COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
Physical Science
PHS 101 Introduction to Physical Sciences
3 credits; 3 class hours; 1 lab hour
This course is designed to study the basic laws that govern the universe and how these laws are revealed to us. The topics covered include motion, atoms energy, forces, the interaction of atoms, the physical properties of substances, and the study of objects in the universe. Laboratory exercises are an integral part. Lectures are supplemented by demonstrations and hands-on experiments. Visits to scientific museums and centers are required.
Pre-requisites: Completion Math and Language Basic Skills
PHS 201 Research Methods and Laboratory
Instrumentation 2 credits; 3 class hours
This course is an introduction to the nature of scientific investigation and the skills needed to develop a research problem. Topics include the scientific process, research design, library and computer resources for literature review, analysis and presentation of data, use of comput-er for communications and data analysis, and the theory, design and operation of laboratory instrumentation.
Co-requisite: CS 241 or CHM 201 or PHY 211
PHS 203 Atmospheric Science (Meteorology)
3 credits; 4 class hours
This course is an introduction to the principles and phenomena of the atmosphere, weather and climate. Topics include clouds, sky color, greenhouse effect, precipitation, storms, hurricanes, storm tracks, climates and the Ice Ages, weather analysis and forecasting.
Pre-requisites: PHY 212 and CHM 201
PHS 221 Introduction to Telecommunications
3 credits; 3 class hours
This course is an introduction to the essentials of the transmission of information. Topics include historical development, basics of data transmission, audio, structural and pictorial information; use of computers in transmission, coding and decoding; technical aspects of cable, tele-phone, radio, television, satellite and fiber optics, storage and retrieval of data; computer networks, synchronous and asynchronous transmission, modems and interfaces, analog and digital switching.
Pre-requisite: PHY 114 or CS 151
PHS 301 Special Topics in Climate and Planets
3 credits; 3 class hours
This course examines topics of current interest in the field of atmospheric science and planetary sciences, which are not covered in the regular curriculum. Topics vary from semester to semester, and reflect the interest of students and faculty. The course description may be obtained in the department office prior to registration. Issues exam-ined may include storms and storm tracking, cloud struc-tures, planetary atmospheres, meteorology, fluid dynamics and turbulence, atmospheric environmental changes.
Pre-requisites: PHY 212 and CHM 202
PHS 306 Hydrology
3 credits; 3 class hours; 1 lab hour
This course emphasizes the interaction of various processes in the hydrologic cycle. Topics include precipitation, stream flow, evaporation, run-off, the occurrence of ground water, concepts of ground water flow, equations for ground water flow and an introduction to modeling ground water systems. Pre-requisite: PHY 212
PHS 331 Special Topics in Telecommunications
3 credits; 3 class hours
This course covers contemporary topics in telecommunications to be offered according to the interest of faculty members and students. The course description may be obtained in the Department office prior to registration. Independent study and seminars are required. Students are also required to submit a paper on an approved topic.
Pre-requisite: Permission of chairperson
Co-requisite: MTH 205
