California State University, East Bay Signature Mark

Physics

Department Information

Department of Physics
College of Science
Office: North Science 231
Phone: (510) 885-3401
Email: physics@csueastbay.edu
Website: http://www20.csueastbay.edu/csci/departments/physics/index.html

Associate Professors
Derek Kimball (Chair), Ph.D. University of California, Berkeley
Jason Singley, Ph.D. University of California, San Diego
Gary S. Weston, Ph.D. University of California, Los Angeles

Assistant Professor
Erik Helgren, Ph.D. University of California, Los Angeles

Back to top

Program Description

In physics, one attempts to discover, formulate, explain, and apply the basic laws of nature. You could be a physicist and work in areas as diverse as astrophysics, relativity, properties of materials, or the standard model of fundamental particles and interactions. Principles of physics provide the foundation for other sciences as well as engineering. Some of the examples of modern technological development from the application of physical principles include radio and television, computers, laser scanners, and communication by fiber optics. In addition, physicists explore problems in astronomy and theories for the origin and evolution of the universe.

At Cal State East Bay students can choose between a Bachelor of Science (B.S) degree and a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree with a major in Physics. The B.S. degree major program is designed to give students an understanding of the fundamentals of physics including concepts of atomic and nuclear physics, classical mechanics, wave motion and sound, electromagnetism and optics, heat and thermodynamics, relativity, quantum mechanics, and elementary particles and their interactions.

Whereas the B.S. degree provides more focus, the B.A. degree major program is designed to satisfy the needs of students who require greater breadth of study across the sciences than the B.S. program can provide. Students who might be more interested in the B.A. degree, for example, would be prospective secondary-school teachers, or students who wish to pursue interdisciplinary study (e.g., in biophysics), or graduate study in professional programs (e.g., in the health sciences), business, or law in technical fields. For those students interested in becoming secondary-school teachers, an option in Physics Education is available which has a larger breadth of science courses required for teaching in California. 

Student Learning Outcomes

Students graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Physics from Cal State East Bay will have:

  • the ability to do advanced calculations and solve technical problems in experimental physics;
  • a general grasp of theoretical principles and their application in particular problems;
  • the ability to work productively and creatively in both individual and group situations;
  • the habit of critical thinking.

Back to top

Career Opportunities

  • Astronomer
  • Biochemical Engineer
  • Device Engineer
  • Electrical Engineer
  • Electric Power Administrator
  • Geophysicists
  • Laboratory Assistant
  • Laser Technician
  • Mechanical Engineer
  • Pharmacologist
  • Physics Teacher
  • Pollution Control Technician
  • Professor
  • Renewable Energy Manager 
  • Research Scientist
  • Satellite Engineer 
  • Security Researcher
  • Software Engineer
  • Technical Writer

Back to top

Features

With relatively small classes and teaching as a major emphasis of faculty members, the physics major involves a considerable amount of individualized instruction. In addition, research done by faculty members often includes student participation.

Hands-on experience is a central theme of the programs. Upper division students use modern equipment to conduct experiments in such areas as fiber optics, atomic and molecular spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, and solar cell construction and characterization. 

Physics majors have an opportunity to be inducted into the national physics honors society, Sigma Pi Sigma. Additionally, students may join the Society of Physics Students (SPS).

Back to top

Preparation

For Advanced Placement course equivalencies, see Registration chapter.

Back to top

Major Requirements (B.S.)

Please consult an advisor in your major department for clarification and interpretation of your major requirements. The B.S. degree major consists of 110 units; the B.S. degree requires a total of 182 units.

Sample Program
A Sample Program for this degree can be found at the department website: www20.csueastbay.edu/csci/departments/physics/index.html

  1. Lower Division (50 units)
    • CHEM 1101, 1102 General Chemistry (5, 5)
    • MATH 1304, 1305, 2304, 2305 Calculus I, II, III, IV (4, 4, 4, 4)
    • MATH 2101 Elements of Linear Algebra (4)
    • PHYS 1001, 1002, 1003, 2004 General Physics (5, 5, 5, 5)
  2. Upper Division (60 units)
    • MATH 3331 Differential Equations (4)
    • PHYS 3101, 3102 Analytic Mechanics I, II (3, 3)
    • PHYS 3151, 3152 Thermal and Statistical Physics I, II (3, 3)
    • PHYS 3180 Computational Physics (4)
    • PHYS 3280 Electronics (4)
    • PHYS 3281 Experimental Physics (4)
    • PHYS 3283 Advanced Laboratory (4)
    • PHYS 3301, 3302, 3303 Quantum Mechanics I, II, III (3, 3, 3)
    • PHYS 4001, 4002, 4003 Electromagnetism I, II, III (3, 3, 3)
    • PHYS 4250 Selected Topics or PHYS 4850 Undergraduate Research (3)
    • PHYS 4600 Solid State (3)
    • PHYS 4700 Modern Optics (3)
    • PHYS 4950 Physics Capstone (1)

Total Units: 110

Back to top

Major Requirements (B.A.)

The B.A. degree major consists of 96 units; the B.A. degree requires a total of 180 units.

  1. Lower Division (50 units)
    • CHEM 1101, 1102 General Chemistry (5, 5)
    • MATH 1304, 1305, 2304, 2305 Calculus I, II, III, IV (4, 4, 4, 4)
    • MATH 2101 Elements of Linear Algebra (4)
    • PHYS 1001, 1002, 1003, 2004 General Physics (5, 5, 5, 5)
  2. Upper Division (46 units)
    • MATH 3331 Differential Equations (4)
    • PHYS 3101, 3102 Analytic Mechanics I, II (3, 3)
    • PHYS 3151 Thermal and Statistical Physics I (3)
    • PHYS 3180 Computational Physics (4)
    • PHYS 3280 Electronics (4)
    • PHYS 3281 Experimental Physics (4)
    • PHYS 3301, 3302 Quantum Mechanics I, II (3, 3)
    • PHYS 4001, 4002 Electromagnetism I, II (3, 3)

    Select nine (9) units of electives from the following:

    • PHYS 3303 Quantum Mechanics III (3) or PHYS 4600 Solid State (3)
    • PHYS 4003 Electromagnetism III (3) or PHYS 4700 Modern Optics (3)
    • Three units selected from PHYS 4250 Selected Topics (1-3) and PHYS 4850 Undergraduate Research (1-3)

Total Units: 96

Physics Education Option

The Bachelor of Arts degree, major in Physics with an option in Physics Education, is designed for students interested in a career teaching physics at the high school level, but also prepares students to work as an industrial physicist. This program covers all of the content areas necessary for teaching both high school physics and general science courses in middle and high schools, thus preparing graduates to enter a single subject credential program. The B.A. degree major with a Physics Education option consists of 100 units; the B.A. degree requires a total of 180 units.

  1. Lower Division (55 units)
    • BIOL 1000 Basic Concepts in Biology (5) 
    • CHEM 1100 Introduction to College Chemistry (5) 
    • GEOL 1000 Earth Systems Science (5) 
    • MATH 1304, 1305, 2304, 2305 Calculus I, II, III, IV (4, 4, 4, 4)  
    • MATH 2101 Elements of Linear Algebra (4)
    • PHYS 1001, 1002, 1003, 2004 General Physics (5, 5, 5, 5)
  2. Upper Division (45 units)
    • MATH 3331 Differential Equations (4)
    • PHIL 3335 Science, Technology and Values (4)
    • PHYS 3101 Analytic Mechanics I (3)
    • PHYS 3151 Thermal Physics I (3)
    • PHYS 3180 Computational Physics (4)
    • PHYS 3280 Electronics (4)
    • PHYS 3281 Experimental Physics (4)
    • PHYS 3301, 2 Quantum Mechanics I, II (3, 3)
    • PHYS 4001, 2 Electromagnetism I, II (3, 3)
    • PHYS 4250 Selected Topics or 4850 Undergraduate Research (3)
    • PHYS 4950 Physics Capstone (1)
    • TED 3001 Exploring Education (3)

Total Units: 100

Back to top

Other Degree Requirements

In addition to major requirements, every student must also complete the University requirements for graduation which are described in the Baccalaureate Degree Requirements chapter in the front of this catalog. These include the General Education-Breadth requirements; the second composition (ENGL 1002) requirement; the cultural groups/women requirement; the performing arts/activities requirement; the U.S. history, U.S. Constitution, and California state and local government requirement; the University Writing Skills Requirement; and the residence, unit, and grade point average requirements.

Back to top

Minor Requirements

The minor in physics is designed to provide a general background in physics for students majoring in other areas. It is of particular value to students majoring in such sciences as biology, chemistry, computer science, geology, and mathematics. A minor in physics will broaden students' understanding of physical science and will expand employment opportunities, including teaching at the secondary school level. The minor consists of 33 units.

  1. Required courses (20 units):
    • PHYS 1001, 1002, 1003, 2004 General Physics (5, 5, 5, 5)
  2. Three courses from the following list (9 units):
    • PHYS 3101, 3102 Analytical Mechanics I, II (3, 3)
    • PHYS 3151, 3152 Thermal and Statistical Physics I, II (3, 3)
    • PHYS 3301, 3302, 3303 Quantum Mechanics I, II, III (3, 3, 3)
    • PHYS 4001, 4002, 4003 Electromagnetism I, II, III (3, 3, 3)
    • PHYS 4600 Solid State Physics (3)
    • PHYS 4700 Modern Optics (3)
  3. One course from the following list (4 units):
    • PHYS 3180 Computational Physics (4)
    • PHYS 3280 Electronics (4)
    • PHYS 3281 Experimental Physics (4)
    • PHYS 3283 Advanced Laboratory (4)

Total Units: 33

Back to top

Certificate in Foundational Level General Science

The Foundational Level General Science certificate program is designed for students who would like to teach middle school science or would like to become K-5 science specialists. Credentialed teachers who complete this program and pass the Science CSET I and II exams qualify for the Foundational-level Added Authorization in Science.

Candidates for this program should have or plan to obtain their Multiple Subject teaching credential or a Single Subject teaching credential in a subject other than a science discipline. Students who complete this program will be well prepared to teach science at the K-8 level, will have completed the State required Methods Courses in Single Subject Science and will have the content knowledge required to pass the Science CSET I and II exams. The certificate consists of 20 units.

Required Courses

  • BIOL 3011 Foundational Biology (4)
  • BIOL 3012 Foundational Biology Laboratory (1)
  • CHEM 3011 Foundational Chemistry (4)
  • CHEM 3012 Foundational Chemistry Laboratory (1)
  • GEOL 3011 Foundational Earth Science (4)
  • GEOL 3012 Foundational Earth Science (1)
  • PHYS 3011 Foundational Physics (4)
  • PHYS 3012 Foundational Physics Laboratory (1)

Back to top

Undergraduate Courses

Undergraduate Courses (Course prefix: PHYS)
Course Number Course Information
1001, 1002, 1003 General Physics (5 each)
All major fields of physics are covered in this sequence. This sequence is designed for physics, physical science, geology (B.S.), and chemistry (B.S.) majors. Prerequisites or co-requisites: MATH 1304, 1305, 2304. Each course is a prerequisite of the one following. Four hrs. lect., 3 hrs. lab., each
  • 1001 Newtonian Mechanics and Oscillations
  • 1002 Thermodynamics and Optics
  • 1003 Electromagnetism
1021 General Physics Supplemental Instruction (.5)
Student-centered discussion and problem-solving. Designed to promote understanding of key concepts and enhance student success in the concurrent physics course (PHYS 1001). Co-requisite: PHYS 1001. Not for credit in PHYS major. CR/NC grading only. 1 hr. act
1022 General Physics Supplemental Instruction (.5)
Student-centered discussion and problem-solving. Designed to promote understanding of key concepts and enhance student success in the concurrent physics course (PHYS 1002). Co-requisite: PHYS 1002. Not for credit in PHYS major. CR/NC grading only. 1 hr. act.
1023 General Physics Supplemental Instruction (.5)
Student-centered discussion and problem-solving. Designed to promote understanding of key concepts and enhance student success in the concurrent physics course (PHYS 1003). Co-requisite: PHYS 1003. Not for credit in PHYS major. CR/NC grading only. 1 hr. act.
1200 Behind the Music (4)
This course offers a basic introduction to the physical properties of sound waves. The focus will be on developing a scientific framework in which to understand how different musical instruments produce a variety of sounds. Not for credit in Physics major.
1500 How Things Work (4)
A conceptual look at how popular and common things work, what they mean in an everyday way, and how they all fit together in one working unit. Not for credit in Physics major. Not open to students with credit for PHYS 1700.
1700 Elementary Physics (4)
A non-mathematical survey of the basic physical laws (rules) of nature with emphasis on the origin, meaning, significance, and limitations of these laws. Topical areas include mechanics, wave motion, electricity and magnetism, heat and thermodynamics, relativity, quantum theory, and elementary particle theory. Not for credit in Physics major. Not open to students with credit for PHYS 1500.
1780 Elementary Physics Laboratory (1)
A lab designed to accompany PHYS 1700 and to introduce students to some equipment used in physics. The experiments are hands-on activities in mechanics, wave motion and sound, temperature and heat, electricity, light, and radioactivity. Not for credit in Physics major. Three hrs. lab.
1800 Astronomy (4)
A descriptive survey of astronomy, astrophysics, and cosmology. Emphasis is on the physical nature and evolution of galaxies, stars, and planets. Not for credit in Physics major. Not open to students with credit for PHYS 1600.
1880 Astronomy Laboratory (1)
A lab designed to accompany PHYS 1800 and PHYS 3700. Experiments are hands-on activities involving positions and motions of the moon, planets, and stars. Some night observations are included. Not for credit in Physics major. Three hrs. lab.
2004 General Physics (5)
A continuation of the General Physics sequence (PHYS 1001, 1002, 1003) focusing on modern physics: relativity, quantum mechanics, atomic and molecular physics, nuclear and particle physics.  Course is a bridge to upper division work in the sciences, and special emphasis is placed on advanced mathematical techniques and problem-solving skills. Prerequisites: MATH 2304 and PHYS 1003. Four hrs. lect., 3 hrs. lab.
2005 The Science of Energy (4)
A descriptive course covering energy resources, production, and consumption in the 21st century. Energy input and output of physical systems such as household appliances and modes of transportation. Not for credit in Physics major.
2701, 2702, 2703 Introductory Physics (4 each)
A three-quarter sequence in general physics, designed primarily for students taking the B.S. biological sciences (including pre-professional students), chemistry (B.A.), and geology or for non-science majors requiring a good foundation in physics. Knowledge of algebra and trigonometry required. For students who are not majoring in physics. Not for credit in Physics major. Three hrs. lect., 3 hrs. lab each.
  • 2701 Force, Mass and Motion
    Prerequisite: Trigonometry or MATH 1300.
  • 2702 Heat, Sound, Electricity and Magnetism
    Prerequisite: PHYS 2701.
  • 2703 Light and Modern Physics
    Prerequisite: PHYS 2702.
2711 Introductory Physics Supplemental Instruction (.5)
Student-centered discussion and problem-solving. Designed to promote understanding of key concepts and enhance student success in the concurrent physics course (PHYS 2701). Co-requisite: PHYS 2701. Not for credit in PHYS major. CR/NC grading only. 1 hr. act.
2712 Introductory Physics Supplemental Instruction (.5)
Student-centered discussion and problem-solving. Designed to promote understanding of key concepts and enhance student success in the concurrent physics course (PHYS 2702). Co-requisite: PHYS 2702. Not for credit in PHYS major. CR/NC grading only. 1 hr. act.
2713 Introductory Physics Supplemental Instruction (.5)
Student-centered discussion and problem-solving. Designed to promote understanding of key concepts and enhance student success in the concurrent physics course (PHYS 2703). Co-requisite: PHYS 2703. Not for credit in PHYS major. CR/NC grading only. 1 hr. act.
3011 Foundational Physics (4)
Covers the foundational areas of physics including motion, forces, electricity, magnetism, thermodynamics, and atomic and nuclear physics. Focuses on the California State Science Standards and prepares students to teach middle school physical science. Prerequisites: PHYS 1700 and 1780. Recommendation: Concurrent enrollment in PHYS 3012 Foundational Physics Laboratory. Not for physics major or minor credit.
3012 Foundational Physics Laboratory (1)
Laboratory course which supplements the Foundational Physics lecture, PHYS 3011. Focuses on the California State Science Standards and prepares students to teach middle school physical science. Prerequisites: PHYS 1700 and 1780. Co-requisites: Prior or concurrent enrollment in PHYS 3011 Foundational Physics, or equivalent. Not for physics major or minor credit. Three hrs. lab.
3101 Analytic Mechanics I (3)
Review of Newtonian mechanics. Hamilton's Principle. Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formalisms, with applications. Generalized coordinates. Central forces. Prerequisite: PHYS 1003.
3102 Analytic Mechanics II (3)
Particles and rigid bodies. Oscillations and waves. Fluids. Prerequisite: PHYS 3101; prerequisite or co-requisite: MATH 3331.
3151 Thermal and Statistical Physics I (3)
The laws of thermodynamics, states of matter, kinetic theory, introduction to statistical mechanics. Prerequisite: PHYS 1003.
3152 Thermal and Statistical Physics II (3)
Canonical and other ensembles. Quantum gases and phase transitions. Prerequisite: PHYS 3151; prerequisite or co-requisite: MATH 3331.
3180 Computational Physics (4)
Computer programming and numerical techniques relevant to physics. Data acquisition and analysis. Prerequisite: PHYS 1003; prerequisite or co-requisite: MATH 3331. Two hrs. lect., 6 hrs. lab.
3280 Electronics (4)
Hands-on introduction to analog and digital circuits and components commonly found in laboratory electronics. Prerequisite: PHYS 1003 or consent of instructor. Cross-listed with ENGR 3280. Two hrs. lect., 6 hrs. lab.
3281 Experimental Physics (4)
Experiments in various fields of physics. Experimental design. Computer interfacing. Written and oral reports. Laboratory safety. Prerequisite: PHYS 3280 or consent of instructor. Two hrs. lect., 6 hrs. lab.
3283 Advanced Laboratory (4)
Experimental projects, including optical and solid state physics topics. Prerequisite: PHYS 3280. May be repeated once for credit with consent of instructor, for a maximum of 8 units. Two hrs. lect., 6 hrs. lab.
3301 Quantum Mechanics I (3)
Introduction to Schrodinger's equation and the mathematical formalisms of quantum mechanics. Prerequisite: PHYS 1003.
3302 Quantum Mechanics II (3)
Applications of Schroedinger's equation. Angular momentum. Prerequisite: PHYS 3301; prerequisite or co-requisite: MATH 3331.
3303 Quantum Mechanics III (3)
Approximation methods and further applications of quantum mechanics. Prerequisite: PHYS 3302; prerequisite or co-requisite: MATH 4361.
3700 The Big Bang and Other Cosmologies (4)
A descriptive course on the cosmological origin and evolution of the universe. Historical review of cosmological models and discussion of current theories. Stellar and galactic origin and evolution, stellar energy, the early universe, open and closed universes, and the search for extra-terrestrial life.
3710 Solar System Astronomy (4)
Overview of the structure and evolution of the solar system. Topics include the sun, terrestrial and Jovian planets, moons, asteroids, comets, as well as the discovery of extra-solar planets and the resulting impact on our understanding of solar system formation.
3720 Stars and Galaxies (4)
An overview of the universe with emphasis on the study of stars and galaxies. Topics include stars, stellar evolution, black holes, neutron stars, galaxies, and the role of dark matter and dark energy in galaxy formation.
3750 Biophysics Tools in the History of Medical Research (4)
A basic introduction to major biophysics tools invented in the 20th century, how they help to amplify, aggregate and differentiate biological data, and some significant discoveries to which they have contributed. Examples are drawn from diabetes, cardiovascular, and kidney research. Not for credit in Physics major.
3800 Achievements of Women in Science (4)
(See BIOL 3800 for course description.)
3875 Mathematical Physics (4)
See MATH 3875 for course description.
3898 Cooperative Education (1-4)
Supervised work experience in which student completes academic assignments integrated with off-campus paid or volunteer activities. Prerequisites: at least a 2.0 GPA; departmental approval of activity. May be repeated for credit, for a maximum of 8 units. A maximum of 4 units will be accepted toward the physics major; a maximum of 2 units will be accepted toward the minor. CR/NC grading only.
3999 Issues in Physics (4)
Readings, discussion, and research on contemporary and/or significant issues in physics. May be repeated for credit when content varies, for a maximum of 8 units.
4001 Electromagnetism I (3)
Study of electricity and magnetism leading to Maxwell's equations in vacuum. Prerequisite: PHYS 1003.
4002 Electromagnetism II (3)
Materials and boundary value problems. AC circuits. Prerequisite: PHYS 4001; prerequisite or co-requisite: MATH 3331.
4003 Electromagnetism III (3)
Electromagnetic radiation. Relativity in electromagnetism. Prerequisite: PHYS 4002; prerequisite or co-requisite: MATH 4361.
4250 Selected Topics (1-3)
Various subjects and projects providing an extension of the physics curriculum. Prerequisite: PHYS 1003. May be repeated for credit, for a maximum of 3 units for any combination of PHYS 4250 and 4850.
4600 Solid State (3)
Crystals and bonding. Waves in lattices. Electron gas and energy levels. Semiconductors and superconductors. Prerequisite: PHYS 3302.
4700 Modern Optics (3)
Introduction to photonics. Lasers and fibers. Non-linear optics and electro-optics. Prerequisite: PHYS 4002.
4850 Undergraduate Research (1-3)
Research leading to a formal report, under the direction of a faculty member. Co-requisites: PHYS 3281 and 3283. May be repeated for credit, for a maximum of 3 units for any combination of PHYS 4250 and 4850. Three to nine hrs. act./lab.
4900 Independent Study (1-4)
May be repeated for credit with consent of instructor, for a maximum of 12 units.
4950 Physics Capstone (1)
Comprehensive overview and synthesis of undergraduate physics. Must be taken in Spring quarter immediately preceding graduation.

Back to top

 

Previous Catalogs


Policies for Catalog Revisions

  • Print This Page
  • Bookmark and Share