Mount Vernon Nazarene University

Mount Vernon Nazarene University

Physics

Joseph H. Lechner, PhD

Richard L. Sutherland, PhD

Physics Program Objectives

The courses and curriculum of the physics program are designed to achieve the following student outcomes:

  • explain the roles of observations, laws, hypotheses, and experiments in the scientific method of investigation;
  • appreciate the strengths and the limitations of science;
  • appreciate the contributions of great scientists in the fields of classical mechanics, electricity and magnetism, nuclear/particle physics, optics, relativity, thermodynamics, and wave mechanics;
  • reach logical solutions to problems by evaluating information, applying principles, performing calculations, and interpreting results;
  • demonstrate the skills of observation, measurement, record keeping, time management, and teamwork in the laboratory;
  • perform laboratory work in accordance with accepted safety regulations;
  • correctly operate common laboratory instruments and equipment;
  • design and execute a scientific investigation, and evaluate the outcome of an experiment by converting raw data to final results, including analysis of error and uncertainty;
  • effectively communicate the results of a scientific investigation orally and in writing; and
  • appreciate the harmony between scientific knowledge and biblical teachings.

Physics Programs

Bachelor of Science in Physical Science Education

Note: Students who wish to teach in adolescent to young adult education, in multi-age education, or in career-technical settings must complete general education and professional education courses which are listed in the School of Education and Professional Studies section of this catalog.

Required Courses

BIO1054G General Zoology with Laboratory

4

BIO1074G General Botany with Laboratory

4

CHE1031G General Chemistry I Laboratory

1

CHE1033G General Chemistry I

3

CHE1041 General Chemistry II Laboratory

1

CHE1043 General Chemistry II

3

CHE3014 Quantitative Chemistry with Laboratory

4

CHE3024 Organic Chemistry I with Laboratory

4

ESS1034G Earth Science with Laboratory

4

ESS1044G Astronomy with Laboratory

4

ESS1054G Meteorology with Laboratory

4

PHY2014G General Physics I with Laboratory

4

PHY2024 General Physics II with Laboratory

4

aPHY2032 Introduction to Optics with Laboratory

2

aPHY3014 Introduction to Modern Physics with Laboratory

4

PHY4002 Content Teaching Methods in Physical Science

2

Required Major Cognate Courses

MAT1013g Trigonometry
(or pass Trigonometry proficiency exam)

0-3

MAT1023g Precalculus Mathematics
(or ACT Mathematics subscore of 25 or above)

0-3

MAT1034G Calculus I

4

MAT2063G Introduction to Statistics

3

Required Education Courses

46

Total

105-111 Hours

Physical Science Minor

CHE1031G General Chemistry I Laboratory

1

CHE1033G General Chemistry I

3

CHE1041 General Chemistry II Laboratory

1

CHE1043 General Chemistry II

3

PHY2014G General Physics I with Laboratory

4

PHY2024 General Physics II with Laboratory

4

Select one of the following:

4

ESS1034G Earth Science with Laboratory

 

ESS1044G Astronomy with Laboratory

 

ESS1054G Meteorology with Laboratory

 

Total

20 Hours