Physics, Department of

Introduction
Learning Goals and Student Learning Outcomes
Programs and Courses Offered

Department Chair

Jim Feagin

Department Office/Website

McCarthy Hall 611
657-278-3366
physics.fullerton.edu

Faculty

Kwang-Ping Cheng, Greg Childers, Jim Feagin, Heidi Fearn, Murtadha Khakoo, Geoffrey Lovelace, Michael Loverude, Jocelyn Read, Josh Smith, Ionel Tifrea, Keith Wanser

Introduction

Physics is the natural science that deals with the properties and interactions of matter and radiation. As such, physics provides the fundamental basis for all other sciences, and for applied science fields such as engineering and the health sciences. Many physicists engage in research designed to expand the frontiers of physical knowledge; others engage in the application of physics concepts in industry and in private and government laboratories.

The physics major program can provide the education necessary for the student to continue studies at the graduate level that, in turn, lead to the master’s and doctoral degrees. Alternatively, the physics major program can provide the education necessary for the student to work immediately upon graduation with the bachelor’s degree, either in industry or government labs, in applied physics fields, or in teaching at the secondary school level. Our optional emphasis in business provides students with experience in starting or managing a technology-oriented business.

Students are encouraged to obtain research experience by working with faculty in their ongoing research efforts. Independent Study provides practical work experience that integrates classroom studies with the needs and methods of modern industrial science.

Learning Goals and Student Learning Outcomes

The following goals and learning outcomes have been established for students pursuing a degree in Physics:

Content Knowledge

Students will demonstrate understanding of:

Force, energy and momentum and apply this understanding to predict and describe motion
Thermodynamics and the thermodynamic properties of materials
Waves and wave propagation
Electricity, magnetism, the relationship between electric and magnetic phenomena, and electromagnetic forces and waves
Modern physics, including quantum theory, relativity and elementary particles

Investigation and Experimentation

Students will learn to:

Ask scientific questions, formulate hypotheses, design and conduct experiments, and analyze data
Collect, analyze and interpret data and information
Use modern laboratory equipment including advanced computer hardware and software
Use analytical, computational, graphical and advanced mathematical methods in problem-solving
Apply mathematics to scientific investigation and experimentation for the purpose of quantifying results and drawing conclusions

Communication

Students will learn to:

Communicate data, concepts, skills and processes to experts and non-experts in the field in logical and meaningful formats
Communicate scientific observations, results and conclusions in clear, logical, and unbiased terms both verbally and in writing
Use appropriate technology to communicate scientific results

Nature of Science

Students will learn to:

Recognize that science is an active endeavor in which the acquisition of knowledge is based upon the collection and examination of data
Recognize the synergistic nature of science and technology
Experience and practice analyzing complex situations to make informed decisions and to participate in scientific problem solving
Recognize their responsibility to increase scientific literacy so that the general population can understand current issues and appreciate their personal societal roles and responsibilities

Programs and Courses Offered

Programs

Bachelor of Science

Master of Science

Physics, M.S.

Non-Degree

Courses

Astronomy

Courses are designated ASTR as in the class schedule.

ASTR 101 - Introduction to Astronomy (3)

Physics

Courses are designated as PHYS in the class schedule. A “C” (2.0) or better is required in all prerequisite courses. Prerequisite requirements with exception of the grade requirement may be waived by the instructor of the course if the instructor is satisfied that the student is qualified to undertake the course.