PHYS 5920 - Research Project-Based Advanced Laboratory

Goals: To allow students to expand and build upon their current laboratory skill set and problem solving ability by planning and executing a year-long research project.

Content: This full year course is the culmination of all the core laboratory experiences within the physics curriculum. Students will choose a project, based on a search of research literature. These projects will require many skills, such as equipment interfacing, computer programming, basic and advanced circuit design and analysis, experience with optics, using the machine shop to build experimental apparatuses, planning, ordering, and scheduling tasks, preparing a professional report and presentation, and applying for external grants. Successful completion of this course should fulfill the Independent Critical Inquiry and Information Literacy (Q) requirement of the Hamline Plan.

Taught: Fall and spring, full year sequence

Prerequisite: PHYS 3540 or instructor permission

Credits: 2 per term