Department Goals

1. Teaching and Student Development Goals identified by the population served. These goals are cumulative, with goals added as the student’s progress further through the physics programs.

University Students
• explore the historical development of science,
• teach quantitative reasoning skills,
• convey the excitement of discovery,
• help students appreciate the creative aspects of science,
• help students understand the scientific process.

Science Majors, in addition to all of the above,
• prepare students for study in professional schools or the teaching profession,
• provide a foundation in physical principles and quantitative methods,
• teach students how to use experimental techniques to test theoretical models,
• provide applications of physical models to real world problems.

Engineering Majors, in addition to all of the above,
• provide theoretical foundation for engineering models,
• provide opportunities for advanced study in optics,
• assist with senior design projects.

Physics Majors, in addition to all of the above,
• introduce the abstract models used in advanced physical theories,
• provide a foundation for further study at the graduate level,
• provide opportunity to participate with faculty in research,
• inform students on the range of applications and opportunities in Physics and Astronomy.

2. Community and Scientific Service Goals identified by the population served. Some goals apply to multiple groups.

General Public
• provide opportunities to learn more about science through public events, such as planetarium shows, open houses, presentations to civic groups,
• provide scientific expertise in matters of public concerns, such as expert testimony or review of proposals for public funding.

Educators and K-12
• help teachers stay current with developments in physics, astronomy and science in general through workshops, presentations, colloquia and other activities,
• show students the opportunities for study and careers in physics and astronomy through presentations, open house and other activities.

University
• support other departments through course offerings, consultation, and collaborative teaching and research.
Industry
• provide forums such as conferences for the exchange of information,
• help make connections between students and industry through internships and collaborative projects,
• support industry through consulting.

Scientific Community
• contribute to scientific progress through research and publication,
• serve the scientific community through active membership in professional societies,
• participate in the dissemination of knowledge through review and editing of publications and development of electronic information media.

New Course as of Spring 2009:

ASTR 105 Astrobiology (online course)

No pre-requisites. Exams, homework and participation in class discussions required.

Study of the origin, evolution and distribution of life in the universe, astronomical constraints on life and the scientific techniques used to search for extraterrestrial life on planets and moons. 3 credits.

Join us for the latest on searches for life in the universe, including:

• NASA Mars Phoenix Lander
• Jupiter’s moon Europa
• Amino acids in space
• Participate in SETI exploration
• Panspermia, Life in Extreme Environments
• Terraforming and other ethical concerns

For more information:
Dr. Maria Womack
WSB 309
mwomack@stcloudstate.edu