Academic Catalog 2022-2023 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]
Course Listing
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Courses listed below are grouped together alphabetically by subject prefix. To search for a specific course, please follow the instructions in the course filter box below and click on “Filter.”
Departments and interdisciplinary programs are described in detail on the Majors, Minors, and Other Programs page within this catalog. Please refer to the detailed sections on each area of study for more information. Requirements to fulfill a major or minor appear within each program or area of study.
All students must also complete the courses in the Common Curriculum (General Education), including Writing Across the Curriculum (WAC) requirements and other requirements that pertain to the undergraduate degree. Courses are numbered as follows.
000-049 - Non-credit courses.
050-099 - Common Curriculum (General Education) courses and others that do NOT count toward the major.
100-199 - Introductory-level courses which count for the major.
200-299 - Sophomore/junior-level courses that can be taken by non-majors. (Some departments may use 200-249 and 250-259 to delineate between sophomore and junior level offerings.)
300-399 - Upper-level courses intended primarily for majors - these are courses representing the depth component of the major.
400-499 - All advanced courses for seniors, including those used to fulfill WS (Senior Writing Experience requirement), small seminars, research, thesis, and independent studies.
Wherever possible, the departments have indicated the instructor and the term during which a course is given. Some courses are offered only occasionally and are so indicated. The College retains the right not to offer a course, especially if enrollment is insufficient.
A few courses are not valued at full course credit, and some carry double credit.
A full course unit may be equated to five quarter-credit hours, or three and one-third semester credit hours.
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Mathematics |
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MTH 437 - Real Analysis 2 Course Units: 1.0
(Not Offered this Academic Year) A second course in real analysis. Topics may include the construction of Lebesgue measure and the Lebesgue integral, limit theorems and Fubini’s theorem, differentiation in several variables and the inverse and implicit function theorems, and convergence of series of functions. Prerequisite(s): MTH 336 and MTH 340 , or permission from the Chair.
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MTH 448 - Differential Geometry Course Units: 1.0
(Not Offered this Academic Year) A study of curves and surfaces in 3-space. Topics include arc length, curvature, torsion, the Frenet frame, the first and second fundamental forms, normal curvature, and Gaussian curvature. . Prerequisite(s): MTH 117 and MTH 340 , or permission from the Chair.
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MTH 480 - Foundations of Mathematics Course Units: 1.0
(Not Offered this Academic Year) Propositional and predicate logic, Godel completeness theorem, introduction to recursion theory. Cross-Listed: PHL 480 Prerequisite(s): MTH 332 or permission from the Chair. CC: HUM
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MTH 487 - Senior Writing Seminar Course Units: 1.0
(Winter: Staff) This course is required by, and limited to, seniors who are not satisfying their WS requirement through either a one- or two-term thesis. The seminar will provide a forum in which students continue their study of a common upper-level mathematical topic (exact choice of topic will depend on term and instructor) and explore a new related topic independently. Students will gain experience in giving oral presentations and writing mathematical papers. Prerequisite(s): Admission by application only. CC: WS
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MTH 490 - Mathematics Independent Study 1 Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Independent study in a particular area of mathematics under the supervision of a faculty member.
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MTH 491 - Mathematics Independent Study 2 Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Independent study in a particular area of mathematics under the supervision of a faculty member.
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MTH 492 - Mathematics Independent Study 3 Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Independent study in a particular area of mathematics under the supervision of a faculty member.
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MTH 493 - Mathematics Independent Study 4 Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Independent study in a particular area of mathematics under the supervision of a faculty member.
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MTH 494 - Mathematics Independent Study 5 Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Independent study in a particular area of mathematics under the supervision of a faculty member.
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MTH 495 - Mathematics Independent Study 6 Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Independent study in a particular area of mathematics under the supervision of a faculty member.
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MTH 496 - Mathematics Independent Study 7 Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Independent study in a particular area of mathematics under the supervision of a faculty member.
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MTH 497 - Mathematics One Term Senior Thesis Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) CC: WS
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MTH 498 - Mathematics Two-Term Senior Thesis 1 Course Units: 0.0
(TBD: Staff)
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MTH 499 - Mathematics Two-Term Senior Thesis 2 Course Units: 2.0
(TBD: Staff) CC: WS
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Philosophy |
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PHL 100 - Introduction to Philosophy Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) An introduction to some of the most enduring questions of philosophy: Does God exist? Might the external world be an illusion? Is science rational? What is the relationship between the mind and the body? What is it to be moral, and why should one bother? CC: HUM
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PHL 105 - Introduction to Ethics Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) An introduction to traditional normative ethical theories, which attempt to provide a rationally defensible account of morally right and wrong conduct and morally good and bad character, and consideration of the challenges posed to these theories by ethical relativism and feminist ethics. CC: HUM ISP: LAW
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PHL 110 - Moral Problems Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) An introduction to ethics by considering how a wide variety of reality-based examples of complex and controversial ethical issues might be resolved in a rational manner. CC: HUM ISP: LAW
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PHL 123 - Values and Economic Justice Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) This class considers the goals economic policy might pursue and how different theories of the good lead to particular choices about desirable or undesirable economic policies. We consider mainstream economic thinking, which has roots in utilitarianism and liberalism, and alternative ideas such as libertarianism, Austrian economics, feminist, communitarian, and religious philosophy and economics. We apply these ideas to relevant policy issues, such as free trade, globalization, unemployment, income distribution, affirmative action, care of the environment, health care, and famine relief. Cross-Listed: ECO 123 CC: HUM, JSPE
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PHL 125 - Introduction to Logic and Critical Thinking Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) A course in informal logic, with a very brief introduction to elementary formal logic. Students will learn to identify, analyze and evaluate English-language arguments in areas ranging from the sciences to current affairs to the law. CC: HUM, GSPE
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PHL 155 - Seventeenth and Eighteenth Century European Philosophy Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) An introduction to philosophy by way of some of the most important European philosophical works of the Seventeenth and Eighteenth Centuries. CC: HUM
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PHL 160 - Nineteenth and Twentieth Century Philosophy Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) An exploration of some of the major trends in the philosophy of the 19th and 20th centuries focusing especially on contemporary skepticism, cultural relativism, the crisis of faith and morality, language, and the metaphysics of truth, as reflected in the contemporary philosophical movements of existentialism, analytic philosophy, phenomenology, and postmodernism. CC: HUM
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PHL 167 - Chinese Philosophy Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) An introductory survey of Confucianism, Daoism, Moism, Yin Yang, Legalism, Neo-Confucianism and Neo-Daoism. Among the theories covered in the course are Confucian theories of self-cultivation, the superior person and human nature, Menzi’s theory of original human goodness, Xunzi’s theory of evil human nature, Daoist theories of non-action, harmony with nature, and law of reversion, and Moist theories of universal love and non-discrimination. Many of these Chinese theories shaped Chinese civilization for over two millennia. CC: HUM, LCC
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PHL 180 - Theories of the Good Life Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) This course takes a cross-cultural approach to theories of the good life by studying ancient Greek, Chinese, African and Hindu theories, as well as more modern versions of these theories. In class, we shall analyze and debate these theories in terms of their underlying beliefs about human nature and in terms of whether someone can actually live by these theories. CC: HUM, LCC
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PHL 205 - Relativism Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Relativism is not just a ‘theoretical’ issue: the Events of 9/11 have pitted those who demand ‘moral clarity’ against those who urge ‘more understanding’. Moral disagreement is not limited to conflicts between cultures: democratic societies attempt to accommodate points of view which conflict and diverge, sometimes nearly to the point of violence, as debates on abortion or gay marriage or the separation of church and state, or even taxation, show. But relativism is also an important theoretical issue as it raises questions about truth, justification of belief and moral skepticism. We explore these theoretical, moral and political dimensions through reading of theorists such as Rawls, Nagel, Harman, Thomson, Gutmann, and others. One philosophy course prerequisite or permission of the instructor CC: HUM
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PHL 216 - Introduction to Indian Philosophy Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) An introductory survey of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Carvaka. Over the centuries, Indian philosophers inquired into the nature of reality and mind, debated epistemological issues concerning the criteria for valid knowledge, proposed paths for attaining spiritual liberation, and developed social theories for the welfare of people. Methods used by Indian philosophers include meditation, yoga, reasoning, logic, debate and observation. Some of these methods will be explored in class. CC: HUM, LCC
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PHL 221 - Love, Sex & Desire Course Units: 1
Many of us spend a lot of time thinking about, talking about, worrying about, and fantasizing about love, sex, and desire. One way or another, they are central to the human experience. But how much do we really know about love, sex, and desire? In this class, we will read philosophers who have thought a lot about these concepts. Through readings and class discussions, we will explore what these concepts really mean-or what we think they should mean, taking an intersectional approach to examining some of the complicated and complex ethical questions that surround these concepts. CC: HUM, JSPE
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PHL 231 - Symbolic Logic Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) An introduction to modern symbolic logic, focusing on translation, semantics and syntax for propositional and predicate logic. You will learn to translate natural language into the language of logic and vice versa, and study key concepts such as validity, consistency, proof, soundness and completeness. CC: HUM, QMR
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PHL 232 - Philosophy of Science Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) An introduction to philosophy of science. What are scientific theories, and how are they tested? What is scientific method? What counts as evidence for a scientific theory? What is scientific explanation? We will approach these questions both philosophically and through formal techniques. CC: HUM ISP: STS
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PHL 233 - Early Modern Philosophy Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) An examination of some of philosophy’s “Greatest Hits,” from some of the 17th and 18th centuries’ greatest thinkers: Descartes, Leibniz, Locke, Berkeley, Hume, and Kant. We will consider questions like: Is there a God, and how could we know? Is your mind just your brain, or do you have an immaterial soul? What is free will, and are we just fooling ourselves when we think we have it? Does your subjective perception of the world correspond to how it is in reality, and how can you possibly know? Are there universal moral duties, which everyone has an obligation to follow regardless of their personal inclinations? CC: HUM
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PHL 237 - Introduction to Political Philosophy Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) An historical introduction to issues in political philosophy. The texts that we will consider address questions such as: Why should individuals live in society at all? Why should individuals obey any government at all? What are the sources, limits and purposes of political power? CC: HUM
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PHL 239 - Latin American Philosophy Course Units: 1
This course will examine some of the most important texts from the history of Latin American philosophy. Topics discussed will include human rights, colonialism, feminism, national identity, race and racism, and the barbarism-civilization dichotomy. CC: HUM, LCC, JCHF, JSPE
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PHL 245 - Buddhist Ethics Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Ethics is one of the three main components of the Buddhist path, the others being meditation and wisdom. In the centuries following the Buddha’s death, two main branches of Buddhism developed: Theravada Buddhism and Mahayana Buddhism. The older school, Theravada, emphasized moral guidelines and meditation practices that culminate in nirvana; the Mahayana school emphasized a morality of compassion and a metaphysical theory of emptiness. In the contemporary period, Buddhists are concerned about issues relating to the environment, social justice, war, medicine and health, gender, and race. Buddhist ethical theories emphasize selflessness, moral discipline, compassion, karma and awareness. This course draws from ancient ethical texts as well as contemporary works on applying basic Buddhist principles to today’s moral problems. CC: HUM, LCC
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PHL 246 - Art, Media, and Society Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) An examination of the traditional aesthetic theories of philosophers such as Plato, Aristotle, Burke, Hume, Schopenhauer, and Nietzsche, as well as more recent theories. Among the issues considered will be how art is different from everyday objects and the impact of technology on art. CC: HUM
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PHL 248 - Philosophy and Current Affairs Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) “Public philosophy” tests the prospects and limits of philosophy as a means of analyzing events and conditions of current interest. We will select an issue, such as affirmative action, the politics of religion, minority rights, the entertainment industry, etc., and track it both in the scholarly and the popular media (newspapers, television, etc.). CC: HUM
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PHL 250 - Ethical Theory Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Theories such as utilitarianism, pure obligation theory, virtue-ethics, and enlightened self-interest theory propose to provide defensible methods for answering questions about right and wrong. The course examines traditional theories (Aristotle, Hobbes, Kant, Mill, etc.) and contemporary theories (Harman, Rawls, Wolf, Nagel, Gauthier) on issues such as moral skepticism and truth, rational self-interest, care as the basis of ethics, the diversity of moral beliefs, moral trump cards, etc. CC: HUM
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PHL 251 - Introduction to Ancient Greek Philosophy Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) An examination of issues debated by ancient Greek and Roman philosophers that became central to western philosophy, including the nature of reality, the criteria for knowledge, the difference between good and pleasure, and the principles of political justice. Discussion of readings from the Pre-Socratics, Plato, Aristotle, the Epicureans and the Stoics Cross-Listed: CLS 150 CC: HUM, GCHF
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PHL 255 - On War and Killing Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) The central goal of this course is to develop and apply some useful tools for critical reflection upon the morality of war. In considering this issue we will focus on two main questions: (i) that of jus ad bellum - what, if anything, makes it right to go to war?, and (ii) that of jus in bello - what kinds of actions are, and are not, justified in carrying out a war? CC: HUM
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PHL 261 - Philosophy of Religion Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Current research in philosophical theology about language, possible worlds, and evidence used to address issues such as whether moral obligation can depend upon God’s will, whether God’s power is limited by the possible, whether God owns us, whether it is reasonable to bet on the existence of God. CC: HUM
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PHL 262 - Problem of Evil Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Some actions are bad. Some actions are very bad. Some actions are very, very, very bad. Are there, in addition, actions which are evil? In other words, does “evil” mark out a form of wrongdoing that is qualitatively different from the bad or is it simply a synonym for “bad” or at most a term we reserve for marking a merely quantitative difference between bad and very bad actions? Much turns on how we decide to answer these questions - concerning both the nature of morality and of the world we inhabit. CC: HUM
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PHL 263 - Philosophy of Gender and Race Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) An examination of the central normative issues related to the gender equality and discrimination. Cross-Listed: N/A CC: HUM ISP: AFR, GSW
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PHL 265 - Minds and Machines Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Is it possible to build a computer that effectively simulates human intelligence? If we did so, would the computer really be intelligent, or would it merely seem to be: Would the computer have free will? Do we have free will, or is human freedom merely an illusion? Do we have immaterial souls that can survive the deaths of our bodies and brains? In this advanced introduction to the philosophy of mind, we will consider these and other questions about what it means to have a mind, and about the relationship between mind and the brain. CC: HUM ISP: STS
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PHL 266 - Philosophy in Literature Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) An examination of the connections between the two disciplines. CC: HUL, HUM
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PHL 268 - Introduction to Metaphysics Course Units: 1
This course will introduce students to metaphysics, the branch of philosophy that deals with fundamental questions about reality. Questions to be explored include: What are races and genders? Do people have free will? Do the past and future exist, or only the present? Is it possible to travel backwards in time? Are there any things that exist that aren’t physical, such as numbers and works of music? Are people physical or mental? Both? Neither? Assuming that you existed ten years ago, how is that possible given all of the changes that have happened to you? Does God exist? CC: HUL, HUM
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PHL 273 - Environmental Ethics Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) An exploration of the ethical and philosophical ideas that have shaped attitudes toward the environment and toward non-human species. CC: HUM
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PHL 274 - (174) Biomedical Ethics Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) An introduction to ethical problems in biology and medicine, touching on such issues as reproductive ethics (abortion, cloning), research ethics, the ethics of death and dying (assisted suicide, euthanasia) and similar subjects. CC: HUM
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PHL 295H - Philosophy Honors Independent Project 1 Course Units: 0.0
(TBD: Staff)
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PHL 296H - Philosophy Honors Independent Project 2 Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff)
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PHL 297 - The Ethics of Forgiveness and Revenge Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Examination of different ways of responding to wrongdoing. When is revenge appropriate and why? When is forgiveness appropriate and why? CC: HUM
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PHL 301 - Racism & Enlightenment Course Units: 1
This course will examine the ethical and political theories of the European Enlightenment with a focus on their historical connection to racism and racial oppression. In the first half of the course, we will study three iconic thinkers from the Enlightenment: John Locke, David Hume, and Immanuel Kant. In the second half, we will investigate the following questions: What role did racial prejudice play in these philosophers’ works? How did they inspire racist thinking? Given these historical connections to racism, how should we engage with their works in the present? CC: HUM, WAC, JCHF, JSPE
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PHL 311 - (244) Plato’s Republic Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Most people care deeply about justice and strive to live just lives. But what is justice and why should we try to be just? What if we always do the right thing, but we are constantly treated badly and as if we are untrustworthy? Should we be just even if others think we are dishonest and corrupt? Is justice worth pursuing for itself? If justice is good how do we make our cities and our fellow citizens just? What kind of ruler would make a city just? In this course we will try to answer these questions as we work our way through Plato’s most famous work, Republic. Each class will be organized around specific question(s). We will focus most of our attention on analyzing and interpreting Plato’s answer to these questions, but we will also try to answer these questions ourselves and see whether or not we agree with Plato. Cross-Listed: CLS 311 CC: HUM
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PHL 338 - Zen and Tibetan Buddhism Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Mahayana Buddhist philosophy explains the nature of reality as emptiness, which means that the nature of reality is beyond (and thus empty of) words, concepts and characteristics. Mahayana Buddhism also regards compassion as the primary motivation for ethics. This course focuses on the metaphysical theories of two schools of Mahayana Buddhist philosophy: Chinese/Japanese Zen Buddhism and Tibetan Buddhism. The course examines Zen Buddhist theories of No-Self and the nature of mind that makes sudden enlightenment possible, as well as Tibetan Buddhist theories of interdependent arising and emptiness. This course is applicable to the Asian Studies and Religious Studies majors. CC: HUM, LCC
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PHL 341 - The Contemporary Crisis of Truth Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) A study of 20th century European or American philosophies: phenomenology, existentialism, or analytic philosophy. CC: HUM
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PHL 342 - Aristotle Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Aristotle is one of the most influential philosophers in the Western world. His impact spans centuries, influencing ancient Greek and Roman thought, medieval Christian, Arabic, and Jewish thinkers, and even today’s philosophers and intellectuals. In this class we will focus mostly on his contribution to metaphysics, philosophy of mind, epistemology, and ethics. What is the nature of reality? How do we come to have knowledge? What constitutes a good human life? These are just some of the questions that we will discuss in the course. Cross-Listed: CLS 242 CC: HUM
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PHL 343 - Metaphysics: On What There Is Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) An examination of such topics as determinism and free will, causation, time, personal identity, necessity and possibility, objectivity, and God Prerequisite(s): Two philosophy courses or permission of the instructor. CC: HUM
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PHL 344 - Advanced Political Philosophy Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) This course concentrates on issues in contemporary political philosophy. Prerequisite(s): Two philosophy courses or permission of the instructor. CC: HUM
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PHL 359 - Postmodernism Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Do some groups control the way we use language? Is discourse male-dominated or Euro-centric? Postmodern theories investigate the nature of language, as well as questions concerning power and language: How is power gained and controlled through discourse, the media and other cultural institutions? Postmodern theories have had an impact on contemporary literature, art, and media theory. Readings by Structuralist and Postmodern thinkers, such as Saussure, Barthes, Foucault, Cixous, Irigaray, and Derrida will be discussed. Cross-Listed: WGS 359 Prerequisite(s): One philosophy course or permission of the instructor. CC: HUM
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PHL 365 - Philosophy of Mind Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Critical examination of some central issues in the philosophy of mind, including the mind/body problem, the problem of other minds, “intelligent” machines, and animal minds. CC: HUM
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PHL 374 - Advanced Biomedical Ethics Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) An advanced historically based introduction to biomedical ethics. Among the subjects treated will be the relationship between bioethics and traditional medical ethics, the evolution of the discourse, core concepts, models, theories and organizational infrastructure of bioethics, including IRBs and ethics committees. The course is designed to serve as a foundation for graduate work in bioethics and to fulfill the required knowledge competencies recommended by the American Society of Bioethics and Humanities in its 1998 report Core Competencies for Health Care Ethics Consultation. Prerequisite(s): Two philosophy courses or permission of the instructor. CC: HUM
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PHL 376 - Philosophy of Law/Jurisprudence Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) An advanced course in jurisprudence. Primary topics include: the nature of law and legal reasoning in general; the nature of criminal law, including both the role of excuses in the criminal law and the aims and justification of criminal punishment; and the nature of tort law, including both the relationship between negligence and liability and the relationship between causation and liability Prerequisite(s): One philosophy course or permission of the instructor. Prereq/Corequisite(s): One course from the Philosophy department. CC: HUM
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PHL 388 - Skepticism East and West Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) For as long as there have been philosophers engaged in passionate pursuit of knowledge, there have been skeptics critical of the entire enterprise. Can we really know the Truth about anything? For that matter, how important is it for us to know the Truth? Skeptical thinkers have appeared in all times and cultures. We will engage with three venerable texts: the Zhuangzi from ancient China, Nagarjuna’s writings on the Middle Way from ancient India, and the Outlines of Skepticism by Sextus Empiricus from ancient Greece. Our goal is to put these authors into dialogue and then join in that dialogue. CC: LCC
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PHL 408 - New Directions in Philosophy Course Units: 0.0
(TBD: Staff) Preparation for biweekly talks by visiting philosophers and development of writing skills. This course extends over two terms. Only one course credit is given. Required of philosophy and interdepartmental majors. During the first term, students sign up for 408; during the second, for 418. Both 408 and 418 may be taken during any year. Because 408 carries no credit, students should register for it in conjunction with three other full-credit courses. Seniors who have not otherwise satisfied their Senior Writing Requirement may do so by taking this course.
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PHL 418 - New Directions in Philosophy Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Preparation for biweekly talks by visiting philosophers and development of writing skills. This course extends over two terms. Only one course credit is given. Required of philosophy and interdepartmental majors. During the first term, students sign up for 408; during the second, for 418. Both 408 and 418 may be taken during any year. Because 408 carries no credit, students should register for it in conjunction with three other full-credit courses. Seniors who have not otherwise satisfied their Senior Writing Requirement may do so by taking this course. CC: HUM, WS
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PHL 445 - Seminar in Metaphysics Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) May be repeated, if topic changes. Prerequisite(s): Two philosophy courses or permission of the instructor. CC: HUM, WS
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PHL 446 - Seminar in Epistemology Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Spring Topic: Topics in Philosophy Mind. Prerequisite(s): Two philosophy courses or permission of the instructor. CC: HUM, WS
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PHL 447 - Advanced Logic Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) May be repeated, if topic changes. Prerequisite(s): PHL 231 or permission of instructor. CC: HUM, WS
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PHL 448 - Seminar in Ethics or Value Theory Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Prerequisite(s): Two philosophy courses or permission of the instructor. CC: HUM, WS Note: Course may be repeated, if topic changes.
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PHL 450 - Hume’s Challenge to Reason Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) In the eighteenth century, David Hume issued a series of challenges to human reason that ever since have been at the center of much of Western Philosophy. Hume argued that the fundamental principles of philosophy, science, and even morality are based not on reason but on instincts and emotions. This course examines Hume’s challenge and how philosophers after Hume (such as Reid, Shepherd, and Kant) have tried to address it. CC: HUM, WAC-R, WS
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PHL 462 - Philosophy of Language Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) An examination of key concepts in the philosophy of language, such as truth, meaning, reference, definite descriptions, names, demonstratives, and propositional attitudes. The fundamental question: How does language connect us to the world? Prerequisite(s): Two philosophy courses or permission of the instructor. CC: HUM, WS
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PHL 490 - Philosophy Independent Study 1 Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Selected topics in philosophy. Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor.
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PHL 491 - Philosophy Independent Study 2 Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Selected topics in philosophy. Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor.
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PHL 492 - Philosophy Independent Study 3 Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Selected topics in philosophy. Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor.
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PHL 493 - Philosophy Independent Study 4 Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Selected topics in philosophy. Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor.
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PHL 498 - Philosophy Honors Thesis 1 Course Units: 0.0
(TBD: Staff) Substantial two-term written project on a specific philosophical topic, under the direction of an advisor, culminating in an honors thesis. Philosophy 498 carries 0 credits. Upon completion of PHL 499 the student receives two course credits. Normally taken in the senior year.
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PHL 499 - Philosophy Honors Thesis 2 Course Units: 2.0
(TBD: Staff) Substantial two-term written project on a specific philosophical topic, under the direction of an advisor, culminating in an honors thesis. PHL 498 carries 0 credits. Upon completion of PHL 499 the student receives two course credits. Normally taken in the senior year. Prerequisite(s): PHL 498 CC: WS
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Physics Physics Courses
Common Curriculum Courses
Courses numbered in the 050’s are designed particularly for non-science majors seeking to satisfy Common Curriculum requirements, and all of these courses carry Common Curriculum credit. They may not be counted toward the major in physics or toward any other science or engineering major, but may count toward an interdepartmental major (see requirements for Physics, B.S.).
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PHY 010 - Physics and Astronomy Seminar Course Units: 0.0
(TBD: Staff) Discussion of special topics in physics and astronomy relevant to senior research projects and professional development. Attendance at Physics and Astronomy seminars is required. Required for all Physics and Astronomy Majors and co-requisite for PHY 490 and PHY 493 . Students must pass PHY 010 to receive a passing grade in PHY 490 or PHY 493.
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PHY 100 - Exploring Physics & Astronomy Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Team-taught course introducing physics at Union. Topics covered may include astronomy, astrophysics, atomic and molecular physics, biophysics, computational physics, laser physics, quantum measurement, nuclear and particle physics, solid-state physics, and statistical physics. Prerequisite(s): By invitation. CC: SET
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PHY 110 - Physics for the Life Sciences 1 Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) An introduction to classical mechanics, fluids, and thermodynamics with applications in the life sciences. Students must major in a life science or be admitted by permission of the instructor. Prerequisite(s): MTH 102 or MTH 112 or MTH 113 (may be taken concurrently). Corequisite(s): PHY 110L CC: SCLB Lecture/Lab Hours Three lab hours each week. ISP: ENS
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PHY 111 - Physics for the Life Sciences 2 Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) An introduction to electromagnetism, optics, and the structure of matter with applications in the life sciences. Prerequisite(s): PHY 110 , PHY 120 ,MTH 102 , MTH 112 ,or MTH 113 Corequisite(s): PHY 111L CC: SCLB Lecture/Lab Hours Three lab hours each week. ISP: ENS
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PHY 120 - Matter in Motion Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Calculus-based introduction to classical mechanics; Newtonian dynamics and energetics of a single particle and of systems of particles. Integrated class and lab meets four times each week. Prerequisite(s): MTH 102 or MTH 112 or MTH 113 (may be taken concurrently). CC: SCLB, GNPS ISP: ENS
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PHY 121 - Principles of Electromagnetics Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Calculus-based introduction to waves, electro and magneto statics, and electrodynamics through Maxwell’s equations. Integrated class and lab meets four times each week. Prerequisite(s): PHY 120 or IMP 120 and MTH 102 or MTH 112 or MTH 113 (may be taken concurrently) CC: SCLB, GNPS ISP: ENS
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PHY 122 - Relativity, Quantum, and Their Applications Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Calculus-based introduction to the structure of matter, including quantum effects, particle, nuclear, atomic, molecular, and solid state physics, and applications to materials of interest to engineers and scientists. Prerequisite(s): PHY 121 IMP 113 or IMP 121 . Corequisite(s): PHY-122L Lecture/Lab Hours Three lab hours each week. ISP: ENS
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PHY 123 - Heat and Light Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Calculus-based introduction to thermodynamics, geometric and physical optics, and astrophysics. Integrated class and lab meets four times each week. Prerequisite(s): PHY 121 or IMP 121 . CC: ENS
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PHY 200 - Molecular Biophysics Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Selected topics in molecular biophysics including an overview of proteins, nucleic acids, viruses and bacteria, with an emphasis on molecular structure and functioning. Experimental techniques used in modern biophysical research included in the course are various optical spectroscopies and microscopies, as well as hydrodynamic methods (sedimentation, diffusion, viscosity, electrophoresis), NMR, and x-ray diffraction. Prerequisite(s): PHY 111 or PHY 121 or IMP 121 , and some exposure to biology or permission of the instructor.
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PHY 210 - The Physics of Modern Medicine: Applications in Imaging, Surgery and Therapy Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) This course introduces the technologies used in modern medicine and the basic physical principles that underlie them. Topics will include: laser surgery, ultrasound imaging, laparoscopic surgery, diagnostic x-ray imaging, nuclear medicine, computed tomography (CAT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, and radiation therapy. Safety issues involved in the use of each technique will be considered in depth, and discussions will include societal implications of the growing use of technology in medicine. Specific medical applications discussed will include (but are not limited to): colon cancer screening, arthroscopic knee surgery, laser eye surgery, dermatological laser surgery, obstetrical ultrasound, cardiovascular ultrasound, mammography, osteoporosis screening, cancer radiation therapy, and applications of PET and MRI brain scans in neuroscience. Prerequisite(s): PHY 111 or PHY 121 or IMP 121 , or permission of the instructor. CC: WAC
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PHY 220 - Relativity and Introduction to Quantum Mechanics Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) A second course in modern physics covering special relativity and an introduction to quantum mechanics. Topics include relativistic kinematics, relativistic dynamics, four-vector notation, relativistic collisions, origins of quantum mechanics, Schrodinger’s equation and the development of wave mechanics, applications of wave mechanics in one and three dimensions (step potential, square well, harmonic oscillator), angular momentum operators, the hydrogen atom, Dirac notation and matrix formulation of linear operators, Dirac Delta function, spin angular momentum, measurement theory, and time-independent perturbation theory. Prerequisite(s): PHY 122 CC: ENS Lecture/Lab Hours One hour computational lab each week.
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PHY 230 - Intermediate Classical Mechanics Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) An analytical treatment of classical mechanics. Topics include motion of a particle in one, two, and three dimensions; planetary motion; collision theory; moving coordinate systems; dynamics of rigid bodies; and the Lagrangian form of the equations of motion. Prerequisite(s): PHY 110 or PHY 120 or IMP 120 Prereq/Corequisite(s): MTH 117 (pre- or co-requisite), or permission of the instructor. Lecture/Lab Hours One hour computational lab each week.
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PHY 270 - Intermediate Electromagnetism Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Electric and magnetic fields and potentials; electric and magnetic properties of matter; Maxwell’s field equations. Prerequisite(s): PHY 121 and MTH 117 or IMP 121 , or permission of the instructor. Lecture/Lab Hours One hour computational lab each week.
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PHY 295H - Physics Honors Independent Project 1 Course Units: 0.0
(TBD: Staff) Topic to be chosen in consultation with a faculty member and the student’s advisor.
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PHY 296H - Physics Honors Independent Project 2 Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Topic to be chosen in consultation with a faculty member and the student’s advisor.
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PHY 300 - Methods of Modern Experimental Physics Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) A laboratory-based course dealing with contemporary techniques in experimental physics. Prerequisite(s): PHY 122 and one physics course at the 200-level or higher, or permission of the instructor. CC: WAC ISP: ENS
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PHY 310 - Advanced Topics in Physics 1 Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Course topic for each year to be chosen from the following: Computational Physics: A laboratory-based course providing practical tools to solve computational physics problems drawn from a wide range of areas, including classical mechanics, electromagnetism, special relativity, and quantum mechanics. Algorithms include root-finders, integration techniques, Monte Carlo methods, ordinary and partial differential equation solvers, numerical Fourier transforms, minimization tools, and numerical linear algebra algorithms. Condensed Matter Physics: An introduction to the microscopic structures and to the electrical and thermal properties of metals, insulators, and semiconductors. Topics include the description of crystal lattices, electrons in a periodic potential, electronic band theory, phonons and their interactions with electrons, cohesive energy of solids, defect states, and superconductivity. Modern Physical Optics: Interference, diffraction and polarization of light, interaction of light and matter, classical and quantum description of optics, and lasers. Three-hour lab each week. Nuclear/Elementary Particle Physics: An introduction to both nuclear and particle physics covering basic nuclear structure and properties, nuclear models, nuclear decay and radioactivity, nuclear reactions, fission, fusion, accelerators, elementary particle physics, and the quark model. Statistical Mechanics: Probability theory, laws of thermodynamics, kinetic theory of gases and the statistical basis of thermodynamics, Bose Einstein and Fermi Dirac distributions, applications to simple fluids, magnetic systems, metals, photons, and superfluid helium. Advanced Electromagnetism: Relativistic electrodynamics, electromagnetic radiation and waves. Quantum Optics: The study of the interaction of light and matter in systems where the wave nature of matter and the particle nature of light must be taken into account. Topics may include single-photon interference, correlated photons and the EPR paradox, quantum computing, quantum cryptography and quantum teleportation, atom optics and atom interferometry, laser cooling and Bose-Einstein Condensation, and implications of quantum mechanics for nanomaterials and nanodevices. Electronics: A laboratory course in basic electronics and instrumentation for science majors. Topics include AC and DC circuits, diodes, rectifiers, transistors, operational amplifiers, binary logic, Boolean algebra, digital circuits, analog-digital conversion, transducers, and computer interfacing. Six hours of lab each week. Others depending upon student interest. Prerequisite(s): Course open to juniors and seniors only. Enrollment by permission of the instructor. ISP: ENS
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PHY 311 - Advanced Topics in Physics 2 Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Course topic for each year to be chosen from those listed in Physics 310 depending upon student interest. Course open to juniors and seniors only. Enrollment by permission of the instructor. Prerequisite(s): PHY 122 CC: WAC
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PHY 312 - Advanced Topics in Physics 3 Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Course topic for each year to be chosen from those listed in Physics 310 depending upon student interest. Course open to juniors and seniors only. Enrollment by permission of the instructor.
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PHY 350 - Advanced Quantum Mechanics Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) A second course in quantum mechanics with applications to selected problems in atomic, nuclear, and solid state physics. Prerequisite(s): PHY 220 and MTH 117 , or permission of the instructor.
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PHY 490 - Physics Two-Term Senior Thesis 1 Course Units: 0.0
(TBD: Staff) The student will normally begin a research project by the fall of the senior year under the supervision of a faculty member; interested students are encouraged to begin research projects earlier in their studies. All students involved in research will meet together once a week with a faculty member who will organize oral reports by the students based on their progress. A written report is required on completion of the project. Prereq/Corequisite(s): Completion of PHY 491 earns the total credits.
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PHY 491 - Physics Two-Term Senior Thesis 2 Course Units: 2.0
(TBD: Staff) The student will normally begin a research project by the fall of the senior year under the supervision of a faculty member; interested students are encouraged to begin research projects earlier in their studies. All students involved in research will meet together once a week with a faculty member who will organize oral reports by the students based on their progress. A written report is required on completion of the project. Prerequisite(s): PHY 490 CC: WS
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PHY 492 - Physics Senior Thesis 3 Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) The student will normally begin a research project by the fall of the senior year under the supervision of a faculty member; interested students are encouraged to begin research projects earlier in their studies. All students involved in research will meet together once a week with a faculty member who will organize oral reports by the students based on their progress. A written report is required on completion of the project. Prerequisite(s): PHY 491 CC: WS (final term)
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PHY 493 - Physics Senior Writing Project Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) The student will normally begin a research project by the fall of the senior year under the supervision of a faculty member; interested students are encouraged to begin research projects earlier in their studies. All students involved in research will meet together once a week with a faculty member who will organize oral reports by the students based on their progress. A written report is required on completion of the project. Corequisite(s): Fall term students attend PHY 490 Lectures. CC: WS
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PHY 495 - Physics Independent Study 1 Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Topic to be chosen in consultation with a faculty member and the student’s advisor.
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PHY 496 - Physics Independent Study 2 Course Units: 1.0
(TBD: Staff) Topic to be chosen in consultation with a faculty member and the student’s advisor.
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