Physics
Welcome
The Physics Department offers classes on the main Temple College campus. The mission of the physics and astronomy program at Temple College is to introduce students to the concepts and laboratory skills needed for further study in the fields of science and/or other related disciplines. Classes are available for those who will be transferring to a four-year school, obtaining an associate degree, as well as those who are completing programs in healthcare professions.
Course Offering
- PHYS 1103 - Stars and Galaxies Laboratory
- PHYS 1104 - Solar System Laboratory
- PHYS 1303 - Stars and Galaxies
- PHYS 1304 - Solar System
- PHYS 1401 - College Physics I
- PHYS 1402 - College Physics II
- PHYS 1405 - Elementary Physics I
- PHYS 1407 - Elementary Physics II
- PHYS 2389 - STEM Education Practicum (Academic Cooperative)
- PHYS 2425 - University Physics I
- PHYS 2426 - University Physics II
Programs of Study
Program Information
The department boasts a 9.5-inch Celestron GPS telescope and six Celestron 4-inch student GPS enabled telescopes. The telescopes may be used for solar as well as nighttime viewing. Video recording equipment for timing asteroid occultations is also available. The telescopes are used in star parties and other outreach activities across the Central Texas area.
Students are free to learn and develop their robotic programming skills by utilizing the LEGO EV3 core and expansion sets. The department employs Vernier probeware and sensors for data collection and experiment analysis. Various simulation software is also offered. HP high-end desktop computers that support the computational activities of the department are also available.
Research Opportunities in Physics
The Physical Sciences Department strongly promotes and encourages student research. While many university undergraduate students have numerous opportunities to join a research lab, these opportunities are limited and often entirely absent at the community college level. Temple College is proud to provide research opportunities to our community college students too!
Research is the fun part of studying physics! In collaboration with a faculty advisor, students develop and execute a unique research project. Students then have the opportunity to present their results in a professional setting and publish in scientific journals.
Research Methods in Physics (Phys 2289) is highly recommended for students that are interested in conducting physics research at Temple College. For more information about this course and research opportunities, contact Dr. Jason Locklin (jason.locklin@templecollege.edu).
Graduating with Honors
Student majoring in physics that complete a research project with a research mentor and have a minimum GPA of 3.0 are eligible to graduate with Physics Honors. This designation is reserved for outstanding students that want to stand above the rest, enhance their resume, and, in collaboration with their research mentor, answer research questions that contribute to the scientific field.
Contact Dr. John McClain (john.mcclain@templecollege.edu) for more information.