May 14, 2024

2013-2014 Catalog

2013-2014 Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions

UNDERGRADUATE COURSES

Lower Division Courses numbered 1–99 are designed primarily for freshmen and sophomores but are open to all students for lower division credit. (Graduate students requesting to enroll in lower-division undergraduate courses will not receive unit credit nor will the course fulfill degree requirements.)

Upper Division Courses courses numbered 100–199 are open to all students who have met the necessary prerequisites as indicated in the catalog course description. Preparation should generally include completion of one lower division course in the given subject or completion of two years of college work.

GRADUATE COURSES
Courses numbered 200–299 are open to graduate students. (Undergraduate students must obtain the signature of the instructor, School Dean, and the Dean of Graduate Studies. Graduate level units will count towards the required 120 units for graduation; however students are urged to meet with their academic advisor in order to determine if graduate course units may be used to fulfill a graduation requirement.)

CROSS-LISTED/CONJOINED COURSES
Cross-listed Courses are the same course offered under different course subjects at the same level (either undergraduate or graduate) that share the same meeting time, requirements, units, etc.

Conjoined Courses are the same course but one is undergraduate and one is graduate.

COREQUISITE COURSE
A corequisite course is a course that must be taken at the same time as another course.

PREREQUISITES
Prerequisites for courses should be followed carefully; the responsibility for meeting these requirements rests on the student. If you can demonstrate that your preparation is equivalent to that specified by the prerequisites, the instructor may waive these requirements for you. The instructor also may request that a student who has not completed the prerequisites be dropped from the course. Note: For all courses a “C-” or better grade is required for a course to be used as a prerequisite for another course. If a course was taken for a “P/NP” grade then a “P” grade is required. If the prerequisite for a course is not satisfied, students must obtain the approval of the instructor (or school designee) of the course they wish to take.

More information about Course Substitutions, Grading Options, and Course Materials and Services Fees can be found in alternate areas of the catalog.

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Philosophy
	PHIL 103: Philosophy of Mind [4 units] Selected topics in the philosophy of mind, including the relation between mind and body, the self, personal identity, consciousness, and free-will. Prerequisite: PHIL 005 or consent of instructor. Normal Letter Grade only. View course scheduling information
	PHIL 104: Ethical Theory [4 units] An examination of core issues in moral philosophy. Topics may include: the nature of moral judgments, methods of ethical decision making, the relationship between morality and self-interest, and proposed resolutions to situations involving conflicting moral principles. Prerequisite: PHIL 001 or consent of instructor. Normal Letter Grade only. View course scheduling information
	PHIL 105: Philosophy of Language [4 units] What is language? How do symbols, sounds, and gestures carry information? In this course we will study work by both philosophers and linguists on the nature of language, meaning, reference, and truth. Prerequisite: Junior standing and PHIL 005 or consent of instructor. Normal Letter Grade only. View course scheduling information
	PHIL 107: Philosophy of Religion [4 units] An examination of core issues in the philosophy of religion, using classical and contemporary sources. Topics may include: arguments for and against the existence of God, differing concepts of the divine, the rationality of religious belief, mysticism, divine foreknowledge and free-will, death and immortality. Prerequisite: PHIL 001 or PHIL 005 or consent of instructor. Normal Letter Grade only. View course scheduling information
	PHIL 108: Political Philosophy [4 units] An examination of core issues in political philosophy. Topics may include: descriptive and normative analyses of institutions, alternative justifications of political authority, classical and modern accounts of the social contract, theories of justice. Prerequisite: PHIL 001 . Normal Letter Grade only. View course scheduling information
	PHIL 110: Philosophy of Cognitive Science [4 units] Consideration of philosophical and foundational issues in cognitive science, including the Turing Test, the Chinese Room argument, the nature of cognitive architecture, animal cognition, connectionism vs. symbolic artificial intelligence, and the possibility of thinking machines. Prerequisite: PHIL 001 or COGS 001 or consent of instructor. View course scheduling information
	PHIL 111: Philosophy of Neuroscience [4 units] Questions at the intersection of philosophy and neuroscience. Relevance of recent research in neuroscience to epistemology and metaphysics. Specific topics include the mind-body problem, free will, consciousness, religion, and the nature of the self. View course scheduling information
	PHIL 130: Ancient Philosophy [4 Units] An examination of some of the core issues and central texts of ancient philosophy. Questions to be covered include: What is happiness? What is the best life? What are the ultimate constituents of reality? What can we know? Is there a soul, and does it survive death? Prerequisite: PHIL 001 or consent of instructor. View course scheduling information
	PHIL 134: Modern Philosophy [4 units] An examination of the works of several of the most important philosophers of the 17th and early 18th centuries. Special attention will be devoted to the new theories of knowledge and the new moral theories proposed during this time. Prerequisite: PHIL 001 or consent of instructor. Normal Letter Grade only. View course scheduling information
	PHIL 150: Topics in Phenomenology [4 units] Study of the foundations of phenomenology in Husserl and its background in Bolzano, Frege, Brentano, Meinong, Kant, and Descartes. Topics include phenomenological method, theory of intentionality, meaning, perception, evidence, ego, other minds, intersubjectivity, and the life-world, as well as application of phenomenological methods to themes in natural science, social science, art, and literature. Course may be repeated 1 time for credit. View course scheduling information
	PHIL 160: Mathematical Logic [4 units] Introduction to the meta-theory of first-order logic. Topics include the consistency, compactness, completeness and soundness proofs for propositional and first-order logic; model theory; the axiomatization of number theory; Gödel’s incompleteness theorems and related results. Prerequisite: PHIL 005 or consent of instructor. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHIL 170: Philosophy, Politics and Economics [4 units] We will explore issues in the intersection of philosophy, political theory and economic theory. We will consider how discoveries in political science and economics can advance some debates in traditional political and moral philosophy. Conversely, we will consider how the insights and methods of philosophy influence economics and political science. Prerequisite: PHIL 001 or consent of instructor. View course scheduling information
	PHIL 171: Free Will in Philosophy and Cognitive Science [4 Units] Explores the concept of free will and the plausibility of its existence through both philosophy and cognitive science. By the end of the course students will be conversant on the topic of free will and the latest developements in the debate. Cross-Listed with COGS 160 . Prerequisite: PHIL 001 or COGS 001 or consent of instructor. View course scheduling information
	PHIL 190: Advanced Seminar in Philosophy [4 units] Intensive treatment of a special topic or problem within philosophy. May be repeated for credit in different subject area. Prerequisite: Junior standing. Permission of instructor required. Normal Letter Grade only. Course may be repeated 1 time for credit. View course scheduling information
	PHIL 192: Internship in Philosophy [1-4 units] Provides oversight and structure for a student’s internship in a field related to philosophy in community organizations, professional research projects, etc. connected to the study of philosophy. Students are required to write an original research paper or relevant product that demonstrates how the internship advanced their knowledge of philosophy. Prerequisite: Junior standing. Permission of instructor required. Pass/Fail only. Course may be repeated 2 times for credit. View course scheduling information
	PHIL 195: Upper Division Undergraduate Research [1-5 units] Supervised research. Permission of instructor required. Course may be repeated for credit. View course scheduling information
	PHIL 198: Upper Division Directed Group Study [1-5 units] Permission of instructor required. Pass/Fail only. Course may be repeated for credit. View course scheduling information
	PHIL 199: Upper Division Individual Study [1-5 units] Permission of instructor required. Pass/Fail only. Course may be repeated for credit. View course scheduling information
Physics
	PHYS 005: Energy and the Environment [3 units] Introduction to energy and the environment. Examines different types of renewable and nonrenewable energy sources and the environmental effects of using these energy resources. We cover environmental, economic and sustainability considerations associated with fossil fuels and alternative energy sources. Normal Letter Grade only. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 006: The Cosmos, Science and You [4 units] Introduction to physics and astronomy for non science and engineering majors. Topics include: Scientific method as illustrated by astronomical discoveries about the Cosmos; and the concepts of matter and energy; and the formation of the Universe, galaxies, stars and the Solar System. Throughout the course our physical connection and dependence the Cosmos are illustrated using new discoveries in astrophysics, astrochemistry and astrobiology. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 008: Introductory Physics I for Physical Sciences [4 units] Introduction to classical and contemporary physics. Intended for students with preparation in calculus and algebra. Topics include introduction to forces, kinetics, equilibria, fluids, waves, and heat. Experiments and computer exercises are integrated into the course content. Prerequisite: MATH 021 , which may be taken concurrently. Course may not be taken for credit after obtaining credit for: PHYS 008H, PHYS 018. Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion, Laboratory included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 008H: Honors Introductory Physics I for Physical Sciences [4 units] Physics 008H is a mathematically intense introduction to classical mechanics designed for majors and other highly motivated students. Utilizing differential and integral calculus, topics include forces, kinetics, energy, momentum, gravity, rotations, waves, and fluids. Advanced coursework in all areas (i.e. homework, etc.) prepares students for success in upper-division physics courses. Prerequisite: MATH 021 (may be taken concurrently). Course may not be taken for credit after obtaining credit for: PHYS 008, PHYS 018. Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion, Laboratory included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 009: Introductory Physics II for Physical Sciences [4 units] Continuation of introduction to classical and contemporary physics. Topics include introduction to electricity, magnetism, electromagnetic waves, optics, and modern physics. Experiments and computer exercises are integrated into the course content. Prerequisite: MATH 022 , which may be taken concurrently and (PHYS 008 or PHYS 008H or PHYS 018 and MATH 021 ) or (PHYS 018 and MATH 011 with a B grade or better). Course may not be taken for credit after obtaining credit for: PHYS009H, PHYS019. Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion, Laboratory included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 009H: Honors Introductory Physics II for Physical Sciences [4 units] Physics 009H is a mathematically intense introduction to classical electromagnetism for students who are motivated to learn physics at an advanced level. Utilizing calculus, topics include electrostatics, magnetism, AC and DC circuits, electromagnetism, and optics. Advanced coursework prepares students for advanced study in physical science and engineering courses. Prerequisite: (MATH 021 with a B grade or better and PHYS 008 with an A- grade or better) or (PHYS 008H with a B grade or better and MATH 021 with a B grade or better) and (MATH 022 , which may be taken concurrently) or consent of instructor. Course may not be taken for credit after obtaining credit for: PHYS009, PHYS019. Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion, Laboratory included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 010: Introductory Physics III [4 units] An introduction to developments in modern physics over the last 100 years that have radically altered our view of nature. Particular emphasis is placed on the quantum theory, with applications to atoms, molecules, solids, and light. Prerequisite: (PHYS 008 or PHYS 018 ) and MATH 024 , which may be taken concurrently, and (PHYS 009 or PHYS 019 , which may be taken concurrently). Laboratory included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 012: Light, Color, and Vision [4 units] Introduction to the physics, chemistry, and biology of light and vision for nonscientists. Covers basic optics, optical instruments, photography, light and color in nature, human and animal vision, visual perception and optical illusions, and aspects of modern technology including fiber optics and lasers. Includes classroom demonstrations and out-of-class observational exercises. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 018: Introductory Physics I for Biological Sciences [4 units] First introductory physics course for biological science majors. Topics include vectors, kinematics, Newton’s Laws, Work, Energy and Conservation, Torque and rotation, Fluids and Elasticity, Oscillations and Waves all with an emphasis on biological applications. Prerequisite: MATH 021 or MATH 011 , either of which may be taken concurrently. Course may not be taken for credit after obtaining credit for: PHYS 008, PHYS 008H. Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion, Laboratory included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 019: Introductory Physics II for Biological Sciences [4 units] The physical principles of electromagnetism and thermodynamics are introduced, examined, and discussed in the context of biological applications. Prerequisite: (MATH 011 or MATH 021 ) and (PHYS 008 or PHYS 018 or PHYS 008H ) and (MATH 012 or MATH 022 , either of which may be taken concurrently). Course may not be taken for credit after obtaining credit for: PHYS 009, PHYS 009H. Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion, Laboratory included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 090X: Freshman Seminar [1 units] Examination of a topic in physics. Course may be repeated for credit. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 095: Lower Division Undergraduate Research [1-5 units] Supervised research Permission of instructor required. Course may be repeated for credit. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 098: Lower Division Directed Group Study [1-5 units] Permission of instructor required. Pass/Fail only. Course may be repeated for credit. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 099: Lower Division Individual Study [1-5 units] Permission of instructor required. Pass/Fail only. Course may be repeated for credit. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 104: Biophysics [4 units] Aims to give students an understanding of relevant physical principles for biological systems, introduce them to experimental and theoretical techniques of biophysics and to communicate the excitement of cutting-edge biophysics research. Topics include diffusion, fluids, entropic forces, motor proteins, enzymes, nerve impulses, networks and evolution. Prerequisite: (PHYS 018 or PHYS 008 ) and (PHYS 019 or PHYS 009 ). Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 105: Analytic Mechanics Core [4 units] Rigorous, mathematical foundation in classical mechanics. Topics include Newtonian mechanics; motion of particles in one, two and three dimensions; central force motion; moving coordinate systems; mechanics of continuous media; oscillations; normal modes; Lagrange’s equations; and Hamiltonian methods. Prerequisite: (PHYS 008 or PHYS 018 ) and MATH 022 and MATH 023 , which may be taken concurrently, and MATH 024 , which may be taken concurrently. Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 108: Thermal Physics Core [4 units] Aims to give students a deep understanding of the fundamental principles of thermal physics. Topics include probability, ensembles, equilibrium, entropy, laws of thermodynamics, heat engines, magnetism, chemical equilibria and quantum statistics. Prerequisite: PHYS 009 or PHYS 019 . Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 110: Electrodynamics Core [4 units] Intermediate Electrodynamics. Topics covered include vector calculus including divergence, curl and vector field theorems; Electrostatics including field, potential, work and energy; Laplace’s equation including solutions in different geometries, separating variables, method of images and multiple expansions; Electrostatics in media including polarization and dielectrics (linear/nonlinear); Magnetostatics including the Biot-Savart Law, Ampere’s Law and vector potentials; Magnetic fields in matter including magnetization, linear and non-linear media; and Electrodynamics including EMF, induction and Maxwell’s equations as well as conservation of charge, energy, and momentum in EM fields. Prerequisite: PHYS 009 and MATH 023 . Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 111: Electromagnetic Radiation Minicourse [2 units] This half-semester minicourse covers plane electromagnetic waves including polarization, reflection, refraction and dispersion. Electromagnetic waves in wave guides and cavities also are covered. Additional topics include radiation, both dipole and multiple as well as scattering and diffraction. Prerequisite: PHYS 110 and PHYS 122 , which may be taken concurrently. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 112: Statistical Mechanics [4 units] Covers the fundamental concepts of statistical mechanics, which form the microscopic basis for thermodynamics. Topics include applications to macroscopic systems, condensed states, phase transformations, quantum distributions, elementary kinetic theory of transport processes, and fluctuation phenomena. Prerequisite: PHYS 108 . Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 116: Mathematical Methods [4 units] Covers essential mathematical methods for physicists, with an emphasis on Linear Algebra, Partial Differential Equation, and Fourier Transform. The subjects covered in this course are the standard tools for quantum mechanics, classical mechanics, and electrodynamics. This course satisfies the Physics Programmatic Learning Outcomes #2: Mathematical Expertise. Prerequisite: MATH 023 and MATH 024 and PHYS 009 . Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 120: Physics of Materials [4 units] Electrical, optical, and magnetic properties of solids. Free electron model, introduction to band theory. Crystal structures and lattice vibrations. Mechanisms and characterization of electrical conductivity, optical absorption, magnetic behavior, dielectric properties, and p-n junctions. Prerequisite: PHYS 009 and CHEM 112 . Laboratory included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 122: Waves Minicourse [2 units] This half-semester minicourse covers wave phenomena and associated mathematical methods in Physics. Topics include: coupled oscillations and normal modes, polarization, Fourier analysis, superposition, interference, and diffraction. Prerequisite: PHYS 009 and MATH 024 . Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 124: Atomic Structure Minicourse [2 units] This half-semester minicourse develops the quantum theory of atomic structure, focusing on the hydrogen atom. It builds on PHYS 137 and gives students a chance to see quantum mechanics “in action”. Material covered includes: angular momentum and spin, spherical harmonics, hydrogen eigenstates, spin-orbit coupling, radiative transitions, and the Stark effect. Prerequisite: PHYS 137 . Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 126: Special Relativity Minicourse [2 units] This half-semester minicourse introduces the exciting and thought-provoking physics of special relativity. Topics include hallmark experiments; Lorentz transformations; time dilation and length contraction; relativistic optics; tensor techniques; mass, energy, and momentum; relativistic mechanics; and relativistic electricity and magnetism. Prerequisite: PHYS 009 . PHYS 110 recommended. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 137: Quantum Mechanics Core [4 units] Covers the fundamentals of quantum mechanics, which forms the foundation of our modern understanding of matter at the atomic and molecular level. Topics include the Schroedinger equation, Hilbert spaces, the operator formalism, the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle, tunneling, pertubation and WKB theory, fermions, and bosons. Prerequisite: PHYS 010 and MATH 023 and MATH 024 . Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 141: Condensed Matter Physics [4 units] An introduction to the physics of materials designed for upper level undergraduate students in physics or chemistry. The course will cover traditional solid state physics and include topics in soft matter. This class will examine the relationship between microscopic structure and bulk properties in different materials. Prerequisite: (PHYS 137 or CHEM 112 ) and (PHYS 112 or CHEM 113 ). Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 144: Modern Atomic Physics [4 units] The description and calculation of the properties of atomic energy levels based on the central field approximation. Modern experimental methods in atomic physics and some of the important physics obtained from them. Examples include magnetic resonance, lasers and masers, ion and neutral atom traps, optical pumping and beam foil spectroscopy. Prerequisite: PHYS 124 . Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 148: Modern Optics [4 units] We will discuss light from the electromagnetic and geometrical perspectives. Students will learn about reflection and refraction, revisit and then expand upon geometrical optics, gain a deeper understanding of interference, and learn about polarization. Prerequisite: PHYS 009 and MATH 023 and MATH 024 . Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 150: Energy Sources [3 units] Fossil energy resources, nuclear energy, solar energy, and other renewable energy sources (wind, hydro, geothermal). Prerequisite: (PHYS 008 or MATH 022 ) and PHYS 009 . View course scheduling information
	PHYS 151: Topics in Solar Energy Physics [3 units] The physics of solar energy production and utilization. Specific topics may be emphasized according to instructor, including: the solar energy resource, modeling and simulation, thermal and photovoltaic collectors, solar energy systems, nonimaging optics, and special applications (solar lasers, material processing, etc.) Prerequisite: MATH 022 and PHYS 009 . View course scheduling information
	PHYS 159: Particle Physics [4 units] Tools of particle and nuclear physics. Properties, classification, and interactions of particles including the quark-gluon constituents of hadrons. High-energy phenomena analyzed by quantum mechanical methods. Quantum number determination of resonances, hardon structure functions, introductory electroweak theory with dirac matrices, Standard Model (overview), grand unified theories. Prerequisite: PHYS 137 . Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 160: Modern Physics Lab [4 units] Provides a rigorous foundation in physics laboratory techniques, with an emphasis on hands-on laboratory training. The nature of the experiments available to students cover a range of modern topics, from nonlinear dynamics and chaos through nonlinear optics and spectroscopy. Emphasis is placed on error estimation, data analysis, and interpretation. Prerequisite: PHYS 010 or consent of instructor. Laboratory included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 161: Astrophysics and Cosmology [3 units] Elements of general relativity. Physics of pulsars, cosmic rays, black holes. The cosmological distance scale, elementary cosmological models, properties of galaxies and quasars. The mass density and age of the universe. Evidence for dark matter and concepts of the early universe and of galaxy formation. Reflections on astrophysics as a probe of the extrema of physics. Prerequisite: MATH 022 and PHYS 009 . View course scheduling information
	PHYS 192: Special Topics in Physics [1-4 units] Treatment of a special topic or theme in Physics. Prerequisite: PHYS 009 or PHYS 019 or consent of instructor. Course may be repeated for credit. Laboratory included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 195: Upper Division Undergraduate Research [1-5 units] Supervised research. Permission of instructor required. Course may be repeated for credit. Laboratory included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 196: Undergraduate Thesis [2 units] This is the final capstone component for the undergraduate thesis in Physics. Students will complete their faculty-supervised thesis research, write up and submit their theses, and give a final oral presentation on their thesis work. Prerequisite: Junior standing. Physics majors only. Permission of instructor required. Normal Letter Grade only. Laboratory included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 198: Upper Division Directed Group Study [1-5 units] Permission of instructor required. Pass/Fail only. Course may be repeated for credit. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 199: Upper Division Individual Study [1-5 units] Permission of instructor required. Pass/Fail only. Course may be repeated for credit. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 204: Biophysics [4 units] Aims to give students an understanding of relevant physical principles for biological systems, introduce them to experimental and theoretical techniques of biophysics and to communicate the excitement of cutting-edge biophysics research. Topics include diffusion, fluids, entropic force, motor proteins, enzymes, nerve impulses, networks and evolution. Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 205: Classical Mechanics [4 units] Topics in classical mechanics, including Lagrangian and Hamiltoninan formulations, Conservation Laws and Symmetry and the relationship, Calculus of variations and variational principle, Euler angles and rigid body dynamics, Oscillations and normal modes. Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 210: Electrodynamics and Optics I [4 units] Introduction to electrodynamics. Electrostatics including Poisson and Laplace Equations, Green’s Theorem and different Boundary Value Problems, Polarizibility, Susceptibility and dielectric media. Magnetostatics, Maxwell’s equations, Plane Electromagnetic Waves, Polarization of light, Electromagnetic radiation in different media. Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 211: Electrodynamics and Optics II [4 units] Continuation of electrodynamics. Wave guides and resonant cavities, Multipole radiation, Relativistic charged particles in electromagnetic fields, Collisions between charged particles and radiation from moving charges with relativistic corrections, introductory magnetohydrodynamics. Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 212: Statistical Mechanics [4 units] Topics include: General principles of statistical mechanics including microcanonical, macrocanonical and grand canonical ensembles, fluctuations and equilibrium. Thermodynamics including Legendre transforms and Maxwell relations, fluctuations and stability and Landau theory. Quantum statistical mechanics including Bose-Einstein and Fermi-Dirac statistics. Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 237: Quantum Mechanics I [4 units] Introductory Quantum Mechanics starting with simple Quantum two-state systems and one-dimensional problems, Uncertainty relations, Solution of Schrodinger’s equation for important two and three dimensional physical situations, Angular momentum, identical particles and spin statistics. Hydrogen and multi-electron atoms. Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 238: Quantum Mechanics II [4 units] Perturbation methods, both stationary and time-dependent, Scattering, interaction with electromagnetic fields, Stark effect, Measurement theory and decoherence, Quantum Hall effect. Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 241: Condensed Matter Physics [4 units] An introduction to the physics of materials designed for graduate students in physics or chemistry. The course will cover traditional sold state physics and include topics in soft matter. This class will examine the relationship between microscope structure and bulk properties in different properties. Prerequisite: Students should have taken classes in electrodynamics, thermal physics and introductory quantum mechanics. Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 248: Quantum Optics [3 Units] Covers the quantum nature of light, atom-light interaction and experimental quantum optics. It will provide a basis for research in the field of quantum optics. Fundamental concepts and techniques will be linked to modern experimental research. Normal Letter Grade only. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 249: Introduction to Quantum Field Theory [4 units] Introduces quantum field theory with a special emphasis on quantum electrodynamics (QED). Topics include canonical quantization of scalar fields, electromagnetic fields, perturbation theory and renormalization methods among others. Prerequisite: PHYS 238 . Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 270: Academic Writing in Graduate Studies [2 units] Designed to increase the writing proficiency of graduate students, with a focus on strategies for reading critically, organizing and developing thoughts, choosing appropriate vocabulary, and generating and revising writing in a given scientific field. Topics address scientific disciplines. Projects may include writing abstracts, research reports, literature reviews, posters, and grant proposals. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 290: Current Topics in Physics and Chemistry [3 units] Exploration of current research directions, problems, and techniques in molecular and materials chemistry, physics and engineering. Course format emphasizes student-led presentation, analysis, and discussion of reading assignments from the current and recent scientific literature. Topics determined by the instructor and changes each semester. Course may be repeated for credit. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 291: Physics and Chemistry Seminar [1 units] Graduate seminar on current research in molecular and materials chemistry, physics, and engineering. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. Course may be repeated for credit. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 292: Special Topics in Physics [1-4 units] Treatment of a special topic or theme in Physics at the graduate level. Course may be repeated for credit. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 293: Physics Colloquium [1 units] This is a colloquium series with talks on a wide range of research topics in Physics. Speakers for the colloquia are primarily invited researchers from other Institutions. Some of the seminars additionally showcase the research performed by UC Merced Physics faculty, post doctoral researchers and graduate students. This is a forum to introduce the undergraduate and graduate students to cutting edge research in Physics conducted on-site and elsewhere, and to give them an opportunity to meet researchers and faculty from other Universities/Research Institutions. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. Course may be repeated for credit. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 295: Graduate Research [1-15 units] Supervised research. Permission of instructor required. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. Course may be repeated for credit. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 298: Directed Group Study [1-12 units] Group project under faculty supervision. Permission of instructor required. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. Course may be repeated for credit. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 299: Directed Independent Study [1-12 units] Independent project under faculty supervision. Permission of instructor required. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. Course may be repeated for credit. View course scheduling information
Political Science
	POLI 001: Introduction to American Politics [4 units] A general introduction to political institutions and political behavior in the United States. Specific topics include the U.S. Constitution, Congress, the presidency, the federal judiciary, political parties, interest groups, mass public opinion, elections, and voting behavior. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	POLI 002: Controversies in American Politics [4 units] Examination of select problems in contemporary American politics. Possible subjects include campaign finance, culture wars and party polarization, barriers to third party success, and media coverage of politics. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	POLI 003: Introduction to Comparative Politics [4 units] Introduction to the cross-national study of political institutions and behavior. Formal and informal aspects of politics in selected countries are covered, as are comparative research methods. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	POLI 005: Introduction to International Relations [4 units] Introduction to the study of the politics of conflict and war, diplomacy, international cooperation, and international institutions. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	POLI 006: Global Issues [4 units] Examination of select problems in international relations and foreign policy. Possible topics include terrorism, proliferation of nuclear weapons, and conflict in the Middle East. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	POLI 009: Community Mobilization and Politics [4 units] Examination of political and social mobilization at the local level, including strategies for organization and advocacy. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	POLI 010: Understanding Political Controversies [4 units] Overview of the application of social scientific methods to the study of politics. Covers research design, hypothesis testing, measurement, and a variety of methodological approaches (e.g. experiments, descriptive and inferential statistics, qualitative analysis) to answering political questions. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	POLI 090X: Freshman Seminar [1 units] Examination of a topic in political science. Course may be repeated 1 time for credit. View course scheduling information
	POLI 092: Internship in Political Science [1-4 units] Provides oversight and structure for a student’s internship in a field of political science in community organizations, professional research projects, etc. connected to the study of political science. Requires students to write an original research paper or relevant product that demonstrates how the internship advanced their knowledge of political science. Permission of instructor required. Pass/Fail only. Course may be repeated 2 times for credit. View course scheduling information
	POLI 095: Lower Division Undergraduate Research [1-5 units] Supervised research. Permission of instructor required. Course may be repeated for credit. View course scheduling information
	POLI 098: Lower Division Directed Group Study [1-5 units] Permission of instructor required. Pass/Fail only. Course may be repeated for credit. View course scheduling information
	POLI 099: Lower Division Individual Study [1-5 units] Permission of instructor required. Pass/Fail only. Course may be repeated for credit. View course scheduling information
	POLI 100: Congressional Politics [4 units] Elections and representation, legislative organization and process, legislative parties and leadership, lobbying, legislative outcomes, and the determinants of these outcomes in the U.S. Congress. Prerequisite: POLI 001 and (POLI 010 or ECON 010 ). Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	POLI 101: The Presidency [4 units] Powers, constraints, and behavior of the U.S. president and executive branch. Includes specific topics such as legislative-executive interactions, presidential control of the bureaucracy, nomination campaigns and general elections, and public opinion and the presidency. Prerequisite: POLI 001 and (POLI 010 or ECON 010 ) View course scheduling information
	POLI 102: Judicial Politics [4 units] Structure, function, and politics of the U.S. court system, with a particular focus on the selection of judges, judicial decision making, external political influences on the judiciary, and the impact of court decisions. Prerequisite: POLI 001 and (POLI 010 or ECON 010 ) View course scheduling information
	POLI 105: Interest Groups and Political Parties [4 units] Formation, strategies, and effectiveness of interest groups and political parties in the U.S. Prerequisite: POLI 001 and (POLI 010 or ECON 010 ) View course scheduling information
	POLI 106: Urban Politics [4 units] Examines urban political development and policy processes in the United States. It will trace the historical development of local government, analyze urban coalitions and the distributions of power, and tackle the relationship between politics and policy making in the areas of growth, education, cultural issues, and welfare. Prerequisite: POLI 001 . Normal Letter Grade only. View course scheduling information
	POLI 107: State Politics [4 units] The structure and performance of state governments, including California state politics. Prerequisite: POLI 001 and (POLI 010 or ECON 010 ) View course scheduling information
	POLI 108: Direct Democracy [4 units] The politics of the initiative, referendum, and recall in the American states. Specific topics may include the history and origins of direct democracy, voter support for ballot measures, the role of interest groups, the effect of initiatives and referenda on candidate elections and civic engagement, and policy implications. Prerequisite: POLI 001 and (POLI 010 or ECON 010 ) View course scheduling information
	POLI 110: Governmental Power and the Constitution [4 units] Introduces students to the manner in which Supreme Court decisions shape our political system by delineating the sources and limits of governmental power. The powers of the three branches of the federal government are covered, as is the relationship between the federal government and the states. Normal Letter Grade only. View course scheduling information
	POLI 111: Liberty, Equality and the Constitution [4 units] Examines the constitutional politics of landmark U.S. Supreme Court cases involving civil liberties and civil rights. Specific topics may include First Amendment freedoms, privacy, the rights of criminal suspects, and discrimination based on race, gender, and sexual orientation. Prerequisite: Junior standing and POLI 001 or consent of instructor. View course scheduling information
	POLI 120: Voting Behavior, Campaigns, and Elections [4 units] Voting behavior, voter turnout, campaign strategies, and election outcomes. Prerequisite: POLI 001 and (POLI 010 or ECON 010 ) View course scheduling information
	POLI 123: Political Psychology [4 units] Provides an introduction to the field of political psychology. Political psychologists have applied insights from psychology to a host of questions relating to political behavior. In this course we sample from across this broad range of topics in order to discover how people think and feel about politics. Prerequisite: POLI 001 . Normal Letter Grade only. View course scheduling information
	POLI 125: Public Opinion [4 units] An examination of the nature and origins of public opinion in the United States and the role of public opinion in the policy process. Prerequisite: POLI 001 and (POLI 010 or ECON 010 ) View course scheduling information
	POLI 127: Race, Gender, and Politics [4 units] Contemporary and historical identity politics in the U.S., with a focus on the importance of race and gender in political representation, attitude formation, and civil rights. Prerequisite: POLI 001 and (POLI 010 or ECON 010 ) View course scheduling information

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Course Descriptions

PHIL 103: Philosophy of Mind

PHIL 104: Ethical Theory

PHIL 105: Philosophy of Language

PHIL 107: Philosophy of Religion

PHIL 108: Political Philosophy

PHIL 110: Philosophy of Cognitive Science

PHIL 111: Philosophy of Neuroscience

PHIL 130: Ancient Philosophy

PHIL 134: Modern Philosophy

PHIL 150: Topics in Phenomenology

PHIL 160: Mathematical Logic

PHIL 170: Philosophy, Politics and Economics

PHIL 171: Free Will in Philosophy and Cognitive Science

PHIL 190: Advanced Seminar in Philosophy

PHIL 192: Internship in Philosophy

PHIL 195: Upper Division Undergraduate Research

PHIL 198: Upper Division Directed Group Study

PHIL 199: Upper Division Individual Study

PHYS 005: Energy and the Environment

PHYS 006: The Cosmos, Science and You

PHYS 008: Introductory Physics I for Physical Sciences

PHYS 008H: Honors Introductory Physics I for Physical Sciences

PHYS 009: Introductory Physics II for Physical Sciences

PHYS 009H: Honors Introductory Physics II for Physical Sciences

PHYS 010: Introductory Physics III

PHYS 012: Light, Color, and Vision

PHYS 018: Introductory Physics I for Biological Sciences

PHYS 019: Introductory Physics II for Biological Sciences

PHYS 090X: Freshman Seminar

PHYS 095: Lower Division Undergraduate Research

PHYS 098: Lower Division Directed Group Study

PHYS 099: Lower Division Individual Study

PHYS 104: Biophysics

PHYS 105: Analytic Mechanics Core

PHYS 108: Thermal Physics Core

PHYS 110: Electrodynamics Core

PHYS 111: Electromagnetic Radiation Minicourse

PHYS 112: Statistical Mechanics

PHYS 116: Mathematical Methods

PHYS 120: Physics of Materials

PHYS 122: Waves Minicourse

PHYS 124: Atomic Structure Minicourse

PHYS 126: Special Relativity Minicourse

PHYS 137: Quantum Mechanics Core

PHYS 141: Condensed Matter Physics

PHYS 144: Modern Atomic Physics

PHYS 148: Modern Optics

PHYS 150: Energy Sources

PHYS 151: Topics in Solar Energy Physics

PHYS 159: Particle Physics

PHYS 160: Modern Physics Lab

PHYS 161: Astrophysics and Cosmology

PHYS 192: Special Topics in Physics

PHYS 195: Upper Division Undergraduate Research

PHYS 196: Undergraduate Thesis

PHYS 198: Upper Division Directed Group Study

PHYS 199: Upper Division Individual Study

PHYS 204: Biophysics

PHYS 205: Classical Mechanics

PHYS 210: Electrodynamics and Optics I

PHYS 211: Electrodynamics and Optics II

PHYS 212: Statistical Mechanics

PHYS 237: Quantum Mechanics I

PHYS 238: Quantum Mechanics II

PHYS 241: Condensed Matter Physics

PHYS 248: Quantum Optics

PHYS 249: Introduction to Quantum Field Theory

PHYS 270: Academic Writing in Graduate Studies

PHYS 290: Current Topics in Physics and Chemistry

PHYS 291: Physics and Chemistry Seminar

PHYS 292: Special Topics in Physics

PHYS 293: Physics Colloquium

PHYS 295: Graduate Research

PHYS 298: Directed Group Study

PHYS 299: Directed Independent Study