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2015-2016 Academic Catalogue 
    
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2015-2016 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 field of study. The second part is a number denoting the particular subject. The first digit indicates the year in which the course is 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 usually 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 any 3 credit hour course), 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 any 3 credit hour course) 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 325 - Understanding Sports Injuries

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

    The purpose of this course is to provide an overview in the preventing, recognition, and treatment common sports injuries that occur within the active population. Course content will include anatomical terminology, and mechanisms of injuries.
  

  • PE 340 - Teaching Mentorship in Physical Education

    Lecture Hours: 1
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1-3

    Students with at least a 3.0 GPA in their major and who earn an A or a B in a Physical Education course, or by approval of the Department Head, may serve as a teaching assistant for a portion of a Physical Education course in a subsequent semester. The teaching mentee’s duties may vary, but a mentee must meet with his/her mentoring professor weekly and attend all class meetings of the course. Student duties will be determined by the course professor and approved by the Department Head. Duties will include: meeting with the professor each week to discuss teaching strategies and assisting the professor by helping prepare classrooms, equipment, quizzes and/or practicals, and assisting with teaching in the course. This is a pass/fail course. It may only be taken once and it can count as an exercise science elective. Registration for this course requires Department Head approval.
  

  • PE 380 - Kinesiology and Functional Anatomy

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

    This course is designed to provide the cadet with a comprehension of human movement. Subject matter includes musculoskeletal anatomy, joint structure and function, and biomechanics. The cadet is prepared to identify the various phases of motion and explain the mechanical significance of each in producing the desired outcome.
  

  • PE 390 - Independent Research

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

    This course is for rising first classmen pursuing research during the summer. Permission of instructor and department head required.
  

  • PE 401 - Golf

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

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

  • PE 402 - Lifeguarding

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

    Successful completion leads to certification as a lifeguard. Prerequisite(s): PE 404 
  

  • PE 403 - Advanced Swimming and Survival

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

    The course is designed for advance swimming and survival techniques. The course will cover strokes, conditioning, surface diving, snorkel introduction, underwater retrieval of gear, and advance survival techniques. Prerequisite(s): PE 101 .
  

  • PE 404 - C.P.R.

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

    Successful completion confers American Red Cross certification. This course is a prerequisite for PE 103, Lifeguarding.
  

  • PE 405 - Dietary Supplements

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

    Provides information on the benefits and detriments of common physical performance stimulants.
  

  • PE 406 - Handball/Racquetball

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

    A beginning course.
  

  • PE 407 - Volleyball

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

    A beginning course.
  

  • 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.

    (NOTE:  Cadets are required to take 7 semesters of PE for a total of 4 credits – PE 430 does not count towards this requirement.)

  

  • PE 431 - Physical Activity and Wellness Through the Lifespan

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

    This course presents an overview of the benefits of lifespan physical activity and structured exercise programs for adults. Students will examine the changes that occur during exercise as it influences persons of all ages, including individuals with special medical considerations.  The cadets will learn to develop exercise and fitness programs specifically for adults based upon age, medical conditions, and special needs.  Cadets focus on the psychosocial factors related to participants and their motivated behaviors, including adoption, adherence, and compliance, in physical activity and exercise.

    (NOTE:  Cadets are required to take 7 semesters of PE for a total of 4 credits – PE 431 does not count towards this requirement.)

  

  • PE 432 - Concepts of Strength Training and Conditioning

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

    This course provides principles and theories related to strength training and conditioning.  Concepts and applications in exercise testing and evaluation; program design, implementation, and evaluation; facility planning and administration, as well as safety procedures are discussed.

    (NOTE:  Cadets are required to take 7 semesters of PE for a total of 4 credits – PE 432 does not count towards this requirement.)


PSYCHOLOGY

Department of Psychology
Department Head: Colonel Gire

Requirements for a major in psychology are specified in Psychology .

Note: A grade of C or higher is required in PS 201  for all upper level PS courses starting with the Class of 2014.
  

  • PS LAB - PS Lab

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

    Psychology Lab
  

  • 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 202 - Introduction to Research Methods

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

    Provides the foundation for understanding, interpreting, and designing psychological research. Topics include developing a research question, types of variables and how they are measured, participant selection techniques, nonexperimental and experimental research methods, ethics in psychology, and the communication of scientific research in a standard format. Prerequisite(s): PS 201  with a minimum grade of C.
  

  • PS 205 - Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences

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

    This course builds upon research methodology developed in PS202 and briefly reviews critical concepts from MA106. Additionally, students will learn statistical techniques for analyzing both categorical and continuous data. Topics include analysis of variance, covariate analyses, chi-square tests, nonparametric tests, and reliability analyses. Students will be immersed in hands-on SPSS lab work throughout. Coursework culminates with a final project that is based on a publicly sourced dataset provided by the instructor. Students will design their own research question, create hypotheses, and test those hypotheses using analytical techniques learned in the course Prerequisite(s): MA 105 , MA 106 , & PS 202 .
  

  • 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 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 309 - Fundamentals of Biopsychology (formerly 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 emphases on neuroanatomy and neurophysiology, biopsychological research methods, and sensory and motor systems. Prerequisite(s): PS 201  with a minimum grade of C.
  

  • 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 314 - Physiology and Behavior (formerly PS 204 - Biopsychology II)

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

    An in-depth discussion of the physiological mechanisms underlying behavior. Topics include brain damage and neuroplasticity, learning and memory, and motivation and emotion. Prerequisite(s): PS 201  with a minimum grade of C.
  

  • 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. Prerequisite(s): PS 201 
  

  • 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. Prerequisite(s): PS 201  or instructor approval
  

  • PS 344 - Leadership in Organizations

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

    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.
  

  • PS 351 - Biological Psychology Laboratory

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course for students participating in scientific research related to biological psychology. The lab emphasizes scientific observation, analytical techniques, and communication of results. Prerequisite(s): PS 201  with a minimum grade of C & PS 202 . Corequisite(s): PS 309  or PS 314 .
  

  • PS 352 - Health Psychology Laboratory

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course for students participating in scientific research related to health psychology. The lab emphasizes scientific observation, analytical techniques, and communication of results. Prerequisite(s): PS 201  with a minimum grade of C & PS 202 . Corequisite(s): PS 321 .
  

  • PS 353 - Psychology of Learning Laboratory

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course for students participating in scientific research related to the psychology of learning. The lab emphasizes scientific observation, analytical techniques, and communication of results. Prerequisite(s): PS 201   with a minimum grade of C & PS 202 . Corequisite(s): PS 301 .
  

  • PS 354 - Social Psychology Laboratory

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course for students participating in scientific research related to social psychology. The lab emphasizes scientific observation, analytical techniques, and communication of results. Prerequisite(s): PS 201   with a minimum grade of C & PS 202 . Corequisite(s): PS 302 .
  

  • PS 355 - Abnormal Psychology Laboratory

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course for students participating in scientific research related to abnormal psychology. The lab emphasizes scientific observation, analytical techniques, and communication of results. Prerequisite(s): PS 201  with a minimum grade of C & PS 202 .  Corequisite(s): PS 305 .
  

  • PS 356 - Developmental Psychology Laboratory

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course for students participating in scientific research related to developmental psychology. The lab emphasizes scientific observation, analytical techniques, and communication of results. Prerequisite(s): PS 201  minimum grade of C & PS 202 . Corequisite(s): PS 307 .
  

  • PS 357 - Personality Psychology Laboratory

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course for students participating in scientific research related to personality psychology. The lab emphasizes scientific observation, analytical techniques, and communication of results. Prerequisite(s): PS 201  with a minimum grade of C & PS 202 . Corequisite(s): PS 315 .
  

  • PS 358 - Positive Psychology Laboratory

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course for students participating in scientific research related to positive psychology. The lab emphasizes scientific observation, analytical techniques, and communication of results. Prerequisite(s): PS 201  with a minimum grade of C & PS 202 . Corequisite(s): PS 320 .
  

  • 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 - Advanced Research Methods (formerly Research Methods in Psychology)

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

    A course covering the principal areas of general and experimental psychology. Prerequisite(s): PS 201  with a minimum grade of C. 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 
  

  • PS 451 - Cognitive Psychology Laboratory

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course for students participating in scientific research related to cognitive psychology. The lab emphasizes scientific observation, analytical techniques, and communication of results. Prerequisite(s): PS 201  with a minimum grade of C & PS 202 . Corequisite(s): PS 401 .
  

  • PS 452 - History and Systems Laboratory

    Lecture Hours: 0
    Lab Hours: 3
    Credit Hours: 1

    A laboratory course for students participating in scientific research related to popular psychological myths and the classic studies that changed psychology. The lab emphasizes replication, scientific observation, analytical techniques, and communication of results. Prerequisite(s): PS 201  with a minimum grade of C & PS 202 . Corequisite(s): PS 404 .
  

  • 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 Hodges

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 121 . 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 an Algebra based terminal course in physics, this sequence is a survey of the concepts and theories of classical and modern physical science. (This course does not satisfy the core curriculum science requirement.) Corequisite(s): PY 115 
  

  • PY 121 - General Physics II

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

    Designed as an Algebra based terminal course in physics, this sequence is a survey of the concepts and theories of classical and modern physical science. (This course does not satisfy the core curriculum science requirement.) Prerequisite(s): PY 120  Corequisite(s): PY 116 
  

  • 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. This sequence is for physics, chemistry, applied mathematics, and engineering majors. Note: Satisfies core curriculum science requirement. Corequisite(s): 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. This sequence is for physics, chemistry, applied mathematics, and engineering majors. Note: Satisfies core curriculum science requirement. Prerequisite(s): PY 160  Corequisite(s): PY 156 
  

  • 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. Prerequisite(s): PY 161 
  

  • 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): PY 161  Corequisite(s): PY 253W 
  

  • 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. Prerequisite(s): PY 238 
  

  • 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  and PY 161 
  

  • PY 333W - Modern Physics Laboratory

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

    A laboratory course to accompany PY 335 - Modern Physics I . 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  Corequisite(s): PY 344 
  

  • 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): PY 161  Corequisite(s): PY 333W 
  

  • 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  Note: No lab associated with this course.
  

  • 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): 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  Corequisite(s): PY 334 
  

  • 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

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

    This is a one semester course for physics majors in which they will revisit the fundamentals of the main subfields of physics and will complete a research project in physics or astronomy. The group project, in an area chosen by the instructor, may be experimental, theoretical, observational, computational, or pedagogical in character and will result in a final report.
  

  • 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 160  and 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 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.
 

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