Home » 2025-2027 Undergraduate Bulletin » Programs » Physics and Astronomy

Physics and Astronomy

Information

Website: www.uwosh.edu/physics/
PHYS SCI and PHYS/AST

Faculty

Beaver
Kaltcheva
Lattery
Pritzl
Stojilovic

Degrees

Undergraduate: In combination with a major, a minor through the Physics and Astronomy Program can lead to a baccalaureate degree.

Summary of Fields of Study

Goal(s)

See program website.

The Major

None.

The Minors

Astronomy; Physics; Physics (4-12) for education majors.

Admission/Graduation Requirements

To be eligible for graduation, students must meet all requirements for the degree being sought in addition to earning a minimum grade point average of 2.00 in all courses required for the Physics and Astronomy minor. Refer to the following for complete major/minor course requirements.

Required Core Courses

Course groupings (as used by the majors and minors)
- Foundations group
  - PHYS/AST 191
  - PHYS/AST 192
  - PHYS/AST 206
- Core group
  - PHYS/AST 222
  - PHYS/AST 307
  - PHYS/AST 320
  - PHYS/AST 322
  - PHYS/AST 408
- Electives group
  - Astronomy cluster
  - PHYS/AST 203
  - PHYS/AST 310
  - PHYS/AST 313
  - Applied cluster
  - PHYS/AST 305
  - PHYS/AST 311
  - PHYS/AST 319
  - PHYS/AST 335
  - Upper level cluster
  - PHYS/AST 417
  - PHYS/AST 419
  - PHYS/AST 422
  - PHYS/AST 446
  - PHYS/AST 451
  - PHYS/AST 456
  - PHYS/AST 474
  - PHYS/AST 491
- Mathematics group
  - MATH 171
  - MATH 172
  - MATH 273
  - MATH 371

The Minor(s)

Astronomy Minor

Recommended for science students (Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Geology, Mathematics) who have an interest in Astronomy.

Required Credits: 22 minimum
Required Courses:
- PHYS/AST 171 with a grade of C or better, or PHYS/AST 191
- PHYS/AST 172 with a grade of C or better, or PHYS/AST 192
- All courses in the Electives—Astronomy cluster
Elective courses: Three or more credits from among the following courses:
- PHYS/AST 206 [recommended]
- Any 300 or 400 level PHYS/AST course (except those already required above)
- CHEM 235
- CHEM 311
- CHEM 335
- GEOLOGY 326
- PHYS/AST 104 or 114 (if taken prior to PHYS/AST 203)

Physics Minor

Required Credits: 21 minimum
Required Courses: All courses in the Foundations group
Electives: Sufficient courses from the Core and/or Electives group(s) above to meet the minimum requirement.

Physics (4-12) Minor for education majors

Recommended for students who plan to complete a complete a Middle and High School Natural Science Major.

Required Credits: 23 minimum
Required Courses:
- All courses in the Foundations group
- PHYS/AST 335
Electives: Minimum seven credits from the Core and/or Electives group(s) (except PHYS/AST 335, which is already required).

Course Offering(s)

Physical Science 101	1 – 4 (crs.)
Workshop Physical Science (XL)
A hands-on course covering basic concepts in physical science through active engagement with guided computer-based laboratories, student-directed projects, interactive demonstrations, and class discussions. Emphasis on the nature and limits of science. For elementary education majors and non-science majors. Special course fees may apply.


Physical Science 101Q1	1 – 4 (crs.)
Workshop Physical Science (XL)
A hands-on course covering basic concepts in physical science through active engagement with guided computer-based laboratories, student-directed projects, interactive demonstrations, and class discussions. Emphasis on the nature and limits of science. For elementary education majors and non-science majors.


Physics/Astronomy 100	3 (crs.)
Survey of Astronomy (XN)
A descriptive survey of astronomy for students with minimal background in mathematics and science. Topics include the solar system, stars, nebulae, galaxies, cosmology, and astronomical methods. Credits may not be earned both for this course and for any Physics/Astronomy course numbered between 103 and 114 inclusive. Prerequisite: Completion of the minimal University general education Math requirement or qualifying for MATH 104 or higher via the Mathematics Placement Test.


Physics/Astronomy 103	4 (crs.)
The Solar System (XL)
The astronomer’s understanding of the earth, moon and planets. Explores the basic nature of science and the scientific method. Intended for non-science majors and science majors having an interest in astronomy. Prerequisite: Completion of the minimal University general education Math requirement or qualifying for MATH 104 or higher via the Mathematics Placement Test. Special course fees may apply.


Physics/Astronomy 104	4 (crs.)
Stars, Galaxies and the Universe (XL)
Universe beyond the solar system. Methods of science applied to classification of stars, galaxies, nebulae, and exotic objects such as pulsars, quasars, and black holes. Intended for non-science majors and science majors having an interest in astronomy. May be taken to satisfy the general education lab science requirement. Prerequisites: Completion of the minimal University general education Math requirement or qualifying for MATH 104 or higher via the Mathematics Placement Test. Special course fees may apply.


Physics/Astronomy 105	4 (crs.)
Basic Acoustics of Music
A course designed in cooperation with the music program principally for music majors interested in the acoustical foundation of this subject. Emphasis throughout is on the needs and interests of the music student. May not be counted toward a Physics major or minor.


Physics/Astronomy 112Q1	4 (crs.)
Energy in Today’s World (XL)
Focus is on the physics of energy, energy production, and energy consumption, conservation practices and alternative energy sources. Prerequisites: Prerequisite: Completion of the minimal University general education Math requirement or qualifying for MATH 104 or higher via the Mathematics Placement Test.


Physics/Astronomy 113	3 (crs.)
The Solar System – no lab (XN)
The astronomer’s understanding of the earth, moon and planets. Explores the basic nature of science and the scientific method. May be used to satisfy laboratory science requirement only if PHYS/AST 123 is taken during a later term. Prerequisites: Completion of the minimal University general education Math requirement or qualifying for MATH 104 or higher via the Mathematics Placement Test or competency at high school algebra or geometry.


Physics/Astronomy 114	3 (crs.)
Stars, Galaxies and the Universe -no lab (XN)
Identical to PHYS/AST 104 except no laboratory experience is included. May be used to satisfy laboratory science requirement only if PHYS/AST 124 is taken during a later term. Prerequisite: Completion of the minimal University general education math requirement or qualifying for MATH 104 or higher via the Mathematics Placement Test or competency at high school algebra and geometry.


Physics/Astronomy 115Q1	4 (crs.)
Space Exploration and Science (XL)
Have you ever dreamed of going into space? We will use basic physics concepts and algebra to study space exploration. How can we reach other planets? What do humans need to survive in space? In what ways does sustainability play a role in our ability to live on other planets? In addition, we will examine basic space, science and rocketry. Prerequisites: MATH 103 or higher-level Math. Special course fees may apply.


Physics/Astronomy 123	1 (crs.)
Solar System Laboratory
This course is a hands-on, activity-based laboratory courses that covers selected topics on the Solar System. Topics covered both complement and overlap the content of PHYS/AST 113 with an emphasize on experiential learning. Prerequisite: Competency at high school algebra and geometry.


Physics/Astronomy 124	1 (crs.)
Stars, Galaxies and the Universe Laboratory
This course is a hands-on, activity-based laboratory course that covers selected topics on the Stars, Galaxies and the Universe course. The topics covered both complement and overlap the content of PHYS/AST 114 with an emphasize on experiential learning. Prerequisite: Competency at high school algebra and geometry.


Physics/Astronomy 125	3 (crs.)
Planetary Geology
This is an introductory course covering various subjects related to geology of planets, moons, and other small bodies in our solar system. In this course, students will learn formation, evolution and present nature of these planetary bodies using a geologic and astrophysical approach. To understand other planetary bodies, or our solar system as a whole, it is essential to examine geological processes occurring in Earth, then generalize how such processes can be applied to other planets. Therefore, a brief overview on these processes will be given during the beginning stage of the course. The course will also cover smaller planetary bodies such as asteroids, comets and meteorites, which are very important in understanding geological process in our solar system.


Physics/Astronomy 133	1 (crs.)
The Solar System Laboratory
Laboratory component of The Solar System, PHYS/AST 103. This course is for transfer students only. Prerequisite: Completion of equivalent of the lecture part of PHYS/AST 103 at another university.


Physics/Astronomy 134	1 (crs.)
Stars, and Galaxies and the Universe Laboratory (XL)
Laboratory component of Stars, Galaxies and the Universe, for PHYS/AST 104. This course is for transfer students only. Prerequisite: Completion of equivalent of the lecture part of PHYS/AST 104 at another university.


Physics/Astronomy 135Q3	4 (crs.)
Astronomy for Everyone (XL)
The role of astronomy in human culture has always been viewed as essential because it is the main tool through which human civilization determines its true place in the surrounding Universe. All global cultures have had their approaches and interpretations of the observed patterns and cycles in the sky. Diversity is inherent in the development of the science of astronomy, and its practical applications have played a crucial role in the organization of community of life. This course examines key astronomical phenomena from the point of view of ancient cultures and of modern astronomy, to address how this knowledge has been integrated into communities from historical, scientific, and educational perspectives. Prerequisites: Completion of the minimal University general education math requirement or qualifying for MATH 104 or higher via the Mathematics Placement Test. Special course fees may apply.


Physics/Astronomy 136	3 (crs.)
Energy and the Environment
Intended for non-science majors, this course will give students the necessary physics background to form opinions on energy questions The physical laws of thermodynamics, electricity, magnetism, and nuclear physics will be discussed in connection with energy related topics such as thermal pollution, fossil fuels, nuclear power, solar power and other alternative energy sources. Some elementary calculations (at the level of high school algebra) are included in the material, but the emphasis will be on a conceptual understanding of the energy-related issues affecting society today.


Physics/Astronomy 140	4 (crs.)
Physics for the Health Sciences (XL)
A descriptive introduction to those basic concepts of physics which have application to human health in general and to the medical and paramedical professions in particular. Primary attention will be paid to the physics of various functions of the human body (e.g., muscular and skeletal motions, the several senses and neural processes) and to the physics of commonly used instruments and equipment.


Physics/Astronomy 145	1 – 3 (crs.)
Introduction to Topics in Physics
A general introduction to various current topics in physics and astronomy. Topics may also include research done by faculty and staff. Course is open to anyone interested in physics and astronomy. Highly recommended for anyone considering majoring in physics or minoring in physics or astronomy. Prerequisite: Completion of the minimal University general education Math requirement or qualifying for MATH 104 or higher via the Mathematics Placement Test.


Physics/Astronomy 150	4 (crs.)
Foundations of Physics (XL)
Selected topics from physics, geology, and astronomy. Not intended for those planning to major in a physical science; does not fulfill the prerequisites for any more advanced courses.


Physics/Astronomy 171	1 – 5 (crs.)
College Physics I (XL)
A survey of mechanics and properties of matter. Recommended for liberal arts majors and pre-professionals. Not recommended for physics majors and minors and pre-engineers. Prerequisite: MATH 106, 108 or equivalent. Special course fees may apply.


Physics/Astronomy 172	5 (crs.)
College Physics II (XL)
A survey of waves, electricity, magnetism, and nuclear radiation. Recommended for liberal arts majors and pre-professionals. Not recommended for physics majors and minors. Prerequisite: PHYS/AST 171. Special course fees may apply.


Physics/Astronomy 191	5 (crs.)
University Physics I (XL)
A survey of mechanics, sound, and heat providing a background for advanced work in these fields. Recommended for students in pre-engineering and majors in physics, chemistry, or mathematics. Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in or previous completion of MATH 171. Special course fees may apply.


Physics/Astronomy 192	5 (crs.)
University Physics II (XL)
A survey of electricity, magnetism, and light providing a background for advanced work in these fields. Recommended for students in pre-engineering and majors in physics, chemistry, or mathematics. Prerequisite: PHYS/AST 191 and concurrent enrollment in or previous completion of MATH 172. Special course fees may apply.


Physics/Astronomy 201	3 (crs.)
Statics for Engineering
The action of forces on bodies at rest or in equilibrium. For pre-engineering students and not ordinarily taken by physics majors and minors. Prerequisite: PHYS/AST 171 or 191 (may be taken concurrently) and MATH 171.


Physics/Astronomy 202	3 (crs.)
Dynamics for Engineering
Motion and the action of forces that produce or modify the motion of bodies. For pre-engineering students and not ordinarily taken by physics majors and minors. Prerequisite: PHYS/AST 201 and MATH 172 (may be taken concurrently).


Physics/Astronomy 203	3 (crs.)
Introduction to Astrophysics
A systematic introduction to the concepts and methods of astrophysics, astronomical measurements and units, astrophysical nature of radiation, stellar structure, and cosmology. Prerequisite: PHYS/AST 172 and MATH 171 or PHYS/AST 192.


Physics/Astronomy 206	3 (crs.)
Introductory Modern Physics
Twentieth century physics; emphasis on atomic and sub-atomic phenomena. Normally acceptable for pre-engineering students. Prerequisite: PHYS/AST 172 or 192 and MATH 171.


Physics/Astronomy 222	2 (crs.)
Physics Lab I
An experimental treatment of concepts and theories associated with modern physics and classical mechanics. Emphasis is placed on developing experimental skills and techniques appropriate for advanced laboratory work. Prerequisites: PHYS/AST 206 and concurrent enrollment in PHYS/AST 320. Special course fees may apply.


Physics/Astronomy 291	1 – 5 (crs.)
Topics in Physics
An extended coverage of one or more topics in physics such as environmental physics, energy, biophysics, mechanics, electricity and magnetism, electro-magnetic radiation, statistical physics, solid state physics, relativity, quantum mechanics, and atomic and nuclear physics.


Physics/Astronomy 299	1 – 3 (crs.)
Intermediate Independent Study
Independent study under the supervision of an instructor. The work may, for example, consist of advanced laboratory investigation into a particular topic or library research and writing of a paper on some subject of interest.


Physics/Astronomy 305	3 (crs.)
Electronic Circuits and Devices
DC and AC circuit theory with emphasis placed on the external electrical properties of analog electronic devices and their practical applications. Prerequisite: PHYS/AST 172, 192 or instructor consent. 305/505


Physics/Astronomy 307	3 (crs.)
Physical Optics
Review of geometrical optics, interference, diffraction, polarization, double refraction, electromagnetic theory of light, introduction to quantum optics and lasers. Prerequisite: PHYS/AST 192 and MATH 172. 307/507


Physics/Astronomy 310	3 (crs.)
Stellar Structure and Evolution
A systematic study of stellar atmospheres and interiors, stellar evolution and variable stars. Prerequisite: PHYS/AST 203 with a grade of C or better and MATH 172, or instructor consent.


Physics/Astronomy 311	3 (crs.)
Digital Instrumentation
Fundamentals and applications of combinational and sequential digital circuits, memory and storage, microprocessors, digital-to-analog and analog-to-digital conversion, emphasizing use in measurement and instrumentation. Prerequisite: Previous Physics or electronics course, or MATH 212 or instructor consent. 311/511


Physics/Astronomy 313	3 (crs.)
Galaxies, the Interstellar Medium and Star Formation
A systematic study of galactic components and structure, physics of the interstellar medium and star formation. Prerequisite: PHYS/AST 203 with a grade of C or better and MATH 172, or instructor consent.


Physics/Astronomy 319	3 (crs.)
Digital Signal Processing
The fundamentals of digital signal processing techniques with an emphasis on their computer implementation: linear shift-invariant systems, the Z-transform, the discrete and continuous Fourier transforms, digital filter design, and inverse filters. Familiarity with calculus, complex numbers, and BASIC or FORTRAN is assumed. 319/519


Physics/Astronomy 320	3 (crs.)
Classical Mechanics
The physical and mathematical concepts associated with one-dimensional motion, two and three-dimensional motion including the use of different coordinate systems and accelerating reference frames. Analytical, numerical and graphical methods using modern computer technology will be used. Prerequisite: PHYS/AST 191 and MATH 172.


Physics/Astronomy 322	2 (crs.)
Physics Lab II
An experimental treatment of concepts and theories associated with physical optics and thermodynamics and statistical mechanics. Emphasis is placed on developing experimental skills and techniques appropriate for advanced laboratory work. Prerequisites: Prior completion of or concurrent enrollment in PHYS/AST 307 and PHYS/AS 408. Special course fees may apply.


Physics/Astronomy 335	3 (crs.)
Demonstration and Laboratory Techniques in Physics
A laboratory course to provide the high school physics teacher with opportunities to handle the physical apparatus used in modern physics curricula. Prerequisite: A two-term sequence in general Physics. 335/535


Physics/Astronomy 350	1 (crs.)
Research Issues in Physics Education (TC)
A survey of the Physics Education Research (PER) literature for prospective physics teachers. Topics include common student misconceptions in mechanics, optics, and electric circuits; theoretical frameworks in education research; and basic research methods. The course is taught in an informal discussion format (once per week)


Physics/Astronomy 408	3 (crs.)
Statistical Physics and Thermodynamics
Temperature, entropy, and other thermal quantities introduced from microscopic considerations and related to macroscopic thermodynamic variables. Calculation of macroscopic properties of matter from microscopic models. Prerequisite: PHYS/AST 320. 408/608


Physics/Astronomy 417	3 (crs.)
Electricity and Magnetism
An advanced treatment of important topics in electricity and magnetism. Prerequisite or Corequisite: PHYS/AST 320. 417/617


Physics/Astronomy 419	3 (crs.)
Introductory Quantum Mechanics
Development of quantum mechanics principles and application to important simple physical systems. Prerequisite or Corequisite: PHYS/AST 320. 419/619


Physics/Astronomy 422	2 (crs.)
Physics Lab III
An experimental treatment of concepts and theories associated with electromagnetism and quantum mechanics. Emphasis is placed on developing experimental skills and techniques appropriate for advanced laboratory work. Prerequisites: Prior completion of or concurrent enrollment in PHYS/AST 417 and 419.


Physics/Astronomy 446	1 – 3 (crs.)
Independent Study
See Independent Study under Course and Academic Advisement Policies information for general course description, general prerequisites, and proper contract form requirements.


Physics/Astronomy 451	1 – 3 (crs.)
Special Topics
A Physics/Astronomy course on a topic not covered in the program’s curriculum. This course may be repeated with different content. Each time it is offered, the topic will be announced in the class schedule. Prerequisite: Instructor consent.


Physics/Astronomy 456	1 – 3 (crs.)
Related Readings
See Related Readings under Course and Academic Advisement Policies information for general course description, general prerequisites, and proper contract form requirements.


Physics/Astronomy 474	3 – 6 (crs.)
Honors Thesis
The Honors Thesis is one of two options offered to Honors students to meet the senior capstone requirement of The Honors College. Students who choose the thesis engage in research as an independent study over two semesters (fall/spring or spring/fall) with the support of a faculty advisor. They decide on a topic in their major or minor, address recent scholarship, develop a prospectus, and produce substantial work (e.g., a written thesis, scientific experiment or research project, or creative arts exhibit or production). At the end of the term in which the capstone is completed, students give presentations at the Honors Thesis Symposia. Credits are applied to the respective program. Prerequisites: In good standing with The Honors College, prior enrollment in HNRS 175Q and HNRS 275Q, and senior status.


Physics/Astronomy 491	1 – 4 (crs.)
Senior Research Project
Independent research arranged with a faculty supervisor. A contract must be arranged with the faculty member prior to registration. Prerequisite: Junior or Senior standing. Minimum of 15 credits of Physics/Astronomy completed.