Physics

Department Chairperson: Dr. Jeffrey Jankowski
Physics Faculty

Mission Statement

The Physics Department is dedicated to providing a challenging and supportive environment for students to: i) learn physical principles, analytical skills and laboratory methods; and ii) develop their critical thinking and communication skills through course and laboratory work and through collaborative learning and research.

Physics is the science which deals with nature at its most fundamental level. Much of the theoretical framework of chemistry, engineering and even biology is provided by discoveries made by physicists.

Courses recommended for all Physics majors include CHM 141 , CSC 150 , MTH 300  and MTH 315 . Additional coursework in mathematics and computer science is highly recommended for students interested in graduate school or industrial employment. The demand for high-school physics teachers is very high; students interested in secondary education should consult a member of the education department early in the freshman year. Students interested in the dual-degree engineering program should read the Pre-Professional Programs  section.

Degrees offered: B.A. and B.S.

Special Opportunity

Hooke College of Applied Sciences — The College maintains this affiliation through the Associated Colleges of the Chicago Area. Located nearby in Westmont, Illinois, Hooke College of Applied Sciences offers courses in microscopy and related areas in which North Central students may enroll for credit. Detailed Information is available from either the Chemistry or Physics Departments. Registration is arranged through the Office of the Registrar.

Programs

• Physics, B.A.
• Physics, B.S.

• Physics Minor

Courses

• PHY 100 - Principles of Physics
• PHY 105 - Physics of Music
• PHY 115 - College Physics I
• PHY 116 - College Physics II
• PHY 121 - Principles of Astronomy
• PHY 122 - Principles of Astronomy with Lab
• PHY 141 - Physics I
• PHY 142 - Physics II
• PHY 143A - Physics III (Algebra-Based)
• PHY 143C - Physics III (Calculus-Based)
• PHY 151 - Special Relativity
• PHY 210 - Electronics
• PHY 244 - Physics IV
• PHY 245 - Physics V: Quantum Physics
• PHY 251 - Physics of Solids
• PHY 252 - Nuclei and Particles
• PHY 253 - Astrophysics and Cosmology
• PHY 297 - Internship
• PHY 299 - Independent Study
• PHY 315 - Engineering Statics
• PHY 316 - Intermediate Mechanics
• PHY 325 - Mechanics of Materials
• PHY 340 - Thermodynamics
• PHY 355 - Applied Mathematical Techniques
• PHY 397 - Internship
• PHY 399 - Independent Study
• PHY 416 - Advanced Mechanics
• PHY 420 - Electricity and Magnetism
• PHY 441 - Quantum Mechanics
• PHY 450 - Advanced Laboratory
• PHY 495 - Research
• PHY 497 - Internship
• PHY 499 - Independent Study