Computational Physics
Computational Physics (4525): (2 weighted high school science credits)
Computational-Physics-Syllabus-2025-2026
This year-long course introduces students to the fundamental principles of physics through both conceptual understanding and hands-on application. The first semester focuses on classical mechanics and thermodynamics, including motion, Newton’s laws, energy, momentum, rotation, gravitation, fluids, oscillations, and the laws of thermodynamics. The second semester builds on this foundation with the study of waves, sound, electricity and magnetism, circuits, optics, and selected topics in modern physics. Emphasizing both lecture and laboratory work, students will apply physics concepts through hands-on experiments and strengthen their problem-solving skills using algebra, computer modeling, and computational tools such as Python, MATLAB, or spreadsheets. By integrating coding and simulations with traditional physics labs, students explore how physics principles connect to real-world systems and modern scientific research. Prerequisite: Chemistry; Biology; Precalculus.
Computational Science: Engineering Design, Innovation & Entrepreneurship
Computational Science: Engineering Design, Innovation & Entrepreneurship (4550): (2 weighted high school science credits)
The EDIE Lab is the culminating experience for seniors in the Engineering and Computational Science Strands, providing an interdisciplinary capstone that merges physics, programming, and engineering design. The course emphasizes the application of foundational physics concepts as the framework for solving authentic engineering and computational challenges.
The EDIE Lab fosters the fusion of mathematics, physics, and programming through collaborative, project-based learning. Students explore advanced programming topics such as object-oriented programming, data structures, and algorithms using C++ and Python, as well as introductory data science applications. Through semester-long keystone projects, students develop critical thinking, teamwork, and laboratory skills, connecting classroom physics to real-world engineering and computational applications. By integrating coding, simulation, and experimental design, students emerge with the knowledge and skills to pursue advanced study and professional careers in applied physics, engineering, and computer science. Prerequisites: Computational Physics; Pre-Calculus.