Sarah A. Conley
Assistant Professor of Physics
Associations
Physics and Astronomy
Current Courses
Winter Semester 2026
The Sun and Space Weather
An introduction to the Sun and the phenomena known as space weather. In this course, we will explore the basic properties of the Sun (such as its structure and fuel source) and features of solar activity (such as sunspots and solar flares). We will learn how events produced by the active Sun travel …
Advanced Classical Mechanics
A development of the Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulations of classical mechanics, together with the ideas of symmetry and invariance and their relation to fundamental conservation laws. Additional topics include kinematics and dynamics in noninertial reference frames, a detailed analysis of rigid…
Senior Thesis
An independent study program for students working on a research problem in a field of interest, culminating in the writing of a senior thesis. Students register for PHYS 458 in the winter semester. Majors writing an honors thesis register for both PHYS 457 and 458.
Fall Semester 2026
Introductory Physics of Living Systems I/Lab
An introduction to physics designed for students majoring in life sciences and/or interested in pre-health studies. Topics include geometrical optics, Newtonian mechanics, acoustics, fluids and thermal physics. Class meetings integrate group-based laboratory investigations, simulations and problem s…
Mathematical Methods of Physics
A study of selected mathematical techniques necessary for advanced work in physics and other sciences. The interpretation of functions as vectors in Hilbert space provides a unifying theme for developing Fourier analysis, special functions, methods for solving ordinary and partial differential equat…
Electromagnetic Theory
Starting from Maxwell's equations, this course develops electrostatics from solutions to Poisson's equation, magnetostatics using the vector potential, electrodynamics with scalar and vector potentials, and properties of electromagnetic waves. Simple radiation problems are discussed as well as the r…
Senior Thesis
An independent study program for students working on a research problem in a field of interest, culminating in the writing of a senior thesis. Students register for PHYS 457 in the fall semester. Majors writing an honors thesis register for both PHYS 457 and 458.