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2012-2013 Academic Catalogue 
    
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2012-2013 Academic Catalogue [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Courses of Instruction

Course Numbering System. Each subject is identified by a symbol made up of two parts. The first part is an abbreviation denoting the general field of study. The second part is a number denoting the particular subject. The first digit indicates the year in which the course is usually taken and, therefore, the level of instruction.

Credit. The unit of academic credit used at the Virginia Military Institute is the semester hour. A semester hour represents one hour of classroom work (lecture or recitation) or one period (two or three hours) of laboratory or supervised research or field work per week during a single semester. Thus a course that meets for three class hours and one laboratory period each week during one semester carries credit for four semester hours.

In the following course descriptions the figures on the title lines indicate, in order, the class hours per week, the laboratory or field work hours per week, and the semester hours credit. For example, the figures “3—2—4” mean that the class meets three times a week for one-hour classroom sessions and has two hours of laboratory, supervised research, or field work each week, and that the course carries four semester hours of credit.

 
 

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Department of Physical Education
Department Head: Colonel Coale

Classes prior to 2016:

All cadets are required to take seven consecutive semesters of physical education classes and earn four semester credit hours (exclusive of PE 430), to meet graduation requirements. New cadets do not take a physical education class first semester of their rat year. Second semester of their rat year, and first semester of the third class year, cadets will take either Swimming (PE 100 or 101), or Boxing (PE 102). Second semester of the third class year, and first semester of the second class year, cadets will take either Drug and Alcohol (PE 200), or Wrestling (PE 211). Second semester of the second class year, and first semester of the first class year, cadets will take either Principles of Physical Conditioning (PE 300), or a PE elective course. Second semester of the first class year cadets will take a PE elective course.

Class of 2016 and beyond:

All cadets are required to take seven semesters of physical education classes, and earn four semester credit hours (exclusive of PE 430) to meet graduation requirements. New cadets are required to take Wellness Concepts (PE 105), and Boxing PE 102 during their fourth-class year. Third-class year cadets are required to take Swimming (PE 100 or 101), and Principles of Physical Education (PE 300). Cadets will take two PE Elective courses during their second-class year. Cadets will also take a PE elective during the first semester of their first-class year to complete their Physical Education requirements. There is no PE requirement (OPEN semester), for the second semester of the first-class year. To accommodate special circumstances that may arise, such as study abroad and medical/health issues, the OPEN semester may occur during the fall/spring of the second-class year, or the fall of the first class year.
  

  • PE 409 - Tennis

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 1
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    A beginning course. When Offered: Offered during fall semester only.
  

  • PE 411 - Fundamentals of Resistance Training

    Lecture Hours: 1
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    Fundamentals of weight lifting.
  

  • PE 412 - Weight Training

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 1
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    This will be an activity course designed to give cadets “hands-on” exposure to various types of resistive training programs. Cadets will actively participate in a variety of predetermined functional lifting programs relative to all of the components (strength, power, endurance) of muscular development.
  

  • PE 413 - Cardiovascular Training Application

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 1
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    This is an activity course designed to expose cadets to various types of training programs. A cross-training approach will be utilized requiring cadet participation on a weekly basis with regard to a variety of aerobic and anaerobic training adaptations. This course is designed to be physically demanding. It will not only help cadets attain a higher level of fitness, it will also give them an opportunity to learn different training adaptations which they can utilize beyond their VMI experience.
  

  • PE 414 - Basketball

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 1
    Credit Hours: 0.5

    This course will introduce cadets to the basic rules and skills of basketball as well as teach offensive and defensive principles. Individual skills and team concepts will be covered. This course will have a high activity/fitness component.
  

  • PE 430 - Health Education

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    Topics to be studied include: recognition and management of stress, intervention and confrontation in drug/alcohol abuse, sexuality, AIDS, and other sexually-transmitted diseases, and other subjects such as nutrition, genetic counseling, cardiovascular health, and cancer.

PHILOSOPHY

Department of Psychology and Philosophy
Department Head: Colonel Gire
  

  • PH 201 - History of Greek and Medieval Philosophy

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    An introduction to philosophical thinking through the study of thought from the ancient Greeks to the Renaissance. As well as learning the history of ethical, religious, political and other ideas that continue to shape our civilization, cadets will learn to assess arguments critically and to construct rational defenses of their own beliefs.
  

  • PH 202 - History of Modern Philosophy

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    An introduction to philosophical thinking through the study of thought from the Renaissance to the present day. As well as learning the history of ethical, psychological, political and other ideas that continue to shape our civilization, cadets will learn to assess arguments critically and to construct rational defenses of their own beliefs.
  

  • PH 204 - Applied Ethics

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    This elective course is an introduction to critical thinking about ethics through the examination of real-life moral and political problems such as abortion, euthanasia, and the legalization of drugs. It is less theoretical than Ethics (PH 304). Prerequisite(s): None.
  

  • PH 292 - Independent Research

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    These courses are for rising 2nd class cadets pursuing research during the summer. Permission of instructor and department head required.
  

  • PH 293 - Independent Research

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    These courses are for rising 2nd class cadets pursuing research during the summer. Permission of instructor and department head required.
  

  • PH 301 - Logic

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    A systematic study of the methods and structure of classical logic, beginning symbolic logic, and scientific investigation. (This course is taught in the Mathematics Department.)
  

  • PH 303 - Poverty and Human Capability

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    This course will focus on how best to understand what poverty is, what causes it, whose responsibility it is to do something about it, and what courses of action might best be pursued to reduce poverty.
  

  • PH 304 - Ethics

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    An introduction to critical thinking about moral concepts and issues, including why one should be moral, major theories of what is right and wrong, and controversial social problems concerning questions of justice, life and death.
  

  • PH 307 - Comparative Religion

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    A survey of the history, doctrines, and sacred writings of the world’s major religions.
  

  • PH 308 - Minds and Machines

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    Although it has no prerequisites, this course is intended primarily for students who have taken at least one philosophy course before. Some knowledge of psychology, electrical engineering, or computer science will also be helpful. The course will survey the major issues and theories involved in the philosophy of intelligence, natural and artificial. Participants will examine the major current, competing ideas about what the mind is, what consciousness is, and whether a machine could have a mind. In doing so, cadets will be guided to address such questions as: Is the mind the soul? Is the brain the mind? What is the connection between mind and behavior? Is the brain a kind of computer? Could any machine have a real mind?
  

  • PH 309 - Philosophy of Religion

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    This elective course surveys some of the major analyses, criticisms, and defenses of religion. We will examine such questions as: What is religion? Why does it exist? Is it rational? Is genuine faith possible anymore?, and, Is religion something we could ever do without? This is not a course on world religions or comparative religion. The emphasis will be on philosophical questions about the rationality of belief in the existence of God, and the main examples of religious belief used will come from the Christian tradition. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor and department head required.
  

  • PH 390 - Independent Research

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    These courses are for 2nd class cadets pursuing research during the fall and/or spring semesters. Permission of instructor and department head required. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor and department head required. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor and department head required.
  

  • PH 391 - Independent Research

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    These courses are for 2nd class cadets pursuing research during the fall and/or spring semesters. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor and department head required.
  

  • PH 392 - Independent Research

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    These courses are for rising 1st class cadets pursuing research during the summer. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor and department head required.
  

  • PH 393 - Independent Research

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    These courses are for rising 1st class cadets pursuing research during the summer. Prerequisite(s): Permission of instructor and department head required.

PSYCHOLOGY

Department of Psychology and Philosophy
Department Head: Colonel Gire

(C or better is required in PS 201 for all upper level PS courses-starting with the Class of 2014)
  

  • PS 201 - Introduction to Psychology

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    Principles of human and animal behavior including brain function, motivation, learning, thinking, perception, emotions, personality, attitudes, and aptitudes. This course is a prerequisite for all other courses in psychology.
  

  • PS 203 - Biopsychology I

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    An introduction to the study of the biological bases of behavior, with an emphasis on neuroanatomy and neurophysiology, biophysical research methods, and a survey of theories and research concerning nervous system mechanisms underlying various aspects of behavior. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  

  • PS 204 - Biopsychology II

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    Builds on the foundation of knowledge gained from PS 203 with in-depth discussion of topics such as nervous system development, cerebral lateralization of function, brain damage and neuroplasticity, and biological mechanisms underlying sensory and motor function, neuropsychological diseases, learning and memory, and motivation and emotion. Prerequisite(s): PS 201 and PS 203.
  

  • PS 290 - Independent Research

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 4
    Credit Hours: 2

    These courses are for third classmen pursuing research during the fall and/or spring semesters. Permission of instructor and department head required. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  

  • PS 291 - Independent Research

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 6
    Credit Hours: 3

    These courses are for third classmen pursuing research during the fall and/or spring semesters. Permission of instructor and department head required. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  

  • PS 292 - Independent Research

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 4
    Credit Hours: 2

    These courses are for rising second classmen pursuing research during the summer. Permission of instructor and department head required. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  

  • PS 293 - Independent Research

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 8
    Credit Hours: 4

    These courses are for rising second classmen pursuing research during the summer. Permission of instructor and department head required. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  

  • PS 301 - Psychology of Learning

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    The empirical and theoretical examination of learning and memory. Topics covered include conditioning, discrimination, short-term and long-term retention. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  

  • PS 302 - Social Psychology

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    Behavior and experiences of the individual in society, group dynamics and social institutions, human relations, morale and leadership. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  

  • PS 304 - Educational Psychology

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    Emphasis is upon learning and instruction by cadets and teacher. Educational theories and their practice are explored through tutoring in the local schools and colleges. Useful whether or not the cadet plans a teaching career. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  

  • PS 305 - Abnormal Psychology

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    An introductory course on the scientific study and treatment of deviant human behavior. This course will briefly trace the history of treatment of psychological disorder from the middle ages to the present, extensively describe important determinants of personality, causes of abnormal behavior (psychogenic and organic), describe major personality theories and methods of therapy. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  

  • PS 306 - Human Resource Management

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 00
    Credit Hours: 3

    A survey of principles and practices used by Human Resource and General Managers and the managed in their work situations. Most intensive study of the functions of selection and placement; training and development; compensation and benefits; employee and labor relations/communications, health, safety, and security. Note: Academic credit will not be given for both BU 322 and PS 306. PS 306 will not fulfill a liberal arts elective for EC-BU majors. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  

  • PS 307 - Developmental Psychology

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    A survey of human growth and development, this course presents a life-span approach to the important, modern forces which have the greatest impact on the life changes of the individual. Opportunities to apply textbook theories and principles will be provided throughout the semester. Prerequisite(s): PS 201 or permission of instructor.
  

  • PS 308 - Motivation

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    Motivation is a theoretical concept that accounts for those factors that influence the arousal of behavior, the direction of behavior, and the persistence of behavior. PS 308 is about the motivational determinants of behavior in organizations. It deals extensively with motivation theory, research, and practice, including such topics as how job design, leadership style, and pay systems affect work motivation and job satisfaction. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  

  • PS 313 - Forensic Psychology

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    Criminal behavior is studied from the psychological perspective. The criminal offender is portrayed as being embedded in and continually influenced by multiple systems within the psychosocial environment. Topics include: biological and learning factors of criminal behavior, juvenile delinquency, the psychopath, the mentally disordered offender, aggression and violence, homicide, sexual offenses, economic crime, drugs, and more. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  

  • PS 315 - Theories of Personality

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    A study of the structure of personality and the dimensions along which individuals differ. The contributions of major personality theorists and the implications of current research are considered for trait, biological, psychoanalytical, behavioristic, cognitive, humanistic, and cross-cultural approaches. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  

  • PS 316 - Psychology Internship

    Lecture Hours: 1
    Lab Hours: 4
    Credit Hours: 3

    Cadets serve as interns in various psychology-related external agencies under the supervision of a member of the PS faculty in cooperation with officials of the external agency. Coursework will involve selected readings, completion of an appropriate project designed in conjunction with agency staff, and a final report presented orally and in writing to supervising faculty. The report will follow American Psychological Association format. This course may be repeated once for a total of 6 semester credits. Cadets must enroll in this course at VMI before they can be allowed to proceed with the internship. Open to rising first classmen and second-class PS majors. A cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher is required.
  

  • PS 317 - Sports Psychology

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    This course examines the way people think, feel, and behave during sport and exercise activities and the practical application of that knowledge. The specific course objectives are to: a) increase understanding of how psychological factors influence performance in sports, b) help acquire skills and knowledge about sport psychology that one can apply as an athlete, a sports team leader, or a coach, and c) provide keys to optimal experiences and performances in sport, and gain skills that help more consistently experience “flow,” being in the zone,” or “feeling on a high” in sports. Prerequisite(s): PS 201 or permission of instructor.
  

  • PS 318 - Introduction to Counseling and Psychotherapy

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    An overview of the major concepts of contemporary therapeutic systems and an introduction to the elements of effective counseling and psychotherapy. Empirical evaluation of treatment outcomes is emphasized. Research, legal, and ethical issues are examined. Students will learn basic counseling and communication skills through lecture, demonstration, and experiential exercises. Prerequisite(s): PS 201 or permission of instructor.
  

  • PS 319 - Creative and Critical Thinking

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    This elective is designed to (1) examine the theories, research, competencies, and processes associated with creative and critical thinking and (2) enhance the student’s proficiency in innovative, disciplined and discerning thinking. The course will explore the cognitive skills that allow one to deal with issues, problems, and challenging situations requiring creative solutions and/or critical analysis. Course topics include metacognition, cognitive style, the creative problem-solving process, creative climate, being a fair-minded thinker, the elements of critical thinking, irrational thinking, and recognizing propaganda and fallacies. Prerequisite(s): PS 201 or permission of instructor.
  

  • PS 320 - Positive Psychology

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    This course will provide an introduction to key concepts in the area of Positive Psychology. Major topics will include happiness, flow, optimism, forgiveness, goal setting and mindfulness. Class discussions will include a mix of theoretical perspectives, examinations of empirical studies and methods for applying key findings to one’s own life. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  

  • PS 321 - Stress and Health

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    This seminar-style course provides an overview of physiological stress-response systems and an in-depth analysis of topics pertaining to the relationship between stress and health/ illness. Major topics include: theories of stress, physiological response patterning in stress and emotion, psychological states and traits moderating the stress-illness relationship, cardiovascular stress-reactivity, social psychophysiology, coronary-prone behavior, and psychoneuroimmunology. Theoretical perspectives and empirical studies are examined and course content is organized around a reading list.
  

  • PS 322 - Psychological Assessment

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    Students will learn to administer, score, and interpret a standard psychological test battery. Tests include structured clinical interviews, self-report questionnaires, and performance-based tests. Each student will present life history and testing data obtained from a volunteer subject, and offer empirical and theory-based interpretations of test findings. Each psychological assessment constitutes a comprehensive, in-depth case study of a single subject that will illustrate critical concepts in personality science, psychometrics, and psychopathology. Test construction, test theory, ethics, critical thinking, and therapeutic assessment practices will be explored.
  

  • PS 344 - Leadership in Organizations

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    A core curriculum course required of all cadets commencing with the Class of 2010. The focus is on the interaction between leaders, followers, and the situational context of the leadership process. Students study the leader’s direct influence on individual motivation and group processes through the application of leadership theories, skills, and attributes. They also learn how to influence subordinates indirectly through organizational systems, procedures, culture, and ethical climate. The design of the course includes self-assessment, self-disclosure, small group exercises in contrived situations, and analysis of case studies. Credit will not be awarded for both PS 344 and PS 303.
  

  • PS 390 - Independent Research

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 4-8
    Credit Hours: 2-4

    These courses are for second classmen pursuing research during the fall and/or spring semesters. Permission of instructor and department head required. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  

  • PS 391 - Independent Research

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 4-8
    Credit Hours: 2-4

    These courses are for second classmen pursuing research during the fall and/or spring semesters. Permission of instructor and department head required. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  

  • PS 392 - Independent Research

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 4-8
    Credit Hours: 2-4

    These courses are for rising first classmen pursuing research during the summer. Permission of instructor and department head required. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  

  • PS 393 - Independent Research

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 4-8
    Credit Hours: 2-4

    These courses are for rising first classmen pursuing research during the summer. Permission of instructor and department head required. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  

  • PS 401 - Psychology of Cognition

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    An introductory course on human cognition. Topics include perception, attention, memory, visual knowledge, decision-making, problem solving, language, and consciousness. Emphasis will be placed on examining different approaches for studying and defining cognition, as well as the contributions that neuroscientific research has made to the field. Prerequisite(s): PS 201.
  

  • PS 402W - Research Methods in Psychology

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    A laboratory course covering the principal areas of general and experimental psychology. Prerequisite(s): PS 201 and MA 307. Writing Intensive (W).
  

  • PS 403W - Independent Project

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    A continuation of PS 402W. Prerequisite(s): PS 402W. Writing Intensive (W).
  

  • PS 404 - History and Systems in Psychology

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    This course is designed for psychology majors and is a requirement for graduation. It provides an in depth review of historical events and figures leading to the emergence of the science of psychology and the development of major psychological theories. The philosophical and scientific origins of psychology as a science are analyzed as well as the impact of emerging movements on important psychologists. The focus of much of the reading is the history of psychology as reflected by the individuals, theories, and experimental investigations of this discipline. Rather than focus on broad philosophical and historical issues, the course is aimed at specific emerging philosophical trends that lead to the development of the discipline. Prerequisite(s): PS 201. This course is restricted to First Class psychology majors.
  

  • PS 491 - Supervised Research I

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2-6
    Credit Hours: 1-3

    Normally a two-semester sequence for first class psychology majors who intend to pursue graduate studies. Each cadet will design and conduct an experiment under faculty supervision. Final presentation will include a paper in American Psychological Association format. Prerequisite(s): PS 201. Permission of the department head.
  

  • PS 492 - Supervised Research II

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2-6
    Credit Hours: 103

    Normally a two-semester sequence for first class psychology majors who intend to pursue graduate studies. Each cadet will design and conduct an experiment under faculty supervision. Final presentation will include a paper in American Psychological Association format. Prerequisite(s): PS 201. Permission of the department head.
  

  • PS 495W - Independent Project in Leadership Studies

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    Each student works under the close supervision of a faculty member on an independent problem related to leadership studies. Requires research and writing of substantial paper(s) and an oral examination in defense of the project. Note: PS 495 is a required course for the minor in Leadership Studies Prerequisite(s): PS 201, PS 344 and permission of the department head. Writing intensive (W).

PHYSICS

Department of Physics and Astronomy
Department Head: Colonel Thompson

Requirements for a major in physics are specified in Physics and Astronomy .
  

  • PY 115 - Laboratory for PY 120

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course to investigate the concepts covered in PY 120. Computer generated graphs, spreadsheets, and regression analysis are required for most experiments. Corequisite(s): PY 120.
  

  • PY 116 - Laboratory for PY 121

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course to investigate the concepts covered in PY 202. Computer generated graphs, spreadsheets, and regression analysis are required for most experiments. Corequisite(s): PY 121.
  

  • PY 120 - General Physics I

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    Designed as a terminal course in physics for non-science majors, this sequence is a survey of the concepts and theories of classical and modern physical science. (Not recommended for mathematics or science majors.) Prerequisite(s): PY 120.
  

  • PY 121 - General Physics II

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    Designed as a terminal course in physics for non-science majors, this sequence is a survey of the concepts and theories of classical and modern physical science. (Not recommended for mathematics or science majors.) Prerequisite(s): PY 120.
  

  • PY 155 - Laboratory for PY 160

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course to investigate the concepts covered in PY 160. Computer generated graphs, spreadsheets, and regression analysis are required for most experiments. Note: Satisfies core curriculum science requirement. Corequisite(s): PY 160.
  

  • PY 156 - Laboratory for PY 161

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course to investigate the concepts covered in PY 161. Computer generated graphs, spreadsheets, and regression analysis are required for most experiments. Note: Satisfies core curriculum science requirement. Corequisite(s): PY 161.
  

  • PY 160 - General Physics I

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    This calculus-based sequence constitutes a general course in physics covering the topics of mechanics, thermodynamics, waves and sound, electricity and magnetism and optics Note: Satisfies core curriculum science requirement. Prerequisite(s): Proficiency in MA 123.
  

  • PY 161 - General Physics II

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    This calculus-based sequence constitutes a general course in physics covering the topics of mechanics, thermodynamics, waves and sound, electricity and magnetism and optics Note: Satisfies core curriculum science requirement. Prerequisite(s): Proficiency in PY 108 or PY 160.
  

  • PY 220 - Physics Seminar

    Lecture Hours: 1
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 1

    This course is designed to acquaint students with topics in physics that are being actively investigated. The topics covered will vary depending on current news within the physics community as well as the interest of the enrolled students but may include relevant topics such as Bose-Einstein condensates, string theory and quantum dots. Students will be required to read articles, give short presentations and write summaries of the topics covered. As this course is intended to be survey in nature, topics will not be covered in depth and mathematical analysis will not be emphasized.
  

  • PY 223 - Programming and Data Analysis

    Lecture Hours: 1
    Lab Hours: 2
    Credit Hours: 2

    An introduction to some of the techniques and tools used by practicing physicists. Includes an introduction to MATLAB programming with emphasis on programming fundamentals, standard input/output techniques, and data handling. Students learn how to use the Mathcad software program to do numerical analysis as well as symbolic calculations. Data and error analysis beyond the fundamentals is introduced and includes such topics as regression analysis, weighted averages, error propagation, and data analysis.
  

  • PY 238 - Laboratory Techniques

    Lecture Hours: 1
    Lab Hours: 2
    Credit Hours: 2

    An introduction to analog electronics and associated laboratory techniques and instruments.
  

  • PY 253W - Optics Laboratory

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course in which some of the experiments in classical optics, as well as some in the field of laser optics will be performed. Prerequisite(s): PY 161. Corequisite(s): PY 254. Writing Intensive (W).
  

  • PY 254 - Optics

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    A study of geometrical and physical optics, including properties of lens systems, superposition, interference, diffraction, polarization, an introduction to lasers and elementary fiber optics. Prerequisite(s): Either PY 203 or PY 161.
  

  • PY 257 - Electronics and Interfacing

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 2
    Credit Hours: 4

    A course designed to teach the principles of microcomputer control of physics experiments. Course begins with an introduction to digital electronics, and a short review of analog electronics (op-amps, transistors), then proceeds to sensors, stepper motors, and microcontrollers for control of experiments. The rest of the course concentrates on learning LabVIEW and using it with a student-designed experiment, for automated control and data acquisition.
  

  • PY 291 - Summer Research in Physics

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2-8
    Credit Hours: 1-4

    Independent research opportunities in physics and astronomy offered in the summer sessions. A student working under the supervision of a faculty mentor may earn up to four credit hours per summer session. An oral presentation and a comprehensive research paper are required. Prerequisite(s): permission of the department head and faculty research mentor.
  

  • PY 294 - Summer Research in Physics

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2-8
    Credit Hours: 1-4

    Independent research opportunities in physics and astronomy offered in the summer sessions. A student working under the supervision of a faculty mentor may earn up to four credit hours per summer session. An oral presentation and a comprehensive research paper are required. Prerequisite(s): permission of the department head and faculty research mentor.
  

  • PY 308 - Introduction to Nanotechnology

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    A course designed to introduce the student to the multidisciplinary and rapidly developing field of nanotechnology. Topics include nanomaterials, micro/nanofabrication, microscopy, nanoelectronics, biological nanotechnology, nanoterrorism, social and ethical implications, etc. Prerequisite(s): PY 160/PY 161 or PY 108/PY 203.
  

  • PY 331 - Independent Project I

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2
    Credit Hours: 1

    Each student works under the close supervision of a faculty member on an independent problem. This problem may include experimental or theoretical research in the conventional sense, or development of a new laboratory experiment, or another problem specified by the instructor.
  

  • PY 332 - Independent Project II

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2
    Credit Hours: 1

    A continuation of the work done in PY 331.
  

  • PY 333W - Modern Physics Laboratory

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course to accompany PY 343, Modern Physics. Elementary experiments in both atomic and nuclear physics will be performed. Corequisite(s): PY 335. Writing Intensive (W).
  

  • PY 334 - Nuclear Physics Laboratory

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course to accompany PY 344, Nuclear Physics. A number of more advanced nuclear physics laboratory experiments will be performed. Prerequisite(s): PY 333W and PY 335. PY
  

  • PY 335 - Modern Physics I

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    An introduction to the topics of modern physics to include the special theory of relativity including relativistic kinematics and dynamics, early quantum theory, wave-particle duality, the Uncertainty Principle, the Bohr atom, quantum mechanics, and atomic physics. Prerequisite(s): Either PY 203 or PY 161.
  

  • PY 336 - Modern Physics II

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    An extension of PY 335, in which quantum mechanics is used to address a variety of topics in the areas of statistical physics, molecules and solids, and semiconductor devices. Other topics covered include nuclear models, radioactive decay, nuclear reactions, elementary particles, general relativity, and cosmology. Prerequisite(s): PY 335.
  

  • PY 341 - Electricity and Magnetism I

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    An intermediate level course in electricity and magnetism, designed for physics majors, which includes the theory of electrostatic and magneto static fields in space and matter, followed by electrodynamics and the development of the four Maxwell equations. Vector analysis extensively employed throughout the course. Prerequisite(s): Either PY 203 or PY 161.
  

  • PY 342 - Electricity and Magnetism II

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    An extension of PY 341, in which the Maxwell equations are used to address a variety of topics, to include energy in electromagnetic fields, electromagnetic waves, and the covariant formulation of electrodynamics, among others. Prerequisite(s): PY 341.
  

  • PY 344 - Nuclear Physics

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    Nuclear structure, nuclear models, decay processes, reaction cross-sections, reaction kinematics, neutron dynamics, nuclear reactors, radiation detectors, nuclear accelerators, particle physics. Prerequisite(s): PY 161.
  

  • PY 391 - Summer Research in Physics

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2-8
    Credit Hours: 1-4

    Independent research opportunities in physics and astronomy offered in the summer sessions. A student working under the supervision of a faculty mentor may earn up to four credit hours per summer session. An oral presentation and a comprehensive research paper are required. Prerequisite(s): permission of the department head and faculty research mentor.
  

  • PY 394 - Summer Research in Physics

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2-8
    Credit Hours: 1-4

    Independent research opportunities in physics and astronomy offered in the summer sessions. A student working under the supervision of a faculty mentor may earn up to four credit hours per summer session. An oral presentation and a comprehensive research paper are required. Prerequisite(s): permission of the department head and faculty research mentor.
  

  • PY 420 - Capstone I

    Lecture Hours: 1
    Lab Hours: 2
    Credit Hours: 2

    The first course of a two-semester research experience. It will consist of a common hour in which material on the history and philosophy of physics and research methods are discussed, and two laboratory hours in which students pursue research projects with a faculty mentor.
  

  • PY 421 - Capstone II

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2
    Credit Hours: 1

    The second course of a two-semester research experience, in which the student continues the research project begun in the first semester. Students will also prepare a final paper and presentation as part of this course.
  

  • PY 441 - Classical Mechanics I

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    A study of the dynamics of particles and rigid bodies, damped, undamped, and driven harmonic oscillators, gravity and central force motion, the moment of inertia tensor and its diagonalization, and introduction to Lagrangian mechanics. Prerequisite(s): PY 108 or PY 160, MA 311.
  

  • PY 446 - Thermal Physics

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    A study of large-scale systems consisting of many atoms or molecules, providing an introduction to the subjects of statistical mechanics, kinetic theory, entropy, Fermi and Bose gases, the partition function, thermodynamics, semiconductor statistics, cryogenics and other selected topics. Prerequisite(s): PY 335.
  

  • PY 447 - Thesis I

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2-8
    Credit Hours: 1-4

    Normally a two-semester sequence for first class physics majors, these courses are especially recommended for cadets who intend to pursue graduate studies. Each cadet is expected to investigate a simple research problem, either experimental or theoretical, and write a thesis summarizing the work.
  

  • PY 448 - Thesis II

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2-8
    Credit Hours: 1-4

    Normally a two-semester sequence for first class physics majors, these courses are especially recommended for cadets who intend to pursue graduate studies. Each cadet is expected to investigate a simple research problem, either experimental or theoretical, and write a thesis summarizing the work.
  

  • PY 453 - Nuclear Reactor Engineering

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    An introduction to nuclear engineering to include a review of elementary atomic and nuclear physics, the interaction of radiation with matter, types of nuclear reactors, nuclear power, neutron dynamics, nuclear reactor theory, reactor shielding, and radiation protection. Prerequisite(s): PY 203 or PY 161 . When Offered: Offered when the enrollment justifies.
  

  • PY 459 - Introduction to Quantum Mechanics

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    A rigorous study of the foundations of Quantum Mechanics. Topics include mathematical solutions to the Schroedinger equation, harmonic oscillator, Dirac notation, commutator relations and the hydrogen atom. Prerequisite(s): PY 335 and MA 301.
  

  • PY 460 - Topics in Quantum Mechanics

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    A seminar that is a continuation of the study of quantum concepts begun in PY 459. Discussion of topics of interest to the instructor and cadets. Prerequisite(s): PY 459. When Offered: (Offered when the enrollment justifies.)
  

  • PY 481 - Topics in Physics

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    Special topics in physics and astronomy as suggested by faculty or cadets. Subjects and content to be announced in advance. Prerequisite(s): first-class standing and permission of the department head. When Offered: Course(s) will not necessarily be offered every semester.
  

  • PY 489 - Topics in Physics

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    Special topics in physics and astronomy as suggested by faculty or cadets. Subjects and content to be announced in advance. Prerequisite(s): first-class standing and permission of the department head. When Offered: Course(s) will not necessarily be offered every semester.
  

  • PY 491 - Summer Research in Physics

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2-8
    Credit Hours: 1-4

    Independent research opportunities in physics and astronomy offered in the summer sessions. A student working under the supervision of a faculty mentor may earn up to four credit hours per summer session. An oral presentation and a comprehensive research paper are required. Prerequisite(s): permission of the department head and faculty research mentor.
  

  • PY 494 - Summer Research in Physics

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 2-8
    Credit Hours: 1-4

    Independent research opportunities in physics and astronomy offered in the summer sessions. A student working under the supervision of a faculty mentor may earn up to four credit hours per summer session. An oral presentation and a comprehensive research paper are required. Prerequisite(s): permission of the department head and faculty research mentor.

SPEECH

Department of English and Fine Arts
Department head: Colonel Miller

Requirements for a major in English are specified in English, Rhetoric and Humanistic Studies .

Note: A minimum grade of C in WR 101 is a prerequisite for WR 102, and a minimum grade of C in WR 102 is a prerequisite for all 200- and 300-level English (EN) and Writing (WR) courses. All 400-level courses have additional prerequisites, which are listed in the course descriptions. These prerequisites may be waived by the department head if there is evidence that the cadet is well prepared for the 400-level course.
  

  • SE 300 - Public Speaking

    Lecture Hours: 1
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 1

    This course is designed to give students the skill and poise required to deliver a coherent, persuasive, and reasonably eloquent public speech. They will be required to deliver an oral interpretation, an informative speech, and an argument/persuasion speech and also offer critical analyses of their classmates’ presentations.

SPANISH

Department of Modern Languages and Cultures
Department Head: Colonel Bulger-Barnett

  1. All cadets who enter with two or more entrance units in a modern foreign language are given placement tests and are placed in appropriate courses on the basis of the test results, their previous high school language coursework, and after consultation with the department head of modern languages.
  2. A single year of a foreign language shall count toward meeting graduation requirements only when the cadet is studying a second language or is taking a language as an elective.
  3. Classroom work is supplemented with computer-aided language instruction in a wellequipped Language Learning Center.

Prerequisites: Cadets must demonstrate proficiency in ML 101 in order to be admitted into ML 102. They must, similarly, demonstrate proficiency in ML 102 before enrolling in ML 201, and in ML 201 before enrolling in ML 202/204. Proficiency in ML 202/204 is a prerequisite for admission to 300-level courses. Completion of two 300-level courses or their equivalent is expected before enrollment in any 400 -level course. Once a cadet has completed work at the 202/204 level, he/she may not return to the elementary level course for credit.

Cadets who present three or more years of a high school language or demonstrate native or near-native language abilities may not enroll at the elementary level of that language. Such students will have the choice of enrolling either in the first semester intermediate level of that language or in the first semester elementary course of a different language.
  

  • SP 101 - Elementary Spanish

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    An introduction to the fundamentals of Spanish. Primary emphasis on the acquisition of the basic language skills (comprehending, speaking, reading, and writing) within the context of civilization and culture. Secondary emphasis on the culture where Spanish is spoken. Intended for beginners with no previous experience in the language.
  

  • SP 102 - Elementary Spanish

    Lecture Hours: 3
    Lab Hours: 0
    Credit Hours: 3

    A continuation of SP 101 . Prerequisite(s): SP 101 .
 

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