, Fall 2020.

PHYSICS 532 Principles of Quantum Mechanics II
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Continuation of 531. Spin; hydrogen atom; variational methods; WKB approximation; perturbation theory; scattering theory; Dirac equation.
Prerequisites: jr st; Physics 531(P).
Last Taught: Spring 2022, Spring 2021.

PHYSICS 532G Principles of Quantum Mechanics II
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Continuation of 531. Spin; hydrogen atom; variational methods; WKB approximation; perturbation theory; scattering theory; Dirac equation.
Prerequisites: jr st; Physics 531(P).
Last Taught: Spring 2022, Spring 2021.

PHYSICS 541 Elementary Particles
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Accelerators and detectors; special unitary groups; quark model of hadrons; Feynman diagrams; electromagnetic, weak and strong interactions of quarks and leptons; Higgs boson.
Prerequisites: jr st; Physics 441(P).
Last Taught: Fall 2011, Fall 2009.

PHYSICS 541G Elementary Particles
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Accelerators and detectors; special unitary groups; quark model of hadrons; Feynman diagrams; electromagnetic, weak and strong interactions of quarks and leptons; Higgs boson.
Prerequisites: jr st; Physics 441(P).
Last Taught: Fall 2011, Fall 2009.

PHYSICS 551 Introduction to Solid State Physics I
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Crystal structure, reciprocal lattice; crystal binding; elastic waves; phonons, lattice vibrations; thermal properties of insulators; free electron Fermi gas. Band structure; semiconductor crystals; Fermi surface.
Prerequisites: jr st; Physics 441(P) or cons instr.
Last Taught: Fall 2020, Fall 2018.

PHYSICS 551G Introduction to Solid State Physics I
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Crystal structure, reciprocal lattice; crystal binding; elastic waves; phonons, lattice vibrations; thermal properties of insulators; free electron Fermi gas. Band structure; semiconductor crystals; Fermi surface.
Prerequisites: jr st; Physics 441(P) or cons instr.
Last Taught: Fall 2020, Fall 2018.

PHYSICS 575 Vacuum Science and Technology
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Viscous and molecular flow, vacuum materials and seals, metal-to-ceramic seals, evaporation and vapor pressures, vacuum pumps, vacuum gauges, mass spectrographs, chemical reactions at surfaces, outgassing.
Prerequisites: jr st; Physics 441(P).
Last Taught: Spring 2011, Fall 2003.

PHYSICS 575G Vacuum Science and Technology
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Viscous and molecular flow, vacuum materials and seals, metal-to-ceramic seals, evaporation and vapor pressures, vacuum pumps, vacuum gauges, mass spectrographs, chemical reactions at surfaces, outgassing.
Prerequisites: jr st; Physics 441(P).
Last Taught: Spring 2011, Fall 2003.

PHYSICS 606 Molecular, Cellular, and System Biophysics
3 cr. Undergraduate.
Cell structure and the molecular basis of life. Molecular and cellular interactions. Supracellular organization, signaling, and communication. Selfsimilarity and cooperativity.
Prerequisites: jr st, Physics 210(P), & writ cons instr; or grad st.

PHYSICS 610 The Art and Science of Teaching Physics
1 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Participants critique lectures, videotapes of experienced teachers, each other; address conceptual problems facing beginning students; gain familiarity with demonstrations, classroom technology; discuss their own classes.
Prerequisites: appt as undergrad TA or grad st.
Last Taught: Fall 2021, Fall 2019.

PHYSICS 610G The Art and Science of Teaching Physics
1 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Participants critique lectures, videotapes of experienced teachers, each other; address conceptual problems facing beginning students; gain familiarity with demonstrations, classroom technology; discuss their own classes.
Prerequisites: appt as undergrad TA or grad st.
Last Taught: Fall 2021, Fall 2019.

PHYSICS 651 Introduction to Solid State Physics II
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Transport, superconductivity, dielectric properties, ferroelectric crystals, magnetism, magnetic resonance, optical phenomena in insulators, nanostructures, non-crystalline solids, point defects, alloys, dislocations.
Prerequisites: jr st; Physics 551(P).
Last Taught: Fall 2021, Spring 2019.

PHYSICS 651G Introduction to Solid State Physics II
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Transport, superconductivity, dielectric properties, ferroelectric crystals, magnetism, magnetic resonance, optical phenomena in insulators, nanostructures, non-crystalline solids, point defects, alloys, dislocations.
Prerequisites: jr st; Physics 551(P).
Last Taught: Fall 2021, Spring 2019.

PHYSICS 670 Electron Microscopy Laboratory
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Diffraction, imaging, and spectroscopy methods for study of morphology, crystallinity, and composition of solids in a transmission electron microscope.
Prerequisites: sr st; Physics 551(P) or cons instr.
Last Taught: Fall 2012, Fall 2009.

PHYSICS 670G Electron Microscopy Laboratory
3 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Diffraction, imaging, and spectroscopy methods for study of morphology, crystallinity, and composition of solids in a transmission electron microscope.
Prerequisites: sr st; Physics 551(P) or cons instr.
Last Taught: Fall 2012, Fall 2009.

PHYSICS 698 Research Experience for Teachers
1-6 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Enrichment of students' physics background. Work with faculty mentor to develop an innovative teaching program for use in students' own classroom.
Prerequisites: sr st; current teaching contract.
Course Rules: Open only to practicing science teachers with demonstrable expertise in physics. May be retaken to 9 cr max.
Last Taught: Summer 2010, Summer 2009.

PHYSICS 698G Research Experience for Teachers
1-6 cr. Undergraduate/Graduate.
Enrichment of students' physics background. Work with faculty mentor to develop an innovative teaching program for use in students' own classroom.
Prerequisites: sr st; current teaching contract.
Course Rules: Open only to practicing science teachers with demonstrable expertise in physics. May be retaken to 9 cr max.
Last Taught: Summer 2010, Summer 2009.

PHYSICS 699 Advanced Independent Reading
1-3 cr. Undergraduate.
Independent reading or research under supervision of faculty member. Study proposal required. For further information, consult dept chair or undergrad advising coord.
Prerequisites: jr st; 2.0 GPA; consent of instructor, department chair, and Assistant Dean for Student Academic Services.
Course Rules: May be retaken with change in topic to 6 cr max.
Last Taught: Summer 2018, Fall 2016, Summer 2015, Fall 2008.