Computing the Physical World

This introductory, year-long program integrates computer science, mathematics, and physics through hands-on labs, workshops, lectures, and seminars. This program will prepare you for further work in computer science, mathematics, and physics.

Students should be comfortable with algebra or willing to review it. We welcome students with diverse math experiences and provide support to build confidence and skills.

Math, computer science, and physics will reinforce each other throughout the program. Building from algebra, we study calculus (the mathematics of motion, change, and accumulation), moving from concepts of differential and integral calculus to techniques to applications. Symbolic reasoning will be strengthened to support the development of computer science concepts and physics applications.

In computer science, students will learn introductory programming and visual modeling in fall. These tools will help develop our understanding and intuition of calculus concepts and techniques. In winter, we continue with programming and start work with microcontrollers, circuits, and logic. This expands our computer science skills and enables data collection from the physical world.

Fall quarter physics begins with classical mechanics, focusing on matter, motion, energy, and conservation laws. We will use calculus and computer science to model physical systems. In winter, we finish classical mechanics and cover thermodynamics.

Our fall seminar touches on the cultural history of math, physics, and computer science. We explore the origins of these ideas, the cultures in which they were embedded, and the diverse paths taken to understand them.

Spring quarter focuses on calculus (sequences & series, partial derivatives, multiple integrals), physics (electromagnetism, waves, optics), and project work.

We aim to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment. Because the material is challenging, students should expect to participate regularly during class and spend significant time on work outside of class. Through lectures, workshops, labs, seminars, and projects, students will develop deep conceptual understanding and strong quantitative, analytical, and critical thinking skills. Weekly work includes reading assignments, coding exercises, lab reports, problem sets, and seminar responses. There will also be regular quizzes and exams.

This program includes much of the material typically covered in Computer Science Foundations and Models of Motion. Students interested in continuing in computer science and related math to prepare for advanced work in computer science should take Intermediate Computer Science in spring. Students interested in continuing in physics and calculus should remain in this program in spring, thus covering material typically taught in a full year of these subjects.

Anticipated Credit Equivalencies:

Fall

4 - Calculus I

4 - Physics I with Laboratory

6 - Programming and Problem Solving in Python

2 - Cultural History of Science

Winter

4 - Calculus II

4 - Physics II with Laboratory

4 - Programming and Problem Solving in Python

4 - Circuits and Logic

Spring

4 - Calculus III

8 - Physics III with Laboratory

4 - Project Specific Credits