Department of
Physics & Astronomy
The Allen F. Blocher Planetarium presented programs to over 11,000 visitors last year, including university classes,
school groups, community groups, and the general public.
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
College of Letters & Science
Mission Statement
The Department of Physics and Astronomy, as a member of the College of Letters
and Science, strives to aid students to:
1) understand, effectively use, and appreciate the process of learning;
2) recognize the complexity of problems and develop creative solutions; and
3) join a community of teachers, scholars, and students who endeavor to higher
standards of achievement.
As a science department, we regard our mission to also include:
1) exposing students to scientific methods for evaluating physical evidence or
information;
2) helping students understand and apply the process of building and testing
scientific hypotheses and theories; and
3) fostering the development of students’ critical thinking skills, such as the
ability to draw conclusions, infer relationships, solve problems, and make
predictions about the physical world.
In addition to the above, as a department of physics and astronomy we are
committed to providing:
1) a rigorous and effective curriculum for physics majors and minors, with
sufficient depth of study for those students who expect to pursue physics,
astronomy, or engineering at the graduate level, or to embark on a career in
technology or science education;
2) effective and relevant service courses for the many students whose majors or
career goals require physics or astronomy courses;
3) effective and engaging courses for the many students who choose to take
physics or astronomy courses as part of the breadth of a liberal arts education;
4) educational experiences in physics and astronomy, for Central Wisconsin and
beyond, through public outreach,
5) opportunities for student and faculty engagement in research; and 6) an
understanding of how physics and astronomy relate to the individual and to
society.
Table of Contents
Facilities....................................................................................................................1
Majors, Minors, and Emphases................................................................................. 2
Faculty....................................................................................................................... 3
Physics Major...........................................................................................................3
Physics Major – Applied Emphases..........................................................................5
Physics Major for Teaching Certification.................................................................8
Natural Science – Physical Science Option............................................................ 10
Pre-engineering Program........................................................................................ 11
Scholastic Opportunities......................................................................................... 12
Facilities▀ ▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀
Teaching and Research Facilities
Six laboratories for introductory and advanced coursework are well equipped
for the study of astronomy, mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity, magnetism,
electronics, optics, and modern physics. Advanced experimental work is conducted
in specialized solid state, atomic, molecular and laser physics laboratories.
The solid state laboratories provide analytical capabilities employing x-ray
diffraction, electrical conductivity, and tensiometry. Equipment for sample
preparation includes several furnaces, a thin film coating unit, and a photochemical
reactor.
The Femtosecond Laser Laboratory houses a 5-watt argon-ion laser that is used to
“pump” a Ti:sapphire laser capable of producing 10-femtosecond laser pulses.
The Department operates the Allen F. Blocher Planetarium as an instructional tool
for university classes as well as a public resource serving all of Central Wisconsin.
An observatory atop the Science Building houses a 16-inch reflecting telescope
used for both student research projects and public viewing sessions. Several
smaller telescopes are also available.
The Department currently has access to the 0.9m telescope at Kitt Peak National
Observatory in Arizona as well as the Arecibo Observatory in Puerto Rico. Faculty
and students travel to these observatories to collect data for astronomical research.
Student Facilities
Tutoring Room: The tutoring room is located in A-105 where tutors are available
for introductory physics and astronomy classes at no charge. The schedule of tutors
is posted on the door of A-105 each semester.
Student Study Room: The student study lounge is located in C-101 and contains
reference books, study tables, computers and lounge area. Students often meet
here to work on homework sets or relax between classes. The room is open only to
declared physics majors and minors. See Nancy Stokosa in the department office,
B-109, for a key to access the room.
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Majors, Minors, and Emphases▀ ▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀
The Department of Physics and Astronomy offers many options for students
studying physics.
Physics Major — This is a traditional physics major. Students completing
this major would be prepared to pursue a career straight out of college or be
prepared to continue their studies in graduate school in physics, engineering,
astronomy or related fields. Students take all core upper-level physics courses as
well as participate in a research project with a faculty member.
Physics Major with Applied Mechanics or Electronics
Emphases — These emphases are designed for a student that is planning
on pursuing a career in industry straight out of college. Students take most of the
core upper-level physics courses, with more emphasis on the laboratory courses.
Students are also required to participate in an internship at either a local business
or in London through the Semester Abroad program.
Physics Major for Teaching Certification — This major is
designed for students pursuing a career in secondary education. Students take
fewer credits of physics courses. They must work with the School of Education
program for their education courses and certification.
Pre-engineering — This is a two year program in which students take
core math, physics and chemistry classes in preparation for acceptance into an
engineering program. Students need to transfer to another institution to complete
their engineering degree.
Natural Science-Physical Science Option — This major is
designed primarily for students pursuing a career in secondary education. Students
take courses in a wide range of sciences in addition to completing a minor in
chemistry or physics.
Physics Minor — This minor includes upper and lower level courses in
physics. Students pursuing a career in secondary education may substitute one
physics course with a specific astronomy course.
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Faculty▀ ▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀
Dr. Seth Ashman
Ph.D. - Lehigh University
Interests: Spectroscopic Investigations of Alkali Atoms and Diatomic
Molecules
Dr. Adriana Durbala
Ph.D. - University of Alabama - Tuscaloosa
Interests: Galaxy Formation and Evolution
Dr. Brad Hinaus
Ph.D. - University of Wisconsin – Madison
Interests: Superconductivity Dr. Kenneth Menningen
Ph.D. – University of Wisconsin – Madison
Interests: Alternative Fuels, Plasma Spectroscopy
Dr. Randy Olson
Ph.D – New Mexico State University
Interests: Planetarium and Observatory Director
Dr. David Tamres
Ph.D. – University of California – San Diego
Interests: Stellar Physics
Dr. Chris Verzani
Ph.D. – Kansas State University
Interests: Femto-second Laser research
Dr. Mick Veum
Ph.D. – University of Minnesota – Twin Cities
Interests: Liquid crystals: surface tension, phase transitions, surface-induced
order, calorimetry, optical reflectivity
Physics Major▀ ▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀
This major is designed for students that are planning on career in industry or to
continuing their education in graduate school in either engineering, physics, or
astronomy.
Physics Major - Requirements
The physics major consists of a minimum of 61 credits including:
1. Math 120, 121, 222, 213. (Calculus I, II and III and Linear Algebra)
2. Chemistry 105 and 106; or 117. (Introductory Chemistry)
3. Physics 111 (Freshman Seminar), 150, 250 (University Physics I and II),
300 (Modern Physics), 320 (Electricity and Magnetism), 335 (Classical
Mechanics), 405 (Quantum Mechanics), 435 (Thermodynamics and Statistical
Mechanics), 470 (Experimental Physics), and one credit of 388 (Research
Participation) or 499 (Special Work).
4. Physics 315 (Computational Physics) or 370 (Electronics).
5. Additional physics courses numbered above 300 not including 390 or 490 to
attain 61 credits.
3
Physics Major – Four Year Plan
The following table illustrates a typical plan to complete the major within a fouryear time frame. Students taking different paths may take longer than the four
year plan here. Please consult with and advisor when planning your major – some
physics courses are taught only in alternate years.
Year One
Fall Semester
Phys 111: Introduction to Physics . ..................................................................... 1 cr
Math 120: Analytic Geometry and Calculus I..................................................... 4 cr
Engl 101 and Elective credits............................................................................ 10 cr
15 cr
Spring Semester
Physics 150: University Physics I........................................................................ 5 cr
Math 121: Analytic Geometry and Calculus II.................................................... 4 cr
Engl 102 and Elective Credits.............................................................................. 6 cr
15 cr
Year Two
Fall Semester
Phys 250: University Physics II........................................................................... 5 cr
Math 222: Analytic Geometry and Calculus III................................................... 4 cr
Chem 105 or 117.................................................................................................. 5 cr
Elective Credits . .............................................................................................. 0-3 cr
14-17 cr
Spring Semester
Physics 300: Modern Physics.............................................................................. 3 cr
Math 213: Introduction to Linear Algebra........................................................... 4 cr
Chem 106 or elective Credits............................................................................... 5 cr
Elective ............................................................................................................... 3 cr
15 cr
Year Three
Fall Semester
Phys 320: Electricity and Magnetism.................................................................. 4 cr
Phys 370: Electronics (and/or Phys 315)............................................................. 4 cr
Physics 435: Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics.................................. 3 cr
Elective Credits................................................................................................. 3-6 cr
14-17 cr
Spring Semester
Physics Electives............................................................................................... 0-3 cr
Elective Credits............................................................................................. 12-15 cr
15 cr
Year Four
Fall Semester
Phys 335: Advanced Mechanics.......................................................................... 3 cr
Physics Electives............................................................................................... 0-6 cr
Elective Credits............................................................................................... 6-12 cr
15 cr
Spring Semester
Phys 315: Computational Physics (and/or Phys 370).......................................... 3 cr
Phys 470: Experimental Physics.......................................................................... 2 cr
Phys 405: Quantum Mechanics........................................................................... 3 cr
Elective Credits................................................................................................. 6-9 cr
14-17 cr
4
Physics Major – Applied Emphases▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀
These emphases are designed for a student that is planning on pursuing a career in
industry straight out of college. Students take most of the core upper-level physics
courses, with more emphasis on the laboratory courses. Students are also required
to participate in an internship at either a local business or in London through the
Semester Abroad program.
Physics Major with Applied Mechanics Emphasis
Consists of a minimum of 59 credits including:
1. Math 120, 121, 222, 213. (Calculus I, II and III and Linear Algebra)
2. Chemistry 105 or 117. (Introductory Chemistry)
3. Physics 111 (Freshman Seminar), 150, 250 (University Physics I and II), 300
(Modern Physics), 315 (Computational Physics), 335 (Classical Mechanics),
370 (Electronics), 435 (Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics), 470
(Experimental Physics).
4. Physics 490 (Internship), 6 cr.
5. Economics 110 (Principles of Macroeconomics) or Business 320 (Principles
of Management).
Physics Major with Applied Electronics Emphasis
Consists of a minimum of 60 credits including:
1. Math 120, 121, 222, 213. (Calculus I, II and III and Linear Algebra)
2. Chemistry 105 or 117. (Introductory Chemistry)
3. Physics 111 (Freshman Seminar), 150, 250 (University Physics I and II),
300 (Modern Physics), 315 (Computational Physics), 320 (Electricity and
Magnetism), 370 (Electronics), 470 (Experimental Physics).
4. Physics 383 (Optics) or 385 (Solid State Physics).
5. Physics 490 (Internship), 6 cr.
6. Economics 110 (Principles of Macroeconomics) or Business 320 (Principles
of Management).
5
Physics Major-Applied Mechanics Emphasis — Four Year Plan
The following table illustrates a typical plan to complete the major within a fouryear time frame. Students taking different paths may take longer than the four
year plan here. Please consult with and advisor when planning your major – some
physics courses are taught only in alternate years.
Year One
Fall Semester
Phys 111: Introduction to Physics........................................................................ 1 cr
Math 120: Analytic Geometry and Calculus I..................................................... 4 cr
Engl 101 and Elective credits............................................................................ 10 cr
15 cr
Spring Semester
Physics 150: University Physics I........................................................................ 5 cr
Math 121: Analytic Geometry and Calculus II.................................................... 4 cr
Engl 102 and Elective Credits.............................................................................. 6 cr
15 cr
Year Two
Fall Semester
Phys 250: University Physics II........................................................................... 5 cr
Math 222: Analytic Geometry and Calculus III................................................... 4 cr
Chem 105 or 117.................................................................................................. 5 cr
Elective Credits................................................................................................. 0-3 cr
14-17 cr
Spring Semester
Physics 300: Modern Physics.............................................................................. 3 cr
Math 213: Introduction to Linear Algebra........................................................... 4 cr
Elective Credits.................................................................................................... 8 cr
15 cr
Year Three
Fall Semester
Phys 370: Electronics........................................................................................... 4 cr
Physics 435: Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics.................................. 3 cr
Physics Electives............................................................................................... 0-3 cr
Elective Credits................................................................................................. 3-6 cr
13-16 cr
Spring Semester
Phys 315: Computational Physics........................................................................ 3 cr
Phys 470: Experimental Physics.......................................................................... 2 cr
Physics Electives............................................................................................... 0-3 cr
Elective Credits................................................................................................. 6-9 cr
14-17 cr
Year Four
Fall Semester
Phys 335: Advanced Mechanics.......................................................................... 3 cr
Econ 110 or Bus 320............................................................................................ 3 cr
Physics Electives............................................................................................... 0-6 cr
Elective Credits................................................................................................. 0-6 cr
15 cr
Spring Semester
Phys 490: Internship............................................................................................ 6 cr
Physics Electives............................................................................................... 0-6 cr
Elective Credits................................................................................................. 0-6 cr
14-17 cr
6
Physics Major-Applied Electronics Emphasis — Four Year Plan
The following table illustrates a typical plan to complete the major within a fouryear time frame. Students taking different paths may take longer than the four
year plan here. Please consult with and advisor when planning your major – some
physics courses are taught only in alternate years.
Year One
Fall Semester
Phys 111: Introduction to Physics........................................................................ 1 cr
Math 120: Analytic Geometry and Calculus I..................................................... 4 cr
Engl 101 and Elective credits............................................................................ 10 cr
15 cr
Spring Semester
Physics 150: University Physics I........................................................................ 5 cr
Math 121: Analytic Geometry and Calculus II.................................................... 4 cr
Engl 102 and Elective Credits.............................................................................. 6 cr
15 cr
Year Two
Fall Semester
Phys 250: University Physics II........................................................................... 5 cr
Math 222: Analytic Geometry and Calculus III................................................... 4 cr
Chem 105 or 117.................................................................................................. 5 cr
Elective Credits................................................................................................. 0-3 cr
14-17 cr
Spring Semester
Physics 300: Modern Physics.............................................................................. 3 cr
Math 213: Introduction to Linear Algebra........................................................... 4 cr
Elective Credits.................................................................................................... 8 cr
15 cr
Year Three
Fall Semester
Phys 370: Electronics........................................................................................... 4 cr
Physics 320: Electricity and Magnetism.............................................................. 4 cr
Physics Electives............................................................................................... 0-3 cr
Elective Credits................................................................................................. 6-9 cr
17 cr
Spring Semester
Phys 315: Computational Physics........................................................................ 3 cr
Phys 470: Experimental Physics.......................................................................... 2 cr
Physics Electives............................................................................................... 0-3 cr
Elective Credits................................................................................................. 6-9 cr
14-17 cr
Year Four
Fall Semester
Phys 383: Solid State (and/or 385)................................................................... 0-3 cr
Phys 385: Optics(and/or 383)........................................................................... 0-3 cr
Econ 110 or Bus 320............................................................................................ 3 cr
Physics Electives............................................................................................... 0-6 cr
Elective Credits................................................................................................. 0-6 cr
15 cr
Spring Semester
Phys 490: Internship............................................................................................ 6 cr
Physics Electives............................................................................................... 0-6 cr
Elective Credits................................................................................................. 0-6 cr
14-17 cr
7
Physics Major for Teaching Certification▀ ▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀
This major is designed for students pursuing a career in secondary education.
Students take fewer credits of physics courses. They must work with the School of
Education program for their education courses and certification.
Physics Major for Teacher Certification
Consists of a minimum of 49 credits including:
1. Math 120, 121, 222, 213. (Calculus I, II and III and Linear Algebra)
2. Physics 111(Freshman Seminar), 150, 250 (University Physics I and II),
300 (Modern Physics), 320 (Electricity and Magnetism), 335 (Classical
Mechanics), 470 (Experimental Physics).
3. Physics 315 (Computational Physics) or 370 (Electronics).
4. Astronomy 205 or 206 or 311 or physics courses numbered above 300 not
including 390 or 490 to attain 49 credits.
NOTE: Enrollment caps are in effect for those students seeking teacher
certification. Contact the Department of Physics and Astronomy early for
entrance requirements and application procedures. Also see information about
the Professional Education Program and the secondary education curriculum for
teacher certification in the Education section of this catalog.
8
Physics Major for Teaching Certification — Four Year Plan
The following table illustrates a typical plan to complete the major within a fouryear time frame. Students taking different paths may take longer than the four
year plan here. Please consult with and advisor when planning your major – some
physics courses are taught only in alternate years. Please see an advisor in the
School of Education for information additional requirements beyond the physics
courses for certification.
Year One
Fall Semester
Phys 111: Introduction to Physics........................................................................ 1 cr
Math 120: Analytic Geometry and Calculus I..................................................... 4 cr
Engl 101 and Elective credits............................................................................ 10 cr
15 cr
Spring Semester
Physics 150: University Physics I........................................................................ 5 cr
Math 121: Analytic Geometry and Calculus II.................................................... 4 cr
Engl 102 and Elective Credits.............................................................................. 6 cr
15 cr
Year Two
Fall Semester
Phys 250: University Physics II........................................................................... 5 cr
Math 222: Analytic Geometry and Calculus III................................................... 4 cr
Electives Credits.................................................................................................. 6 cr
15 cr
Spring Semester
Physics 300: Modern Physics.............................................................................. 3 cr
Math 213: Introduction to Linear Algebra........................................................... 4 cr
Elective Credits.................................................................................................... 8 cr
15 cr
Year Three
Fall Semester
Phys 320: Electricity and Magnetism.................................................................. 4 cr
Phys 370: Electronics (and/or Phys 315)............................................................. 4 cr
Physics Electives............................................................................................... 0-3 cr
Elective Credits................................................................................................. 3-9 cr
14-17 cr
Spring Semester
Phys 470: Experimental Physics.......................................................................... 2 cr
Physics Electives............................................................................................... 0-3 cr
Elective Credits............................................................................................. 12-15 cr
4-17 cr
Year Four
Fall Semester
Phys 335: Advanced Mechanics.......................................................................... 3 cr
Physics Electives............................................................................................... 0-6 cr
Elective Credits............................................................................................... 6-12 cr
15 cr
Spring Semester
Phys 315: Computational Physics (and/or Phys 370).......................................... 3 cr
Physics Electives............................................................................................... 0-3 cr
Elective Credits............................................................................................... 9-12 cr
15 cr
9
Natural Science – Physical Science Option▀ ▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀
The major in natural science may be applied toward a degree in the College
of Letters and Science or used in the School of Education of the College of
Professional Studies for Department of Public Instruction certification in broadfield science.
Enrollment caps are in effect for those seeking teacher certification. Please contact
the natural science coordinator early for entrance requirements and application
procedures. Also contact the School of Education for information about the
Professional Education Program and the secondary education curriculum for
teacher certification.
The Natural Science major has three options as listed below.
Earth Science Option (see Biology brochure for information)
Life Science Option (see Geography/Geology Brochure for information)
Physical Science Option:
This option is advised within the Department of Physics and Astronomy. It
requires:
1. A minimum of 38 credits in physical science:
a. A minor in chemistry (24 credits) or physics (25 credits);
b. Fourteen credits in the other area. If your minor is chemistry, these credits
must consist of Physics 203 and 204, or Physics 150 and 250, and any physics
courses numbered 300 and above.
2. Biology 130 and 160, 10 credits.
3. Earth science, 8-10 credits selected from: Geography 101, 352, 353, 354;
Geology 104, 106, 200, 330, 370; Astronomy 205, 206 or 311.
4. Collateral: For chemistry minor take Math 111 or 120; for the physics minor
take Math 120, 121, 222.
10
Pre-engineering Program▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀
This is a two year program in which students take core math, physics and
chemistry classes in preparation for acceptance into an engineering program.
Students need to transfer to another institution to complete their engineering
degree. Students interested in Pre-Chemical Engineering and/or ABET accredited
engineering should consult with the Department of Paper Science and Engineering.
The following table illustrates a typical plan for the first two years. Students
planning on transferring to another institution should consult with that school and
their advisor to choose appropriate elective courses.
Year One
Fall Semester
Phys 111: Introduction to Physics........................................................................ 1 cr
Math 120: Analytic Geometry and Calculus I..................................................... 4 cr
Engl 101 and Elective credits............................................................................ 10 cr
15 cr
Spring Semester
Physics 150: University Physics I........................................................................ 5 cr
Math 121: Analytic Geometry and Calculus II.................................................... 4 cr
Engl 102 and Elective Credits.............................................................................. 6 cr
15 cr
Year Two
Fall Semester
Phys 250: University Physics II........................................................................... 5 cr
Math 222: Analytic Geometry and Calculus III................................................... 4 cr
Chem 105 or 117.................................................................................................. 5 cr
Elective Credits................................................................................................. 0-3 cr
14-17 cr
Spring Semester
Physics 300: Modern Physics.............................................................................. 3 cr
Math 213: Introduction to Linear Algebra........................................................... 4 cr
Elective Credits.................................................................................................... 8 cr
15 cr
11
Scholastic Opportunities▀ ▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀▀
Student Scholarships
The Department administers several scholarships for students studying physics.
Students are awarded these scholarships on the basis of academic achievement and
scholastic merit.
The Arthur Pejsa Aerospace Scholarship in the amount $1000 is annually given
by the faculty to a student with an interest in aerospace science.
The Monica E. Bainter Memorial Scholarship is awarded to a continuing
junior level student majoring in physics. The primary criterion for this scholarship
is demonstrated academic excellence, particularly in the study of physics. The
recipient is selected by the faculty. The award ranges in value up to $1500.
Additional Bainter Scholarships are awarded to students majoring or minoring
in physics. The primary criterion for awarding these scholarships is demonstrated
academic excellence, especially in the study of physics or astronomy. Financial
need is also considered. Generally, two or three recipients are selected annually by
the faculty. These awards are typically $500.
The Allen F. Blocher Memorial Scholarship is awarded to a physics major
who will be participating in an international internship during that calendar year.
Recipients are selected by the faculty. These awards are typically $700.
The Culver-Rogers Award is given to an outstanding major in biology, chemistry,
biochemistry, physics or natural science. The student must have junior standing or
above and must be a returning student. Award amount varies.
The Thalacker-Trytten Scholarship is awarded to an outstanding junior or senior
chemistry, physics or mathematics major with minimum GPA of 3.0. Student must
be pursuing a career in teaching secondary education or intending to continue
graduate studies in chemistry, physics or mathematics. The award ranges in value
up to $2000.
Freshman Scholarships are awarded to incoming freshmen who intend to
major in physics. The primary criterion is academic performance in high school,
particularly in science. Recipients are selected by the faculty and award amounts
range in value up to $1000.
12
Undergraduate Research
Physics majors have the opportunity to do research with one or more faculty
member while studying at UWSP. Students are strongly encouraged to start
research projects early in their studies. The faculty specialize in three main areas
Condensed Matter Physics
Students would use the newly remodeled Condensed Matter Research Laboratory
to study different aspects of superconductivity and liquid crystal physics. They
can investigate how the entrance of magnetic vortices affects the superconducting
properties of high temperature superconducting grain boundaries or study the
surface tension of liquid-crystal films in order to better understand the way
molecules arrange themselves at the surface of materials.
Atomic Physics, Molecular Physics and Optics
Research opportunities include exploring the renewable production of hydrogen
fuel, working in the Femto-second laser lab to use ultra-short pulses of laser light
to study ultra-fast changes in materials, or using tunable, continuous wave lasers to
study atomic and molecular alkali samples.
Astronomy
Students pursuing research in astronomy can do computational studies of the
properties of stars and stellar remnants. They can also do research on the structure
and evolution of galaxies. Faculty and students have access to the WIYN 0.9m
telescope at Kitt Peak National Observatory and the Arecibo Radio Telescope in
Puerto Rico.
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Department of
Physics & Astronomy
Mick Veum, Chair
Room: B-107 Science Building
1848 Maria Drive
Stevens Point, WI 54481
Phone: 715-342-5848
physastr@uwsp.edu
www.uwsp.edu/physastr
Phystronomy (digital composition by UWSP Printing & Design).
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
College of Letters & Science