Astrophysics Curriculum
In order to be successful independent researchers, students in astrophysics need to have a strong foundation in fundamental physics, significant experience in the specifics of their individual research area, and a broad general knowledge of astronomy and astrophysics. To this end, the FSU physics department is implementing a comprehensive new curriculum in astrophysics at both the undergraduate and graduate level. In addition to the new astrophysics course offerings, we have added an astrophysics track to the Physics Ph.D. program, and a new undergraduate major in “Physics and Astrophysics.”
Programs
Astrophysics Courses
Currently Offered
- Planets, Stars, and Galaxies (survey course for non-science majors)
- Introduction to Astrophysics (gateway course for astro course system)
Not Yet Available
- Extragalactic Astronomy
- Astrophysics Laboratory
- Advanced Analysis Techniques in Astronomy
Scientific Computing
Dr. Plewa's Computational Astrophysics course will be offered on an occasional basis through the Scientific Computing department as his teaching duties there allow.
Tentative Course Offering Plan
| Fall 2011 | Spring 2012 | Fall 2012 | Spring 2013 | Fall 2013 | Spring 2014 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intro to Astro | Rad. Proc. | Intro to Astro | Nuclear Astro | Intro to Astro | Physics of Stars |
| Cosmology | Obs. Tech. | Cosmology | Obs. Tech. | Cosmology | Obs. Tech. |
| Seminar | Seminar | Seminar | Seminar | Seminar | Seminar |
| Comp. Astro. |
Please note that these plans are still subject to change. The astrophysics curriculum is still very much in the start-up phase, so this schedule may be varied to meet the changing needs of the student population and the constraints of the available faculty. When making your course plans, please contact Dr. Gerardy or Dr. Hoeflich for the latest information.