6 sh

3 sh

Introduces the underlying physical principles of energy generation and consumption.  Topics include the atomic and subatomic structure of matter, forms of energy, energy conservation, thermodynamics, heat engines, electromagnetic induction, radioactivity, nuclear reactors, nuclear fusion, solar radiation, solar collectors, gravitational force, and tidal power.  Knowledge is achieved using scientific inquiry methods - conceptual understanding, laboratory exercises, and activities developing the skills for quantitative evaluation of processes.  Fulfills General Education Requirements.  

3 sh

Introduces what is traditionally called Newtonian Mechanics including one- and two-dimensional motion, Newton's Laws, momentum, energy, and circular and simple harmonic motion.  The course employs a laboratory-first, inquiry-oriented format that places emphasis on the investigation of problems in the physical world with the results of investigations being used to drive further instruction.  Fulfills General Education Requirements.  

PHYS105     ENGINEERING GRAPHICS

3 sh

Use and care of drawing instruments; proper weights and types of lines for clear-cut, and complete graphics representation; useful geometrical construction; lettering; freehand sketching, orthographic projection; auxiliary and sectional views; pictorial representation with emphasis on isometric drawing; dimensioning; true lengths and shapes.  Emphasis on practical application and development of the ability to think in three dimensions.  (Prior to fall 2005, course was 2.0 sh)

PHYS110     HOW THINGS WORK  

3 sh

The student is introduced to the current understanding of the physical universe in terms of fundamental principles of physics.  Basic concepts are studied and related to common phenomena and application found in everyday life as well as more exotic phenomena one may come across in the news or popular-science media.  In the laboratory component of this course, the student will gain hands-on experience with principles of physics and use of the scientific method.  Fulfills general education natural science requirement.

PHYS130     PHYSICS I  (f or s; 3/3)

4 sh

Introductory mechanics, heat and sound.  The mechanics of solids, liquids and gases; thermometry; calorimetry; heat transfer, the production and nature of sound waves, including musical sounds.  Fall semester each year, and Summer sessions of even years.  Prerequisite:  MATH113 or MATH135. Fulfills General Education Requirements.

PHYS131     PHYSICS II  (sp or s; 3/3)

4 sh

Introductory magnetism and electricity, reflection and refraction; optical instruments, spectra, and interference.  Spring semester each year, and Summer sessions of even years.  Prerequisite:  PHYS130 or permission of instructor. Fulfills General Education Requirements.

3 sh

3 sh

3 sh

PHYS170     INTERMEDIATE GENERAL PHYSICS I  (f; 3/3)

4 sh

An introduction to motion, sound, and heat employing the methods of calculus and vector analysis.  Co-requisite:  MATH141.

PHYS171     INTERMEDIATE GENERAL PHYSICS II  (s; 3/3)

4 sh

An introduction to electricity, magnetism and optics employing the methods of  calculus and vector analysis.  Co-requisite:  MATH142

PHYS250     HEAT  (alt f)

3 sh

An intermediate course in heat.  More intensive development of basic concepts and principles in the study of the properties of gases and in thermodynamics.  Temperature measurements, expansivity, specific heats, thermal conductivity of solids and liquids, thermal properties of gases, changes of phase, and heat engines.  Prerequisite:  PHYS130 or 170.

PHYS290     ELECTRONICS  (alt sp; 3/3)

4 sh

Introduces the analysis of linear electric circuits including nodal and mesh analysis, network theorems and their applications for direct-current circuits, transient circuits, and AC steady state analysis. Uses linear algebra, differential equations, and complex variables for circuit analysis. Incorporates the concept of building linear models for electronic components for the case of operational amplifiers and diodes. Develops practical skills for circuit simulation using computer software, assembling electronic circuits, and performing basic electrical measurements.  Prerequisite:  PHYS171

PHYS310     PHYSICS LABORATORY DEVELOPMENT AND SUPERVISION  (alt)

1-2 sh

Supervised experience in development and supervision of physics laboratory activities.  Will include opportunity to design, develop, and construct laboratory and demonstration apparatus in physics, and to conduct laboratory classes under direct supervision of a physics faculty member.  Offered by individualized instruction.  Prerequisite:  PHYS171 or permission of the instructor.

PHYS314     ATOMIC AND NUCLEAR PHYSICS WITHOUT LAB  (f; 3/0)

3 sh

PHYS315     MODERN PHYSICS (f; 3/3)

4 sh

An introduction to modern physics:  atomic structure and spectra, radiation, wave and particle aspects of matter, quantum theory, radioactive decay, nuclear reactions, nuclear structure, elementary particles.  Prerequisites:  PHYS131 or 171 and MATH243.

PHYS325     OPTICS  (alt f; 3/3)

4 sh

An intermediate course in optics.  Geometrical and physical optics, reflection and refraction at surfaces, lenses, interference and diffraction, elementary spectroscopy and polarization of light.  Applications to the study of optical instruments.  Prerequisites:  PHYS131 or 171 and MATH243.

3 sh

PHYS330     MECHANICS I  (s; 3/0)

3 sh

An intermediate course in Newtonian mechanics with emphasis on mathematical principles and methods.  Topics include vector calculus, statics, dynamics, momentum and energy conservation, oscillations, central force motion, and two dimensional rigid body dynamics.  Prerequisites:  PHYS171.

PHYS331     MECHANICS II  (f; 3/0)

3 sh

A continuation of Mechanics with an emphasis on the variational methods of Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formalisms.  Topics include generalized coordinates, symmetries, central forces, Euler's equations, normalized coordinates, strings and vibrations, and mechanics of rigid bodies in three dimensions. Prerequisite:  PHYS330.

PHYS345     MATHEMATICAL METHODS OF PHYSICS (s; 2/0)

2 sh

Introduces the mathematical techniques of theoretical physics.  This introduction will include the partial differential equations and boundary value problems associated with wave motion, the diffusion of heat and quantum mechanical probability, and electromagnetic potentials and fields.

PHYS350     QUANTUM MECHANICS  (alt sp; 3/0)

3 sh

An advanced undergraduate level introduction to the principles, formalism and results of quantum mechanics; including:  historical background, Schroedinger equations, particle in box, harmonic oscillator, one dimensional crystals, hydrogen atom, angular momentum, light, introduction to perturbation theory.  Prerequisites:  PHYS315 and MATH244.

PHYS370     ELECTRICITY AND MAGNETISM

3 sh

An intermediate course in electricity and magnetism focusing on Maxwell's equations and their properties.  The course will concentrate on the concepts associated with electromagnetic fields and will introduce the mathematics used for their description. Prerequisites:  PHYS171 and MATH142.

PHYS371     ELECTRODYNAMICS

3 sh

An exploration of electricity and magnetism that emphasizes fields within materials, electromagnetic radiation, and methods of solving static and dynamical problems.  Prerequisites:  PHYS370 and MATH244 and PHYS345. 

PHYS391     PROBLEMS IN PHYSICS  (f or sp)

1-4 sh

Independent study and research under the direction of the Physics staff.  For advanced students, who may register for the course more than once.  Each semester.   Prerequisite:  permission of instructor, Department chairperson, Dean of Arts and Science and Vice President for Academic Affairs.  (See regulations for Independent Study.)

PHYS431     ADVANCED PHYSICS LABORATORY  (alt sp)

2-3 sh

Experimental work drawn from an undergraduate foundation in physics including areas of current research.  Sophisticated experimental methods and analysis will be used, with emphasis on independence and individual initiative in the planning, execution, and presentation of research.  A student may repeat for credit.  Prerequisites:  PHYS315 and permission of the instructor. 

3 sh

Introduces physical science concepts such as harmonic motion, thermal expansion, electrical generation, energy, radiation, and basic nanotechnology in the context of important historical, scientific and technological advances as well as their impact on society. Fulfills General Education Requirements.    Secondary Education -Social Studies and Middle Level Science Education majors will be given preferential enrollment.

SCI201     INQUIRY INTO PHYSICAL SCIENCE  (f, sp, or s; 2/2)

3 sh

Provides a more adequate content background for teaching science in the elementary school.  Emphasis is on individual student activity involving the handling of everyday equipment and supplies.  Units cut across various fields of science including physics, chemistry, meteorology, and life science including fieldwork. Fulfills General Education Requirements.  

Introduces students to culture and mission of the university within the context of an academic discipline.  They explore the purpose of a college education and participate in activities related to their academic field.  College learning and study skills are introduced in the context of the content area.  Common activities and the incorporation of a peer mentor component facilitate connection with fellow students and faculty.

A hands-on, inquiry-based course centered on a broad range of topics in physics:  forces and motion, sound, light, electricity and magnetism, and energy.  The coursework concentrates on both the content and processes of science.  The laboratory-first, inquiry-oriented format places emphasis on the investigation of problems in the physical world with the results of investigations being used to drive further instruction.  Preferential enrollment will be given to pre K-6 education majors.  If space is available, others may enroll.

Develops a strong conceptual understanding of life science and stresses the nature and the processes of science as they relate to the fundamental principles of biology that are emphasized in the National Science Education Standards.  The course models hands-on, inquiry-based practices as students use reasoning, analysis, scientific processes, procedures and tools of scientific investigations to learn about the structure and function of organisms, continuity of life and ecological systems.  Preferential enrollment will be given to pre K-6 education majors.  If space is available, others may enroll.

The first course in a two-course science teaching and learning methods sequence for prospective teachers in all science disciplines.  Includes field experiences and practice teaching and is organized around the following topics:  nature of science, science learning, scientific inquiry, history of science education, national and state science standards, diverse learners, direct instruction, demonstrations, constructivism, classroom safety and the ethical treatment of animals, and professionalism.  Restrictions upon registration:  SCI209 is open to students preparing to teach secondary science who have successfully passed the PRAXIS I exams.  PSYC103 Adolescent Development and EDTF101 Social Foundations of Education are recommended prerequisites.  Based on PDE requirements, it is also recommended that students complete 6 sh each of English and mathematics prior to enrolling in SCI209.

The second course in a two-course science teaching and learning methods sequence for prospective science teachers. Includes numerous field experience, practice teaching and is organized around the problems of practice, with an emphasis on teaching science as inquiry, instructional strategies, curriculum planning, assessment, inquiry-empowering technologies, reading and writing across the curriculum, teaching students with special needs, and professionalism. Experiences with various methods and tools as learners will include content from physics including Electricity and Magnetism.   Restrictions upon registration:  PSYC103 and EDTF101 are recommended pre-requisites.  Students must have been granted candidacy to LHUP Teacher Education and satisfactorily presented their Developing Portfolio.

7/7 sh

Student teaching provides the capstone experience for preservice teachers.  Two student teaching experiences are provided at two levels (appropriate to certification areas and grade level ranges).  Supervised practice in classrooms with certified teachers introduces the student to all aspects of the teaching day.  University professors supervise the student teachers and conduct weekly practicum sessions.  Restrictions:  To register, a student must meet Pennsylvania State Teacher Education Guidelines in overall average and average in major, no courses less than a “C” in professional courses and a successful clinical field experience.  

The capstone experience for preservice teachers through two student teaching experiences at two levels (appropriate to certification areas and grade level ranges).  Supervised practice in classrooms with certified teachers and regular practicum sessions introduce the student to the range and scope of a professional educator's responsibilities.  Restrictions:  Students must meet Pennsylvania Department of Education requirements for teacher candidates in academic preparation and performance, discipline requirements for successful completion of the major course of study, and all requirements of early field experience.