Physics Courses
Please note that the frequency of course offerings below is subject to change without notice, because of changes in faculty availability, sabbaticals and leaves, and other circumstances. Please consult the latest Schedule of Classes (and supplement), myBerea, revisions to online Catalog & Student Handbook, and/or the Program Coordinator to determine if a course will be offered during a certain term or year, especially if Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) is a factor.
PHY 111
Introduction to Astronomy
Prerequisite: Completion or waiver of MAT 012
Offered: Typically every Fall Term
This course will explore topics in modern astronomy, including the formation of the solar system, the lives and deaths of stars, the structure of the galaxy, and the origin and evolution of the universe. Both lecture and lab will emphasize a hands-on approach to understanding the underlying physical principles that govern astronomy. Three one-hour lecture periods and one two-hour laboratory each week. Practical Reasoning with Quantitative Emphasis (PRQ) and Natural Science Laboratory Course. Course Fee: $20. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically every Fall Term
This course will explore topics in modern astronomy, including the formation of the solar system, the lives and deaths of stars, the structure of the galaxy, and the origin and evolution of the universe. Both lecture and lab will emphasize a hands-on approach to understanding the underlying physical principles that govern astronomy. Three one-hour lecture periods and one two-hour laboratory each week. Practical Reasoning with Quantitative Emphasis (PRQ) and Natural Science Laboratory Course. Course Fee: $20. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
PHY 122
Into to Weather(Meterorolgy)
Prerequisites: None
Summer Course Only
Course Description: The emphasis in this course will be on principles and concepts rather than on mathematical problem soving, so some science background is useful but not necessary. The course is organized into lectures and laboratory sessions. The earlier lectures will cover the fundamentals of wind, water, and heat, and the later lectures will show how they interact to produce the major types of `bad' weather: frontal storms, thunderstorms, tornadoes, and hurricanes. There will also be lectures explaining the atmospheric light show ' sunsets, rainbows, halos, auroras, etc., and a discussion of global climate change. The corresponding laboratory sessions will cover topics that are better appreciated with a `hands-on' approach: buoyancy, sun-earth relationships, weather map interpretation, and weather forecasting. The course will culminate with some real-time 24-hour forecasts for Lexington (and other cities) to compete with the local professionals!
Summer Course Only
Course Description: The emphasis in this course will be on principles and concepts rather than on mathematical problem soving, so some science background is useful but not necessary. The course is organized into lectures and laboratory sessions. The earlier lectures will cover the fundamentals of wind, water, and heat, and the later lectures will show how they interact to produce the major types of `bad' weather: frontal storms, thunderstorms, tornadoes, and hurricanes. There will also be lectures explaining the atmospheric light show ' sunsets, rainbows, halos, auroras, etc., and a discussion of global climate change. The corresponding laboratory sessions will cover topics that are better appreciated with a `hands-on' approach: buoyancy, sun-earth relationships, weather map interpretation, and weather forecasting. The course will culminate with some real-time 24-hour forecasts for Lexington (and other cities) to compete with the local professionals!
1 Course Credit
PHY 186
Special Topics
Prerequisites: Determined by course instructor
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes." NOTE: Studies in a specialized area of instructor’s and student’s interest, such as solid-state physics, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, optics, radiation physics, etc. Laboratory and discussion sessions will be stressed, with students largely responsible for the progress of the course.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes." NOTE: Studies in a specialized area of instructor’s and student’s interest, such as solid-state physics, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, optics, radiation physics, etc. Laboratory and discussion sessions will be stressed, with students largely responsible for the progress of the course.
1/2 to 1 Course Credit
PHY 217
General Physics I with Algebra
Prerequisite: Completion or waiver of MAT 115 (or concurrent enrollment)
Offered: Typically every Fall Term
First half of a two-course sequence stressing the basic concepts of physics and problem solving, suitable for the student intending to major in the physical sciences, as well as for students in the life sciences and arts who seek a liberal-arts course in classical and modern physics. Topics include Newtonian Mechanics, rotational motion, equilibrium, and fluids. Three one-hour periods each week and one two-hour laboratory each week. Natural Science Laboratory Course. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically every Fall Term
First half of a two-course sequence stressing the basic concepts of physics and problem solving, suitable for the student intending to major in the physical sciences, as well as for students in the life sciences and arts who seek a liberal-arts course in classical and modern physics. Topics include Newtonian Mechanics, rotational motion, equilibrium, and fluids. Three one-hour periods each week and one two-hour laboratory each week. Natural Science Laboratory Course. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
PHY 218
Gen Physics II with Algebra
Prerequisite: PHY 217; completion or waiver of MAT 125 (or concurrent enrollment); OR permission of instructor
Offered: Typically every Spring Term
Second half of the introductory physics sequence. Topics include oscillations and waves, electricity & magnetism, electric circuits, light and optics, and modern physics. Three one-hour periods each week plus one two-hour period for discussion or laboratory work, where appropriate. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically every Spring Term
Second half of the introductory physics sequence. Topics include oscillations and waves, electricity & magnetism, electric circuits, light and optics, and modern physics. Three one-hour periods each week plus one two-hour period for discussion or laboratory work, where appropriate. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
PHY 225
Math Methods in Physics I
Prerequisites: MAT 125 (or waiver), or concurrent enrollment OR permission of instructor
Offered: Typically every Fall Term
This course stresses applications of Mathematical methods and techniques to Physics that are needed in the physical sciences and engineering. Topics generally include: simple functions of applied math, quadratic and higher-power equations, simultaneous equations, matrices, determinants, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, geometry, vectors, complex numbers, series and approximations, differential operators, and simple integration. Four hours of lectures each week. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically every Fall Term
This course stresses applications of Mathematical methods and techniques to Physics that are needed in the physical sciences and engineering. Topics generally include: simple functions of applied math, quadratic and higher-power equations, simultaneous equations, matrices, determinants, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, geometry, vectors, complex numbers, series and approximations, differential operators, and simple integration. Four hours of lectures each week. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
PHY 286
Special Topics
Prerequisites: Determined by course instructor
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes." NOTE: Studies in a specialized area of instructor’s and student’s interest, such as solid-state physics, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, optics, radiation physics, etc. Laboratory and discussion sessions will be stressed, with students largely responsible for the progress of the course.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes." NOTE: Studies in a specialized area of instructor’s and student’s interest, such as solid-state physics, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, optics, radiation physics, etc. Laboratory and discussion sessions will be stressed, with students largely responsible for the progress of the course.
1/2 to 1 Course Credit
PHY 315
Intro Physics I with Calculus
Prerequisite: MAT 135 (or waiver) or concurrent enrollment
Offered: Typically every Spring Term
This is the first half of a two-course sequence in classical physics with calculus. The focus of the first term is classical mechanics, with emphasis on the relationship between force, motion, and energy. Topics to be covered include kinematics, Newtonian dynamics, gravitation, conservation of momentum and energy, and rotational motion. Three one-hour lectures and one two-hour laboratory each week. Natural Science Laboratory Course. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically every Spring Term
This is the first half of a two-course sequence in classical physics with calculus. The focus of the first term is classical mechanics, with emphasis on the relationship between force, motion, and energy. Topics to be covered include kinematics, Newtonian dynamics, gravitation, conservation of momentum and energy, and rotational motion. Three one-hour lectures and one two-hour laboratory each week. Natural Science Laboratory Course. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
PHY 316
Intro Physics II with Calculus
Prerequisites: PHY 315 and MAT 225, or concurrent enrollment
Offered: Typically every Fall Term
A continuation of the introductory sequence in classical physics with calculus. The second term will focus on the phenomena of electromagnetism and waves. Topics include wave motion and interference, electrostatics, electric and magnetic fields, fundamentals of DC circuits, and electromagnetism. Three one-hour lectures and one two-hour laboratory each week. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically every Fall Term
A continuation of the introductory sequence in classical physics with calculus. The second term will focus on the phenomena of electromagnetism and waves. Topics include wave motion and interference, electrostatics, electric and magnetic fields, fundamentals of DC circuits, and electromagnetism. Three one-hour lectures and one two-hour laboratory each week. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
PHY 320
Modern Physics
Prerequisites: PHY 316 and MAT 135 (or waiver); OR permission of instructor
Offered: Typically every spring term
This course provides an introduction to topics in 20th century physics including relativity, introductory quantum mechanics, and atomic and nuclear physics. Other topics of interest may be covered as time allows. Three one-hour lectures and one two-hour laboratory session each week. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically every spring term
This course provides an introduction to topics in 20th century physics including relativity, introductory quantum mechanics, and atomic and nuclear physics. Other topics of interest may be covered as time allows. Three one-hour lectures and one two-hour laboratory session each week. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
PHY 330
Mathematical Method Physics II
Prerequisites: PHY 225 (formerly PHY 325) and MAT 225; OR permission of instructor
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Spring 2014)
A course of applied mathematics and techniques often required in physics. Topics may vary, but will generally include partial differential equations and boundary value problems, Fourier analysis and integral transforms, complex integration, group representations, matrices, and determinants. Four hours of lectures each week. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Spring 2014)
A course of applied mathematics and techniques often required in physics. Topics may vary, but will generally include partial differential equations and boundary value problems, Fourier analysis and integral transforms, complex integration, group representations, matrices, and determinants. Four hours of lectures each week. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
PHY 335
Physical Optics
Prerequisites: PHY 316 or permission of instructor; AND MAT 225
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
The wave nature of light is presented and optical phenomena explained in terms of the model. Modern topics in optics revolving around the laser are included. Three one-hour lectures and one two-hour laboratory session each week. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
The wave nature of light is presented and optical phenomena explained in terms of the model. Modern topics in optics revolving around the laser are included. Three one-hour lectures and one two-hour laboratory session each week. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
PHY 341
Advanced General Laboratory
Prerequisite: PHY 316
Offered: Typically alternate years. (Next offered Fall 2013)
A laboratory course designed to give the student hands-on experience with important experimental techniques in modern physics. Topics may include vacuum systems; electronic design; experiments in contemporary physics; and independent research projects. One three-hour laboratory session each week. May be repeated for credit for sequential or differing learning experiences. 1/2 Course Credit
Offered: Typically alternate years. (Next offered Fall 2013)
A laboratory course designed to give the student hands-on experience with important experimental techniques in modern physics. Topics may include vacuum systems; electronic design; experiments in contemporary physics; and independent research projects. One three-hour laboratory session each week. May be repeated for credit for sequential or differing learning experiences. 1/2 Course Credit
1/2 Course Credit
PHY 365
Thermal Physics
Prerequisites: PHY 315 and MAT 225; OR permission of instructor
Offered: Typically alternate years (offered Fall 2012)
An intermediate course covering classical thermodynamics and the methods of statistical mechanics. Topics covered include the first and second laws of thermodynamics with applications, statistical theory of entropy, and classical and quantum ensembles. Four one-hour lectures each week. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically alternate years (offered Fall 2012)
An intermediate course covering classical thermodynamics and the methods of statistical mechanics. Topics covered include the first and second laws of thermodynamics with applications, statistical theory of entropy, and classical and quantum ensembles. Four one-hour lectures each week. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
PHY 386
Special Topics
Prerequisites: Determined by course instructor
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes." NOTE: Studies in a specialized area of instructor’s and student’s interest, such as solid-state physics, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, optics, radiation physics, etc. Laboratory and discussion sessions will be stressed, with students largely responsible for the progress of the course.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes." NOTE: Studies in a specialized area of instructor’s and student’s interest, such as solid-state physics, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, optics, radiation physics, etc. Laboratory and discussion sessions will be stressed, with students largely responsible for the progress of the course.
1/2 to 1 Course Credit
PHY 390A
Independent Study
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 390; senior standing for 490
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
1 Course Credit
PHY 390B
Independent Study w/o ALE
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 390; senior standing for 490
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
1 Course Credit
PHY 395
Internship
Prerequisite: Sophomore, junior, or senior standing
Offered: Typically every term
An experiential learning experience individually designed for students with a special academic interest requiring integration of classroom learning with practical experience. Includes on-campus seminars with academic sponsors, as well as non-classroom experience. One to 3 course credits in one regular term; 1.5 course credits in Summer One Term; or 1 to 2 course credits in Summer Two Term may be taken in Internships. Requires the approval of two faculty sponsors and the Program assumes the responsibility for determining credit allowance. The Coordinator of Internships gives final approval for Internship proposals. All Internships meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) requirement.
Offered: Typically every term
An experiential learning experience individually designed for students with a special academic interest requiring integration of classroom learning with practical experience. Includes on-campus seminars with academic sponsors, as well as non-classroom experience. One to 3 course credits in one regular term; 1.5 course credits in Summer One Term; or 1 to 2 course credits in Summer Two Term may be taken in Internships. Requires the approval of two faculty sponsors and the Program assumes the responsibility for determining credit allowance. The Coordinator of Internships gives final approval for Internship proposals. All Internships meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) requirement.
1 to 3 Course Credits
PHY 397A
Team Initiated Study
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 397; senior standing for 497
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
1 Course Credit
PHY 397B
Team Initiated Study w/o ALE
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 397; senior standing for 497
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
1 Course Credit
PHY 398
Directed Study
Prerequisites: Will vary, but always will include permission of instructor
Offered: Typically on a limited basis as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course organized and directed by faculty and approved by the Program Director or Department Chairperson to meet the particular interests and/or needs of specific students.
Offered: Typically on a limited basis as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course organized and directed by faculty and approved by the Program Director or Department Chairperson to meet the particular interests and/or needs of specific students.
1 Course Credit
PHY 460
Electromagnetic Theory
Prerequisites: PHY 316 and MAT 330; OR permission of instructor
Offered: Typically alternate Spring Terms (next offered Spring 2013)
An introduction to the fundamentals of classical electricity and magnetism and electromagnetic waves. Emphasizing vector analysis and the laws of Coulomb, Faraday, and Ampere, leading to the development of Maxwell's Theory. Four one-hour lectures each week. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically alternate Spring Terms (next offered Spring 2013)
An introduction to the fundamentals of classical electricity and magnetism and electromagnetic waves. Emphasizing vector analysis and the laws of Coulomb, Faraday, and Ampere, leading to the development of Maxwell's Theory. Four one-hour lectures each week. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
PHY 481
Classical Mechanics
Prerequisites: PHY 315 and MAT 330
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Fall 2013)
A course covering topics in Newtonian and Lagrangian Mechanics. Topics include rectilinear motion, oscillations, three-dimensional motion, central forces, generalized coordinates and momenta, and Lagrange multipliers. Four one-hour lectures each week. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Fall 2013)
A course covering topics in Newtonian and Lagrangian Mechanics. Topics include rectilinear motion, oscillations, three-dimensional motion, central forces, generalized coordinates and momenta, and Lagrange multipliers. Four one-hour lectures each week. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
PHY 482
Quantum Physics
Prerequisites: PHY 320 and 481; OR permission of instructor
Offered: Typically alternate Spring Terms (next offered Spring 2014)
An intermediate course in quantum mechanics, with applications. Topics include Schrödinger's equation, particle in a box, the harmonic oscillator, the hydrogen atom, perturbation theory, and the WKB approximation. Four one-hour lectures each week. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically alternate Spring Terms (next offered Spring 2014)
An intermediate course in quantum mechanics, with applications. Topics include Schrödinger's equation, particle in a box, the harmonic oscillator, the hydrogen atom, perturbation theory, and the WKB approximation. Four one-hour lectures each week. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
PHY 485
Intro to Solid State Physics
Prerequisites: PHY 315, 316, and 320; OR permission of instructor
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
This course provides an introduction to the area of solid-state physics. Topics to be covered include crystal structure; diffraction of waves by crystals; thermal properties of solids; dielectric properties of solids; free electron model of metals; band theory; magnetism and magnetic resonance; and superconductivity. Four one-hour lectures each week. 1 Course Credit
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
This course provides an introduction to the area of solid-state physics. Topics to be covered include crystal structure; diffraction of waves by crystals; thermal properties of solids; dielectric properties of solids; free electron model of metals; band theory; magnetism and magnetic resonance; and superconductivity. Four one-hour lectures each week. 1 Course Credit
1 Course Credit
PHY 486
Special Topics
Prerequisites: Determined by course instructor
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes." NOTE: Studies in a specialized area of instructor’s and student’s interest, such as solid-state physics, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, optics, radiation physics, etc. Laboratory and discussion sessions will be stressed, with students largely responsible for the progress of the course.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes." NOTE: Studies in a specialized area of instructor’s and student’s interest, such as solid-state physics, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, optics, radiation physics, etc. Laboratory and discussion sessions will be stressed, with students largely responsible for the progress of the course.
1/2 to 1 Course Credit
PHY 490A
Independent Study
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 390; senior standing for 490
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
1 Course Credit
PHY 490B
Independent Study w/o ALE
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 390; senior standing for 490
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
1 Course Credit
PHY 492
Physics Seminar
Prerequisite: Senior standing or permission of instructor
Offered: Typically Fall and Spring terms
A course centered around readings, experiments, and research on topics in physics approved by program faculty. The seminar emphasizes independent research conducted under the guidance of a faculty member, leading to a substantive research paper and presentation of research results to faculty and students in the program. Normally taken in the senior year, it is open to other advanced students with permission. 1/2 Course Credit
Offered: Typically Fall and Spring terms
A course centered around readings, experiments, and research on topics in physics approved by program faculty. The seminar emphasizes independent research conducted under the guidance of a faculty member, leading to a substantive research paper and presentation of research results to faculty and students in the program. Normally taken in the senior year, it is open to other advanced students with permission. 1/2 Course Credit
1/2 Course Credit
PHY 495
Internship
Prerequisite: Sophomore, junior, or senior standing
Offered: Typically every term
An experiential learning experience individually designed for students with a special academic interest requiring integration of classroom learning with practical experience. Includes on-campus seminars with academic sponsors, as well as non-classroom experience. One to 3 course credits in one regular term; 1.5 course credits in Summer One Term; or 1 to 2 course credits in Summer Two Term may be taken in Internships. Requires the approval of two faculty sponsors and the Program assumes the responsibility for determining credit allowance. The Coordinator of Internships gives final approval for Internship proposals. All Internships meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) requirement.
Offered: Typically every term
An experiential learning experience individually designed for students with a special academic interest requiring integration of classroom learning with practical experience. Includes on-campus seminars with academic sponsors, as well as non-classroom experience. One to 3 course credits in one regular term; 1.5 course credits in Summer One Term; or 1 to 2 course credits in Summer Two Term may be taken in Internships. Requires the approval of two faculty sponsors and the Program assumes the responsibility for determining credit allowance. The Coordinator of Internships gives final approval for Internship proposals. All Internships meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) requirement.
1 to 3 Course Credits
PHY 497A
Team Initiated Study
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 397; senior standing for 497
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
1 Course Credit
PHY 497B
Team Initiated Study w/o ALE
Prerequisite: Sophomore or junior standing for 397; senior standing for 497
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
1 Course Credit
PHY 498
Directed Study
Prerequisites: Will vary, but always will include permission of instructor
Offered: Typically on a limited basis as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course organized and directed by faculty and approved by the Program Director or Department Chairperson to meet the particular interests and/or needs of specific students.
Offered: Typically on a limited basis as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course organized and directed by faculty and approved by the Program Director or Department Chairperson to meet the particular interests and/or needs of specific students.
1 Course Credit
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This online publication is the official text of the Berea College Catalog & Student Handbook. Berea College reserves the right to amend, revise, or modify content within this publication at any time.
