Sep 27, 2024

2016-2017 Catalog

2016-2017 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. 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.

For all undergraduate 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.

For all graduate courses a “B” or better grade is required for a course to be used as a prerequisite for another course. If a course was taken for a “S/U” grade then a “S” grade is required.

FOREIGN LANGUAGES

No credit is allowed for completing a less advanced course after successful completion (C-or better) of a more advanced course in the foreign languages. This applies only to lower division foreign language courses, not upper division courses.

GRADING OPTIONS

Unless otherwise stated in the course description, each course is letter graded with a P/NP or S/U option (unless required for your major or graduate program). The policy regarding Grading Options , can be found in an alternate section of the catalog.

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

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Mechanical Engineering
	ME 260: Non-Imaging Optics [4 units] Fundamentals and methodologies of non-imaging optics to design energy systems. The first part covers material fundamental to the understanding of imaging optics. This will lead into the non-imaging optical systems and the physics that made it possible to design solar energy concentrators. The second half of the course covers material dedicated to the designs of non-imaging optical systems applied to the solar energy field and optimization and analysis of these systems. Permission of instructor required. Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion included. Conjoined with PHYS 151 . View course scheduling information
	ME 261: Energy Storage [3 units] Overview on energy storage schemes/devices with major focus on electrochemical storages including ionic batteries, fuel cells and super-capacitors. The course will cover operating principles, physics behind them, characterization methods and advantages/issues of each scheme. Exposure to thermodynamics is recommended but not mandatory. Normal Letter Grade only. Course may be repeated 1 time for credit. View course scheduling information
	ME 262: Fuel Cell Fundamentals, Modeling, and Diagnostic [3 units] Introduces knowledge of electrochemistry and fuel cell operation followed by modeling and diagnostic of a fuel cell. Topics include transport, electrochemical reaction, impedance, cyclic voltammetry, etc. Prerequisite: Knowledge of Chemistry, Fluid Mechanics, and Thermodynamics strongly recommended. Normal Letter Grade only. View course scheduling information
	ME 280: Fractional Order Mechanics [4 units] Preparation with fractional calculus (differentiation or integration of non-integer order) and fractional dynamic modeling of complex mechanical systems such as porous medias, particulate systems, soft matters etc. that have inherent nature of memory, heredity, or long-range dependence (LRD), or long range interactions at or across various scales. Permission of instructor required. Normal Letter Grade only. Laboratory included. View course scheduling information
	ME 285: Seminar: Nanomaterials for Space Exploration [1 unit] Designed for students in materials engineering, physics, and chemistry. Intended to expose students to various nanomaterial-based devices, foster students’ critical thinking in postulating feasible approaches, and develop students’ communication and presentation skills. Normal Letter Grade only. Cross-Listed with BEST 285 , CHEM 285 , PHYS 285 . View course scheduling information
	ME 291: Mechanical Engineering Seminar Series [1 unit] Seminar series where external speakers deliver one-hour talks on current research and development in various mechanical engineering fields relevant to the graduate program, including but not limited to fluids, structures, dynamics and control and energy. Open only to major(s): Mech Eng and Appl Mechanics, Mechanical Engineering. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	ME 295: Graduate Research [1-12 units] Supervised research Permission of instructor required. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. Course may be repeated for credit. View course scheduling information
	ME 298: Directed Group Study [1-6 units] Group project under faculty supervision Permission of instructor required. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. Course may be repeated for credit. View course scheduling information
	ME 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
Nat Sciences Undergrad Studies
	Syllabus NSUS 010: Success in NatSci Preparatory [2 units] Designed to empower students to achieve effective levels of performance within academic, personal, and professional endeavors through the use of proven educational and mental strategies, specifically within Natural Science majors. Open only to major(s): Applied Mathematical Sciences, Biological Sciences, Earth Systems Science, Physics, Undeclared Natural Sciences, Chemical Sciences. Course may be repeated 1 time for credit. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	Syllabus NSUS 020: Success in NatSci Excellence [2 units] Training in the skills necessary to succeed at UC Merced and overview of opportunities in research, education, and careers in science. Open only to major(s): Applied Mathematical Sciences, Biological Sciences, Earth Systems Science, Undeclared Natural Sciences, Physics, Chemical Sciences. Course may be repeated 1 time for credit. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
Natural Sciences Education
	Syllabus NSED 023: Introduction to Teaching Science in Elementary School [1 unit] Introduction to teaching science in elementary school. Emphasis on inquiry-based learning practices and effective research-based teaching strategies. Activities include seminars, discussions, and experimentation using inquiry-based learning modules. Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion, Laboratory included. Cross-Listed with NSED 033 . View course scheduling information
	Syllabus NSED 024: Fieldwork: Introduction to Teaching Science in Elementary School [1 unit] Fieldwork component for the NSED 023 course. Classroom observations and teaching practicum at an elementary school under the guidance of a mentor teacher. Emphasis on inquiry-based learning practices and effective research-based teaching strategies. Corequisite: NSED 023 . Normal Letter Grade only. Cross-Listed with NSED 034 . View course scheduling information
	Syllabus NSED 033: Introduction to Teaching Mathematics in Elementary School [1 unit] Introduction to teaching mathematics in elementary school. Emphasis on inquiry-based learning practices and effective research-based teaching strategies. Activities include seminars, discussions, and experimentation using inquiry-based learning modules. Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion, Laboratory included. Cross-Listed with NSED 023 . View course scheduling information
	Syllabus NSED 034: Fieldwork: Introduction to Teaching Mathematics in Elementary School [1 unit] Fieldwork component for the NSED 033 course. Classroom observations and teaching practicum at an elementary school under the guidance of a mentor teacher. Emphasis on inquiry-based learning practices and effective research-based teaching strategies. Corequisite: NSED 033 . Normal Letter Grade only. Cross-Listed with NSED 024 . View course scheduling information
	NSED 043: Introduction to Teaching Science in Middle School [1 unit] Introduction to teaching science in middle school. Emphasis on inquiry-based learning practices and effective research-based teaching strategies. Activities include seminars, discussions, and experimentation using inquiry-based learning modules. Corequisite: NSED 044 . Normal Letter Grade only. Cross-Listed with NSED 053 . View course scheduling information
	NSED 044: Fieldwork: Introduction to Teaching Science in Middle School [1 unit] Fieldwork component for the NSED 043 course. Classroom observations and teaching practicum at a middle school under the guidance of a mentor teacher. Emphasis on inquiry-based learning practices and effective research-based teaching strategies. Corequisite: NSED 043 . Normal Letter Grade only. Cross-Listed with NSED 054 . View course scheduling information
	NSED 053: Introduction to Teaching Mathematics in Middle School [1 unit] Introduction to teaching mathematics in middle school. Emphasis on inquiry-based learning practices and effective research-based teaching strategies. Activities include seminars, discussions, and experimentation using inquiry-based learning modules. Corequisite: NSED 054 . Normal Letter Grade only. Cross-Listed with NSED 043 . View course scheduling information
	NSED 054: Fieldwork: Introduction to Teaching Mathematics in Middle School [1 unit] Fieldwork component for the NSED 053 course. Classroom observations and teaching practicum at a middle school under the guidance of a mentor teacher. Emphasis on inquiry-based learning practices and effective research-based teaching strategies. Corequisite: NSED 053 . Normal Letter Grade only. Cross-Listed with NSED 044 . View course scheduling information
	Syllabus NSED 063: Introduction to Teaching Science in High School [1 unit] Introduction to teaching science in high school. Emphasis on inquiry-based learning practices and effective research-based teaching strategies. Activities include seminars, discussions, and experimentation using inquiry-based learning modules. Corequisite: NSED 064 . Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion, Laboratory included. Cross-Listed with NSED 073 . View course scheduling information
	Syllabus NSED 064: Fieldwork: Introduction to Teaching Science in High School [1 unit] Fieldwork component for the NSED 63 course. Classroom observations and teaching practicum at a high school under the guidance of a mentor teacher. Emphasis on inquiry-based learning practices and effective research-based teaching strategies. Corequisite: NSED 063 . Normal Letter Grade only. Cross-Listed with NSED 074 . View course scheduling information
	Syllabus NSED 073: Introduction to Teaching Mathematics in High School [1 unit] Introduction to teaching mathematics in High school. Emphasis on inquiry-based learning practices and effective research-based teaching strategies. Activities include seminars, discussions, and experimentation using inquiry-based learning modules. Corequisite: NSED 074 . Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion, Laboratory included. Cross-Listed with NSED 063 . View course scheduling information
	Syllabus NSED 074: Fieldwork: Introduction to Teaching Mathematics in High School [1 unit] Fieldwork component for the NSED 073 course. Classroom observations and teaching practicum at a high school under the guidance of a mentor teacher. Emphasis on inquiry-based learning practices and effective research-based teaching strategies. Corequisite: NSED 073 . Normal Letter Grade only. Cross-Listed with NSED 064 . View course scheduling information
	NSED 090X: Introduction to Teaching Science/Math [1 unit] Freshman seminar. Pass/Fail only. View course scheduling information
	NSED 095: Lower Division Undergraduate Research [1-5 units] Supervised research. Permission of instructor required. Course may be repeated for credit. Laboratory included. View course scheduling information
	NSED 098: Lower Division Directed Group Study [1-5 units] Open only to major(s): Applied Mathematical Sciences, Earth Systems Science, Biological Sciences, Physics, Chemical Sciences. Permission of instructor required. Course may be repeated for credit. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	NSED 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
	Syllabus NSED 100: Project Based Instruction: Assessment and Management for Beginning Teachers [4 units] The course prepares students for careers in K-12 education. Students gain knowledge of classroom management strategies and learn how to organize a classroom, to plan units and to develop lesson plans. A special focus will be the techniques necessary to effectively teach in multicultural and multilingual schools. Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion, Laboratory included. View course scheduling information
	Syllabus NSED 120: Classroom Interactions in Science and Mathematics: A Focus on Equity in Urban and Rural Schools [4 units] Focusing on American education, we examine historical and current issues of diversity, noting controversial initiatives such as mainstreaming, bilingual education, multiculturalism, and gender-neutral or gender-segregated instruction. Students also consider cultural and linguistic challenges of teaching English language learners, including those who are generation 1.5 students. Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	Syllabus NSED 130: Technology in Education [3 units] Designed for students interested in careers in education, particularly at a K-12 level. Teaches students to use digital learning tools and to integrate technology in the classroom in an effective way, with a particular focus on using technology to support state standards in education. Normal Letter Grade only. View course scheduling information
	NSED 174: Contemporary Issues in Teaching with Fieldwork [1 unit] Combines study and observation of a K-12 classroom setting and reflection the aspects of teaching which have current importance in the field of education. The course includes fieldwork component where students will be working in classrooms of the local K-12 schools. Prerequisite: Any two of the following courses: NSED 024 , NSED 034 , NSED 044 , NSED 054 , NSED 064 , NSED 074 . Normal Letter Grade only. Course may be repeated 3 times for credit. View course scheduling information
	NSED 184: Apprentice Teaching Fieldwork [3-9 units] Final part of the NSEC minor program which allows students to receive a single subject teaching credential upon graduation. Prerequisite: NSED 100 and NSED 120 . Corequisite with UGIS 303 (UC Berkeley course). Normal Letter Grade only. View course scheduling information
Philosophy
	PHIL 001: Introduction to Philosophy [4 units] An introduction to the main areas of philosophy using classic and contemporary sources. Consideration of central and enduring problems in philosophy, such as skepticism about the external world, the mind-body problem and the nature of morality. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHIL 002: Introduction to Ethics [4 units] Consideration of basic questions and themes in moral philosophy through the study of historical and contemporary philosophical texts. Questions may include: Are moral rules relative? What is the best sort of human life? What sorts of acts are right? Should wealth be shared with those less fortunate? Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHIL 003: Applied Ethics [4 units] Consideration of topics in applied ethics, which may include euthanasia, abortion, economic justice, world hunger, the treatment of animals, and punishment. This course will also cover some more general approaches to ethical thinking, such as theories based on rights and entitlements. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHIL 005: Introduction to Logic [4 units] Introduction to the techniques of deductive reasoning. Topics include the translation between English and symbolic language, rules of inference, deductive vs. inductive reasoning, validity and soundness, truth tables, and proof techniques in statement and predicate logic. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHIL 009: Phenomenology and Existentialism [4 units] Consideration of central themes in phenomenology and existentialism and their philosophical origins in nineteenth century philosophy. Readings from such figures as Nietzsche, Husserl, Sartre, Freud, Merleau-Ponty, and Heidegger. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHIL 090X: Freshman Seminar [1 unit] Examination of a topic in philosophy. Course may be repeated for credit. View course scheduling information
	PHIL 092: 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. Permission of instructor required. Pass/Fail only. Course may be repeated 2 times for credit. View course scheduling information
	PHIL 095: Lower Division Undergraduate Research [1-5 units] Supervised research. Permission of instructor required. Course may be repeated for credit. View course scheduling information
	PHIL 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
	PHIL 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
	PHIL 101: Metaphysics [4 units] Inquiry into the fundamental nature of reality: the categories of being; the differences between abstract entities, concrete entities, substances, properties, and processes; what constitutes identity of objects through time; necessity and possibility; free will and determinism; space, time, and causation. Prerequisite: PHIL 005 . View course scheduling information
	PHIL 102: Epistemology [4 units] Consideration of basic questions in the study of knowledge, which concern what we know and how we know things. Topics to be covered may include: certainty, justification, perception, skepticism, and introspection. Prerequisite: Any lower-division PHIL course. View course scheduling information
	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 . 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 . View course scheduling information
	PHIL 105: Philosophy of Language [4 units] Consideration of work by both philosophers and linguists on the nature of language and meaning. Topics include theories of truth and reference, speech acts, metaphor, pictorial representation, and the relation between the social and mental aspects of language. Prerequisite: Any lower-division PHIL course. 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 . 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 109: Philosophy of Law [4 units] Exploration of the nature of law, including the social nature of law, law’s authority and the relationship between law and the common good. Prerequisite: Any lower-division PHIL course. 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 . Cross-Listed with COGS 110 . View course scheduling information
	PHIL 110A: Topics in Philosophy of Cognitive Science [4 units] Special topics in philosophy of cognitive science. Consideration of empirical work in cognitive science in relation to such topics as personal identity, the self, brain injury, emotion, and morality. Prerequisite: COGS 001 or PSY 001 or PHIL 001 or equivalent exam. Course may be repeated 3 times for credit. Cross-Listed with COGS 110A . View course scheduling information
	PHIL 111: Philosophy of Neuroscience [4 units] Considerations of questions at the intersection of philosophy and neuroscience. Specific topics may include the mind-body problem, free will, consciousness, religion, and the nature of the self. Prerequisite: PHIL 001 . 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: Any lower-division PHIL course. View course scheduling information
	PHIL 131: Topics in Ancient Philosophy [4 units] Selected topics in ancient philosophy, for example close readings of texts from Plato, Aristotle, the Presocratics, or Hellenistic philosophers. Prerequisite: Any lower-division PHIL course. Course may be repeated 3 times for credit. 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: Any lower-division PHIL course. View course scheduling information
	PHIL 150: Topics in Phenomenology [4 units] Introductory topics in phenomenology (the study of conscious experience). Historical figures covered may include Husserl, Heidegger, Merleau-Ponty, Sartre, and de Beauvoir. Topics may include phenomenological method, intentionality, perception, cognition, other minds, and intersubjectivity, 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 157: Philosophy of Love and Friendship [4 units] Philosophical exploration of the nature of love and friendship and their relation to morality and the good life. Topics may include the question of whether friends and lovers are essential to happiness, why we love others, and how love and friendship relate to morality. Prerequisite: Any lower-division PHIL course. 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 . Discussion included. Cross-Listed with MATH 171 . View course scheduling information
	PHIL 170: Philosophy, Politics and Economics [4 units] Explores 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 . View course scheduling information
	PHIL 171: Free Will in Philosophy and Cognitive Science [4 units] An exploration of 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 developments in the debate. Prerequisite: Any lower-division PHIL course or COGS 001 . Cross-Listed with COGS 160 . View course scheduling information
	PHIL 172: Experimental Philosophy [4 units] Consideration of how philosophers and cognitive scientists have tried to bring experimental methods to bear on philosophical debates. Topics may include consciousness, free will, and moral psychology. Prerequisite: Any lower-division PHIL course or COGS 001 . Cross-Listed with COGS 161 . View course scheduling information
	PHIL 173: Consciousness in Philosophy and Cognitive Science [4 units] Exploration of the phenomenon of consciousness in both philosophy and cognitive science. By the end of the course, students will be conversant on different forms of consciousness and techniques for studying consciousness. Prerequisite: Any lower-division PHIL course or COGS 001 . Cross-Listed with COGS 177 . View course scheduling information
	PHIL 190: Advanced Seminar in Philosophy [4 units] Intensive treatment of a special topic or problem within philosophy. Open only to standing(s): Junior, Senior. Permission of instructor required. Normal Letter Grade only. Course may be repeated 1 time for credit in different subject area. 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. Open only to standing(s): Junior, Senior. 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
	Syllabus 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, or equivalent exam. 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
	Syllabus PHYS 008H: Honors Introductory Physics I for Physical Sciences [4 units] 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 , which may be taken concurrently, or equivalent exam. 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: (PHYS 008 or PHYS 008H or PHYS 018 or equivalent exam and MATH 021 or equivalent exam) or (MATH 011 with B or better or equivalent exam and PHYS 018 or equivalent exam) and MATH 022 , which may be taken concurrently, or equivalent exam. Course may not be taken for credit after obtaining credit for: PHYS 009H , PHYS 019 . Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion, Laboratory included. View course scheduling information
	Syllabus PHYS 009H: Honors Introductory Physics II for Physical Sciences [4 units] 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 022 , which may be taken concurrently, or equivalent exam) and (MATH 021 with B or better or equivalent exam) and (PHYS 008 with A- or better or PHYS 008H with B or better or equivalent exam). Course may not be taken for credit after obtaining credit for: PHYS 009 , PHYS 019 . Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion, Laboratory included. View course scheduling information
	Syllabus 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 008H or PHYS 018 or equivalent exam) and MATH 024 , which may be taken concurrently, and ( PHYS 009 or PHYS 009H or PHYS 019 , any of 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
	Syllabus 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 011 or MATH 021 , either of which may be taken concurrently, or equivalent exam. 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
	Syllabus 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 or equivalent exam) and (PHYS 008 or PHYS 008H or PHYS 018 or equivalent exam) and (MATH 012 or MATH 022 , either of which may be taken concurrently, or equivalent exam). 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 unit] 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] Provides 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 008 or PHYS 008H or PHYS 018 or equivalent exam) and (PHYS 009 or PHYS 009H or PHYS 019 ). Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion included. Cross-Listed with BIO 104 . Conjoined with PHYS 204 . 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 008H or PHYS 018 or equivalent exam) and (MATH 022 or equivalent exam) 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
	Syllabus 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 or PHYS 009H . Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 109: Soft Matter Physics [3 units] An introduction to the physics of soft materials designed for upper level undergraduate students in physics. In this course we will use a physics based approach to study the structure and assembly of a variety materials including liquid crystals, polymers, colloidal systems and surfactants including biological examples. Prerequisite: PHYS 108 . Normal Letter Grade only. Conjoined with PHYS 209 . View course scheduling information
	Syllabus 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 multipole 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 or PHYS 009H ) and MATH 023 . 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 115: Electrodynamics Core II Waves and Dynamic Electromagnetic Fields [4 units] Waves and advanced electromagnetic fields, including radiation and special relativity. General discussion of waves and vibrations. Review of Maxwell’s equations and discussion on conserved quantities in electromagnetic fields. Electromagnetic waves, potential formulations, radiation from moving charges, and special relativity. Prerequisite: PHYS 110 . Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 116: Mathematical Methods [4 units] 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 or PHYS 009H ). 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 or PHYS 009H ) and CHEM 112 . Laboratory 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 or PHYS 009H or PHYS 019 . PHYS 110 recommended. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	Syllabus PHYS 137: Quantum Mechanics Core [4 units] 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, perturbation and WKB theory, fermions, and bosons. Prerequisite: PHYS 010 and MATH 023 and MATH 024 . Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	PHYS 138: Quantum Mechanics II Core [2 units] Applies quantum mechanics to solve problems in atomic physics. Includes two parts: (1) the study of perturbative techniques, variational principle and adiabatic approximation, all of which widely used in modern physics; (2) the study of the quantum theory of angular momentum. Prerequisite: PHYS 137 . Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion included. View course scheduling information
	Syllabus 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. Conjoined with PHYS 241 . View course scheduling information
	PHYS 144: Modern Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics [4 units] Discusses modern topics in the so-called Atomic, Molecular, and Optical (AMO) Physics. The interaction of atoms with radiation, laser cooling and trapping, Bose-Einstein condensation, atomic interferometry, ion traps, and quantum computing. An advanced physics course that is closely connected to ongoing research. Prerequisite: PHYS 137 . Normal Letter Grade only. Discussion included. Conjoined with PHYS 244 . View course scheduling information
	PHYS 148: Modern Optics [4 units] Discusses 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 or PHYS 009H ) 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 PHYS 008H or MATH 022 or equivalent exam) and (PHYS 009 or PHYS 009H ). 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 or equivalent exam) and (PHYS 009 or PHYS 009H ) Conjoined with ME 260 . 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

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University of California, Merced

Course Descriptions

UNDERGRADUATE COURSES

GRADUATE COURSES

CROSS-LISTED/CONJOINED COURSES

COREQUISITE COURSE

PREREQUISITES

FOREIGN LANGUAGES

GRADING OPTIONS

ME 260: Non-Imaging Optics

ME 261: Energy Storage

ME 262: Fuel Cell Fundamentals, Modeling, and Diagnostic

ME 280: Fractional Order Mechanics

ME 285: Seminar: Nanomaterials for Space Exploration

ME 291: Mechanical Engineering Seminar Series

ME 295: Graduate Research

ME 298: Directed Group Study

ME 299: Directed Independent Study

NSUS 010: Success in NatSci Preparatory

NSUS 020: Success in NatSci Excellence

NSED 023: Introduction to Teaching Science in Elementary School

NSED 024: Fieldwork: Introduction to Teaching Science in Elementary School

NSED 033: Introduction to Teaching Mathematics in Elementary School

NSED 034: Fieldwork: Introduction to Teaching Mathematics in Elementary School

NSED 043: Introduction to Teaching Science in Middle School

NSED 044: Fieldwork: Introduction to Teaching Science in Middle School

NSED 053: Introduction to Teaching Mathematics in Middle School

NSED 054: Fieldwork: Introduction to Teaching Mathematics in Middle School

NSED 063: Introduction to Teaching Science in High School

NSED 064: Fieldwork: Introduction to Teaching Science in High School

NSED 073: Introduction to Teaching Mathematics in High School

NSED 074: Fieldwork: Introduction to Teaching Mathematics in High School

NSED 090X: Introduction to Teaching Science/Math

NSED 095: Lower Division Undergraduate Research

NSED 098: Lower Division Directed Group Study

NSED 099: Lower Division Individual Study

NSED 100: Project Based Instruction: Assessment and Management for Beginning Teachers

NSED 120: Classroom Interactions in Science and Mathematics: A Focus on Equity in Urban and Rural Schools

NSED 130: Technology in Education

NSED 174: Contemporary Issues in Teaching with Fieldwork

NSED 184: Apprentice Teaching Fieldwork

PHIL 001: Introduction to Philosophy

PHIL 002: Introduction to Ethics

PHIL 003: Applied Ethics

PHIL 005: Introduction to Logic

PHIL 009: Phenomenology and Existentialism

PHIL 090X: Freshman Seminar

PHIL 092: Internship in Philosophy

PHIL 095: Lower Division Undergraduate Research

PHIL 098: Lower Division Directed Group Study

PHIL 099: Lower Division Individual Study

PHIL 101: Metaphysics

PHIL 102: Epistemology

PHIL 103: Philosophy of Mind

PHIL 104: Ethical Theory

PHIL 105: Philosophy of Language

PHIL 107: Philosophy of Religion

PHIL 108: Political Philosophy

PHIL 109: Philosophy of Law

PHIL 110: Philosophy of Cognitive Science

PHIL 110A: Topics in Philosophy of Cognitive Science

PHIL 111: Philosophy of Neuroscience

PHIL 130: Ancient Philosophy

PHIL 131: Topics in Ancient Philosophy

PHIL 134: Modern Philosophy

PHIL 150: Topics in Phenomenology

PHIL 157: Philosophy of Love and Friendship

PHIL 160: Mathematical Logic

PHIL 170: Philosophy, Politics and Economics

PHIL 171: Free Will in Philosophy and Cognitive Science

PHIL 172: Experimental Philosophy

PHIL 173: Consciousness 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