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Rensselaer Catalog 2018-2019 [Archived Catalog]
Courses
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MTLE 4720 - Applied Mathematical Methods in Materials
Students apply mathematical and numerical techniques to understand materials engineering topics such as materials structure, symmetry, diffusion, mechanics, and physics of solids. Class uses examples from materials science and engineering core courses to introduce mathematical concepts and materials-related problem solving skills. Topics include linear algebra, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, quadratic forms, tensor operations, symmetry operations, calculus of several variables, ordinary and partial differential equations, Fourier analysis, integral transformations, numerical methods, and calculus of variations.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: MATH 2400 and access to Mathematica.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Cross Listed: BMED 4720.
Credit Hours: 3
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MTLE 4910 - Materials Selection
This class covers basic materials selection concepts and the underlying structure-property-process-performance interaction. Engineering materials, structures and properties, principles and process of materials selection, generation of materials performances indices, assessment and optimization of performance, processing routes and manufacturing issues, role of reverse engineering and failure analysis in design are covered. Materials selection against yielding, fracture, flexure, buckling, fatigue, creep, corrosion, and wear are addressed. Decomposition of engineering problems into functional, geometric, and materials constraints are emphasized. Materials selection based on simple and complex or conflicting constraints will be developed. Students will perform written assignments and oral presentations to develop communication skills. Enrollment for Materials Science and Engineering majors is restricted to juniors, seniors, or graduates.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisites: CHEM 1100 and ENGR 1600.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Credit Hours: 3
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MTLE 4920 - Multidisciplinary Capstone Design
A capstone design experience that engages students from biomedical, computer systems, electrical, industrial, materials, and mechanical engineering on teams in an open-ended engineering design problem in preparation for professional practice. With the guidance of a multidisciplinary team of faculty members and instructional support staff, students apply knowledge and skills from prior coursework. This is a communication-intensive course.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: ENGR 2050, MTLE 4910 and senior status.
When Offered: Spring and fall terms annually.
Cross Listed: Cross listed as ECSE 4900, ISYE 4270, and MANE 4260. Students cannot obtain credit for this course and ECSE 4900, ISYE 4270, MANE 4260.
Credit Hours: 3
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MTLE 4960 - Topics in Materials Engineering
Credit Hours: 3
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MTLE 6010 - Defects in Solids
Point defects, nonstoichiometry, diffusion and defects, electronic defects, elastic properties of dislocations, dislocation-point defect interactions, dislocation arrays, grain boundaries, stacking faults, phase stability, twin boundaries, epitaxial interfaces.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: MTLE 2100 or equivalent.
When Offered: Upon availability of instructor.
Credit Hours: 3
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MTLE 6030 - Advanced Thermodynamics
Review of classical thermodynamics. Development of basic concepts of statistical thermodynamics. Application of both classical and statistical techniques to the determination of phase and chemical equilibrium in real systems.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: MTLE 4100 or equivalent.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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MTLE 6040 - Principles of Crystallography and X-Ray Diffraction
Symmetry operations, point groups and space groups, x-ray and electron diffraction techniques, reciprocal lattice, Ewald sphere, mathematics of diffraction, crystal chemistry, crystal structure-property relationships.
When Offered: Upon availability of instructor.
Credit Hours: 3
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MTLE 6050 - Introduction to Polymers
Introduction to Polymers is a first course on polymer science and structure-property relationships. Topics include chemical and molecular structure; morphology (structure) of amorphous and crystalline polymers; crystallization phenomena; polymer solutions and blends; physical properties of polymers in relation to structure, including rubber elasticity, viscoelasticity, and glass transition; and mechanical and rheological properties and testing.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: There are no prerequisites for this course. This is a companion course to CHEM 4620 Introduction to Polymer Chemistry.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Cross Listed: MTLE 4050.
Credit Hours: 3
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MTLE 6060 - Advanced Kinetics of Materials Reactions
Diffusion and phase transformations: solutions to the diffusion equation, moving boundaries, concentration-dependent diffusion coefficient, interdiffusion, nucleation, crystal growth from the vapor and solution, solidification. Precipitation: general, cellular, and G-P zones. Allotropic and martensitic transformations. Grain growth. Sintering.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: MTLE 4100 or MTLE 6030 or equivalent.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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MTLE 6080 - Electron Microscopy of Materials
Introduction to electron optics, electron diffraction contrast mechanisms, specimen preparation, and microanalysis. Theory and operating fundamentals of the SEM, TEM, STEM, and the electron microprobe. Analysis of images from crystalline materials using kinematical and dynamical theories of electron diffraction. Includes laboratory component.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: MTLE 2100 or MTLE 6040.
When Offered: Upon availability of instructor.
Credit Hours: 3
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MTLE 6110 - Diffusion in Solids
The diffusion process in metals and alloys. Solution to Fick’s law. Self-diffusion. Effect of temperature upon diffusion. Grain boundary and surface diffusion. Solution and diffusion of gases in metals. Diffusion in carburizing, the austenite transformation, powder metallurgy, and the scaling of metals and alloys.
When Offered: Upon availability of instructor.
Credit Hours: 3
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MTLE 6120 - Advanced Electronic Properties of Materials
Review of essential electromagnetic theory and quantum mechanics, including exact models and approximate methods. Application to behavior of electrons in solids including electronic band structure, charge carrier statistics and charge transport in metals, semiconductors, and insulators. Dielectric, optical, and magnetic properties. Solid-vacuum, solid-liquid and solid-solid interfaces. Applications to semiconductor, optoelectronic, and magnetic devices.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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MTLE 6150 - Fracture of Solids
Review of elasticity and plasticity theory. Calculation of theoretical cohesive strength of crystalline solids; influence of stress concentrations on fracture strength. Fractography. Theory and applications of linear elastic fracture mechanics. Fracture testing. Elastic-plastic fracture mechanics. Dislocation theories of cleavage fracture. Phenomenology and theories of stress corrosion cracking, creep rupture, fatigue.
When Offered: Upon availability of instructor.
Credit Hours: 3
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MTLE 6220 - Advanced Semiconducting Materials and Processing
Discussion of selected advanced and emerging topics in microelectronics materials and fabrication. These may include metallization, thin film deposition, interconnection technology, microlithography, plasma etching and processing.
When Offered: Upon availability of instructor.
Credit Hours: 3
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MTLE 6250 - Advanced Mechanical Properties of Materials
The phenomenological, mechanistic, and micro-structural aspects of the mechanical properties of materials are developed, with particular emphasis on the similarities and differences among various material systems including metals, ceramics, and polymers. Phenomenological aspects of the three-dimensional characteristics of stress and strain, various yield criteria, elastic behavior, viscoelastic behavior, plastic behavior, statistical aspects of brittle fracture and fracture mechanics are presented. Mechanistic and micro-structural topics include edge and screw dislocation behavior, slip systems, critical resolved shear stress, dislocation multiplication and interactions, barriers to motion, polymer chain conformation and entropy.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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MTLE 6300 - Integrated Circuit Fabrication Laboratory
Theory and practice of IC fabrication in a research laboratory environment. Test chips are fabricated and the resulting devices and circuits evaluated. Processes and fabrication equipment studied and used include oxidation/diffusion, CVD reactors, photolithography, plasma etching, vacuum evaporator, ion implantation, etc. Instruments used in process monitoring and final testing include thin film profilometer, ellipsometer, resistivity probe, scanning electron microscope, capacitance-voltage system, etc. The fundamentals of hazardous material handling and clean room procedures are studied.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: ECSE 4250 or equivalent.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Cross Listed: Cross listed as ECSE 6300. Students cannot obtain credit for both this course and ECSE 6300.
Credit Hours: 3
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MTLE 6400 - Vacuum Techniques
Principles and practice of producing, measuring, and using pressures from atmospheric down to 10-15 atmospheres. Gas kinetics and flow of gases at low pressures. Basic vacuum system calculations. System design and leak detection. Physical and chemisorption of gases. Generation of clean surfaces and study of reactions on them.
When Offered: Upon availability of instructor.
Credit Hours: 3
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MTLE 6420 - Surface Phenomena
The thermodynamics and reactivity of surfaces. Classical thermodynamics of surfaces. Atomistic models of the crystal surfaces. Electron diffraction from surface layers. Surface diffusion. Physical and chemisorption of gases, chemical reactions at surfaces. Nucleation of surface and bulk phases.
When Offered: Upon availability of instructor.
Credit Hours: 3
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MTLE 6430 - Materials Characterization
Principles and applications of current techniques for the chemical, structural, and morphological characterization of engineering materials, with an emphasis on materials used in the microelectronics industry. Techniques studied include various electron and ion spectroscopies, electron microscopies, and diffraction techniques.
When Offered: Upon availability of instructor.
Credit Hours: 3
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MTLE 6440 - Thin Films
Introduction into thin film deposition technologies that are essential in industry. Practical technical aspects and fundamental growth processes are discussed. The course covers: evaporation techniques, sputter deposition, plasma and ion-beam processing, chemical vapor deposition, molecular beam epitaxy, surface science, nucleation and growth, epitaxy, texture evolution, nanostructure formation, stress.
When Offered: Spring term even-numbered years.
Cross Listed: Meets with MTLE 4440.
Credit Hours: 3
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MTLE 6450 - Melting and Solidification
Thermodynamics, kinetics, and morphologies of solid-liquid interfaces. Heat flow phenomena in casting and crystal growth. Structure of molten systems. Physical chemistry of vacuum processing. Mechanics of solidification of metals under equilibrium and nonequilibrium conditions. Nucleation and growth phenomena. Solute redistribution during freezing. Metal transport during freezing. Grain size control. Application of theory to production of engineering alloys.
When Offered: Upon availability of instructor.
Credit Hours: 3
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MTLE 6460 - Advanced Structure and Bonding in Materials
Phenomenological and quantitative descriptions of crystal symmetry and structure. Theories of primary and secondary bonding in crystals. Theory and application of diffraction techniques for structure determination. Models of cohesive forces in solids. Emphasis is placed on the intimate connection between crystal structure, bonding, electronic structure, and properties of solids.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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MTLE 6480 - Nanostructured Materials
The course introduces students to the building blocks of nanostructured materials, material behavior when they are assembled, and the technological implications of these materials, with emphasis on new developments in this field and future perspectives. Lectures by the instructor and other faculty experts on various aspects of nanomaterials are followed by student lectures in areas of their own particular interest. These lectures then become the basis for students to create video presentations for broader dissemination.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Credit Hours: 3
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MTLE 6500 - Modeling of Materials
This course introduces basic concepts used in the modeling of material properties. The course will include quantum mechanics, molecular dynamics, Monte Carlo and continuum level analysis, and multiscale methods as applied to the modeling of soft and hard matter. The methods are introduced in a computer laboratory environment. Open to graduates and qualified undergraduates.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Undergraduates must have junior standing or permission of the instructor.
When Offered: Fall term odd-numbered years.
Credit Hours: 3
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MTLE 6520 - Materials under Extreme Conditions
This course will review basic thermodynamic and kinetic concepts, which underpin how material behaves under extreme thermal, mechanical, chemical, electrical, and magnetic conditions as well as high-energy irradiations. Engineering materials that can withstand harsh environments and new materials with unique crystal structures and microstructures will be surveyed.
When Offered: Upon availability of instructor.
Cross Listed: MTLE 4520. Students cannot get credit for both 4520 and 6520.
Credit Hours: 3
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MTLE 6610 - Deformation Processing
Mechanical metallurgy and mechanics of the classical metal-working operations. Analytical techniques. Friction and lubrication. Workability. Effects on as-worked properties. Technological discussions of forging, rolling, extrusion, drawing, and other unit operations.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: ENGR 1600 or equivalent.
When Offered: Upon availability of instructor.
Credit Hours: 3
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MTLE 6670 - Biology in Materials Science
This course will cover the basic principles of biology in the context of materials science as well as emerging and cutting applications of biomaterials science. Topics will include: fundamentals of biological self assembly and hierarchical structures; examination of structure-property relationships in naturally occurring biopolymers, foams, and ceramic composites; biomimetic design and synthesis of novel materials at the molecular and nanoscale levels. Students will gain a deeper appreciation of the impact of biological principles on current topics in materials science.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: ENGR 1600.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Cross Listed: MTLE 4470.
Credit Hours: 3
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MTLE 6750 - Special Topics in Ceramics
A course in physical ceramics, the content of which will be modified in accordance with current interests and technology.
When Offered: Upon availability of instructor.
Credit Hours: 3
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MTLE 6840 - Polymer Engineering
Survey and engineering analysis of industrial processes and commercial polymers. Topics include introductory fluid mechanics, non-Newtonian fluids, molecular theory of viscoelasticity, analysis of extrusion, and other selected processes.
When Offered: Upon availability of instructor.
Credit Hours: 3
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MTLE 6900 - Graduate Seminar
When Offered: Fall and spring terms annually.
Credit Hours: 0
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MTLE 6930 - Literature Study
A special course assignment open to graduate students working toward a master’s degree. Applicable where a student cannot reasonably arrange to submit a thesis. A written report on the study must be submitted and defended before a committee of the faculty.
Credit Hours: 1 to 3
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MTLE 6940 - Materials Engineering Project
Credit Hours: 3
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MTLE 6960 - Topics in Materials Engineering
Credit Hours: 3
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MTLE 6970 - Professional Project
Active participation in a semester-long project, under the supervision of a faculty adviser. A Professional Project often serves as a culminating experience for a Professional Master’s program but, with departmental or school approval, can be used to fulfill other program requirements. With approval, students may register for more than one Professional Project. Professional Projects must result in documentation established by each department or school, but are not submitted to the Office of Graduate Education and are not archived in the library. Grades of A, B, C, or F are assigned by the faculty adviser at the end of the semester. If not completed on time, a formal Incomplete grade may be assigned by the faculty adviser, listing the work remaining to be completed and the time limit for completing this work.
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MTLE 6980 - Master’s Project
Active participation in a master’s-level project, under the supervision of a faculty adviser, leading to a master’s project report. Grades S or U are assigned at the end of the semester. If recommended by the adviser, the master’s project may be accepted by the Office of Graduate Education to be archived in the library.
Credit Hours: 1 to 9
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MTLE 6990 - Master’s Thesis
Active participation in research, under the supervision of a faculty adviser, leading to a master’s thesis. Grades of S or U are assigned by the adviser each term to reflect the student’s research progress for the given semester. Once the thesis has been presented, approved by the adviser, and accepted by the Office of Graduate Education, it will be archived in a standard format in the library.
Credit Hours: 1 to 9
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MTLE 9990 - Dissertation
Active participation in research, under the supervision of a faculty adviser, leading to a master’s thesis. Grades of S or U are assigned by the adviser each term to reflect the student’s research progress for the given semester. Once the dissertation has been publicly defended, approved by the doctoral committee, and accepted by the Office of Graduate Education, it will be archived in a standard format in the library.
Credit Hours: Variable
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PHIL 1110 - Introduction to Philosophy
An introduction to the major areas of philosophy (ethics, theory of knowledge, philosophy of religion, etc.) and to some of the main problems treated within these fields. Selections from contemporary as well as classical authors are studied and discussed. Students are encouraged to develop a disciplined approach to intellectual problems. Emphasis varies with the instructor.
When Offered: Fall and spring terms annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHIL 1120 - Minds and Machines
This course is an introduction to the philosophy of mind. Students will debate and write papers on the nature of mind, free will, personal identity, consciousness, artificial intelligence, and animal cognition. This is a communication-intensive course.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Cross Listed: Cross listed with IHSS 1140; students cannot obtain credit for both courses.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHIL 2100 - Critical Thinking
This course provides tools for the identification, analysis, and evaluation of the various patterns of reasoning as they occur in the real world. Patterns of reasoning include deductive reasoning, inductive reasoning, scientific reasoning, statistical reasoning, and causal reasoning. The course also covers some basic psychology and sociology of reasoning and belief, and concludes with a critical discussion of science and the scientific method.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Cross Listed: Cross listed as PSYC 2100. Students cannot obtain credit for both this course and PSYC 2100.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHIL 2120 - Introduction to Cognitive Science
This course is an introduction to the new and quickly growing field of Cognitive Science which studies the various aspects of cognition, including reasoning, learning, memory, and perception and action. Cognitive Science is a highly interdisciplinary field of study at the intersection of philosophy, psychology, computer science, linguistics, neuroscience, and anthropology, and the course hosts a number of guest lectures given by experts in these respective fields.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Cross Listed: Cross listed as PSYC 2120. Students cannot obtain credit for both this course and PSYC 2120.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHIL 2140 - Introduction to Logic
Introduction to first-order logic as a tool to be used in engineering, computer science, philosophy, etc., and as procedural knowledge helpful in puzzle-solving environments (e.g., standardized tests). A hands-on laboratory component is included.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHIL 2400 - Philosophy of Biology
This course addresses such issues as: Are species real entities in the world or just human constructs? Are biological phenomena reducible to physical processes or do irreducible biological features exist? What is the relationship between microevolution and macroevolution? Does sociobiology have something to contribute to our understanding of ethics? To what extent are the structures of the human mind products of evolution?
When Offered: Spring or fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHIL 2600 - Moral Development
An analysis of psychological research on how commonsense moral beliefs develop from early childhood through old age and their application to daily problems. A major focus is on the conflict between themes of justice or individual rights and caring compassion and its relation to gender differences (the Kohlberg/Gilligan debate). This is a communication-intensive course.
When Offered: Fall or spring term annually.
Cross Listed: Cross listed as PSYC 2600. Students cannot obtain credit for both this course and PSYC 2600.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHIL 2830 - Introduction to Philosophy of Religion
Central to philosophy is a careful examination of human reasons for holding their beliefs. Given the complexity/ineffability of religious experience, philosophy of religion’s examination of reasons is especially difficult. This course will analyze and evaluate Western monotheism both generally and as it relates to the traditional questions of faith and reason, the problem of evil, fate, and free will and the existence of miracles. Time permitting, non-Western as well as Western religions will be considered.
When Offered: Upon availability of instructor.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHIL 2940 - Philosophy Studies
Independent study of a particular topic.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Permission of instructor.
Credit Hours: 1 to 4
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PHIL 2960 - Topics in Philosophy
Experimental courses on subjects to be announced in advance.
Credit Hours: 1 to 4
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PHIL 4130 - Philosophy of Science
How does science stimulate philosophical thinking and how has philosophy influenced science? This broad range of interaction is studied with special attention given to the concepts of theory, observation, and scientific method. Special attention is given to issues basic to psychology, in particular, reductionism, behaviorism, functionalism, and cognitivism. This is a communication-intensive course.
When Offered: Spring term odd-numbered years.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHIL 4140 - Intermediate Logic
This course is a continuation of PHIL 2140, covering basic metatheory of logic (including formal syntax and semantics, model theory, and soundness and completeness of proof systems), applications of logic (including automated theorem proving, deductive problem solving, and the axiomatization of various branches of mathematics), and alternative systems of logic (including sequent systems, diagrammatic logic, and modal logic).
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: PHIL 2140.
When Offered: Spring term even-numbered years.
Cross Listed: MATH 4040.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHIL 4240 - Ethics
A critical examination of traditional and contemporary works in ethical theory by considering what these theories have to say about how people should live, what rights and obligations they have, what things are intrinsically valuable. Typically this includes such topics as ethical and cultural relativism, egoism, freedom, and responsibility. Often the focus will be on contemporary issues such as war, abortion, equality, or punishment. This is a communication-intensive course.
When Offered: Fall or spring term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHIL 4260 - Philosophy of Artificial Intelligence
This course may be roughly divided into two general areas: philosophical problems in AI and philosophical issues that arise because of AI. An example from the first area is the Knower Paradox, a paradox in which an apparently desirable formalism for handling an agent’s knowledge leads to inconsistency; an example from the second area is John Searle’s attack on so-called “Strong” AI by way of his Chinese Room argument, wherein he claims that because a computer at bottom just manipulates symbols it cannot genuinely understand.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: PHIL 2140.
When Offered: Upon availability of instructor.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHIL 4300 - Environmental Philosophy
While concepts such as quality of life, environment, nature, global ecology, and the like figure heavily in contemporary discussions, they are seldom integrated into an environmental philosophy. The course tries to achieve this integration by understanding some of the religious, mythic-poetic, and scientific dimensions of the man-nature matrix. Some specific environmental problems are examined in order to illustrate the system of values implied by various solutions.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: junior or senior standing or permission of instructor.
When Offered: Spring term even-numbered years.
Cross Listed: Cross listed as STSH 4340. Students cannot obtain credit for both this course and STSH 4340.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHIL 4310 - Scientific Revolutions
What is progress in science? How has the concept of progress been influenced by science? Are there significant differences between scientific and technological revolutions? These questions are explored in order to shed light on the complex dynamics of academic and industrial research.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: PHIL 1110 or PHIL 2130.
When Offered: Upon availability of instructor.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHIL 4420 - Computability and Logic
A team-based, project-oriented, hands-on introduction to the great concepts and discoveries in logic and computability, including Turing Machines, first-order logic, the limitations of computing machines, Godel’s incompleteness results, and so forth. A hands-on laboratory component is included.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: PHIL 2140.
When Offered: Spring term odd-numbered years.
Cross Listed: Cross listed with MATH 4030. Students cannot received credit both this course and MATH 4030.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHIL 4480 - Metaphysics and Consciousness
Daydreams about some tropical paradise … the smell of freshly baked bread … the flash of anger experienced when one person cuts another off … the vision of an albino squirrel on the campus green … Humans take all of these to involve activities or states of consciousness. But what is this consciousness with which they claim to be so intimately familiar? What are its metaphysical implications, and can people reconcile those implications with current scientific understanding of the world? This is a communication-intensive course.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: one course in philosophy.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHIL 4500 - Bioethics
This course involves a philosophical analysis of some of the basic moral issues raised by recent and anticipated developments in the areas of biology and medicine. The general question “What are moral problems, and how does one resolve them?” is examined in the context of concrete cases involving issues such as abortion, euthanasia, organ transplants, experimentation on human patients, cloning, genetic engineering, and behavior control and modification. This is a communication-intensive course.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Cross Listed: Cross listed as STSH 4250. Students cannot obtain credit for both this course and STSH 4250.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHIL 4940 - Topics in Philosophy
Experimental courses on subjects to be announced in advance.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Permission of instructor.
Credit Hours: 1 to 4
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PHIL 4990 - Capstone Experience in Philosophy
Students conduct original scholarly projects: original research, theoretical or analytical reviews of the literature, or computer simulations. Working either alone or in groups, students prepare written reports relating to this project, under the supervision of a faculty member.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Permission of a supervising faculty member.
When Offered: Fall, spring, and summer terms annually.
Credit Hours: 3 to 6
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PHYS 1010 - A Passion for Physics
A weekly one-hour seminar by physics department faculty members, in which they describe their scientific and research interests, at a level suitable for first-year college students. This course is graded satisfactory/unsatisfactory.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 1
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PHYS 1100 - Physics I
The first semester of a two-semester sequence of interactive courses. Topics include linear and angular kinematics and dynamics, work and energy, momentum and collisions, forces and fields, gravitation, oscillatory motion, waves, sound, and interference.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Corequisite: MATH 1010 or equivalent or permission of instructor. Credit cannot be obtained for both Physics 1050 and Physics 1100.
When Offered: Fall and spring terms annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHYS 1150 - Honors Physics I
Introductory physics for students seeking a more intensive experience. Newton’s laws are introduced using differential calculus, with solutions based on integral calculus. Material on fluids, thermodynamics, and special relativity is included. Laboratory exercises are carried out emphasizing measurement uncertainty and clear, concise reporting. Recommended for students intending to major in physics.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Corequisite: MATH 1010.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHYS 1200 - Physics II
The second semester of the two-semester sequence of interactive courses. Topics include electric and magnetic forces and fields, Gauss’s Law, dc and ac circuits, Ampere’s Law and Faraday’s Law, electromagnetic radiation, physical optics, and quantum physics.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: PHYS 1100 or equivalent or permission of instructor. Corequisite: MATH 1020.
When Offered: Fall and spring terms annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHYS 1250 - Honors Physics II
Introductory physics for students seeking a more intensive experience. Electricity and magnetism is discussed making use of multivariable differentiation and integration. AC and DC circuits. Electromagnetic waves, optics, and selected topics in modern physics. Laboratory exercises are carried out emphasizing measurement uncertainty and clear, concise reporting. Recommended for students intending to major in physics.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: PHYS 1100 or equivalent, or permission of instructor. Corequisite: MATH 1020.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHYS 1500 - Physical Modeling
An introductory physics course in which students learn by constructing computer models of physical systems and then examining the behavior of the models. Whenever possible, the models will be compared to real systems. Spreadsheets will be the main tools used to construct the models, and no prior programming experience is required.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: high school physics.
When Offered: Consult department.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHYS 1600 - Materials Science
Introduction to the scientific principles that dictate the structure and properties of engineering materials, including metals, ceramics, semiconductors, and polymers. Physical properties of materials (mechanical, electrical, thermal, optical) are discussed in terms of the underlying structure, spanning multiple length scales from atomic packing to micron scale defects in practical engineering materials. Throughout the course, the material behaviors are understood from the viewpoint of thermodynamics and kinetics.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: CHEM 1100.
When Offered: Fall and spring terms annually.
Cross Listed: ENGR 1600, CHEM 1600, and ISCI 1600. Students cannot receive credit for both this course and ENGR 1600, CHEM 1600, or ISCI 1600.
Credit Hours: 4
Contact, Lecture or Lab Hours: 5
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PHYS 1960 - Topics in Physics
Credit Hours: 1
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PHYS 2210 - Quantum Physics I
Introduction to the formalism of Special Relativity, Schrodinger wave mechanics, and spin-1/2 particles. Solutions to Schrodinger’s Equation in one, two, and three dimensions. One-electron atoms and quantum mechanical magnetic dipole moments.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: PHYS 1200 or PHYS 1250, MATH 1020.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHYS 2350 - Experimental Physics
Experiments in mechanics, optics, electricity and electromagnetics, oscillations and waves, atomic, nuclear, and solid-state physics. Experimental methods, quantitative observations, and interpretation of data. This is a communication-intensive course.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: PHYS 2220.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
Contact, Lecture or Lab Hours: 9 contact hours
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PHYS 2620 - Fundamentals of Optics
A survey of optics and optical phenomena and their applications. A modern laboratory is part of the course. Topics include geometrical optics and instruments, wave and Fourier optics, and polarization of light. Applications of modern optics to communications and manufacturing are stressed.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: PHYS 1200 or equivalent.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHYS 2940 - Special Projects in Physics
Reading and study in various fields of physics to develop interest in and ability for independent study.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Permission of instructor.
Credit Hours: 3
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PHYS 2960 - Topics in Physics
Credit Hours: 4
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PHYS 2990 - Thesis
An independent investigation.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Permission of instructor.
Credit Hours: 3 or 4
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PHYS 4100 - Introductory Quantum Mechanics
Quantum mechanics beyond Schrodinger wave mechanics. The postulates of quantum mechanics. Second quantization, Dirac notation, Hilbert spaces, perturbation theory, and applications to simple systems.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: PHYS 2220.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHYS 4210 - Electromagnetic Theory
Field theory of electricity and magnetism with emphasis on solving boundary value problems. Dielectric and magnetic materials. Maxwell’s equations and wave propagation with applications to optics. Relativistic electrodynamics.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisites: PHYS 2220 and MATH 4600.
When Offered: Fall and spring terms annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHYS 4240 - General Relativity
Introduction to the physics of gravitation and spacetime. Special relativity, tensor calculus, and relativistic electrodynamics. General relativity with selected applications of Einstein’s field equations (gravitational time dilation; gravitational lensing; frame dragging; gravitational radiation). The physics of nonrotating and rotating black holes. Relativistic models for the large-scale structure of the Universe. Observational constraints on the cosmological parameters. Big Bang nucleosynthesis, the Cosmic Background Radiation. A culminating experience project is required. (Meets with ASTR 4240).
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisites: PHYS 4330 and MATH 4600.
Cross Listed: Cross listed with ASTR 4240. Students cannot receive credit for both PHYS 4240 and ASTR 4240.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHYS 4330 - Theoretical Mechanics
Particle and rigid body dynamics using Newtonian, Lagrangian, and Hamiltonian methods. Motion of particle systems. Central force motion. Rotating coordinate systems. Rigid body motion using the inertia tensor and Euler angles. Coupled systems and normal coordinates. Introduction to continuum mechanics and the mechanics of deformable media. Introduction to Hamiltonian Mechanics, including proof and applications of Liouville’s Theorem. Formalism of Special Relativity. Introduction to nonlinear dynamics and chaotic behavior.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisites: PHYS 1250 or PHYS 1200, MATH 2400, and MATH 2010. Corequisite: MATH 4600.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHYS 4420 - Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics
The principles and physical applications of classical thermodynamics are developed. Basic concepts in classical and quantum statistical mechanics are introduced and their relations to thermodynamics are developed.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: PHYS 2220. Also MATH 2400, and MATH 2010.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHYS 4510 - Quantum Mechanics I
Classical mechanics: from Lagrangian to Hamiltonian, single particle formalism, small oscillations, normal modes, Hamilton-Jacobi theory, Hamilton’s equation, review of wave mechanics: Schroedinger equation, barrier tunneling, quantum wells. Mathematical foundation of quantum mechanics: ket space, representations, observables, eigenstates and diagonization, quantum postulates, application of quantum postulates to two-level systems, harmonic oscillators, creation and annihilation operators. Quantization of angular momentum, spherical harmonics, rotation operators, Landau levels, central force: hydrogen atom. Path Integral formalism for quantum theory. Students cannot obtain credit for both this course and PHYS 6510.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: PHYS 4100 or equivalent.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHYS 4620 - Elementary Particle Physics
Survey of the elementary particles and their interactions. Historical introduction and discussion of experimental apparatus and particle accelerators. Relativistic kinematics and incorporation into quantum field theory, including Feynman diagrams. Bound states and the quark model. Symmetries and their manifestation. Neutrino oscillations and gauge theories. Quantum electrodynamics, the electroweak interaction, quantum chromodynamics, and prospects for grand unification. A culminating experience project is required.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: PHYS 4100.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHYS 4630 - Lasers and Optical Systems
Optical physics and applications of lasers. Design of optical systems. Topics include: wave optics and beam propagation, Gaussian beams, resonators, optical properties of atoms and laser gain media, laser amplifiers, pulsed laser systems, applications of lasers, nonlinear optics.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: PHYS 2620 recommended.
When Offered: Fall term odd-numbered years.
Cross Listed: Cross listed as ECSE 4630. Students cannot obtain credit for both this course and ECSE 4630.
Credit Hours: 4
Contact, Lecture or Lab Hours: Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours per week.
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PHYS 4640 - Optical Communications and Integrated Optics
Phenomena, materials, and devices for optical communications and computing. Topics include: guided wave and fiber optics, integrated optics, electro-optic and nonlinear optical switching, pulse and soliton propagation, sources and detectors.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: PHYS 2620.
When Offered: Fall term even-numbered years.
Cross Listed: ECSE 4640. Students cannot receive credit for both this course and ECSE 4640.
Credit Hours: 4
Contact, Lecture or Lab Hours: Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours per week.
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PHYS 4720 - Solid-State Physics
An introduction to theoretical and experimental solid-state physics. Wave mechanics in the perfect crystal. X-rays, electrons, and phonons. Electrical properties of metals and semiconductors. Qualitative treatment of lattice defects.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: PHYS 2220 or equivalent.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Cross Listed: ECSE 4720; students cannot receive credit for both this course and ECSE 4720.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHYS 4810 - Computational Physics
Computational physics studies the implementation of numerical algorithms to solve problems of physics which do not have analytical solutions. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to solve physics problems from a variety of fields under realistic conditions, using modern architectures such as graphical processing units and supercomputers. This course makes extensive use of computers but remains a physics course where students enrich their understanding of physical phenomena. A culminating experience project is required.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisites: CSCI 1100, PHYS 1100, and PHYS 1200 or permission of instructor.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHYS 4910 - Culminating Experience Project
Independent study to accompany designated capstone courses in Physics and Astronomy. Designated courses are: ASTR 4220 Astrophysics; ASTR 4240 Gravitation and Cosmology; ASTR 4510 Origins of Life: a Cosmic Perspective; PHYS 4810 Computational Physics; PHYS 4620 Elementary Particle Physics; PHYS 4240 General Relativity; ASTR 4120 Observational Astronomy; PHYS 4630 Lasers and Optical Systems; PHYS 4640 Optical Communications and Integrated Optics; PHYS 4720 Solid State Physics.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Corequisite: Must be concurrently registered in one of the following: ASTR 4120, ASTR 4220, ASTR 4240, ASTR 4510, PHYS 4240, PHYS 4620, PHYS 4630, PHYS 4640, or PHYS 4720, PHYS 4810, or by instructor permission.
Credit Hours: 1
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PHYS 4960 - Topics in Physics
Credit Hours: 4
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PHYS 6410 - Electrodynamics
Electrostatics and magnetostatics. Relativistic kinematics. Relativistic dynamics. Relativistic theory of classical fields. Electromagnetic waves. Linear and nonlinear materials. EM waves in linear, dispersive media. EM waves in nonlinear materials. Diffraction. Radiation by relativistic particles.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Permission of the instructor.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHYS 6510 - Quantum Mechanics I
Classical mechanics: from Lagrangian to Hamiltonian, single particle formalism, small oscillations, normal modes, Hamilton-Jacobi theory, Hamilton’s equation, review of wave mechanics: Schroedinger equation, barrier tunneling, quantum wells, mathematical foundation of quantum mechanics: ket space, representations, observables, eigenstates and diagonization, quantum postulates, application of quantum postulates to two-level systems, harmonic oscillators, creation and annihilation operators. Quantization of angular momentum, spherical harmonics, rotation operators, Landau levels, central force: hydrogen atom. Path integral formalism for quantum theory. Students cannot obtain credit for both this course and PHYS 4510.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: PHYS 4100 or equivalent.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHYS 6520 - Quantum Mechanics II
Intrinsic spins, Pauli matrices, spinors. Addition of angular momenta, Clebsch-Gordon coefficients, Wigner-Eckart Theorems, applications. Approximate treatments: variation methods, overlap integrals, Block wavelength. WKB methods. Stationary perturbation, degeneracy. Fine structure and hyperfine structure in atoms. Approximations for time dependent problems: Fermi-Golden rules. Classical fields: Lagrangian density, variational principle, field equations, normal modes. Field quantization: quantization of continuous systems, EM radiation, photons, EM-atom coupling, spontaneous emission. Relativistic single particle: Dirac equation, free space solution, central force solution.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: PHYS 6510.
When Offered: Spring term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHYS 6530 - Quantum Mechanics III
Relativistic wave equations. Commutation relations and the quantization of free fields. Spin and statistics of Bose and Fermi fields. Interacting fields and commutation relations. Interaction representation and S-matrix perturbation theory. Renormalization theory and applications in quantum electrodynamics.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: PHYS 6520.
When Offered: Consult department about when offered.
Credit Hours: 3
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PHYS 6590 - Statistical Mechanics
Review of thermodynamics, probability, and statistics. Statistical basis of thermodynamics, various ensembles, quantum statistics. Ideal Fermi and Bose gases and applications to solids and the black-body radiation. Interacting systems, phase transitions, and critical phenomena. Phase transition in the Van der Waals gas and in the Ising ferromagnet. Mean-field approximation and Landau theory of continuous phase transitions. Random walk, diffusion, Brownian motion, and Langevin equation. Stochastic processes.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: PHYS 6510.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 4
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PHYS 6710 - Theory of Solids I
An introduction to the theory of solids. Theory of the free-electron metal, band theory, and phonons. Application to the electrical, optical, and thermal properties of solids. Qualitative discussion of cohesion.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: PHYS 6520.
When Offered: Fall term annually.
Credit Hours: 3
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PHYS 6720 - Theory of Solids II
More detailed application of solid-state theory to electrical, magnetic, and optical properties of matter. Consideration of particular materials; semiconductors, ferrites, ferroelectrics, and superconductors.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: PHYS 6710.
When Offered: Upon availability of instructor.
Credit Hours: 3
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PHYS 6810 - Nonlinear and Quantum Optics
Theoretical framework for analysis of wave propagation in nonlinear media. Classical and quantum theory of nonlinear response. Multi-wave mixing, including second-harmonic generation, optical phase conjugation and optical bistability. Quantization of the electromagnetic field and quantum stochastic processes in atom-field interactions. Applications to amplifiers, lasers, resonance fluorescence, and squeezed state generation. Quantum theory of measurements.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Prerequisite: PHYS 6510.
When Offered: Consult department about when offered.
Credit Hours: 3
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PHYS 6900 - Seminar
Selected topics.
Credit Hours: to be arranged
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PHYS 6940 - Readings in Physics
Supervised reading and study in various fields of physics.
Credit Hours: 3
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PHYS 6960 - Topics in Physics
Credit Hours: Variable
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PHYS 6970 - Professional Project
Active participation in a semester-long project, under the supervision of a faculty adviser. A Professional Project often serves as a culminating experience for a Professional Master’s program but, with departmental or school approval, can be used to fulfill other program requirements. With approval, students may register for more than one Professional Project. Professional Projects must result in documentation established by each department or school, but are not submitted to the Office of Graduate Education and are not archived in the library. Grades of A, B, C, or F are assigned by the faculty adviser at the end of the semester. If not completed on time, a formal Incomplete grade may be assigned by the faculty adviser, listing the work remaining to be completed and the time limit for completing this work.
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PHYS 6980 - Master’s Project
Active participation in a master’s-level project, under the supervision of a faculty adviser, leading to a master’s project report. Grades S or U are assigned at the end of the semester. If recommended by the adviser, the master’s project may be accepted by the Office of Graduate Education to be archived in the library.
Credit Hours: 1 to 9
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