Physics 102: Computational Physics is intended for students majoring in physics or engineering, or for students interested in how computers can be used to solve physics problems. Science, engineer- ing and mathematics are critically dependent on the computational power provided by computers. This course will be an introduction to the use of computational techniques to understand physical systems that are unapproachable via analytical methods. This course will introduce you to the programming language Python. Topics will include data analysis, data visualization, integration, solutions to transcendental equations, ordinary differential equations, and partial differential equa- tions. You will learn to write Python code in a variety of programming environments including scripts, interactive windows, and Jupyter notebooks.
No prior programming experience is required. You must have completed the first-year physics sequence (physics 1–4) as well as at least two semesters of calculus.
This course is required for the physics major, physics minor, and the 3+2 engineering program.
This page will not be used extensively. All up-to-date information can be found on our Moodle page or in our Google Drive.
This is the exam schedule (midterm schedule subject to amendation):
Accommodations that take into account the context of the course and its essential elements for individuals with qualifying disabilities are extended through the office of Student Disability Services (SDS). Information regarding the services available may be found on the SDS Office Website.
Saint Mary’s has a center for students taking STEM classes in Assumption Hall, Room 200. The STEM Center provides several services, including free tutoring in math, chemistry, physics, and biology. Please be very respectful of the Assumption Hall residents.