The Department of Physics at Fort Hays State University is a rigorous undergraduate program that prepares its graduates for graduate school, medical school and careers in engineering, industry, research and education. In addition to a set of core courses that lead to a degree in physics, the Department of Physics at Fort Hays State University has a tradition of a strong undergraduate research program. All graduates carry out a significant and meaningful research project. The program also stresses written and oral communication skills that are so essential to the future success of any university graduate.
Department of Physics Needs
While the Department of Physics has a solid record of external funding, there are still unmet needs both in teaching and research areas.
National Instruments Lab View Licensing and Upgrade $8,000
Lab View is a software/hardware system that enables design, control, and data analysis of laboratory experiments from a computer. It is a standard piece of equipment in most government or private industry labs. FHSU graduates with training and experience using Lab View have a distinct advantage when applying for graduate school or positions in the work force. The Physics degree program requires every student to be involved in faculty directed research. Lab View is used extensively in the class room and in every research project in the program. Maintaining annual licensing and software upgrades is central to the department’s degree curriculum and the to support ongoing faculty and student research projects.
Mathematica Licensing and Upgrade $500
Mathematica is a high level math language that displays theoretical math equations graphically. It is used to illustrate complex equations on students’ mobile computers in the classroom and by faculty and studentsconducting research.
High Performance Computer $16,000
A high performance dual multi-core shared memory computer will enhance the capabilities of the department’s existing computer cluster. Dr. Gavin Buffington and his students process data for the Air Force Research Laboratory in San Antonio, Texas, that facilitates research on the effects of laser beams on biological tissue. Experience with “super computers” gives graduates a competitive edge in industry and/or graduate school.
Physics Road Show $4,000
Physics students prepare and make presentations to community groups and area middle and high schools. The Physics Road Show gives students confidence to present information and demonstrate science principles to a large audience. The Road Show also serves as a recruiting effort toincrease enrollment in the Physics Department. Funds will support travel expenses and a student director.
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