Physics and Engineering

Decorative

The Physics and Engineering Department offers a dynamic and comprehensive curriculum designed to serve students at various stages of their academic and career journeys. The department provides general education courses that develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for a wide range of disciplines. The department offers terminal associate degrees in advanced manufacturing and applied engineering and energy systems to prepare students to enter the workforce upon graduation, along with transfer degrees in engineering and physics, to prepare students for further study at four-year universities.

Additionally, specialized, stackable certificates in manufacturing and design are available for those looking to enter the workforce directly with practical, industry-relevant skills. With a focus on hands-on learning, rigorous coursework, and a strong foundation in scientific principles, the department ensures students are well-equipped for success in both academic pursuits and professional careers in science, engineering, and technology.

Programs

Associate Degree Programs

Certificates

 JAA Transfer Degrees

Courses

Applied Engineering and Energy Systems (AEES)

AEES 1010  - Introduction to DC & AC Electrical Circuits  
(3 Credits)  
The course introduces students to the basic principles of DC and AC circuits. Topics include resistance, voltage, current, Ohm's Law, Kirchoff's Laws, power, introduction to AC, capacitors and inductors. Students will also be introduced to some electromechanical components such as relays, solenoids and switches. In addition to circuit analysis, hands-on laboratory work and computer simulations are utilized to enhance the student's understanding.

Lecture: 2 hours, Lab: 2 hours
  
Prerequisite(s): MATH 1179 (may be taken concurrently) or Math Placement
  
AEES 1020  - Introduction to Electromechanical Systems I  
(3 Credits)  
This course covers maximum power transfer, the Wheatstone bridge, Thevenin's network analysis, RC and RL transient analysis, RC, RL and RLC AC analysis, passive filters, frequency response, single and 3 phase power, single and 3 phase transformers, fuses, circuit breakers, relays and contactors.

Lecture: 2 hours, Lab: 2 hours
  
Prerequisite(s): ETEE 1050 (may be taken concurrently)
  
AEES 1030  - Introduction to Digital Systems  
(3 Credits)  
This course provides the student with a basic understanding of digital systems through the use of programmable logic controllers. The student will explore fundamental properties of digital logic controllers, digital control components and systems. Students also will analyze and develop basic control systems solutions, using logic controller simulation software to configure and test systems.

Lecture: 2 hours, Lab: 2 hours
  
Prerequisite(s): (MATH 0500 or MATH 0100 or Math Placement)
  
AEES 1040  - Electronic Devices & Circuits  
(3 Credits)  
This course is a study of the basic laws of electronic circuit theory applied to electronic devices with emphasis on solid state devices, including the theory and operation of semi-conductor diodes and transistors. Operational amplifiers, oscillators, active filters and switching circuits are emphasized and analyzed in laboratory experiments. Analysis techniques include the use of Bode plots and computerized experiments using circuit simulation software in addition to bench work wiring up circuits that are analyzed and then tested.

Lecture: 2 hours, Lab: 2 hours
  
AEES 1050  - Introduction to Energy Generation & Management  
(4 Credits)  
This course will introduce energy generation and management to the student. Topics covered will include the physics and energy generation and use, the collection and analysis of energy use data, identification and analysis of energy efficiency measures, and the production of an energy assessment report.

Lecture: 3 hours, Lab: 2 hours
  
Prerequisite(s): (MATH 0600 or MATH 0101 or Math Placement) and (PHYS 1000) or (Bachelor Degree or higher)
  
AEES 1060  - Robotics and Control  
(3 Credits)  
This course provides an introduction to the field of robotics and automation. Topics include the different robot classification systems and robot arm configurations; robot end effectors, robot operating systems and kinematics. This course also introduces basic concepts of automation and artificial intelligence. Various concepts of control are introduced such as programmable logic controllers. Equipment justification is also introduced. Students will program and operate two types of robots using the robots' programming languages.

Lecture: 2 hours, Lab: 2 hours
  
AEES 1070  - Mechanical Systems  
(3 Credits)  
This course is designed to familiarize the student with components used in mechanical systems. The student will learn how to select components based on system requirements and how to implement the component into the system. Attention is given to currently manufactured components and the use of the manufacturer's sizing and mounting procedures. More specifically, the sizing and fitting of these elements based on function, power requirements, life and cost.

Lecture: 2 hours, Lab: 2 hours
  
Prerequisite(s): ENGR 1020 and ENGR 1030
  
AEES 1080  - OSHA General Industry Safety  
(1 Credit)  
This course provides essential training for individuals working in general industry roles, focusing on foundational safety and health principles as required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Students will gain knowledge of OSHA standards and regulations, as well as practical safety practices in various workplace scenarios. The course utilizes OSHA certified curriculum. Upon successful completion, students will earn the OSHA 10-Hour General Industry certification, equipping them with valuable safety skills to enhance workplace safety and compliance.

Lecture: 1 hour
  
AEES 2000  - Introduction to Electromechanical Systems II  
(3 Credits)  
Power generation, transmission and distribution is presented. DC series, shunt, and compound motors are covered. AC single-phase and three-phase generators, synchronous and induction motors, motor protection and electronic controls are analyzed. Students complete extensive labs involving single and three-phase power and motors.

Lecture: 2 hours, Lab: 2 hours
  
Prerequisite(s): AEES 1020
  
AEES 2010  - Applied Engineering Mechanics  
(3 Credits)  
Students are introduced to basic concepts in engineering mechanics: statics, dynamics, and the strength of materials, with a focus on technical application of the fundamentals to mechanical design. Newton’s Laws are studied with emphasis on equilibrium and motion. Realistic problems are analyzed through the use of vector mechanics. Kinematic and kinetics are investigated to a level sufficient enough for students to follow and develop basic analysis of mechanisms and machines. Stress levels and strain are covered allowing for determination of acceptable analysis and design of mechanical systems.

Lecture: 2 hours, Lab: 2 hours
  
Prerequisite(s): MATH 1179 and MATH 1181 and PHYS 1000
  
AEES 2020  - Automation Systems  
(3 Credits)  
This course addresses fundamental issues of automation. Topics covered include the types of automation, designing for automation, automatic assembly transfer systems, automatic feeding and orienting, and automated material handling systems. Quality and cost analysis as they relate to automation, the design and analysis of lean systems, as well as advanced topics in robotics such as vision systems technology are also discussed.

Lecture: 2 hours, Lab: 2 hours
  
Prerequisite(s): (ETME 1010 or AEES 1060) and (ETEE 1800 or AEES 1030)
  
AEES 2030  - HVAC Systems  
(3 Credits)  
This course introduces the physical principles involved in the refrigeration cycle. Students will learn the functions of each component involved in the refrigeration cycle, including compressors, condensers, metering devices, and evaporators. Heating, air-conditioning, and ventilation technologies are also presented.

Lecture: 3 hours
  
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 1000 and MATH 1181
  
AEES 2500  - Capstone Energy Audit^  
(3 Credits)  
This capstone course allows students to apply the knowledge and skills acquired while earning their Associate of Science in Applied Engineering and Energy Systems (AEES). As part of the final capstone project, students perform a comprehensive building energy audit. This project requires students to take measurements using survey instrumentation, develop energy conservation measures, and create a final comprehensive, written report highlighting the results of the energy audit.

Lecture: 3 hours
  
Prerequisite(s): AEES 1050
  

Engineering (ENGR)

ENGR 1020  - Introduction to Engineering & Technology  
(3 Credits)  
This course introduces students to various tools and problem solving skills common to most fields of engineering and technology. The course will emphasize developing both individual critical thinking, and collaborative problem solving skills, essential in today's world of technology. Students will learn the basics of the engineering design process of product design, testing and evaluation. As teams, students will apply this process to complete a semester-long project that will involve practical problem solving, computer simulation and physical product fabrication. To assist in the project analysis, documentation and presentation, students will develop skills with spreadsheets, word processing and presentation software.

Lecture: 2 hours, Lab: 2 hours
  
Prerequisite(s): MATH 0600 (may be taken concurrently) or MATH 0095 or MATH 0101 (may be taken concurrently) or MATH 0100 or Math Placement or (Bachelor Degree or higher)
  
ENGR 1030  - Engineering Graphics  
(3 Credits)  
This course studies the theory of orthographic projection and the principles of descriptive geometry. Students construct exact drawings of three-dimensional objects including auxiliary views, cross-sections, dimensioning, pictorial drawings and free-hand sketching.

Lecture: 2 hours, Lab: 2 hours
  
ENGR 1220  - Scientific Programming  
(3 Credits)  
This course offers instruction in scientific programming using a current programming language. Problems, both numerical and non-numerical, are programmed and solved by use of a mainframe and/or personal computers.

Lecture: 3 hours
  
Prerequisite(s): MATH 1200 or MATH 1200C or MATH 1179 or MATH 1750 or Math Placement
  
ENGR 2050  - Engineering Mechanics Statics  
(3 Credits)  
This is a basic course built around solutions and applications of Newton's laws of forces in equilibrium. Systems of particles and rigid bodies are studied using standard scalar and vector methods.

Lecture: 4 hours
  
Prerequisite(s): (MATH 1910 or MATH 2141)
  
ENGR 2060  - Engineering Mechanics Dynamics  
(3 Credits)  
This course covers the application of Newton's law of motion, to include kinematic and kinetic studies of the motion of systems of particles and rigid bodies, acted upon by unbalanced forces.

Lecture: 3 hours
  
Prerequisite(s): ENGR 2050 and (MATH 1920 or MATH 2142)
  
ENGR 2160  - Introduction to Engineering Analysis  
(2 Credits)  
This course introduces students to analytical methods employed in engineering problem solving using computer software.

Lecture: 3 hours
  
Prerequisite(s): MATH 1910 (may be taken concurrently) or MATH 2141 (may be taken concurrently)
  
ENGR 2320  - Digital Electronics  
(4 Credits)  
This course studies logical building blocks and functional building blocks such as OR gates, AND gates, inventors, XOR gates, registers, counters, adders, D/A converters, A/D converters, decoders, encoders and binary multiplexers. Number systems and codes, arithmetic processes and memory devices are also covered. Input, output, memory, control and arithmetic functional units are developed using functional building-blocks. Note: Engineering students should consult department chair or academic advisor before enrolling.

Lecture: 3 hours, Lab: 3 hours
  
Prerequisite(s): MATH 2141 (may be taken concurrently)
  
ENGR 2520  - Microprocessor & Microcomputers  
(4 Credits)  
This hands-on course familiarizes students with computer and microprocessor software and hardware. Computer architecture and interfacing with input and output devices is studied. Students develop an understanding of how the computer is used to control electronic and mechanical devices.

Lecture: 3 hours, Lab: 3 hours
  
Prerequisite(s): MATH 2141 (may be taken concurrently) or MATH 1910 (may be taken concurrently)
  
ENGR 2540  - Mechanics of Materials for Engineering  
(3 Credits)  
The study of the mechanics of materials is based on the understanding of the conditions of equilibrium of the forces exerted on a structural members, the relations existing between stress and strain in the material, and the conditions imposed by the supports and loading of the members. This course explores the theory of stresses and strains in beams, columns, and thin walled cylinders including combined bending and direct stresses. The free-body diagrams are used to determine external or internal forces. It includes the analysis of the stresses and corresponding deformations in structural members, considering axial loading, torsion, and pure bending. It provides the engineering student the ability to understand the analysis and design of actual engineering structure and machine components.

Lecture: 3 hours
  
Prerequisite(s): ENGR 2050
  
ENGR 2620  - Linear Electrical Systems and Circuit Theory for Engineers  
(3 Credits)  
This course offers a study of electrical linear circuit theorems, Kirchhoff's Laws, DC resistive networks, dependent sources, natural and forced response of first and second order circuits, sinusoidal steady-state response and AC power.

Lecture: 3 hours
  
Prerequisite(s): (ENGR 2150 or PHYS 1500) and (MATH 2990 (may be taken concurrently) or MATH 2362 (may be taken concurrently))
  
ENGR 2621  - Linear Circuits Lab  
(2 Credits)  
Topics covered in this lab include: DC measurements, natural and step response of first and second order circuits, AC measurements, impulse and frequency response and operational amplifiers.

Lecture: 1 hour, Lab: 3 hours
  
Prerequisite(s): ENGR 2620 (may be taken concurrently)
  

Engineering Technology (ENGT)

ENGT 1060  - AutoCAD (Basic)  
(2 Credits)  
This course develops the fundamental skills in drawing, presenting and interpreting ideas, shapes, and concepts using the graphic language of AutoCAD. This course provides practice in the use of Computer Aided Drafting, a technology that has impacted the way many products are designed and produced. Students will explore all the necessary commands needed to produce orthographic drawings and construction type drawings using micro-computers.

Lecture: 1 hour, Lab: 2 hours
  
ENGT 1200  - Introduction to Wireless  
(3 Credits)  
This course introduces wireless networking over a range of applications, from cell phones to wireless local area networks (WLAN), to broadband wide area network links and satellite. Topics covered include an overview of wireless communication technology, protocol layers, local area network (LAN) hardware, IP addressing, 802.11 standards, MAC (Media Access Control) standards, WLAN components, basic security, basic RF theory, antennas and troubleshooting. The student will have hands-on experience with various LAN and WLAN networking components, applications, tools and projects.

Lecture: 2 hours, Lab: 2 hours
  
ENGT 2090  - Advanced Solid Modeling  
(3 Credits)  
Advanced Solid Modeling will enable the student to work with advanced designs and assemblies. This will include mold design, sheet metal design, weldments, and industry specific design tools. The students will learn to use COSMOSWorks to study deflections and load stress on their designs. Other applications would include rendering in PhotoWorks and animation techniques.

Lecture: 2 hours, Lab: 2 hours
  
Prerequisite(s): ENGR 1030
  

Engineering Technology - CNC (ETCN)

ETCN 1100  - Blueprint Reading and the Machinery's Handbook  
(3 Credits)  
Detailed manufacturing part prints are the graphical representation of what the finished product should look like and the specifications required to make it. The Machinery’s Handbook is the encyclopedia used in the manufacturing environment; a storehouse of practical information used to assist not only CNC machinists, but also quality control personnel, tool or mold makers, machine designers and mechanical engineers to solve a list of manufacturing problems. This course uses these two resources to teach students how to interpret the language of blueprints and find the required information regarding machining processes such as speeds, feeds, cutting tool specifications and limits. The focus is on problem-solving skills and strategies.

Lecture: 2 hours, Lab: 2 hours
  
ETCN 1200  - Precision Measurement and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerance  
(3 Credits)  
This course is designed to develop the student's ability to interpret Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) language and accurately and precisely measure manufactured parts and assembles using micrometers, digital calipers and dial indicators. Language and systems of measurement and GD&T are studied and discussed. Basic handheld comparison tools, precision gages, scaled and precision measuring tools are used to accurately measure parts for both size and geometric form. Students also learn about sine bar use and setup, gage blocks care, surface plate preparation and part fixturing. The feature control frame the geometric symbols in the application of the tolerances are also studied.

Lecture: 2 hours, Lab: 2 hours
  
Prerequisite(s): ETCN 1100
  
ETCN 1300  - CNC Machining I  
(3 Credits)  
This course introduces students to CNC programming using flow charts and process operations planning. Fundamental word address (G and M code) industrial standards, practices and terms used in industry are covered. Machine tool axis motion, methods of work piece setup cutting tool, selection cutting tool compensation and canned cycles are reviewed. Students produce manually written part programs for three axis-milling machines and router, and two axis lathes. Review of blueprints, Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) terminology, and right angle trigonometry are covered. Students will set-up and operate CNC milling machines and lathes to make assigned parts.

Lecture: 1 hour, Lab: 4 hours
  
Prerequisite(s): ENGR 1030 (may be taken concurrently) and ETME 1020 (may be taken concurrently) and ETCN 1100 (may be taken concurrently)
  
ETCN 2100  - Computer Aided Manufacturing  
(3 Credits)  
In this seven-and-a-half week course, students study the essentials of a computer-aided manufacturing system (CAM). This course uses MasterCam, which is an industrial software application, used to draw and create a tool path for CNC machining applications such as milling and turning. Students use CAM software in conjunction with computer-aided drawing files (CAD) to create machined features from a piece of stock material. Topics include using MasterCam to select the correct CNC machine tool, draw solid models, organize and optimize machining operations and time.

Lecture: 1 hour, Lab: 4 hours
  
ETCN 2200  - CNC Machining II  
(3 Credits)  
This course is a continuation of the CNC Machining I and Computer-Aided Manufacturing courses. In this course, students will use MasterCam to create toolpaths and code for 3 and 4 axis CNC milling machines and 2 axis CNC lathes. ISO codes will also be written for the 5 axis wire EDM using MasterCam as well as imported files from SolidWorks and AutoCAD. Additionally, students will set up and machine assigned parts on 3 and 4 axis CNC mills, 2 axis CNC lathes and the 5 axis wire EDM.

Lecture: 1 hour, Lab: 4 hours
  
Prerequisite(s): ETCN 1300 (may be taken concurrently) and ETCN 2100 (may be taken concurrently)
  
ETCN 2300  - 3D-Modeling and Prototyping  
(3 Credits)  
This course will study the types of Additive Fabrication (AS) or Additive Freeform Fabrication, as it is called in the industry. Topics include the history of Additive Manufacturing, the types of new generation machines used for A.M., and the types of materials, binders, and substrates used with this technology. Other topics include the size constraints, design constraints, and advantages and applications of this technology. The student will use SolidWorks and MasterCam as the manufacturing software to design and produce parts in the manufacturing lab using the Dimension SST 1200es CNC machine tool.

Lecture: 2 hours, Lab: 2 hours
  
Prerequisite(s): ENGR 1030 (may be taken concurrently) and ENGT 2090 (may be taken concurrently)
  
ETCN 2400  - Industry and OSHA-10 Seminars  
(1 Credit)  
Working safely and a safe working environment are the highest priorities. Students will gain an understanding of OSHA and important details concerning a safe workplace, and will earn the OSHA 10-hour card. The OSHA 10-hour card shows employers the student has had a good introduction to the safety concerns foremost in today’s general industry workplace. This course will also provide networking opportunities with advanced manufacturing companies using the skills learned and developed in the certificate and A.S. degree programs. Industry leaders visit students in the classroom, describing the growing advanced manufacturing market, and how their skills can be integrated.

Lab: 3 hours
  
ETCN 2500  - Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Practicum/Capstone^  
(4 Credits)  
This course gives students an opportunity to apply knowledge and skills learned in the CNC certificate program in an industrial setting. Students spend 140 hours in a manufacturing environment setting up and operating CNC machine tools under the guidance of full-time employees. This class also has a two-hour meeting requirement which is used to develop a portfolio outlining the types of working experiences acquired in the practicum. Students keep a working journal during the semester which will be used to assist in building their portfolio to chronicle their experience in order to address any problems or concerns that may arise. The Engineering Department provides assistance in matching students in practicum settings.

Lecture: 1 hour, Other: 9 hours
  
Prerequisite(s): ETEE 1800 (may be taken concurrently) or (ETCN 2100 (may be taken concurrently) and ETCN 2200 (may be taken concurrently) and ETCN 2300 (may be taken concurrently))
  

Engineering Technology - Mechanical (ETME)

ETME 1020  - Introduction to Manufacturing Processes  
(3 Credits)  
This course provides students with insight and practical experiences in the set-up and operation of basic machines and measuring tools used in manufacturing processes. Significant emphasis is placed on dealing safely with high power machinery, materials, laboratory clothing and machine maintenance. Turning, milling, grinding, drilling and precision measurement are covered, developing students’ ability to fabricate mechanical components using traditional machining. Students learn the limitations of traditional machining and prepare for understanding advanced manufacturing technology.

Lecture: 1 hour, Lab: 4 hours
  

Process Control Technology (INST)

INST 1010  - Introduction to Instrumentation Technology  
(3 Credits)  
This course stresses the theory and practical application of mechanical and electrical sensing devices and control systems. Topics covered include sensing and control devices for temperature, humidity, pressure, level and flow. In addition, calibration procedures are covered.

Lecture: 2 hours, Lab: 2 hours