Introductory & Gen. Ed. 

College Physics I and II (PHY 1001 & 1002). 4 credits each.  This is a year-long, two-course sequence that is designed to be a general physics introduction for students in chemistry, life sciences, or pre-health programs, as well as any students interested in understanding the physical world through mathematical laws while developing analytic reasoning and quantitative analysis skills.   The course does not use calculus, but requires familiarity with basic algebra and trigonometry.  There is a laboratory component in both semesters. 
Topics in the first semester include: kinematics, dynamics, Newton's Laws, circular motion, work and energy, linear momentum, rotational kinematics, simple harmonic motion, temperature and heat, waves and sound, and interference.  In the second semester (College Physics II), topics include:  electric forces and fields, electric potential, direct-current circuits, magnetic forces and fields, magnetic induction, electromagnetism, electromagnetic waves and light, geometrical and wave optics, and selected topics in modern physics (e.g. special relativity, atomic physics, or quantum physics).  These courses are offered every academic year and during summer session, but must be taken in sequence. 

University Physics I and II (PHY 1003 & 1004). 4 credits each. This is a year-long, two-course general physics sequence. It is designed to be an introductory survey for students intending to continue in the natural sciences and engineering, and to build skill in analytic reasoning and quantitative analysis as well as understanding of physics.  It is required for physics majors and minors.  The course uses calculus throughout; students who have not previously studied calculus must be enrolled in Calculus I during the first semester and in Calculus II during the second.  
In the first semester, topics include: kinematics in one, two and three dimensions, Newton's Laws and their applications, work and energy, system of particles and conservation of linear momentum, rotational kinematics and dynamics, angular momentum, oscillations, wave motion, superposition, heat and temperature, and thermodynamics.  Topics in the second semester (Physics II) include:   electrostatics, electric current and direct-current circuits, electrical conduction, magnetic field, magnetic induction, Maxwell's Equations and electromagnetic waves, geometrical optics, wave optics, and an introduction to modern physics that includes fundamental ideas in quantum mechanics and relativity.  These courses are offered every academic year, but must be taken in sequence.  Co-requisite for University Physics I:  Calculus I or equivalent.  Co-requisite for University Physics II:  Calculus II or equivalent. 

The Universe (PHY 1012).  3 credits.  A survey, designed for non-science students, of astronomy - our planet, our solar system, stars, galaxies, and the universe as a whole.  The course will cover the history and dynamics of the solar system; the structure, formation, and life cycle of stars, and the physical processes within them; the clustering of stars in galaxies and beyond; and a look at the origins and possible fates of the universe itself.  Students will be introduced to the fundamental laws of physics in an astronomical context, as well as the types of observation and deduction used by astronomers to construct theories.  Some high-school algebra required.  This course can be used to satisfy the College distribution requirement in science and Scientific Reasoning competency, but does not fulfill any physics requirements for science majors or medical school admission.  Offered most semesters.

Sound and Music (PHY 1016). 3 credits. This course is an introduction for non-scientists to the physical principles governing musical sound: how it is produced, transmitted and stored, and perceived by listeners. Topics covered will include the physics of vibration and its application to different types of instruments; sound quality and the harmonic series; basics of the science of hearing;  music recording and reproduction; and the propagation of sound waves. Some musical background may be helpful but is not required.  Basic mathematics (high-school algebra); can be used to satisfy the College distribution requirements in science and Scientific Reasoning competency, but does not fulfill any physics requirements for science majors or medical school admission.  Offered every spring. 

From Galileo to Einstein (PHY 1024).  3 credits.  This course is a historical survey for non-science majors of fundamental concepts in physics, concentrating especially on the contributions made by major figures such as Galileo, Newton, Faraday, Maxwell, Einstein, and Bohr.  The course emphasizes the logical and philosophical foundations of important discoveries and theories as well as their content and applications.  It also considers the nature of scientific theories in general and how they become accepted. Topics may include the laws of motion; momentum, energy, and heat; gravity and the solar system; electromagnetism; relativity; quantum mechanics. High-school algebra required; can be used to satisfy the College distribution requirements in science, but does not fulfill any physics requirements for science majors or medical school admission.  May be offered in the fall.

How Things Work (PHY 1030). 3 credits.  A look at the physics behind everyday life, at a level suited for non-science students.  We examine common household objects and machines (for example, bicycles, air conditioners, and microwave ovens) to discover how they operate, their history, and their relation to one another.  Underlying physical principles discussed in the course include mechanics and motion, fluid flow, heat, electricity, magnetism, light, and nuclear energy. Basic mathematics (high-school algebra); can be used to satisfy the College distribution requirement in science, but does not fulfill any physics requirements for science majors or medical school admission.  May be offered fall or spring.