|
Physics
(College of Arts & Sciences)
Program Description
A major in physics at Jacksonville University provides students with a
working knowledge of the basic principles that govern physical interactions
involving energy and matter at the macroscopic and microscopic levels.
Equipped with knowledge of physical phenomena, research and laboratory
techniques, and the mathematical/analytical skills needed to apply theories
to solve physics problems, students are prepared for graduate study, entry
level positions in research and development, or teaching careers.
Curriculum Overview
The Physics Department offers two paths, physics or engineering physics,
that lead to the physics degree. Along both paths, the student learns
the fundamental laws of the physical universe, mathematical methods in
physics, and research and laboratory techniques. The engineering physics
option allows students to replace 25-45 percent of the required physics
courses with engineering courses. Most students who choose this option
participate in JU's dual degree engineering program. This program permits
students to earn a B.S. in physics from JU and a B.S. in engineering from
one of seven affiliated engineering schools in a five year period.
Requirements for the major include a core of courses
in classical and modern physics, and a sequence of courses in mathematics.
These courses provide a foundation for more advanced coursework. Student-faculty
interaction is encouraged by small class size - less than 25 students
in introductory courses and less than 15 students in advanced courses.
Specialized courses such as the "report" and "seminar"
courses introduce students to contemporary topics in physics not yet included
in textbooks. An individualized senior research project is required. Physics
majors also must complete the University core, or general education, curriculum
appropriate to the degree they seek.
Each full time faculty member is actively engaged
in one or more research projects that can accommodate undergraduate participation.
Students participating in undergraduate research have presented papers
at national and regional conferences including the National Conference
on Undergraduate Research; Florida Academy of Sciences; Minerals, Metals,
and Materials Society; and Society of Physics Students meetings.
Academic Preparation
A solid preparation in mathematics is expected. High school physics recommended,
but not required.
Facilities & Resources
The Physics Department is housed in the Merritt C. Penticoff Building.
All laboratories are equipped with data acquisition and analysis workstations.
The advanced optics laboratory is particularly well equipped to facilitate
undergraduate research. The observatory sits on top of the Howard Building.
Grants to enhance physics education at JU have been received in the past
six years from the National Science Foundation, the American Association
of Colleges and Universities, the duPont Foundation, and the State of
Florida.
Major instrumentation includes two 10-watt argon lasers;
a tuneable dye laser; a research grade optical table with laser port;
a radiometer/photometer; electro-optic modulation systems; a Meade LX-200
reflecting telescope with a CCD camera; a student X-ray system; a digital
spectrum analyzer; a PC-based multichannel analyzer & NaI detector;
and 12 PC-based data acquisition and analysis workstations.
Internship & Career Opportunities
JU physics majors have participated in summer research experiences at
the Los Alamos Atomic, Molecular and Optical Summer School and NASA. Graduates
have been employed in a variety of physics-related positions by GTE, Harris
Corp., Vistakon, Environmental Geoscience & Engineering and the Duval
County School System. Among the graduate schools attended by physics graduates
are the University of Florida, Johns Hopkins University, North Carolina
State University, Naval Postgraduate School, Georgia Institute of Technology,
Florida State University and University of Dayton.
Sponsored Student Activities
JU has an active chapter of the Society of Physics Students (SPS), a national
professional organization. The JU chapter has been recognized as an outstanding
chapter for seven of the past 10 years. During that time JU students were
chosen to represent Zone 6 (Florida, Georgia, Alabama, and Puerto Rico)
at the national SPS Council Meeting. Chapter activities include trips
to view shuttle launches, serving as host for SPS zone meetings, tours
of research and development companies in the Jacksonville and Orlando
areas, and conducting "star parties" at the JU Observatory.
Students also may participate in chapter activities
of Sigma Pi Sigma, the national physics honor society. Since 1970, the
JU chapter has elected more than 200 members to Sigma Pi Sigma.
Outcomes
Jacksonville University physics graduates have gone on to successful careers
in a variety of areas. Some of their employers include the Exxon Education
Foundation, Naval Surface Warfare Center, GE Aerospace SCSD, Motorola
Inc., Martin Marietta Corp., and Pratt & Whitney.
Faculty – Physics & Engineering
J. Steve Browder (Professor & Chair)
B.S., Rollins College; M.S. & Ph.D., University of Florida.
Areas of Specialization: Optics and Low Temperature Materials (experimental).
Terri Lynn Ellis (Instructor & Physics Lab Coordinator)
B.S., Florida Institute of Technology; M.S., University of Massachusetts.
Area of Specialization: Astronomy.
William A. Mendoza (Assistant Professor)
B.S., Valdosta State University; B.S., M.S., M.S. & Ph.D., Florida
State University.
Areas of Specialization: Magnet materials and superconductors.
Bashir Sayar (Professor & Director of Engineering
Programs)
B.S., Kabul University; M.S. & Ph.D., Georgia Institute of Technology.
Areas of Specialization: Robotics and Materials.
Paul R. Simony (Professor)
B.S., University of Southern Colorado; M.S. & Ph.D., Kansas State
University.
Area of Specialization: Atomic Physics (theory).
Contacts
For additional or specific information, you can write, call or e-mail
us:
DR. J.Steve Browder
Chair Department of Physics
Phone: (904)256-7300, Ext. 7309 Fax: (904)256-7573
E-mail: jbrowde@ju.edu
Office of Admissions
904-256-7000 or 800-225-2027 (toll-free)
E-mail: admissions@ju.edu
|
