A minimum of 26 credit hours; 23 credit hours must be in courses acceptable toward graduation.
A cumulative grade point average of at least 2.00 on all work.
Completion of Department of Physics and Astronomy admission coursework with a grade of "C" or better:
The basic courses PHYS 1310, 1310L, 1320, 1320, 2310, 2310L and MATH 1522, 1522 and 2530 are prerequisite to all 300-level and higher physics and astronomy courses, and are required prerequisites for major and minor study in Physics and in Astrophysics for either the B.S. or the B.A. degree. For the B.S. in Astrophysics, ASTR 2110, 2110L, 2115 and 2115L are also required.
The B.A. in Physics and Astrophysics is designed for people interested in physics, astrophysics and science in general who are not seeking a career in scientific research. Rather, these students should use the flexibility within the program to choose minors or an additional major in other areas, such as management, education, communications, journalism, economics, history, political science, etc.
The B.S. in Physics and the B.S. in Astrophysics are designed to prepare students to attend graduate school in those fields, and are also intended for students seeking careers which do not require graduate study.
First year students planning to major or minor in physics or astrophysics, if they have the necessary mathematics, usually take PHYS 1310, 1310L and MATH 1512 in their first semester, and PHYS 1320, 1320L and MATH 1522 in their second semester. There is some flexibility in these prerequisites.
For admission to any degree program in the department, within the College of Arts and Sciences, in any given semester, it is required that the student have passed PHYS 1310, or a more advanced physics course, with a grade of "C" (not "C-") or higher.
All coursework required for a Physics/Astronomy major completion (including supportive course work and pre-requisites) must be successfully completed within three attempts. An attempt includes receiving any letter grade (A through F), WP, WF, W, WNC, CR, NC, I or AUDIT. This includes courses offered by other departments at UNM or other institutions. Students will not be able to continue in a Physics/Astronomy major or pre-major status if they do not successfully complete a required course within the three attempts. After that, students will be required to change their declared major.
Students are not allowed to receive credit for both PHYS 1230 and 1310, nor for both PHYS 1240 and 1320.
No minor is required for the B.S. in Astrophysics, although an optional minor or second major may be selected.
No minor is required for the B.S. in Physics, although an optional minor or second major may be selected.
Content on specific courses overlaps enough to necessitate restricting credit of both courses toward a student’s degree. These courses are not considered equivalent and the completion of the second course in a pair will not affect a student’s earned hours on the transcript. Students should consult their advisor if they feel the incorrect course is applied for credit on their degree audit.
Students will be allowed to apply only one of the following courses in each pair for credit towards a degree:
Complete requirements for BSEE degree as found in this catalog under the School of Engineering.
Completion of: PHYS 330; PHYS 303; PHYS 491; one course chosen from ASTR 270 or ASTR 271, PHYS 302L, PHYS 307L, PHYS 476L; one course chosen from ASTR 423, ECE/PHYS 534, PHYS 492, PHYS 430, PHYS 493L, PHYS 450, PHYS 480, PHYS 463, PHYS 464, PHYS 405.
Complete requirements for BSEE degree as found in this catalog under the School of Engineering.
Completion of: PHYS 330; ASTR 270 or 271; any two courses chosen from ASTR 423, ECE/PHYS 534, PHYS 301, PHYS 302, PHYS 303, PHYS 302L, PHYS 307L, PHYS 476L, PHYS 491, PHYS 430, PHYS 493L, PHYS 450, PHYS 480, PHYS 463, PHYS 464, PHYS 405.
The two courses PHYS 2415; **MATH 316; three courses chosen from: PHYS **301, **302, **302L or **307L, **303, **304, **330, *405, *406.
The four courses ASTR 2115; PHYS 2415, **330; MATH **316; one course chosen from: PHYS **301, **302, **302L or **307L, **303, *405; 3 credit hours of Astronomy courses numbered above 399.
The Departmental Honors program in Physics and Astronomy is designed to provide additional depth to the student’s knowledge in a special area of contemporary physics, and to ground that knowledge in their understanding of the world around them. As the standard undergraduate curriculum is rather tightly defined and scheduled, the Honors Program allows each Honors Student the opportunity to be directly involved in the choice of an addition to his/her educational program. In addition, the program offers the student the opportunity to work closely with one or two professors.
During each of the last two semesters of the student’s undergraduate program, and upon selecting an original research topic that is developed in consultation with a faculty mentor, the student should register for the 1 credit hour honors course, ASTR/PHYS 456. This registration requires the prior approval of the faculty mentor in question. As an honors award is of a departmental nature, the student and mentor should submit an initial proposal outlining the intended work as early as possible, and certainly before the end of the fourth week of the semester in which the work is begun. The proposal is submitted to the department’s Undergraduate Majors Committee for initial approval.
Courses
ASTR 1115. Introduction to Astronomy. (3)
This course surveys observations, theories, and methods of modern astronomy. The course is predominantly for non-science majors, aiming to provide a conceptual understanding of the universe and the basic physics that governs it. Due to the broad coverage of this course, the specific topics and concepts treated may vary. Commonly presented subjects include the general movements of the sky and history of astronomy, followed by an introduction to basic physics concepts like Newton’s and Kepler’s laws of motion. The course may also provide modern details and facts about celestial bodies in our solar system, as well as differentiation between them: Terrestrial and Jovian planets, exoplanets, the practical meaning of “dwarf planets”, asteroids, comets, and Kuiper Belt and Trans-Neptunian Objects. Beyond this we may study stars and galaxies, star clusters, nebulae, black holes, clusters of galaxies and dark matter. Finally, we may study cosmology, the structure and history of the universe.
Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 3: Physical and Natural Sciences.
ASTR 1115L. Introduction to Astronomy Laboratory. (1)
Includes hands-on exercises that work to reinforce concepts covered in the lecture, and may include additional components that introduce students to the night sky. Two hours lab.
Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 3: Physical and Natural Sciences.
Pre- or corequisite: 1115.
ASTR 1996. Topics. (1-6, no limit Δ)
Prerequisite: 1115.
{Offered upon demand}
ASTR 2110. General Astronomy I. (3)
An introductory course covering the basics of the night sky, relevant physics, and the Solar System. The level of math is trigonometry and pre-calculus. First of a two-semester sequence.
Prerequisite: MATH 1230 or MATH 1250 or MATH 1512.
Pre- or corequisite: PHYS 1230 or PHYS 1310.
{Fall}
ASTR 2110L. General Astronomy I Laboratory. (1)
Students learn how to carry out astronomical observations using actual telescopes. Students learn the basics of the celestial sphere, telescope design and characteristics planning observations, astronomical data reduction, how to make measurements from astronomical data, interpreting results, and writing reports. The topics of the lab are aligned with 2110. The level of math is trigonometry and pre-calculus. Three hours lab.
Pre- or corequisite: 2110.
{Fall}
ASTR 2115. General Astronomy II. (3)
An introductory course covering the Sun, stars, the Milky Way, galaxies and cosmology. The level of math is trigonometry and pre-calculus. Second of a two-semester sequence.
Prerequisite: MATH 1230 or MATH 1250, and ASTR 2110
{Spring}
ASTR 2115L. General Astronomy II Laboratory. (1)
Students learn how to carry out astronomical observations using actual telescopes. Students learn the basics of the celestial sphere, telescope design and characteristics planning observations, astronomical data reduction, how to make measurements from astronomical data, interpreting results, and writing reports. The topics of the lab are aligned with 2115. Three hours lab.
Pre- or corequisite: 2115.
{Spring}
ASTR 2996. Topics. (1-6, no limit Δ)
ASTR *421. Concepts of Astrophysics I. (3)
Gravitation, radiation, relativity, stellar atmospheres, structure, and evolution.
Prerequisite: PHYS **330.
{Fall}
ASTR 422 / 538. Concepts of Astrophysics II. (3)
Applications of advanced astrophysical concepts to the interstellar medium, star formation, the Milky Way, external galaxies, and cosmology.
Prerequisite: *421.
{Spring}
ASTR 423 / 539. Radio Astronomy. (3)
Single dish and aperture synthesis radio observations; emission processes at radio wavelengths: synchrotron radiation, thermal bremsstrahlung.
Prerequisite: PHYS **330.
{Alternate Springs}
ASTR 426 / 526. Optics and Instrumentation. (3)
Principles of optics and quantum physics applied to modern astronomical instrumentation (over a wide range of electromagnetic wavelengths), data acquisition and processing.
{Offered upon demand}
ASTR *427. Topics in Planetary Astronomy. (3)
Planetary physics; planetary investigation using space vehicles; optical properties of planetary atmospheres.
{Offered upon demand}
ASTR *455. Problems. (1-3 to a maximum of 6 Δ)
ASTR 456. Honors Problems. (1, may be repeated once Δ)
(Also offered as PHYS 456)
Independent studies course for students seeking departmental honors.
ASTR 526 / 426. Optics and Instrumentation. (3)
Principles of optics and quantum physics applied to modern astronomical instrumentation (over a wide range of electromagnetic wavelengths), data acquisition and processing.
{Offered upon demand}
ASTR 536. Advanced Astrophysics I. (3, may be repeated once Δ)
Astrophysical problems illustrating E&M and classical/statistical mechanics: expansion of the universe; dark matter; big-bang nucleosynthesis; stellar interiors; neutron stars; supernovae. May be repeated when topics are different.
{Alternate Falls}
ASTR 537. Advanced Astrophysics II. (3, may be repeated once Δ)
Astrophysical problems as illustrations of quantum mechanics: atoms; molecules; spectral lines; ionized regions surrounding stars; centers of active galaxies; Lyman-alpha forest. May be repeated when topics are different.
Prerequisite: PHYS 521.
{Alternate Springs}
ASTR 538 / 422. Concepts of Astrophysics II. (3)
Applications of advanced astrophysical concepts to the interstellar medium, star formation, the Milky Way, external galaxies, and cosmology.
Prerequisite: *421.
{Spring}
ASTR 539 / 423. Radio Astronomy. (3)
Single dish and aperture synthesis radio observations; emission processes at radio wavelengths: synchrotron radiation, thermal bremsstrahlung.
Prerequisite: PHYS **330.
{Alternate Springs}
PHYS 1110. Physics and Society. (3)
If you are curious about how common things work, about physics that is relevant to social and political issues, or just about the natural world in general, this is just the course for you! No previous background in physics or mathematics (beyond high school algebra) is required or expected. Just bring a lively curiosity and a dedication to learning new things.
Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 3: Physical and Natural Sciences.
{Spring}
PHYS 1115. Survey of Physics. (3)
Overview of the concepts and basic phenomena of physics. This course provides a largely descriptive and qualitative treatment with a minimum use of elementary mathematics to solve problems. No previous knowledge of physics is assumed.
Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 3: Physical and Natural Sciences.
PHYS 1115L. Survey of Physics Laboratory. (1)
A series of laboratory experiments associated with the material presented in 1115. Two hours lab.
Pre- or corequisite: 1115.
PHYS 1120. Introduction to Applied Physics. (3)
This course is designed for students who need more experience with force and motion before tackling 1230 or 1310. It also serves as a good refresher for students who let some time lapse between taking Physics I and II.
{Second half of Fall and Spring}
PHYS 1125. Physics of Music. (3)
Introduction for non-science majors to basic concepts, laws, and skills in physics, in the context of a study of sound, acoustics, and music.
Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 3: Physical and Natural Sciences.
{Spring}
PHYS 1125L. Physics of Music Laboratory. (1)
Experiments to accompany 1125. Two hours lab.
Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 3: Physical and Natural Sciences.
Pre- or corequisite: 1125.
{Spring}
PHYS 1230. Algebra-Based Physics I. (3)
An algebra-based treatment of Newtonian mechanics. Topics include kinematics and dynamics in one and two dimensions, conservation of energy and momentum, rotational motion, equilibrium, and fluids.
The sequence (PHYS 1230, 1230L, 1240, 1240L) is required of pre-medical, pre-dental, and pre-optometry students. Only 1230 and 1240 are required of pharmacy students.
Credit for both this course and PHYS 1310 may not be applied toward a degree program.
Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 3: Physical and Natural Sciences.
Prerequisite: MATH 1240 or MATH 1250 or MATH 1430 or MATH 1512 or ACT Math =>28 or SAT Math Section =>660 or ACCUPLACER Next-Generation Advanced Algebra and Functions =>284.
{Summer, Fall, Spring}
PHYS 1230L. Algebra-Based Physics I Laboratory. (1)
A series of laboratory experiments associated with the material presented in 1230. Three hours lab.
Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 3: Physical and Natural Sciences.
Pre- or corequisite: 1230.
PHYS 1231. Problems in Algebra-Based Physics I. (1)
This is a supplemental course for 1230.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
Corequisite: 1230.
PHYS 1240. Algebra-Based Physics II. (3)
The second half of a two semester algebra-based introduction to physics. This course covers electricity, magnetism and optics.
Credit for both this course and PHYS 1320 may not be applied toward a degree program.
Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 3: Physical and Natural Sciences.
Prerequisite: 1230.
PHYS 1240L. Algebra-Based Physics II Laboratory. (1)
A series of laboratory experiments associated with the material presented in 1240. Three hours lab.
Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 3: Physical and Natural Sciences.
Pre- or corequisite: 1240.
PHYS 1241. Problems in Algebra-Based Physics II. (1)
This is a supplemental course for 1240.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
Corequisite: 1240.
PHYS 1310. Calculus-Based Physics I. (3)
A calculus-level treatment of classical mechanics and waves, which is concerned with the physical motion concepts, forces, energy concepts, momentum, rotational motion, angular momentum, gravity, and static equilibrium.
Credit for both this course and PHYS 1230 may not be applied toward a degree program.
Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 3: Physical and Natural Sciences.
Pre- or corequisite: MATH 1512.
PHYS 1310L. Calculus-Based Physics I Laboratory. (1)
A series of laboratory experiments associated with the material presented in 1310. Students will apply the principles and concepts highlighting the main objectives covered in coursework for 1310. Three hours lab.
Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 3: Physical and Natural Sciences.
Pre- or corequisite: 1310.
PHYS 1311. Problems in Calculus-Based Physics I. (1)
This is a supplemental course for 1310.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
Corequisite: 1310.
PHYS 1320. Calculus-Based Physics II. (3)
A calculus-level treatment of classical electricity and magnetism. It is strongly recommended that this course is taken at the same time as 1320L.
Credit for both this course and PHYS 1240 may not be applied toward a degree program.
Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 3: Physical and Natural Sciences.
Prerequisite: 1310.
Pre- or corequisite: MATH 1522.
PHYS 1320L. Calculus-Based Physics II Laboratory. (1)
A series of laboratory experiments associated with the material presented in 1320. Students will apply the principles and concepts highlighting the main objectives covered in coursework for 1320. Three hours lab.
Meets New Mexico General Education Curriculum Area 3: Physical and Natural Sciences.
Pre- or corequisite: 1320.
PHYS 1321. Problems in Calculus-Based Physics II. (1)
This is a supplemental course for 1320.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
Corequisite: 1320.
PHYS 1996. Topics. (1-6, no limit Δ)
PHYS 2310. Calculus-Based Physics III. (3)
This course, the third in the calculus based sequence for science and engineering students, is a study of optics and topics in modern physics.
Prerequisite: 1320.
Pre- or corequisite: MATH 2531.
PHYS 2310L. Calculus-Based Physics III Laboratory. (1)
Covers topics in geometrical optics, wave optics and modern physics at the calculus level. Lab activities mirror and enhance lecture topics. Hands-on experiments involving data collection and analysis give students a better conceptual framework for understanding physics. Geometrical and wave optical phenomena are deeply probed. Three hours lab.
Pre- or corequisite: 2310.
PHYS 2311. Problems in Calculus-Based Physics III. (1)
Problem solving and demonstrations related to 2310.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
Corequisite: 2310.
PHYS 2415. Computational Physics. (3)
This class is designed as an introduction to programming for the undergraduate physics major. The class begins with no assumption of prior programming experience. An emphasis will be on building strong programming skills using the MATLAB programming environment. Applications and examples will include data analysis (curve fitting and optimization), simulating physical systems, solving systems of linear equations and Monte Carlo techniques.
Prerequisite: 2310.
Pre- or corequisite: MATH **316.
{Spring}
PHYS 2996. Topics. (1-6, no limit Δ)
PHYS **300. Topics in Physics and Astronomy. (1-3 to a maximum of 6 Δ)
Advanced study of concepts of physics and astronomy, designed especially for science teachers and other non-traditional students. Cannot be used to satisfy major or minor program requirements for physics or astrophysics degrees.
Prerequisite: 1115 or ASTR 1115 or NTSC 1110.
PHYS **301. Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics. (3)
Concepts of heat and thermodynamics; large numbers and probability distributions; spin, oscillator, and gas systems; simple interacting systems, Fermi and Bose statistics.
Prerequisite: **330.
{Fall}
PHYS **302. Introduction to Photonics. (3)
Geometrical optics; wave optics; lasers, nonlinear optics.
Prerequisite: 2310.
{Alternate Years}
PHYS **302L. Optics Lab. (3)
Laboratory experiments in geometrical optics, diffraction, prisms, gratings, microscopy and imaging, polarization, interference and interferometry, and laser operation.
Prerequisite: 2310.
{Spring}
PHYS **303. Analytical Mechanics I. (3)
Dynamics of particles and rigid bodies, harmonic motion, gravitation, Lagrange's and Hamilton's equations, moving coordinate systems. Students are highly recommended to take **366 as a corequisite.
Prerequisite: MATH **316.
{Fall}
PHYS **304. Analytical Mechanics II. (3)
Mechanics of continuous media, rotations of rigid bodies, small oscillations, nonlinear and chaotic motions.
Prerequisite: **303 and (**366 or MATH **312).
{Spring}
PHYS **306L. Junior Laboratory. (3)
Contemporary electronics. One lecture, 3 hours lab. Completion of **330 is highly recommended.
Prerequisite: 2415.
{Fall}
PHYS **307L. Junior Laboratory. (3)
Experiments in modern physics and experimental methods. One lecture, 3 hours lab. Completion of **330 is highly recommended.
Prerequisite: 2415.
{Spring}
PHYS 311. Problems in Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics. (1)
Problem solving and demonstrations related to **301.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
Corequisite: **301.
PHYS 313. Problems in Analytical Mechanics I. (1)
Problem solving and demonstrations related to **303.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
Corequisite: **303.
PHYS 314. Problems in Analytical Mechanics II. (1)
Problem solving and demonstrations related to **304.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
Corequisite: **304.
PHYS **327. Geophysics. (3)
(Also offered as EPS 427 / 527)
Applications of gravity, magnetics, seismology, heat flow to the structure, constitution and deformation of earth. Related aspects of plate tectonics and resource exploration.
Prerequisite: 1220 and MATH 1522.
PHYS **330. Introduction to Modern Physics. (3)
Special relativity; quantum effects; introductory quantum mechanics; atomic and subatomic physics; instruments of modern physics.
Prerequisite: 2310.
{Spring}
PHYS 331. Problems in Introduction to Modern Physics. (1)
Problem solving and demonstrations related to **330.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
Corequisite: **330.
PHYS **366. Mathematical Methods of Physics. (4)
Vector calculus, partial differential equations, complex numbers, tensor analysis, Fourier series and transforms, special functions, and their application to physics.
Prerequisite: 2415 and MATH **316.
PHYS *400. Seminar. (1, may be repeated five times Δ)
Student presentations, both extemporaneous and prepared, of undergraduate physics problems.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
PHYS *405. Electricity and Magnetism I. (3)
Electrostatics; dielectric materials; magnetostatics; magnetic materials.
Prerequisite: **366 or (MATH 311 and MATH **312).
{Spring}
PHYS *406. Electricity and Magnetism II. (3)
Electromagnetic induction; conservation laws; propagation, reflection, and refraction of electromagnetic waves; wave guides; dipole radiation; relativistic fields.
Prerequisite: *405.
{Fall}
PHYS 415. Problems in Electricity and Magnetism I. (1)
Problem solving and demonstrations related to *405.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
Corequisite: *405.
PHYS 416. Problems in Electricity and Magnetism II. (1)
Problem solving and demonstrations related to *406.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
Corequisite: *406.
PHYS *430. Introduction to Solid State Physics. (3)
Free electron gas, energy bands, crystals, semiconductors, metals, elementary excitations, superconductivity.
Prerequisite: **330.
{Alternate Years}
PHYS 445 / 545. Introduction to Quantum Information Science. (3)
(Also offered as ECE 445/545)
An introduction to the mathematical formalism of quantum information science, with an exploration of the key results from its application to quantum computing, quantum communication, and quantum metrology.
PHYS *450. Introduction to Subatomic Physics. (3)
Introductory topics in elementary-particle physics and nuclear physics, with examples and applications to high-energy physics and astrophysics such as cosmic rays, fixed-target experiments, lepton and hadron colliders, stellar physics, supernovae and cosmology.
Prerequisite: *491.
{Alternate Springs}
PHYS 451 / 551. Problems. (1-3 to a maximum of 6 Δ)
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
PHYS *452. Research Methods. (1-3 to a maximum of 6 Δ)
PHYS 456. Honors Problems. (1, may be repeated once Δ)
(Also offered as ASTR 456)
Independent studies course for students seeking departmental honors.
{Fall, Spring}
PHYS *463. Advanced Optics I. (3)
(Also offered as ECE *463)
Electromagnetic theory of geometrical optics, Gaussian ray tracing and matrix methods, finite ray tracing, aberrations, interference and diffraction.
{Fall}
PHYS *464. Laser Physics I. (3)
(Also offered as ECE *464)
Resonator optics. Rate equations; spontaneous and stimulated emission; gas, semiconductor and solid state lasers, pulsed and mode-locked laser techniques.
{Fall}
PHYS *466. Methods of Theoretical Physics I. (3)
Complex variables and analysis; differential equations, including Green's functions; transform methods; special functions; linear algebra; matrix analysis; linear integral equations.
{Fall}
PHYS *467. Methods of Theoretical Physics II. (3)
Methods of theoretical physics such as tensor analysis, group theory, calculus of variations, and elementary statistics. The actual topic areas will vary and will be defined by the instructor.
{Alternate Springs}
PHYS 468. Problems in Methods of Theoretical Physics I. (1)
Problem solving and demonstrations related to *466.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
Corequisite: *466.
PHYS *476L. Experimental Techniques of Optics. (3)
Diffraction, interference, optical detectors, lens aberrations, lasers, spectra, scattering, optical testing. One lecture, 3 hours lab.
Prerequisite: **302 or *463 or *464.
{Spring}
PHYS *477L. Experimental Techniques of Optics. (3)
Diffraction, interference, optical detectors, lens aberrations, lasers, spectra, scattering, optical testing. One lecture, 3 hours lab.
Prerequisite: **302 or *463 or *464.
{Spring}
PHYS 480. Special Topics in Physics and Astronomy. (1-3 to a maximum of 6 Δ)
Special topics beyond our standard curriculum, usually involving new areas. The actual topic areas will vary and will be defined by the instructor.
Restriction: permission of instructor.
PHYS *491. Intermediate Quantum Mechanics I. (3)
Schrödinger Equations; Heisenberg uncertainty principle; postulates; Dirac notation; one-dimensional potentials; harmonic oscillator; angular momentum; H-Atom.
Prerequisite: **330 and MATH **314.
{Fall}
PHYS *492. Intermediate Quantum Mechanics II. (3)
Spin; Pauli principle; perturbation theory; scattering; applications of quantum mechanics.
Prerequisite: *491.
{Spring}
PHYS *493L. Contemporary Physics Laboratory. (3)
Spectrographic methods; lasers, atomic structure; high Tc superconductivity; natural and artificial radioactivity; cosmic rays. One lecture, 5 hours lab. *491 is highly recommended.
Prerequisite: **307L.
{Spring}
PHYS 496. Problems in Intermediate Quantum Mechanics I. (1)
Problem solving and demonstrations related to *491.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
Corequisite: *491.
PHYS 497. Problems in Intermediate Quantum Mechanics II. (1)
Problem solving and demonstrations related to *492.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
Corequisite: *492.
PHYS 500. Advanced Seminar. (1-3 to a maximum of 12 Δ)
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
PHYS 501. Advanced Seminar. (1-3 to a maximum of 12 Δ)
PHYS 505. Statistical Mechanics and Thermodynamics. (3)
Review of thermodynamics; classical statistical mechanics; ensemble theory; quantum statistical mechanics with examples.
{Spring}
PHYS 511. Electrodynamics. (3)
Review of electro- and magneto-statics; E&M waves and radiation; covariant electrodynamics; scattering; relativity and covariant collisions.
{Spring}
PHYS 521. Graduate Quantum Mechanics I. (3)
Review of 1-dim. potentials; Dirac formalism; postulates; symmetries and conservation laws; harmonic oscillator; angular momentum and spin; central potentials; approximation methods.
{Fall}
PHYS 522. Graduate Quantum Mechanics II. (3)
More on angular momentum; scattering; identical particles; spectra of atoms and molecules; symmetry and conservation laws; approximation methods; special topics.
Prerequisite: 521.
{Spring}
PHYS 523. Quantum Field Theory I. (3)
Introduction to relativistic quantum mechanics, and quantum mechanics and quantum field theory with applications drawn from quantum electrodynamics and high-energy physics.
Prerequisite: 522.
{Alternate Years}
PHYS 524. Quantum Field Theory II. (3)
A continuation of 523.
Prerequisite: 523.
{Offered upon demand}
PHYS 529. Condensed Matter I. (3)
Band concepts; Bloch functions; phonons and their interactions; superconductivity.
{Alternate Falls}
PHYS 534. Plasma Physics I. (3)
(Also offered as ECE 534)
Plasma parameters, adiabatic invariants, orbit theory, plasma oscillations, hydromagnetic waves, plasma transport, stability, kinetic theory, nonlinear effects, applications.
{Fall}
PHYS 542. Particle Physics I. (3)
Overview of the standard model, including electroweak interactions, gauge theories, QCD, other selected topics.
{Alternate Falls}
PHYS 545/445. Introduction to Quantum Information Science. (3)
(Also offered as ECE 545/445)
An introduction to the mathematical formalism of quantum information science, with an exploration of the key results from its application to quantum computing, quantum communication, and quantum metrology.
PHYS 551 / 451. Problems. (1-4 to a maximum of 16 Δ)
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
PHYS 552. Problems. (1-4 to a maximum of 16 Δ)
PHYS 554. Advanced Optics II. (3)
(Also offered as ECE 554)
Diffractions theory, coherence theory, coherent objects, and incoherent imaging, and polarization.
Prerequisite: *463.
{Spring}
PHYS 559. Internship in Optical Science and Engineering. (3)
(Also offered as ECE 559)
Students do research and/or development work at a participating industry or government laboratory in any area of optical science and engineering.
Restriction: permission of department.
PHYS 564. Laser Physics II. (3)
This course covers advanced topics in laser and optical physics that includes (but not limited to) semiconductor lasers, detection and noise, extreme wavelength generation, and ultrafast metrology.
Prerequisite: *464.
PHYS 566. Quantum Optics. (3)
Study and manipulation of quantum coherence with electromagnetic fields. Quantum coherent spectroscopy; photon statistics and nonclassical light; open quantum systems; decoherence; special topics.
{Alternate Years}
PHYS 568. Nonlinear Optics. (3)
General concepts, microscopic approach, nonlinear optical effects and devices.
{Alternate Springs}
PHYS 569. Advanced Topics in Modern Optics. (3, may be repeated once Δ)
Possible topics include dye lasers, solid-state lasers, novel lasers, interaction between intense lasers and matter, advanced nonlinear optics, spectroscopy.
{Offered upon demand}
PHYS 571. Quantum Computation. (3)
This course explores the concepts and mathematical techniques underlying quantum computation. Topics include quantum entanglement, quantum cryptography, teleportation, models for quantum computation, quantum algorithms, quantum error correction, and fault-tolerant quantum computation.
PHYS 572. Quantum Information Theory. (3)
Concepts, applications and mathematical techniques of quantum information theory. Topics include classical information, Hilbert-space formulation of quantum mechanics, quantum states, quantum dynamics and measurements, quantum information, and quantum entanglement.
PHYS 581. Advanced Topics in Physics and Astrophysics. (3, may be repeated three times Δ)
PHYS 599. Master's Thesis. (1-6, no limit Δ)
Only 6 credit hours will count toward the program of studies.
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.
PHYS 650. Research. (1-12 to a maximum of 24 Δ)
May be repeated with any single faculty member.
PHYS 699. Dissertation. (3-12, no limit Δ)
Offered on a CR/NC basis only.