PHYS

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

This course examines the origin, structure, and properties of our universe, galaxy, solar system, and Earth. Topics will include evolution of the universe, types of stars and galaxies, and gravitational properties of space, as well as an in-depth look at our solar system. Students analyze data to infer the characteristics of the universe, our solar system, an Attributes: P4 YLIB

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

This course is an introduction to our current understanding of the structure and evolution of stars and galaxies. Topics in cosmology are treated as time permits. Attributes: P4 YLIB

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

This course will provide students with the background necessary to study both the quantitative and qualitative aspects of sports science data analytics as well as the foundations of general linear regression and modeling of data. This is accomplished through various case studies, which will provide a contextual framework to study the mathematical content of t Attributes: DA YLIB 2025-2026 Catalog » Academic Programs » Undergraduate » School of Arts and Sciences » Physics

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

A course primarily for non-science majors. Topics to be covered: Compact disks, radio-carbon dating, electron microscope, medical imaging, energy, flat-panel displays, time and navigation, greenhouse effect, smart cards, and optical communication. The mathematical level is kept at a minimum. Applications and basic underlying principles are stressed. Attributes: P4 YLIB

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

A course primarily for non-science majors. Topics to be covered: Analogue (film) and digital cameras, Hubble space telescope, ozone and the atmosphere, high-definition television (HDTV), AM and FM radio transmission and reception, fax machines, Internet and the World Wide Web, engines, fuel cells, nanotechnology, physics of spaceflight, and physics of weather Attributes: P4 YLIB

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

An introduction to mechanics, waves, and heat. Includes the mechanics of fluids, kinetic theory of gases, and vibration and sound. Uses some calculus. Designed for students majoring in Biology. Note: Chemistry and Mathematics students are advised to take PHYS 131C, 132C. Must also register for lab section. Attributes: P4 YLIB

Subject

PHYS

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

An introduction to electricity and magnetism, optics, and atomic and nuclear physics. Includes some DC and AC circuits, optical instruments, the theory of the atom, and radioactivity. Uses some calculus. Designed for students majoring in Biology. Note: Chemistry and Mathematics students are advised to take PHYS 131C, 132C. Must also register for lab section. Attributes: P4 YLIB

Subject

PHYS

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

Prerequisite

PHYS-121C D-

An introduction to kinematics, dynamics, waves, fluid mechanics, sound, thermodynamics, and kinetic theory. Must also register for lab section. Attributes: P4 YLIB

Subject

PHYS

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

Prerequisite

MATH-120C Y D- OR MATH-120C TR

An introduction to electricity and magnetism, interference and diffraction of light, and some topics in quantum and atomic physics. Must also register for lab section. Attributes: P4 YLIB

Subject

PHYS

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

Prerequisite

MATH-122C Y D- AND PHYS-131C N D-

Statistics Requirement - 3 credits Choose ONE of the following:

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

4

Credits (max)

4

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

Biology Electives - 18 credits 18 additional biology credits, 15 of which must be at the 300-level or higher, excluding BIOL 490, 496, 498, Honors contracts, and Fisher Core courses. Mathematics Requirements - 3 credits

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

4

Credits (max)

4

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

The course will take a deeper study into electricity and magnetism, interference and diffraction of light, some topics in quantum and atomic physics, optics, and statistical physics in application-based contexts using the principles of calculus. The course will be taught in a workshop style to allow hands-on learning in each class meeting. Typically offered:

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

4

Credits (max)

4

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

This seminar will provide an overview of the SJF physics program and introduction to calculus based physics studies. Students will become more familiar with the breadth and depth of the field of physics with a focus on topics of growing importance to scientists today as well as the physics of everyday life. The personal characteristics, skills, and attitudes Attributes: YLIB

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

1

Credits (max)

1

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

Prerequisite

PHYS-141 D-

An elementary introduction to quantum mechanics, the wave function, and the Schrödinger equation. The course covers atomic and molecular structure, chemical bonding, and atomic and molecular spectroscopy. Attributes: YLIB

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

Prerequisite

MATH-122C Y D- AND PHYS-142 N D-

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

1

Credits (max)

1

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

This course covers statistical mechanics and quantum statistics (with applications), special relativity theory, nuclear physics, and elementary particles. Attributes: YLIB

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

4

Credits (max)

4

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

Prerequisite

PHYS-211 D- AND MATH-222 Y D-

A continuation of Physics 211L with emphasis on basic experiments which are interpreted in terms of the quantum theory. Attributes: YLIB

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

1

Credits (max)

1

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

Prerequisite

PHYS-212 Y D-

An introduction to linear circuits. Topics include: Ohm’s and Kirchhoff’s laws; Thevenin’s and Norton’s theorems; controlled sources; mesh and node analysis; superposition; operational amplifiers; energy storage elements; first and second order circuits; phasors; complex impedance; AC steady state analysis; power; the frequency spectrum and Fourier analysis; Attributes: YLIB

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

4

Credits (max)

4

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

Prerequisite

PHYS-132 D- AND MATH-122C D-

An introduction to semiconductor devices and applications. Devices include diodes, bipolar and field-effect transistors, and integrated circuits. Applications are to rectifiers and power supplies, transistor biasing and small signal models, low frequency amplifiers, feedback, and operational amplifiers. Attributes: YLIB

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

4

Credits (max)

4

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

Prerequisite

PHYS-221 D-

An intermediate course in statics, with emphasis on engineering applications. Covers equilibrium of a particle, equivalent force systems, equilibrium of a rigid body, structural analysis, friction, centroids, and moments of inertia for an area. Attributes: YLIB

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

Prerequisite

PHYS-132C D- AND MATH-221C Y D-

An introduction to the mechanics of solids with emphasis on engineering applications. Covers displacement, deformation, strain, stress, stress-strain relations, and elastic and inelastic materials. Includes extension, twisting, bending of bars, and deflection of beams. Attributes: YLIB

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

Prerequisite

PHYS-231 D-

PHYS elective - 300 or above level (3) Total: 19 credits *PHYS 121C or 131C if previously taken, may automatically substitute for PHYS 141 2025-2026 Catalog » Academic Programs » Undergraduate » School of Arts and Scienc

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

4

Credits (max)

4

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

0.5

Credits (max)

0.5

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

An intermediate course in classical mechanics, dealing with the motion of particles and rigid bodies in the Newtonian formulation. Includes an introduction to the Lagrangian mechanics and the theory of small vibrations. Typically offered:

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

This course will give students an introduction to the basic mechanical principles of human movement and exercise. Topics in kinematics and kinetics will be examined and applied to strength/conditioning, movement enhancement, as well as coaching and injury prevention and rehabilitation. Typically offered:

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

Introduction to the theory of optical instruments, with emphasis on systems of thin lenses. The course covers image formulation, the analysis and synthesis of optical systems, aberrations, and the principles of lens design. Attributes: YLIB

Subject

PHYS

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

Prerequisite

PHYS-132C D- AND MATH-222 D-

Introduction to the wave properties of light, including a discussion of the propagation of electromagnetic waves and interference. Fraunhofer and Frensel diffraction, and polarized light, contemporary optics, and quantum properties of radiation. Attributes: YLIB

Subject

PHYS

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

Prerequisite

PHYS-132C D- AND MATH-222 D-

The first of a two-semester sequence in applied mathematics for the physical sciences and engineering. The course content will be derived from the following list of topics: vector calculus; tensor analysis; functions of a complex variable; solutions of partial differential equations; eigenvalue problems; Fourier series; Laplace and Fourier transforms; calculu Cross-listed with MATH 333. Attributes: YLIB

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

Prerequisite

MATH-221C D- AND MATH-222 D-

Alias

MATH 333

A continuation of PHYS 333. Cross-listed with MATH 334. Attributes: YLIB

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

Prerequisite

PHYS-333 D- OR MATH-333 D-

Alias

MATH 334

Subject

PHYS

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

Maxwell’s equations are developed and applied to the reflection and refraction of plane waves, wave guides, resonant cavities, and radiation. Attributes: YLIB

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

Prerequisite

PHYS-341 D-

Experimental investigations are performed in a laboratory of optical phenomena such as reflection, refraction, diffraction and interference, lasers and coherence, and the use of instruments such as Michelson and Fabry-Perot interferometers. Three hours per week in the laboratory. Attributes: YLIB

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

1

Credits (max)

1

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

Prerequisite

MATH-221C D- AND MATH-222 D- AND PHYS-132C D-

Includes the following list of topics: statistical mechanics and thermodynamics, equilibrium between phases, quantum statistics of ideal gases, systems of interacting particles, and transport theory. Attributes: YLIB

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

Prerequisite

MATH-122C D- AND PHYS-142 D-

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

0.5

Credits (max)

0.5

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

This course provides the student with the opportunity to investigate specialized topics of either an experimental or a theoretical nature (e.g., lasers, general relativity, optical instruments). The program is designed to fit the student’s interests and may include any or all of the following activities: seminars, literature search, or experimentation. Completion of the Independent Study/Tutorial Authorization form is required. Attributes: YLIB

Subject

PHYS

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

Subject

PHYS

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

Additional Requirements - 9-12 credits Three Electives: 200-400 level PHYS (BIOL, CHEM, CSCI, MATH upon approval by department chair); at least one course must be 300 level or 400 level. Total: 54-57 credits *PHYS 121C or 131C if previously taken, may automatically substitute for PHYS 141; likewise, PHYS 122C or 132C if previously taken, may automatically substitute for PHYS 142. **Electives will be taught every other year on a rotating basis B.S. Inclusive Adolescence Education Dual Major/Concentration in Physics Students pursuing teaching certification in inclusive adolescence education (physics) may dual major in inclusive adolescence education and physics (B.A. or B.S degree requirements as listed above) or they may choose to complete a physics concentra

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

1

Credits (max)

1

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

PHYS elective - 200 or above level (3)

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

This course treats the one-electron atom in some detail, and it also covers the elements of angular momentum algebra, the Pauli theory of electron spin, and approximation methods. The elements of scattering theory and a brief introduction to relativistic quantum theory are included. Applications are made to atomic, nuclear, solid-state, and plasma physics. Attributes: YLIB

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu

Prerequisite

PHYS-451 D-

Research on an original problem in physics is carried out under the direction of a department faculty member. Training in research methods, use of the scientific literature, and evaluation of data are emphasized. A student may register for 1 to 4 credit hours in a given semester. At least once during the course of the project, the student will report orally o Typically offered:

Subject

PHYS

Type

course

Edition

2025-2026

Source

catalog.sjf.edu