Table of Contents
- Academic Calendar 2023-2024 (September 2023)
- I. General Information and Admissions
- 1. Welcome to Mount Allison University
- 2. Glossary of Academic Terms and Calendar of Events
- 3. Admission
- 3.1. Contact Information
- 3.2. Admission to the University
- 3.3. Minimum General Admission Requirements
- 3.4. Additional Admission Requirements
- 3.5. Notes on Entry to First-Year Courses
- 3.6. Requirements for Non-Canadian Education Systems
- 3.7. English Requirements
- 3.8. Mature Students
- 3.9. Admission with Advanced Standing
- 3.10. Transfer Students
- 3.11. Challenge for Credit
- 3.12. Visiting Students
- 3.13. Exchange Students
- 3.14. Special Circumstances
- 3.15. Graduate Studies
- 4. Fees
- 4.1. Fees and Expenses
- 4.1.1. Full-time/Part-time Enrolment - Fall and Winter terms
- 4.1.2. Tuition Fees
- 4.1.3. Overload Fees for Full-Time Students
- 4.1.4. Auditing Fees
- 4.1.5. Mail Service, Fitness Centre, and Technology and Service Fee
- 4.1.6. Student Organization Fees
- 4.1.7. Other Fees
- 4.1.8. Fieldwork and Travel: Expenses and Liability
- 4.1.9. Instructional Supplies Fees
- 4.1.10. Study Abroad and Exchange Fee
- 4.1.11. Residence, Communications and Meal Plan Fees
- 4.2. Deposits for Full-Time Students
- 4.2.1. Registration Deposits for New Students
- 4.2.2. Residence Deposits for New Students
- 4.2.3. Refunds of Residence Deposits for New Students
- 4.2.4. Registration Deposits for Returning Students
- 4.2.5. Residence Deposits and Refunds for Returning Students
- 4.2.6. Registration Deposits for January Admissions (New and Former Students)
- 4.2.7. Residence Deposits for January Admissions (New and Former Students)
- 4.3. Payment of Fees
- 4.3.1. Payments and Charges
- 4.3.2. Fall and Winter Payments by Part-Time Students
- 4.3.3. Fall Payments by Full-time Students
- 4.3.4. Winter Payments by Full-time Students
- 4.3.5. Fall and Winter Payments for Students Participating in Exchange Programs
- 4.3.6. Method of Payment
- 4.3.7. Reducing the Amount of Payments
- 4.4. Late Fees and Interest Charges
- 4.5. Withdrawals and Student Accounts
- 4.1. Fees and Expenses
- 5. Financial Assistance
- 6. Co-Curricular Life
- 6.1. The Mount Allison Students' Union
- 6.2. The Argosy Weekly
- 6.3. CHMA FM
- 6.4. Motyer-Fancy Theatre
- 6.5. Residence Council
- 6.6. The Pond
- 6.7. Student Employment
- 6.8. Accommodation
- 6.9. Department of Athletics and Recreation
- 6.10. Spiritual Care on Campus
- 6.11. Student Life
- 6.12. Student Life Resources
- 6.12.1. Personal Counselling
- 6.12.2. Experiential Learning and Career Development
- 6.12.3. Employment
- 6.12.4. Health Services
- 6.12.5. Student Health Insurance
- 6.12.6. Dietary and Nutritional Concerns
- 6.12.7. Student Wellness
- 6.12.8. Landlord/Tenant Concerns
- 6.12.9. International Students
- 6.12.10. Student Conduct
- 6.13. Services for Students with Disabilities
- 7. General Information
- 8. Personnel
- 9. Lectureships, Trusts and Fellowships; Endowed Chairs; Faculty Awards
- 9.1. Lectureships, Trusts and Fellowships
- 9.2. Endowed Chairs
- 9.2.1. Clement Chandler Avard and Florence Sybil Avard Chair in French Language
- 9.2.2. The Walter B. Cowan Chair in Religious Studies
- 9.2.3. The Edgar and Dorothy Davidson Chair in Canadian Studies
- 9.2.4. Fred C. Manning Chair in Commerce
- 9.2.5. The Hart Almerrin Massey Chair in Philosophy
- 9.2.6. The Pickard-Bell Chair in Music
- 9.2.7. The Reverend William Purvis Chair in English Literature
- 9.2.8. The Obed Edmund Smith Chair in Physics
- 9.2.9. The Obed Edmund Smith Chair in Mathematics
- 9.2.10. The Stiles-Bennett Chair in History
- 9.2.11. The Josiah Wood Chair in Classics
- 9.2.12. The Charles and Joseph Allison Chair of English Language and Literature
- 9.3. Faculty Awards
- II. Academic Regulations
- 10. Academic Regulations
- 10.1. Communication
- 10.2. Courses of Instruction
- 10.3. Registration
- 10.3.1. Registration Procedures (Adding Courses)
- 10.3.2. Registration Deadline
- 10.3.3. Registration Deadline (Self-directed Distance Learning Courses)
- 10.3.4. Determining Year Level
- 10.3.5. Normal Course Loads and Overloads (Fall and Winter terms)
- 10.3.6. Normal Course Loads and Overloads (Spring/Summer term)
- 10.3.7. Repeating Courses
- 10.3.8. Auditing Courses
- 10.4. Changes in Registration and Withdrawal
- 10.5. Transfer Credits
- 10.6. Academic Integrity
- 10.7. Missed Coursework or Tests
- 10.8. Examination Regulations
- 10.8.1. Scheduled Tests and Final Examinations (Fall and Winter terms)
- 10.8.2. Scheduled Tests and Final Examinations (Spring/Summer term)
- 10.8.3. Viewing Examination Papers
- 10.8.4. Accommodations for Missed Final Examinations
- 10.8.5. Extended Deadlines for Completion of Course Work
- 10.8.6. Special Examinations
- 10.9. Evaluations of Student Performance
- 10.9.1. Grading Policies for Courses
- 10.9.2. Reporting of Grades
- 10.9.3. Letter Grades and their Meanings
- 10.9.4. Prerequisite Grade Requirements
- 10.9.5. Grades Excluded from GPA
- 10.9.6. Calculation of TGPA, SGPA and CGPA
- 10.9.7. Repeated Courses, SGPA and CGPA
- 10.9.8. Grade Changes
- 10.9.9. Re-evaluation of a Grade
- 10.9.10. Aegrotat Standing
- 10.9.11. Assessment of Academic Standing
- 10.9.12. Good Standing
- 10.9.13. Unsatisfactory Standing
- 10.9.14. Academic Performance Indicators
- 10.9.15. Academic Probation
- 10.9.16. Academic Suspension
- 10.9.17. Academic Dismissal
- 10.9.18. Procedures for Appeals and Re-admissions
- 10.9.19. Disciplinary Suspension or Dismissal
- 10.9.20. Dean's List
- 10.10. Degree Requirements
- 10.10.1. Academic Standing and Credits Required for a Degree
- 10.10.2. Academic Residency Requirements
- 10.10.3. Degree with Distinction Requirements
- 10.10.4. Honours GPA and Overall GPA Requirements
- 10.10.5. Submitting a Thesis
- 10.10.6. Falling Short of the Honours Requirements
- 10.10.7. Second Undergraduate Degree Requirements
- 10.10.8. Honours Certificate
- 10.11. Graduation and Convocation
- 10.12. Transcripts
- 10.13. Replacement/Duplicate Diplomas
- 10.14. Notification of Disclosure of Personal Information
- 10. Academic Regulations
- III. Academic Degrees, Programs and Courses
- 11. Academic Programs
- 11.1. General Regulations
- 11.2. Bachelor of Arts
- 11.2.1. Requirements for a B.A. Degree
- 11.2.2. Distribution Requirements
- 11.2.3. 3/4000 Level Courses
- 11.2.4. Credits Required for a Major and Minor
- 11.2.5. Additional Minor
- 11.2.6. Double Major
- 11.2.7. Joint Major
- 11.2.8. Bachelor of Arts - Aviation
- 11.2.9. Honours Degree
- 11.2.10. General Degree with Three Minors
- 11.2.11. The Major as Required for the B.A.
- 11.2.12. Disciplinary Major
- 11.2.13. Interdisciplinary Major
- 11.2.14. Joint Major
- 11.2.15. Specially Approved Major
- 11.2.16. Bachelor of Arts - Aviation offered in conjunction with MFC Training
- 11.2.17. Majors Available for the B.A.
- 11.2.18. Joint Majors Available for the B.A.
- 11.2.19. The Minor as Required for the B.A.
- 11.2.20. Disciplinary Minor
- 11.2.21. Interdisciplinary Minor
- 11.2.22. Specially Approved Minor
- 11.2.23. Minors Available for the B.A.
- 11.2.24. Disciplinary and Interdisciplinary Honours Programs
- 11.2.25. Honours Programs Available for the B.A.
- 11.2.26. Complementary Courses and Prerequisites
- 11.3. Bachelor of Science
- 11.3.1. Requirements for a B.Sc. Degree
- 11.3.2. Distribution Requirements
- 11.3.3. Science Core
- 11.3.4. Minimum Number of Science Credits
- 11.3.5. 3/4000 Level Science Courses
- 11.3.6. Credits Required for a Major and Minor
- 11.3.7. Additional Minor
- 11.3.8. Double Major
- 11.3.9. Joint Major
- 11.3.10. Honours Degree
- 11.3.11. General Degree with Three Minors
- 11.3.12. Courses which Qualify as Science Credits
- 11.3.13. The Major As Required for the B.Sc.
- 11.3.14. Disciplinary Major
- 11.3.15. Interdisciplinary Major
- 11.3.16. Joint Major
- 11.3.17. Specially Approved Major
- 11.3.18. Majors available for the B.Sc.
- 11.3.19. Joint Majors available for the B.Sc.
- 11.3.20. The Minor as Required for the B.Sc.
- 11.3.21. Disciplinary Minor
- 11.3.22. Interdisciplinary Minor
- 11.3.23. Specially Approved Minor
- 11.3.24. Minors Available for the B.Sc.
- 11.3.25. Disciplinary and Interdisciplinary Honours Programs
- 11.3.26. Honours Programs Available for the B.Sc.
- 11.4. Master of Science
- 11.5. Bachelor of Commerce
- 11.5.1. Primary Objective
- 11.5.2. Requirements for a Bachelor of Commerce Degree
- 11.5.3. Distribution Requirements
- 11.5.4. 3/4000 Level Courses
- 11.5.5. Commerce Degree Core Requirements
- 11.5.6. Commerce Electives on the Bachelor of Commerce Degree
- 11.5.7. The Minor as Required for the Bachelor of Commerce
- 11.5.8. Elective Credits
- 11.5.9. Honours Programs Available for the Bachelor of Commerce
- 11.5.10. Commerce with Honours
- 11.5.11. Commerce with Honours in Economics
- 11.5.12. Commerce - Aviation offered in conjunction with MFC Training
- 11.5.13. Major from Other Disciplines
- 11.5.14. Transferring to Commerce
- 11.6. Bachelor of Music
- 11.7. Bachelor of Fine Arts
- 11.8. Bachelor of Arts and Science
- 11.9. Certificate of Bilingualism/ Certificat De Bilinguisme
- 11.10. Undergraduate Certificates
- 11.11. Pre-Professional Requirements
- 11.12. International Programs
- 11.13. Academic Credit for Independent Experiential Learning
- 11.14. University Special Topics Courses
- 12. Programs and Courses of Instruction
- American Studies
- Anthropology
- Arts
- Art History
- Aviation
- Biochemistry
- Biology
- Biopsychology
- Canadian Public Policy
- Canadian Studies
- Chemistry
- Classics
- Cognitive Science
- Commerce/Ron Joyce Centre for Business Studies
- Community Engaged Learning
- Computer Science
- Data Science
- Drama Studies
- Economics
- English Literatures
- Environmental Science
- Environmental Studies
- Experiential Learning
- Fine Arts/Pierre Lassonde School of Fine Arts
- French Studies
- Geography
- Geography and Environment
- German Studies
- Greek
- Health Studies
- Hispanic Studies
- History
- Indigenous Studies
- International Economics and Business
- International Relations
- Japanese Studies
- Latin
- Linguistics
- Mathematics
- Modern Languages and Literatures
- Museum and Curatorial Studies
- Music
- Philosophy
- Philosophy, Politics, and Economics/Frank McKenna School of PPE
- Physics
- Politics and International Relations
- Psychology
- Religious Studies
- Science
- Screen Studies
- Social Science
- Sociology
- Spanish Studies
- University Special Topic Courses
- Visual and Material Culture
- Women's and Gender Studies
- Certificate Programs
- Certificate in Arts Administration
- Certificate in Biopsychology
- Certificate in Canadian Arts and Culture
- Certificate in Community Engaged Learning
- Certificates in Data Science
- Certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
- Certificate in Foundations of Health
- Certificate in Mi'kmaw Studies
- Certificate in Music Education
- Certificate in Social Research Methodologies
- Certificate in Studies of Indigenous History
- Certificate in Theatre Arts
- Certificate in Visual Literacy and Culture
- 11. Academic Programs
- Index
- I. General Information and Admissions
Physics seeks to describe the nature of the physical world. The most fundamental of the natural sciences, it forms an essential part of any serious program of study in any branch of science, and indeed, to an increasing degree in the modern world, it is important in any well-balanced curriculum for the non-scientist as well.
In the undergraduate program the development of fundamental concepts and mathematical formulation proceeds simultaneously in a selected series of courses in physics and mathematics, from the elementary ideas of classical mechanics through modern relativistic, quantum and nuclear theories.
Whether the student wishes to prepare for more advanced study in physics itself; for a career in applied areas such as photonics, materials science, or biomedical engineering; for a career in such fields as astronomy, space research, or oceanography; or simply wishes to be informed in an important area of scientific thought, they will be able to make an appropriate choice of courses from the list.
| 3 | from PHYS 1041, 1051 |
| 3 | from MATH 1111 or 1151 |
| 3 | from PHYS 1551 |
| 15 | from MATH 1121 or Physics, including 6 from the 3/4000 level, chosen in consultation with the Program Advisor. |
Note: Only one of PHYS 1021, 1031 and 1401 can be used on the Physics Minor
Note: Students who complete the Minor in Applied Physics may not complete this Minor
| 3 | from PHYS 1041, 1051 |
| 6 | from PHYS 1551, 2801 |
| 3 | from MATH 1111 or 1151 |
| 12 | from PHYS 1401, 3361, 3581, 3701, 3751, COMP 1631, 1731, MATH 1121, including 6 from the 3/4000 level, chosen in consultation with the Program Advisor |
| 9-12 | from PHYS 1021, 1031, 3001, 3021 |
| 3 | from PHYS 1041, 1051 |
| 9-12 | from BIOL 2811, 3021, CHEM 2111, 2211, 3521, GENS 1401, 3421, PHIL 1651, 2511, PHYS 1551, 3701, 3811, 4311, 4411, 4851, or maximum of 3 credits from BIOL 2701, COMP 1731, GENS 2431, MATH 2311, PHYS 2801 |
| Note: Many of these courses have one or more prerequisite courses. Students should plan their sequence of courses in consultation with the Program Advisor. |
Note: At least 6 credits need to be from the 3/4000 level for this Minor.
| 6 | from PHYS 1051, 1551 |
| 6 | from CHEM 1001, 1021 |
| 3 | from BIOL 1001, BIOL 1501, BIOC 1001, GENS 1401, PSYC 1001 or PSYC 1011 |
| 3 | from COMP 1631, MATH 2221 |
| 3 | from MATH 1111 or 1151 |
| 9 | from MATH 1121, 2111, 2121 |
| 21 | from PHYS 2251, 2801, 3101, 3451, 3701, 3811, 4411 |
| 12 | from Physics with at least 9 at the 3/4000 level |
Note: Students pursuing a Major in Physics may be allowed to substitute PHYS 1041 for PHYS 1051 with permission of the Department
| 51 | credits as in the first seven lines of the Major |
| 6 | from PHYS 4990 |
| 6 | from PHYS 3201, 3821 |
| 3 | from MATH 3141 |
| 3 | from MATH 2221, 3131, 3161, 3221, 3411 |
| 3 | from Physics at any level, chosen in consultation with the Program Advisor |
| 3 | from Physics at the 3/4000 level, chosen in consultation with the Program Advisor |
| 6 | from Physics at the 4000 level, chosen in consultation with the Program Advisor |
| 6 | from Physics or Mathematics at the 3/4000 level |
Note: Students pursuing Honours in Physics may be allowed to substitute PHYS 1041 for PHYS 1051 with permission of the Department
| 6 | from COMP 1631, 1731 |
| 6 | from CHEM 1001, 1021 |
| 3 | from BIOL 1001, 1501, BIOC 1001, GENS 1401, PSYC 1001, 1011 |
| 3 | from MATH 1111 or 1151 |
| 12 | from MATH 1121, 2111, 2121, 2221 |
| 12 | from PHYS 1051, 1551, 2251, 2801 |
| 18 | from COMP 2211, 2611, 2711, 2931, 3811, 3851 |
| 3 | from COMP/MATH/PHYS 3411 |
| 3 | from COMP/PHYS 3361 |
| 15 | from PHYS 3101, 3451, 3701, 3811, 4411 |
| 6 | from PHYS 4990 |
Note: The topic of the Honours project or thesis, PHYS 4990, must be chosen in consultation with both departments
Note: Students in the BSc Joint Honours in Computer Science and Physics are required to integrate knowledge in both Physics and Computer Science in their Honours project or thesis (PHYS 4990).
| 3 | from BIOL 1001, BIOL 1501, BIOC 1001, GENS 1401, PSYC 1001 or PSYC 1011 |
| 3 | from MATH 1111 or 1151 |
| 15 | from MATH 1121, 2111, 2121, 2211, 2221 |
| 3 | from COMP 1631 |
| 6 | from CHEM 1001, 1021 |
| 12 | from PHYS 1051, 1551, 2251, 2801 |
| 3 | from PHYS 3451 |
| 9 | from MATH 3111, 3211, 3311 |
| 6 | from MATH 3141, 3161 |
| 6 | from MATH 3131, 3151, 3221, 3231, 3411, 3531, 4111, 4121, 4311, PHYS 4101, 4201, 4311, 4831, 4851, 4911; only 3 credits may be selected from the listed Physics courses |
| 18 | from PHYS 3101, 3201, 3701, 3811, 3821, 4411 |
| 6 | from PHYS 4990 |
Note: Students pursuing Honours in Mathematics and Physics may be allowed to substitute PHYS 1041 for PHYS 1051 with permission of the Department
Note: The listing of a course in the Calendar is not a guarantee that the course is offered every year.
Note: Students must obtain a grade of at least C- in all courses used to fulfill prerequisite requirements. Otherwise, written permission of the appropriate Department Head or Program Co-ordinator must be obtained.
Solar System Astronomy
This course introduces observational and solar system astronomy. Topics include observational astronomy, celestial mechanics, solar system patterns, theories of origin, radiometric dating, processes which transform planet surfaces, planetary atmospheres, comets, asteroids, meteoroids, and the search for life beyond Earth. It considers extrasolar planetary systems in the context of theories of solar system formation. [Note 1: In addition to daytime lab periods all students will need to be present at a number of night time observing periods at the university observatory.] (Format: Lecture 3 Hours, Laboratory 1.5 Hours)
Stars, Galaxies and the Universe
This course introduces stellar and galactic astronomy as well as cosmology. Topics include optics and telescopes, atomic structure and spectra, the sun, stellar types and evolution, stellar remnants (black holes, neutron stars, and white dwarfs), quantum and relativistic ideas, galaxies, and dark matter and energy. [Note 1: In addition to daytime lab periods all students will need to be present at a number of night time observing periods at the university observatory.] (Format: Lecture 3 Hours, Laboratory 1.5 Hours)
Physics for the Life Sciences
This algebra-based course introduces and describes from a Physics perspective the many physical processes involving living organisms. Topics include biomechanics, kinesiology, energy and the body, fluid flow, electrical signaling, electrocardiography and electroencephalography, sound and hearing, light and vision, microscopy, and imaging of brain function. [Note 1: This course is designed for students planning to major in a life science.] (Format: Integrated Lecture/Collaborative Learning/Laboratory 6 Hours) (Exclusion: PHYS 1051)
General Physics I
This algebra-based course introduces classical physics together with some aspects of modern physics. Topics include kinematics, dynamics, work and energy, momentum in one dimension, fluid mechanics, waves and sound, DC circuit electricity, geometrical and physical optics, and black body radiation, and atomic spectra. [Note 1: Students enrolling in Physics 1051 should normally have completed a university preparatory level course in Mathematics.] (Format: Integrated Lecture/Collaborative Learning/Laboratory, 6 Hours) (Exclusion: PHYS 1041)
The Physics of Music and Sound
This course explores various aspects of music production, sound transmission, and sound perception. Topics include: simple harmonic motion, waves and sound, standing waves, spectral analysis, the human ear and voice, auditorium acoustics, and woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments. It also introduces basic mathematical analysis. (Format: Integrated Lecture and Laboratory 3 Hours)
General Physics II
Prereq: 3 credits from MATH 1111, 1151; 3 credits from PHYS 1041, 1051; or permission of the Department
This calculus-based course introduces further issues in classical and modern physics. Topics include time-dependent acceleration, gravitation, rotational motion, angular momentum, simple harmonic motion, electric forces, fields and potentials, magnetism, and electromagnetic induction. The course also introduces special relativity, nuclear reactions, particle physics, and cosmology. (Format: Integrated Lecture and Laboratory, 6 Hours)
Special Topic in Physics
This course either focuses on topics not covered by the current course offerings in a department or program or offers the opportunity to pilot a course that is being considered for inclusion in the regular program. [Note 1: Prerequisite set by Department/Program when the topic and level are announced. Note 2: When a Department or Program intends to offer a course under this designation, it must submit course information, normally at least three months in advance, to the Dean. Note 3: Students may register for PHYS 1991 more than once, provided the subject matter differs.] (Format: Variable)
Classical Waves
Prereq: PHYS 1551; MATH 1121; or permission of the Department
In this course the study of free, forced and damped harmonic oscillator is followed by a treatment of discrete coupled oscillators in one dimension. This is then generalized to the study of traveling and standing waves in continuous media. Ideas of Fourier components of signals are introduced. A number of examples will be taken from physical optics, and the topics in this course provide the theoretical basis for understanding modern photonic devices. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours, Laboratory 3 Hours)
Data Acquisition and Analysis
Prereq: 3 credits from MATH 1111, 1151 ; 3 credits from PHYS 1041, 1051; or permission of the Department
This course provides techniques and software tools that assist in the use of computers to enhance work in science. It introduces basic methodology for data manipulation such as error analysis, statistical analysis of data, linear regression, graphing, aspects of simulation, digitization, interfacing and data acquisition. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours, Laboratory 3 Hours)
Special Topic in Physics
This course either focuses on topics not covered by the current course offerings in a department or program or offers the opportunity to pilot a course that is being considered for inclusion in the regular program. [Note 1: Prerequisite set by Department/Program when the topic and level are announced. Note 2: When a Department or Program intends to offer a course under this designation, it must submit course information, normally at least three months in advance, to the Dean. Note 3: Students may register for PHYS 2991 more than once, provided the subject matter differs.] (Format: Variable)
Astrophysics
Prereq: PHYS 1551; PHYS 1031; or permission of the Department
This course introduces a mathematical approach to the study of the universe. Topics include: celestial mechanics, stellar spectra, Hertzsprung-Russell diagrams, star formation, stellar evolution, stellar deaths and remnants, galaxy types and evolution, large-scale structure, and an introduction to cosmology and general relativity. [Note 1: In addition to daytime lab periods all students will need to be present at a number of night time observing periods at the university observatory.] (Format: Lecture 3 Hours, Laboratory 3 Hours)
Life in the Universe
Prereq: Second-year standing; 3 credits from PHYS 1021, 1031; or permission of the Department
This course will examine issues concerning the origin, evolution and survival of life in the universe from an astrophysical perspective. Topics covered include cosmology and the origin and evolution of the universe, solar system origin, detection of extrasolar planets, what is life and what conditions are necessary to sustain it, searches for life in the solar system, habitable zones, complex organics in extraterrestrial materials, delivery of organics to the primordial and current Earth and other planets, astrophysical threats to life on Earth, life in space, and searches for extraterrestrial intelligence. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours, Laboratory 3 Hours)
Electricity and Magnetism
Prereq: PHYS 1551; MATH/PHYS 3451; MATH 2111; MATH 2121; or permission of the Department
This course commences the formal treatment of electricity and magnetism. The electric field and potential of point-like and continuous charge configurations are calculated. Certain special techniques such as the method of images and multipole expansion are introduced. Magnetostatics, Lorentz force, and magnetic induction are discussed. The electric and magnetic fields in matter are also examined leading to the derivation of Maxwell's equations. This course covers vector analysis, differential calculus, and integral calculus as needed. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours, Laboratory/Problem Solving 3 Hours)
Statistical Mechanics
Prereq: PHYS 2251; MATH 2111; or permission of the Department
This course examines the connections between the macroscopic thermodynamic properties of a system, such as pressure and temperature, and the microscopic details, such as the behavior of the atoms and molecules that make up the system. Starting from the number of accessible states and its relation to entropy, the familiar thermodynamic relations are derived. Maxwell-Boltzmann, Bose-Einstein, and Fermi-Dirac distributions are discussed along with the conditions under which they apply. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)
Physical Chemistry II: Quantum Mechanics and Spectroscopy
Prereq: CHEM 2211; or PHYS 3701; or permission of the Department
This course is an introduction to the foundations of quantum mechanics (QM) within the framework of spectroscopy and chemical systems. Starting from the early experimental observations that led to the development of QM, this course will explore its founding postulates and mathematical formalism. Exactly solvable model systems of spectroscopic relevance such as particle in a box, harmonic oscillator, rigid rotor, and the hydrogen atom will be discussed. Molecular orbital theory will also be examined in the context of polyatomic systems and how spectroscopic techniques (e.g., absorption, emission, infrared, and Raman) are utilized to probe complex molecular systems. [Note 1: This course is cross listed with CHEM 3231 and may therefore count as 3 credits in either discipline.] (Format: Lecture 3 Hours, Laboratory 3 Hours) (Exclusion: any version of PHYS 3231 previously offered with a different title)
Digital Signal Processing and Electronics
Prereq: COMP 1631; PHYS 1551; or permission of the Department
This course introduces students to digital electronic circuits and digital signal processing, with a focus of understanding current applications and concepts. Topics include: transistors, digital logic gates, Boolean algebra, logic circuit design, latches and flip-flops, counting circuits, adder circuits, digital logic families, digital sampling, analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog conversion, Fourier Transforms, correlation and convolution, noise, digital filtering, and digital image processing. Students will gain hands-on experience working with integrated circuits and micro-controllers. [Note 1: This course is cross-listed with COMP 3361 and may therefore count as three credits in either discipline.] (Format: Lecture 3 Hours, Laboratory 3 Hours)
Numerical Analysis
Prereq: MATH 1121; 3 credits from MATH 2221, MATH/PHYS 3451; 3 credits from COMP or PHYS; or permission of the Department
This course introduces numerical methods for solving a variety of problems in the sciences. Topics include numerical errors and precision, root finding, model fitting, integration and solution of differential equations, solution of linear and nonlinear systems of equations, and matrix factorization. [Note 1: This course is cross-listed as COMP 3411 and MATH 3411 and may therefore count as three credits in any of the three disciplines.] (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)
Methods of Mathematical Physics
Prereq: MATH 2111; 3 credits from MATH 2121, PHYS 2251; or permission of the Department
This course provides students with a selection of mathematical skills needed in more advanced physics courses. It introduces frequently utilized mathematical methods in theoretical physics in close connection with physics applications. Topics include vector and tensor analysis, use of special functions, operators and eigenvalue problems. Fourier analysis, and complex variable techniques. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours, Laboratory 3 Hours)
Medical Physics
Prereq: PHYS 1551; or permission of the Department
This course considers fundamental concepts of ionizing radiation, diagnostic applications of medical physics, and therapeutic applications of medical physics. Diagnostic topics include x-rays, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography, and nuclear medicine. Therapeutic topics include radiation generators, absorbed dose calculations, dose measurement, and brachytherapy. [Note 1: This course is intended both for physics students who are considering a career in medical physics or in the field of medicine, and for students in other programs with similar interests.] (Format: Integrated Lecture and Laboratory 3 Hours)
Thermodynamics
Prereq: PHYS 2801; MATH 2111; or permission of the Department
The objective of the course is to develop a clear and broad understanding of the First and Second Law of Thermodynamics, with application to a wide range of problems. Topics include: the general energy equation, First Law, Second Law, entropy, limiting-cycle efficiencies, irreversibility and availability, steam power plant, refrigeration and gas engine applications. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours, Laboratory 3 Hours)
Energy and the Environment
Prereq: PHYS 1551; CHEM 1021; or permission of the Department
This course examines different aspects of energy harvesting, storage, and transmission with particular emphasis on the environmental impacts, sustainability, and development of renewable energy resources. It also introduces modern technologies based on the development of novel materials. Specific technologies and topics may include: wind power, photovoltaic generation, solar energy, nuclear fission, and fusion, hydroelectric, combustion based fuel generation, tidal energy and fuel cells. [Note 1: This course is cross-listed with CHEM 3751 and may therefore count as 3 credits in either discipline.] (Format: Lecture 3 Hours, Laboratory 3 Hours)
Modern Physics
Prereq: PHYS 2251; or permission of the Department
This course considers the two major revolutionary ideas of modern physics, special relativity and quantum mechanics. It considers Lorentz transformations, length contraction and time dilation, and relativistic mass and momentum, and introduces four-vector notation. It also examines evidence for quantization along with early models for atoms and discusses De Broglie's hypothesis for the wave nature of matter. Other topics include the Schrodinger equation and its solutions for some basic systems. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours, Laboratory 3 Hours)
Quantum Mechanics
Prereq: PHYS 3811; MATH/PHYS 3451; or permission of the Department
This course is an introduction to formal quantum mechanics. It covers time-independent quantum mechanics in one dimension with various potentials, including the harmonic oscillator, the delta function, the free particle, and the finite square well. Hilbert spaces and generalized statistical interpretations are discussed. The course concludes with an examination of quantum mechanics in three dimensions, including the hydrogen atom and an introduction to the general theory of angular momentum. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)
Special Topic in Physics
This course either focuses on topics not covered by the current course offerings in a department or program or offers the opportunity to pilot a course that is being considered for inclusion in the regular program. [Note 1: Prerequisite set by Department/Program when the topic and level are announced. Note 2: When a Department or Program intends to offer a course under this designation, it must submit course information, normally at least three months in advance, to the Dean. Note 3: Students may register for PHYS 3991 more than once, provided the subject matter differs.] (Format: Variable)
Electromagnetic Theory
Prereq: PHYS 3101; 3 credits from PHYS 2251, MATH 2121; or permission of the Department
This course introduces the following topics: electromagnetic wave equations in vacuum and materials; conservation of energy, momentum, and angular momentum for electromagnetic fields; retarded potentials and the electromagnetic fields of moving point charges; radiation by oscillating electric and magnetic dipoles and accelerating point charges; and the relativistic formulation of Maxwell's equations. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)
Solid State Physics
Prereq: PHYS 2251; or permission of the Department
This course studies the various quantized models used to describe the thermal, electrical, optical and electromagnetic properties of solids. It also analyses conductors, semi-conductors and insulators. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours, Laboratory 3 Hours)
Modern Optics
Prereq: PHYS 2251; PHYS 2801; and 3 credits from MATH 2221, PHYS 3451; or permission of the Department
This course provides an advanced treatment of a number of topics in modern optics with particular emphasis on topics of industrial and research importance. A brief treatment of geometric optics will concentrate on the design of optical systems. Topics in physical optics may include dispersion in materials, production and properties of polarized light, interference, diffraction in the Fresnel and Fraunhofer limits, Fourier optics, holography and an introduction to quantum optics. Applications of this theoretical background will be made in such areas as fibre-optic transmission, photonic devices, thin film coatings, and electrochromic devices. There will also be some considerations of electro-optical devices such as lasers, charge coupled device detectors, image intensifiers and photodiodes. (Format: Lecture 3 Hours, Laboratory 3 Hours)
Classical Mechanics and Relativity
Prereq: PHYS 3811; MATH/PHYS 3451; or permission of the Department
This course covers three-dimensional dynamics of both particles and rigid bodies using various coordinate systems. The course focuses on an introduction to Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formalisms, followed by application of these approaches to problems in constrained motion. Other topics covered include motion in resistive fluids, planetary orbits, motion in accelerated reference frames and the inertia tensor. The latter part of the course provides an introduction to general relativity including spacetime invariants, metric and metric tensor, the field equations and tests of general relativity. (Format: Integrated Lecture/ Laboratory, 6 Hours)
Advanced Quantum Mechanics
Prereq: CHEM 3231; or 6 credits from PHYS 3821, MATH 2221; or permission of the Department
This course extends the study of principles of quantum mechanics, comparing properties of continuous and discrete representations. It also develops time-independent perturbation theory for first order, second order, and degenerate cases and treats small perturbations through direct diagonalization of large matrices. This course examines variational principle, central force problems, elements of scattering theory, and the addition of quantized angular momenta. The course concludes with applications of quantum mechanics in molecules, aspects of relativistic quantum mechanics, time dependence in quantum and quantum statistics. [Note 1: This course is cross-listed with CHEM 4831 and may therefore count as 3 credits in either discipline.] (Format: Lecture 3 Hours)
Fundamental Particles
Prereq: PHYS 3821; or permission of the Department
This course introduces the standard model of elementary particle physics.It examines the classification of the building blocks of matter into leptons, quarks, and gauge bosons. Mesons, baryons, and their properties based on symmetry and conservation principles are discussed, along with Feynman diagrams, quantum electrodynamics, and the weak and strong interactions.
Current Topics in Physics
Prereq: PHYS 3811; or permission of the Department
This course will introduce students to current topics and trends in physics which are not represented in other courses in the curriculum. This will be a seminar format course with sessions led by students, faculty and guest speakers. A key part of the course will be development of skills for identification and critical evaluation of primary literature in physics. (Format: Seminar)
Independent Study in Physics
This course permits senior students, under the direction of faculty members, to pursue their interest in areas not covered, or not covered in depth, by other courses through a program of independent study. [Note 1: Permission of the Department/Program Advisor. Students must obtain consent of an instructor who is willing to be a supervisor and must register for the course prior to the last day for change of registration in the term during which the course is being taken. Note 2: A program on Independent Study cannot duplicate subject matter covered through regular course offerings. Note 3: Students may register for PHYS 4950/51 more than once, provided the subject matter differs.] (Format: Independent Study)
Independent Study in Physics
This course permits senior students, under the direction of faculty members, to pursue their interest in areas not covered, or not covered in depth, by other courses through a program of independent study. [Note 1: Permission of the Department/Program Advisor. Students must obtain consent of an instructor who is willing to be a supervisor and must register for the course prior to the last day for change of registration in the term during which the course is being taken. Note 2: A program on Independent Study cannot duplicate subject matter covered through regular course offerings. Note 3: Students may register for PHYS 4950/51 more than once, provided the subject matter differs.] (Format: Independent Study)
Honours Thesis
Normally, a student electing this course is expected to accomplish work equivalent to any fourth year course. Students are encouraged, but not required, to work on the project in the Department during the summer immediately preceding the senior year. The topic often involves experimental work, but must have a theoretical component. (Format: Independent Study/Thesis)
Special Topic in Physics
This course either focuses on topics not covered by the current course offerings in a department or program or offers the opportunity to pilot a course that is being considered for inclusion in the regular program. [Note 1: Prerequisite set by Department/Program when the topic and level are announced. Note 2: When a Department or Program intends to offer a course under this designation, it must submit course information, normally at least three months in advance, to the Dean. Note 3: Students may register for PHYS 4991 more than once, provided the subject matter differs.] (Format: Variable)