Independent Study Courses

Students often have interest in physics topics which are not covered by regularly scheduled courses listed in the catalog. For these students the physics department offers the possibility of independent study courses tailored to the needs and interests of the individual student.

Some of the independent study courses that have been offered include:

Title	Description	Faculty
Computer Interfacing		Dr. Grumbine
Design of Small Rockets	Course will cover various issues related to the design and flight of small rockets, including but not limited to aerodynamics, stability, payloads, recovery systems, multi-staging, and propellant types.	Dr. Grumbine
Design of Large Rockets	Applies aerodynamic and stability principles covered in ``Design of Small Rockets'' to rockets of larger size and greater motor thrust. Specific attention is given to structural and recovery concerns that arise as the size of the rocket is increased.	Dr. Grumbine
Thermodynamics	A study of the basic concepts of temperature, heat, and heat transfer. Topics will include work, energy and entropy as well as the laws of thermodynamics, the Carnot cycle, and heat engines.	Dr. Smetanka
Electromagnetic Fields	An intermediate course in electromagnetic field theory. Extensive use is made of vector calculus. The differential form of Maxwells equations are developed and investigated.	Dr. Grumbine
Data Acquisition	The student investigates sensor data acquisition/analysis and control of output devices such as DC and stepper motors with the Microchip PIC series microcontrollers such as the PIC 16F818. In particular, applications in motion control and robotics are stressed.	Dr. Grumbine