PHYS

Subject

PHYS

Type

alias

Source

catalog.westminsteru.edu

This is a hands -on course where students build practical electronic devices and learn basic electronics and electric circuits. (WCore: WCSAM, QE, WCPNW)

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

4

Credits (max)

4

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026

Source

catalog.westminsteru.edu

This course will introduce students to the field of astronomy, starting with students reproducing the ancient insights into the motions of the sun, moon, planets, and stars, and continuing through new modern discoveries such as dark matter and extrasolar planets. Emphasis is placed on the physical properties of light and how it is used to observe the universe beyond our physical reach. Throughout the course, we will discuss the interaction of astronomy and culture, and what makes science different from other ways of knowing. (WCore: WCPNW, WCSAM, QE)

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

4

Credits (max)

4

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026

Source

catalog.westminsteru.edu

A one-year algebra and trigonometry-based introductory physics course using the workshop method. This method combines inquiry-based cooperative learning with the comprehensive use of computer tools for data acquisition, data analysis and mathematical modeling. Kinematics, Newton's Laws of motion, conservation laws (energy, linear momentum, and angular momentum), rotational motion, and oscillations are studied during the first semester. In the second semester, topics in electricity, magnetism, dc circuits, thermodynamics, and geometric optics are covered. Recommended for life science and pre-med students.

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

4

Credits (max)

4

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026

Source

catalog.westminsteru.edu

A one-year algebra and trigonometry-based introductory physics course using the workshop method. This method combines inquiry-based cooperative learning with the comprehensive use of computer tools for data acquisition, data analysis and mathematical modeling. Kinematics, Newtons Laws of motion, conservation laws (energy, linear momentum, and angular momentum), rotational motion, and oscillations are studied during the first semester. In the second semester, topics in electricity, magnetism, dc circuits, thermodynamics, and geometric optics are covered. Recommended for life science and pre-med students.

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

4

Credits (max)

4

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026

Source

catalog.westminsteru.edu

In this course, students will use robotic telescopes to take astronomical images, analyze the data in these images, and contribute their findings to an ongoing collaborative citizen science research project. Possible objects of study will vary depending on timing, but may include variable stars, eclipsing binaries, exoplanet transits, or asteroids. Students will also choose their own citizen science project in which to participate and share their project with others. Throughout the course, we will focus on the critical thinking skills and processes in scientific research, how the modern scientific enterprise operates, and how science is communicated to the public. (WCore:

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

3

Credits (max)

3

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026

Source

catalog.westminsteru.edu

A one-year calculus-based introductory physics course using the workshop method. This method combines inquiry-based cooperative learning with the comprehensive use of computer tools for data acquisition, data analysis and mathematical modeling. Kinematics, Newton's Laws of motion, conservation laws (energy, linear momentum, and angular momentum), rotational motion, and oscillations are studied during the first semester. In the second semester topics in electricity, magnetism, dc circuits, thermodynamics, and chaos dynamics are covered. Recommended for physical science, mathematics, computer science, and 3+2 engineering students and for biology majors preparing for graduate study. Three two-hour sessions per week.

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

4

Credits (max)

4

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026

Source

catalog.westminsteru.edu

The physics 211/212 sequence is a one-year calculus-based introductory physics course using the workshop method. This method combines inquiry-based cooperative learning with the comprehensive use of computer tools for data acquisition, data analysis and mathematical modeling. Kinematics, Newton's Laws of motion, conservation laws (energy, linear momentum, and angular momentum), rotational motion, and oscillations are studied during the first semester. In the second semester topics in electricity, magnetism, dc circuits, thermodynamics, and chaos dynamics are covered. Recommended for physical science, mathematics, computer science, and 3+2 engineering students and for biology majors preparing for graduate study. Three two-hour sessions per week.

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

4

Credits (max)

4

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026

Source

catalog.westminsteru.edu

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

4

Credits (max)

4

Type

course

Edition

2026–27 Academic Catalog

Catalog

2026–27 Academic Catalog

Source

catalog.westminsteru.edu

15

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

1

Credits (max)

1

Type

course

Edition

2026–27 Academic Catalog

Catalog

2026–27 Academic Catalog

Source

catalog.westminsteru.edu

Elementary concepts of modern physics. Topics include: special relativity, elementary quantum theory, atomic and molecular spectra, X-rays, introduction to solid state, nuclear and laser physics. The curriculum will be problem-based with an integrated lab.

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

4

Credits (max)

4

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026

Source

catalog.westminsteru.edu

This class is intended to give students a background in practical optics. Topics studied include lenses and mirrors, systems of lenses and mirrors and aberrations in lenses and mirrors, polarizers and filters, interference and diffraction. Ray diagrams and Fermat's Principle of least time are treated along with waves, and the electromagnetic basis for understanding polarization.

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

4

Credits (max)

4

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026

Source

catalog.westminsteru.edu

Specifically designed to introduce physical science students to the elements of mathematics that are useful in the upper division course work. This course is a prerequisite for most of the upper division physics classes and should be taken as early as possible.

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

4

Credits (max)

4

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026

Source

catalog.westminsteru.edu

Intermediate problems in Newtonian mechanics, system of particles, dynamics of rigid bodies, gravitation, moving coordinate systems, mechanics of continuous media, Lagrangian and Hamiltonian dynamics, and the theory of small vibrations.

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

4

Credits (max)

4

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026

Source

catalog.westminsteru.edu

A study of the principles underlying astrophysical phenomena such as solar system objects; stellar structure and evolution; galactic dynamics and cosmology.

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

4

Credits (max)

4

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026

Source

catalog.westminsteru.edu

This course provides students with experience applying programming techniques in Python to a wide range of scientific problems. Topics include a brief review of basic programming principles, and applications in equation solving, data analysis, and model simulation.

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

4

Credits (max)

4

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026

Source

catalog.westminsteru.edu

A tutorial-based course used only for student- initiated proposals for intensive individual study of topics not otherwise offered in the Physics Program. Requires senior standing and consent of instructor and school dean. This course is repeatable for credit.

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

1

Credits (max)

1

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026

Source

catalog.westminsteru.edu

A study of the basic principles of quantum mechanics and its application to atomic structure, molecular structure and spectroscopy. A laboratory section accompanies the lecture.

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

4

Credits (max)

4

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026

Source

catalog.westminsteru.edu

A study of the theoretical macroscopic properties of matter. An introduction to statistical mechanics, chemical thermodynamics and kinetics with applications to gases, solutions, and phase and chemical equilibria. A laboratory section accompanies the lecture.

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

4

Credits (max)

4

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026

Source

catalog.westminsteru.edu

Study of the mathematical fundamentals of quantum mechanics and its application to diverse non-chemical problems. Applications include quantization of problems, measurability, fundamental particles, scattering, operator algebra, representation theory, and more approximate methods.

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

4

Credits (max)

4

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026

Source

catalog.westminsteru.edu

Students undertake a portion of a research project and learn all aspects of scientific inquiry. One credit hour equates to three hours per week in the laboratory. This course may be taken one credit at a time.

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

1

Credits (max)

1

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026

Source

catalog.westminsteru.edu

Fundamental theories of electricity and magnetism from the viewpoint of fields. Topics include electrostatic fields, Laplace's and Poisson's equations, magnetic fields, Maxwell's equations, propagation of electromagnetic waves, and electromagnetic radiation.

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

4

Credits (max)

4

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026

Source

catalog.westminsteru.edu

Offers students the opportunity to integrate classroom knowledge with practical experience. Students will be graded on assigned coursework and evaluation by their site supervisor. completed at Westminster or permission of instructor), minimum 2.5 GPA, and consent of faculty advisor and Career Center internship coordinator. Interns will work for 42 hours per each registered credit. This course is repeatable for credit. Some majors limit how many internship credits may count towards the major, consult your faculty advisor. REGISTRATION NOTE: Registration for internships is initiated through the Career Center website and is finalized upon completion of required paperwork and approvals. More info: 801-832-2590 https://westminsteru.edu/student-life/career -center/internships.html

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

1

Credits (max)

1

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026

Source

catalog.westminsteru.edu

Prerequisite

60 college credits completed (for transfer students at least 15 hours

Offers students the opportunity to integrate classroom knowledge with practical experience. Students will be graded on assigned coursework and evaluation by their site supervisor. completed at Westminster or permission of instructor), minimum 2.5 GPA, and consent of faculty advisor and Career Center internship coordinator. Interns will work for 42 hours per each registered credit. This course is repeatable for credit. Some majors limit how many internship credits may count towards the major, consult your faculty advisor. REGISTRATION NOTE: Registration for internships is initiated through the Career Center website and is finalized upon completion of required paperwork and approvals. More info: 801-832-2590 https://westminsteru.edu/student-life/career -center/internships.html

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

1

Credits (max)

1

Credit unit

Credits

Type

course

Edition

2026

Source

catalog.westminsteru.edu

Prerequisite

60 college credits completed (for transfer students at least 15 hours

Provides an opportunity for teaching experience in lower-division lower-division laboratories by junior-and senior- level Physics majors. PHYS 487 may not be used as elective hours in the Physics majors or minors. This course is graded Credit/No Credit. Prerequisite: consent of program director. ©

Subject

PHYS

Credits (min)

1

Credits (max)

1

Credit unit

Credit

Type

course

Edition

2026

Source

catalog.westminsteru.edu