 | Text Only Search Home Login |
| School of Science and Computer Engineering |
SCHOOL OF SCIENCE AND COMPUTER ENGINEERING
| Biological Sciences | Environmental Science |
| Biotechnology | Mathematical Science |
| Chemistry | Physics |
| Computer Engineering | Physical Sciences |
| Computer Information Systems | Software Engineering |
| Computer Science | Statistics |
| Computer Systems Engineering | Systems Engineering |
The School of Science and Computer Engineering (SCE) offers high quality academic degrees consistent with the role of a regional public university. Plans within the school prepare graduates to enter fields in natural sciences, mathematics, computing and computer and software engineering. Individuals in the school's plans are expected to develop skills in problem solving, independent study and critical thinking, and to be able to adapt knowledge to new situations and to the benefit of society. Students in these plans attain a sense of professional values and ethics as well as knowledge and skills relevant to their specific subject area. This sense of professional responsibility is essential if society is to benefit from the interfaces with advanced technology and science.
The school supports research and development directed toward producing new knowledge and identifying additional applications of existing knowledge. Dissemination of scientific knowledge through publications and presentations is encouraged, as well as professional service to local, regional, national and international communities.
Faculty of the school aspire to a professional model that includes balance among the components of the mission: teaching, research and service. The Chair of Computing and Mathematics coordinates the plans in
| Office | Phone | |
| Office of Dean | Bayou 3611 | 281-283-3700 |
| Office of the Associate Dean | Bayou 3611 | 281-283-3700 |
| Office of Student Advising: | Email: sceadvising@uhcl.edu | |
| For appointments with advisors: | Bayou 3611 | 281-283-3700 |
| For questions on status of paperwork: | Bayou 3611 | 281-283-3711 |
| Division of Computing & Mathematics, Chair | Delta 163 | 281-283-3873 |
| Computer Engineering, Computer Systems | Delta 164 | 281-283-3873 |
| Computer Science, Computer Information | Delta 161 | 281-283-3873 |
| Systems & Software Engineering | Bayou 3521 | 281-283-3720 |
| Mathematical Sciences & Statistics | Bayou 3531 | 281-283-3770 |
| Division of Natural Sciences, Chair | Bayou 3531 | 281-283-3770 |
| Biological & Environmental Sciences | Bayou 3531 | 281-283-3770 |
| Chemistry & Physics | ||
| Web Site | http://www.sce.cl.uh.edu |
Computer Information Systems, Computer Science, Mathematical Sciences and Statistics. Support areas include telecommunications, robotics, control systems, industrial modeling, mathematical modeling and petrochemical processes.
The Chair of Engineering coordinates the plans in Computer Engineering, Computer Systems Engineering, Software Engineering and Systems Engineering.
The undergraduate degree plan in Computer Systems Engineering is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission and the undergraduate degree plan in Computer Science is accredited by the Computer Accreditation Commission of Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Inc. The degree plans in Chemistry are accredited by the American Chemical Society (ACS).
The Chair of Natural Sciences coordinates the plans in Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Physics and Physical Sciences. Sub-plans or specialization areas include physiology/pre-health, cell/molecular, ecology/microbiology, biotechnology, environmental chemistry, environmental geology, environmental biology, and industrial hygiene and safety.
STANDARDS AND REQUIREMENTS FOR DEGREES IN SCIENCE AND COMPUTER ENGINEERING
Following admission to the university, students' transcript evaluations are forwarded to the Office of Student Advising. Some undergraduate plans and all graduate plans require that faculty admissions committees review the students' files and determine whether students will be accepted into degree plans. Students are notified of their admission status by the associate dean. Once admitted to a degree plan, students meet with academic advisors and faculty who assist students in completing a Candidate Plan of Study (CPS). The CPS delineates specific requirements of a study area and must be completed during the semester of admission into a degree plan.
In general, no more than 12 hours of course work for an undergraduate degree and 9 hours for a graduate degree taken at University of Houston-Clear Lake prior to completion of a CPS may be applied toward any degree in the school. These hours, along with the hours accumulated during the semester the CPS is being finalized, will be evaluated for acceptance by the faculty advisor and approved by the associate dean.
REQUIREMENTS FOR UNDERGRADUATE PLANS
Undergraduate students are required to satisfy the university undergraduate degree requirements described earlier in this catalog. Students pursuing bachelor of arts degrees are required to complete a minimum of 123 semester hours, while students pursuing bachelor of science degrees must complete a minimum of 132 semester hours.
Courses noted on the CPS as academic core courses must be completed with a grade of "C-" or better. Some plans may require a grade of "C" or better in courses taken in the academic core.
STANDARDS FOR GRADUATE DEGREES
The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is required of all students applying for admission to a graduate plan in the school. Computer Information Systems is the only plan that accepts Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) in lieu of the GRE. It is recommended that students who apply for admission to a graduate plan have a grade point average (GPA) of 3.000 or greater (four point grade scale) on the last 60 hours of course work. GRE scores will be evaluated by the degree plans' admissions committee and will be used as one of the indicators of the applicant's potential for completion of the plan to which he/she has applied. Individual degree plans may specify additional qualifications (see individual plan descriptions).
All graduate degrees in the School of Science and Computer Engineering require 36 hours, 30 hours of which must be graduate courses. No more than six hours of upper-level credit will be allowed in any master's degree. A maximum of six hours of Independent Study may be applied to any master's degree. A maximum of six hours of grades within the range of "C+," or "C" may be counted toward any graduate degree.
Students selecting the thesis option must select a committee and submit a formal thesis proposal to the Office of the Dean prior to enrolling for thesis courses. The thesis committee will consist of at least three members, two of whom must be full-time UHCL faculty members. A fulltime faculty member of the School of Science and Computer Engineering will serve as the chair of the committee. The Office of the Dean will notify students, chairs and committee members of approval of the committee composition. The chair will report the final grades.
Students must register for the appropriate thesis research course no later than the first long semester after the dean has accepted the proposal. See the Master's Degree Option: Master's Thesis section of this catalog for more information.
University and SCE guidelines and procedures relating to the graduate thesis committee, thesis proposal, the thesis document and defense are described in the Graduate Thesis Guidelines and Procedures Manual available in the Office of the Dean.
All graduate plans in the school offering this option require a capstone course. See the particular plan area for the specific extended course work option requirements.
Some plans offer an internship option. See the particular plan of interest.
Research Project Course Option
Some plans offer a research project course option. See the particular plan of interest.
DIVISION OF COMPUTING, engineering AND MATHEMATICS
Students desiring to study in the computing sciences or engineering may choose any one of four undergraduate or seven graduate plans. Those pursuing mathematics or statistics may choose from two undergraduate or two graduate plans. Applicants should consult the chair of the division for additional information.
Requirements and Standards for Plans in Computing, Engineering, Mathematical Science and Statistics
Undergraduate Admission Requirements
A faculty admission committee reviews all applications. Students entering any of the undergraduate computing plans should have a cumulative GPA of 2.500 (four-point grade scale) or better in lower-level or transfer courses. Students with a GPA of less than 2.500 are encouraged to provide a written statement or additional material that will assist the admission committee in determining the individual's potential for success in upper-level courses.
All core courses require a grade of "C-" or better.
Students seeking graduate degree candidacy should have a bachelor's degree in a related field. To be accepted for degree candidacy, students should be within 15 hours of completing upper-level foundation courses. These courses are listed in the particular degree area in the catalog. All foundation courses must be completed within one calendar year of first graduate registration at UHCL. Students needing more than 15 hours of upper-level foundation courses are encouraged to complete a second bachelor's degree.
UNDERGRADUATE COMPUTING AND ENGINEERING DEGREES
The following courses, or their approved equivalents, constitute the computing core and are required for each of the three undergraduate computing degrees. Courses marked with an asterisk (*) may be taken at the lower-level.
| CENG 3112 | Lab for Digital Circuits | CSCI 3331 | Comp Org & Assembly Lang |
| CENG 3132 | Digital Circuits | CSCI 3333 | Data Structures |
| CENG 3311 | Lab for Telecom and Networks | MATH 3331 | Discrete Mathematics |
| CENG 3331 | Intro to Telecom and Networks | SWEN 4432 | Software Engineering |
| *CSCI 3133 | Programming with C |
Computer Information Systems (Undergraduate)
The plan in Computer Information Systems leads to a bachelor of science (BS) degree. This plan prepares students to hold technical, administration and management positions in the analysis, design, implementation, maintenance, operation and management of computer-based information systems. It is based on a broad general education and upper-level studies in computer science and other areas related to information systems, such as management, communication and accounting.
Students must complete the following courses or their equivalents in preparation for upper-level study:
| Accounting | 3 hours |
| Business Calculus or Calculus I | 3-4 hours |
| *Statistics | 3 hours |
| *Management Theory and Practice | 3 hours |
| Economics | 3 hours |
| Three additional hours of accounting or economics | 3 hours |
| *Computer Programming in Pascal, Visual Basic | 3 hours |
| *Computer Programming in C | 3 hours |
*Courses that are available at UHCL.
Students must meet these core requirements or approved upper-level substitutes:
| CINF 4031 | Telecom Sys Operations | ||
| CINF 3231 | IS Theory & Practice | CINF 4234 | Soft.Modling & Des. Patterns |
| CINF 4230 | Web App Dev | CINF 4634 | Comp Sys Administration |
| CINF 4838 | Senior Projects in CIS | CSCI 3134 | Software Dev with Java |
| CSCI 3331 | Computer Organ/Assembly Lang | CSCI 3333 | Data Structures |
| DSCI 3131 | Quantitative Methods /Mgmt | CSCI 4333 | Design/Data Base Systems |
| MATH 3331 | Discrete Math | SWEN 4432 | Software Engineering |
Lower-level credit given for any of the above courses may require students to take additional approved technical electives to satisfy the plan requirements.
Required Technical Electives (15 Hours)
| Business electives |
| CINF/CSCI/CENG/SWEN courses |
| **A communication course selected from the following: |
| COMM 3132 Written Communications in Business |
| COMM 4233 Speech Communication: Theory and Practice |
The specific courses beyond the core requirements to be included in the CPS will be selected by students with the approval of the faculty advisor.
**This requirement is in addition to the technical writing course requirement of SCE.
Students interested in developing a sub-plan in telecommunications should consider the following as electives:
| CINF 4031 | Telecom Systems Operation | CENG 4231 | Telecom Switching Systems |
| CENG 4131 | Telecom Net Devices | CSCI 4132 | Network Protocols |
The following study plan for the four regular semesters is recommended as a typical example for incoming full-time CIS students. Individual study plans may vary as long as the prerequisite structures are satisfied. Students should seek the advice of their assigned faculty advisor and set up their Candidate Plan of Study (CPS) as early as possible.
| CSCI 3333 | Data Structures | ||
| CINF 3231 | IS Theory & Practice | MATH 3331 | Discrete Mathematics |
| CSCI 3134 | Software Dev with Java | Business electives |
| CINF 4031 | Telecom Sys Operation | ||
| CSCI 3331 | Computer Organ & Assemb Lang | SWEN 4432 | Software Engineering |
| CSCI 4333 | Design of Database Sys | COMM elective |
| CINF 4230 | Web App Develop | CINF 4234 | Soft. Modeling & Des Patterns |
| CINF 4634 | Comp Sys Admin | CINF/CSCI/CSEN/SWEN elective | |
| DSCI 3131 | Quant Methods for Mngmt |
| CINF 4838 | Senior Projects in CIS | CINF/CSCI/CSEN/SWEN elective |
| CINF/CSCI/CSEN/SWEN elective | Business elective |
Computer Science (Undergraduate)
The plan in Computer Science leads to a bachelor of science (BS) degree. This plan emphasizes the development of the skills and analytical abilities necessary to specify, design and develop computer-based solutions to complex systems problems. Students receive extensive instruction in software and hardware principles; in scientific, industrial and commercial applications; and in the supporting mathematical tools. The curriculum allows students to develop a broad background in computer science areas relating to system and application software development.
The educational objectives of Computer Sciences are that students in the plan shall:
receive instruction and demonstrate comprehension in the use of scientific methods as well as mathematics as tools for determining how to proceed in solving problems. This includes instruction in the design and evaluation of tests of computer systems, and higher-order
thinking skills such as the analysis of problems and the synthesis of solutions.
receive instruction and demonstrate comprehension in analyzing a complex problem and reducing it to a structured algorithm that can be implemented on various computer platforms.
receive instruction and demonstrate comprehension in current paradigms of computer software design including structured (top-down design), and object-oriented programming.
be proficient in modern programming that support these approaches, such as C, C++, Java and Visual Basic. Usage of programming tools, such as Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) constitutes part of this instruction.
receive instruction and demonstrate comprehension of the support systems for computers: digital circuits, computer architecture and organization, telecommunications and operating systems.
be exposed to proper professional ethics in their chosen profession through contact with faculty, students and practicing professionals, and are expected to demonstrate ethical behavior throughout their course of studies.
in conjunction with the faculty and visiting, practicing professionals from industry, participate in life long learning experiences that will ensure their productive participation in their chosen profession and in their communities.
The Computer Science program at the University of Houston-Clear Lake is one of twelve computing programs in Texas accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, Inc.
Students must complete the following courses or their equivalents in preparation for core requirements:
| *Linear Algebra | 3 hours |
| Calculus I & II | 8 hours |
| *Calculus III | 3-4 hours |
| *Ordinary Differential Equations | 3 hours |
| *Electronic Circuits | 4-8 hours |
| *Calculus Based Physics | 6-8 hours |
| General Chemistry | 3-4 hours |
| *Computer Programming in Pascal, Visual Basic or Ada | 3 hours |
| *Computer Programming in C | 3 hours |
* Courses that are available at UHCL that can be taken while concurrently enrolled in a Community College.
Students must take the following courses or their approved substitutes:
| CENG 3112 | Lab for Digital Circuits | CSCI 3331 | Comp Organ/Assembly Lang | |
| CENG 3132 | Digital Circuits | CSCI 3333 | Data Structures | |
| CENG 3311 | Lab for Telecom & Networks | CSCI 3532 | Adv Data Struc & Algorithms | |
| CENG 3331 | Intro to Telecom & Networks | CSCI 4333 | Design of Data Base Systems | |
| CENG 3511 | Lab for Computer Architecture | CSCI 4534 | Operating Systems | |
| CENG 3531 | Comp Arch: Minis & Micros | MATH 3331 | Discrete Math | |
| CSCI 3134 | Software Dev with Java | MATH 3334 | Prob & Stat for Sci & Eng | |
| CSCI 3231 | Numerical Methods | SWEN 4432 | Software Engineering | |
| CSCI 3233 | Object-Oriented Design & Prog |
| CSCI 4838 | Senior Project in Computer Science |
In addition to the core requirements, students must also take the following:
| CSCI courses | 6 hours | |||
| CENG courses | 3 hours | |||
| Approved science/engineering electives | 3 hours |
The following study plan for four regular semesters is recommended as a typical example for incoming full-time CS students. Individual study plans may vary as long as the prerequisite structures are satisfied. Students should seek the advice of their assigned faculty advisor and set up their Candidate Plan of Study (CPS) as early as possible. The plan includes 48 hours of required core and 12 hours of required electives. Students must take all courses or their approved substitutes.
| CENG 3132 / CENG 3112 | Digital Circuits and Laboratory |
| CSCI 3134 | Software Dev with Java |
Note: The above courses should be taken before the start of the Junior year at UHCL (no later than summer of sophomore year).
Semester 1 (Junior Year - 13 credits):
| CENG 3331 / CENG 3311 | Intro to Telecom & Networks and Laboratory |
| CSCI 3233 | Object-Oriented Design and Programming |
| CSCI 3333 | Data Structures |
| MATH 3331 | Discrete Mathematics |
Semester 2 (Junior Year - 16 credits):
| CSCI 3331 | Computer Organization and Assembly Language |
| CENG 3531 / CENG 3511 | Comp Arch: Minis & Micros and Laboratory |
| CSCI 3532 | Advanced Data Structures and Algorithms |
| MATH 3334 | Prob & Stat for Eng & Sci |
| SWEN 4432 | Software Engineering |
Semester 3 (Senior Year - 12 credits):
| CSCI 3231 | Numerical Methods |
| CSCI 4333 | Design of Database Systems |
Approved science/engineering elective
Approved CSCI elective or Approved CENG elective
Semester 4 (Senior Year - 12 credits):
| CSCI 4534 | Operating Systems |
Approved CENG elective or Approved CSCI elective
Approved CSCI elective
One of the following:
| CSCI 4837 | Social, Ethical, and Security-Related Issues in Computing or |
| CSCI 4838 | Senior Project in Computer Science |
Computer Systems Engineering (Undergraduate)
The plan in Computer Systems Engineering leads to the bachelor of science (BS) degree. This engineering plan is accredited the ABET, Inc. and emphasizes the study of large and small computer systems for industrial, scientific and business applications. Computer hardware and software concepts, along with engineering-level mathematics, prepare students for jobs in computer-based industries as well as for admission into the graduate plan in Computer Engineering.
The culminating experience for a graduate of this plan is CENG 4625 / CENG 4626 Senior Projects. Students desiring to complete this plan in 4 years should concurrently enroll at UHCL after completing 30 semester hours at the transfer institution.
The mission of the Computer Systems Engineering plan is to provide students instruction in the pragmatic application of core knowledge by which they can specify, design and develop large and small computer systems for industrial and scientific purposes. There is an emphasis on microcomputer-based embedded systems. The curriculum includes sub-plans in software engineering and telecommunications.
Educational objectives of Computer Systems Engineering are that graduates in the plan shall:
Students seeking a degree in Computer Systems Engineering must have completed these courses or their equivalents in preparation for upper-level study:
| General Chemistry | 4 hours |
| Calculus I & II | 6 hours |
| *Calculus III | 3 hours |
| *Linear Algebra | 3 hours |
| *Ordinary Differential Equations | 3 hours |
| *Calculus Based Physics | 8 hours |
| *Programming with C | 3 hours |
*Courses that are available at UHCL.
| CENG 3112 | Lab for Digital Circuits | CENG 4133 | Microprocessor Interfacing | |
| CENG 3113 | Lab for Linear Circuits | CENG 4331 | Analy & Design of Linear Sys | |
| CENG 3114 | Lab for Adv Linear Circuits | CENG 4534 | Digital Systems Design | |
| CENG 3115 | Lab for Digital Sig. Processing | CENG 4625 / CENG 4626 | Senior Projects | |
| CENG 3132 | Digital Circuits | CSCI 3231 | Numerical Methods | |
| CENG 3133 | Linear Circuits | CSCI 3233 | Obj-Oriented Design & Prog | |
| CENG 3134 | Advanced Linear Circuits | CSCI 3331 | Comp Org & Assembly Lang | |
| CENG 3135 | Intro to Digital Sig. Processing | CSCI 3333 | Data Structures | |
| CENG 3311 | Lab for Telecom/Networks | MATH 3331 | Discrete Mathematics | |
| CENG 3331 | Intro to Telecom/Networks | MATH 3334 | Probability & Statistics for Scientists & Engineers | |
| CENG 3511 | Lab for Computer Architecture | |||
| CENG 3531 | Comp Arch: Minis & Micros | SENG 4130 | Intro to Systems Engineering | |
| CENG 3624 | Intro to Engineering | SWEN 4432 | Software Engineering | |
| CENG 4113 | Lab for Microprocess Interfacing |
An additional 12 hours of technical electives in CENG/CSCI/SWEN are required.
Sub-plan in Software Engineering
Students interested in software engineering should select from the following courses as their required technical electives:
| CSCI 3532 | Adv Data Structure & Algorithms | SWEN 4433 | Software Engineering Tools |
| CSCI 4534 | Operating Systems | SWEN 4435 | Personal Software Process |
Sub-plan in Telecommunications
Students interested in careers involving telecommunications and networks should take the following courses as their required technical electives:
| CENG 4031 | Telecom Systems Operation | CENG 4231 | Telecom Switching Systems |
| CENG 4131 | Telecom Networking Devices | CSCI 4132 | Network Protocols |
GRADUATE COMPUTING AND ENGINEERING DEGREES
Computer Engineering (Graduate)
The plan in Computer Engineering leads to the master of science (MS) degree. Graduate study in this plan prepares students to occupy leading roles in the development and use of computers and computer systems. The plan in Computer Engineering addresses the evaluation, design and implementation of computer systems for various applications. The curriculum and faculty research emphasize the integration of systems design, software applications and hardware design. Current specializations within the computer engineering degree plan include computer control systems, industrial automation and robotics, fault-tolerant computing, parallel processing, telecommunications and networking. The plan consists of formal courses, laboratory work and research in one of the specialty areas conducted under the guidance of a faculty advisor.
Candidates should have a bachelor's degree in Computer Systems Engineering or equivalent. Students should consult with an academic advisor to determine if they have sufficient background to satisfy course prerequisites. At a minimum, the following undergraduate courses, or their equivalents, are required and should be completed prior to enrolling in certain graduate courses:
| CENG 3112 | Lab for Digital Circuits | CENG 4534 | Digital Systems Design |
| CENG 3132 | Digital Circuits | CSCI 3133 | Programming with C |
| CENG 3511 | Lab for Computer Architecture | CSCI 3231 | Numerical Methods |
| CENG 3531 | Comp Arch: Minis & Micros | CSCI 3331 | Comp Org Assembl Lang |
| CENG 4133 | Microprocessor Interfacing | MATH 4131 | Ord Diff Equations & Appl |
| CENG 4331 | Analysis and Design of Linear Systems |
(Note: Students may enroll in CENG 5031 Computer Engineering Fundamentals and CENG 5011 Lab for Computer Engineering Fundamentals, to meet the requirements of CENG 3132, CENG 3112, CENG 3531 and CENG 3511.)
The following courses or their approved substitutions are required for both the thesis and the extended course work options.
| CENG 5131 | Engineering Applications | 3 hours |
| CENG 5334 | Fault Tolerant Computing | 3 hours |
| CENG 5434 | Microcomputer Systems Design | 3 hours |
| CENG 6332 | High Performance Computer Architecture | 3 hours |
Elective Requirements (18 Hours)
The following courses or their approved substitutions are required for both the thesis and the extended course work options.
| CENG courses, 5100-6000 level | 6 hours |
| CENG/CSCI/SWEN courses, 5100-6000 level | 6 hours |
| Technical elective, 4000-6000 level | 6 hours |
| CENG 6939 | Master's Thesis Research | 6 hours |
(Note: an additional 3 hours of thesis may be used as a plan elective.)
Extended Course Work Option (6 Hours)
| CENG 6838 Research Project* | 3 hours |
| CENG 5000-6000 elective | |
| (Student may take 3 hours extra of project course) | 3 hours |
(*To be taken after completion of core courses and during last 12 hours)
Sub-plan in Digital Signal Processing (DSP)
Students interested in developing a sub-plan in Digital Signal Processing should take the following as electives:
| CENG 5431 | Digital Signal Processing | CENG 5433 | Prin of Digital Communication Sys | |
| CENG 6431 | DSP Implementations |
Sub-plan in Telecommunications
Students interested in developing a sub-plan in telecommunications should take the following as electives:
| CENG 5333 | Network Performance Analysis | CENG 5433 | Prin of Digital Comm. Sys |
| CENG 5431 | Digital Signal Processing |
Computer Information Systems (Graduate)
Graduate studies in Computer Information Systems lead to a master of science (MS) degree. This plan is designed to prepare students for key technical, administration and management positions in the analysis, design, implementation, maintenance, operation and management of industrial and commercial computer information systems.
Students aspiring to graduate degree candidacy must have a bachelor's degree in a related area and a background in Computer Information Systems. Preparatory requirements are proficiency in at least two high level languages, including an object-oriented programming language such as Java, C++ or C#, and the following undergraduate courses:
Calculus I or Business Calculus
Upper-level foundation course requirements :
| CSCI 4333 | Design of Database Systems | ||
| CSCI 3331 | Comp Org & Assembly Lang | MATH 3331 | Discrete Mathematics |
| CSCI 3333 | Data Structures | SWEN 4432 | Software Engineering |
| CENG 3311 | Lab for Tele. & Network | CSCI 4230 | Web App Development |
| CENG 3331 | Tele. & Network |
None of the above courses may apply to the graduate degree.
The following courses, or approved substitutions are required for both the thesis option and extended course work options:
| CSCI 5132 | Internet Protocols |
| CSCI 5333 | Database Management Systems |
| CSCI 6530 | Research Methods in Computer Science |
| CENG/CSCI/SWEN or other approved related courses | 6 hours |
| CSCI 4000-6000 level | 6 hours |
| CSCI courses, 5100-6000 level | 9 hours |
| CSCI 6939 Master's Thesis Research | 6 hours |
Extended Course Work Option (27 Hours)
Students desiring to follow the extended course work option must successfully complete the capstone project course.
| CENG/CSCI/SWEN | or other approved related courses | 6 hours | |
| CSCI | 4000-6000 | 6 hours | |
| CSCI | 5100-6000 | 12 hours | |
| CSCI | 6838 | Research Project and Seminar (taken after completion of core and during last 12 hours) | 3 hours |
Sub-plan In Database and Web-based Systems
Students interested in developing a sub-plan in Database Systems should take the following electives:
| CSCI 5433 | Object-Oriented Database Systems |
| CSCI 5533 | Distributed Information Systems |
| CSCI 5633 | Web Database Development |
| CSCI 5733 | XML Application Development |
| CSCI 5833 | Data Mining: Tools and Techniques |
Sub-plan In Networking and Security
Students interested in developing a sub-plan in Networking and Security should take the following electives:
| CENG 5333 | Network Performance Analysis |
| CSCI 5233 | Computer Security and Integrity |
| CSCI 5234 | Web Security |
| CSCI 5235 | Network Security |
| CSCI 5431 | Client-Server Based Network Programming |
| CSCI 6132 | Enterprise Networking |
The plan in Computer Science leads to the master of science (MS) degree. This plan is designed to prepare students to hold key technical positions in the development of computer-based solutions to complex systems problems.
Students seeking admission into the degree plan in Computer Science must have a bachelor's degree in computer science or a closely related area and extensive background in computer science. It is expected that the minimum GRE score required for acceptance into the plan be reasonably balanced amongst the different components of the GRE exam. Students with bachelor's and master's degrees in related fields of study will be required to complete appropriate background courses. The admissions committee, during evaluation of the student's application, will designate courses to be completed before beginning graduate studies. Preparatory requirements include proficiency in at least two modular computer programming languages, including C or C++, plus the completion of the following undergraduate courses, their equivalents or successful completion of equivalence exams upon approval from the admissions committee.
| CENG 3511 | Lab for Computer Architecture | CSCI 4333 | Design of Database Syst | |
| CENG 3531 | Comp Arch: Minis & Micros | CSCI 4534 | Operating Systems | |
| CSCI 3331 | Comp Org & Assembly Lang | MATH 3131 | Applied Linear Algebra | |
| CSCI 3333 | Data Structures | MATH 3231 | Calculus III | |
| CSCI 3532 | Adv Data Structures & Algorithms | SWEN 4432 | Software Engineering |
Additionally, at least two of the following must be completed:
| CSCI 3231 | Numerical Methods | PHYS 3032 | University Physics II | |
| MATH 3331 | Discrete Mathematics | |||
| MATH 3334 | Prob & Stat for Eng & Sci | |||
| MATH 4131 | Ord. Diff. Equations & Apps. |
None of the above courses may apply towards the graduate degree.
Students should consult with their faculty advisor to determine if they have sufficient background to satisfy a specific course prerequisite. Foundation and prerequisite courses should be completed before enrolling in any graduate course.
Students expecting credit for foundation courses completed at international institutions must submit course descriptions. This will allow proper evaluation and appropriate credit.
The following graduate leveling courses are offered to provide highly qualified students from other disciplines a fast track into the graduate computer science plan. These courses can be taken in lieu of the specified foundation courses, but cannot be applied towards the graduate degree.
| CSCI 5032 | Data Structures (satisfies the requirements for CSCI 3333 and CSCI 3532) |
| CSCI 5061 | Programming Languages and Problem Solving (satisfies the requirements for two high level languages and CSCI 3331) |
Note: Approval from the admissions committee is required to enroll in any of these courses.
The following courses or their approved substitutions are required for both the thesis and the extended course work options:
| CSCI 6530 | Research Methods in Computer Science |
One of the following:
| CSCI 5232 | Concepts of Programming Languages and Compilers |
| CSCI 5432 | Design and Analysis of Algorithms |
Sub-plan Requirements (15 Hours)
The following sub-plans are required for both the thesis and the extended course work options. Students must complete three courses from one sub-plan and two from a second sub-plan. For students pursuing theses, credits from independent study in computer science (CSCI 5939) can be approved to fulfill sub-plan elective requirements.
Sub-plan 1: Web and Databases
CSCI 5333 Database Management Systems (required in this sub-plan)
| CSCI 5433 | Object Oriented Database Systems |
| CSCI 5533 | Distributed Information Systems |
| CSCI 5633 | Web Database Development |
| CSCI 5733 | XML Application Development |
| CSCI 5833 | Data Mining: Tools and Techniques |
Sub-plan 2: Systems and Networking
CSCI 5531 Advanced Operating Systems (required in this sub-plan)
| CSCI 5132 | Internet Protocols |
| CSCI 5233 | Computer Security and Integrity |
| CSCI 5235 | Network Security |
| CSCI 5431 | Client-Server Based Network Programming |
| CSCI 5631 | N-tier Client Server Architectures |
| CSCI 6532 | Real-Time Systems |
It is anticipated that additional sub-plans will be available in the future.
Required courses for thesis option.
| CENG/SWEN elective 5100-6000 level | 3 hours |
| CENG/CSCI/SWEN electives, 4000-6000 | 6 hours |
| CSCI 6939 Master's Thesis Research | 6 hours |
Extended Course Work Option (15 Hours)
Complete the following courses:
| CENG/CSCI/SWEN electives | 4000-6000 level | 6 hours |
| CENG/SWEN elective | 5100-6000 level | 3 hours |
| CSCI elective | 5100-6000 level | 3 hours |
| CSCI 6838 | Research Project and Seminar (taken during the last 12 hours, after completion of CSCI 5531, CSCI 5333 and the plan core. | 3 hours |
Participation with PhD Degree at Texas A&M University
The Computer Science Department of Texas A&M University is accepting applications for the PhD plan from interested UHCL graduates. The degree requirements include minimal residence at the Texas A&M campus. Texas A&M University maintains the same entrance standards for all applicants. This case by case plan supports research within the Clear Lake area technical community. Individuals may contact the Chair of the UHCL Computer Science plan for details.
Software Engineering (Graduate)
The graduate plan in Software Engineering leads to the master of science (MS) degree. Studies address the foundations, methodologies and tools used in the development and evolution of software intensive systems. By providing a careful balance between theory and practice, the plan prepares students for key roles in industry, government agencies and other institutions where software is important and provides a basis for an academic level related to software engineering.
To enter the Software Engineering plan as either a local student or distance student, a candidate must typically hold a bachelor's degree in computer science, computer engineering or related field, must submit GRE scores of 1000 (verbal + quantitative), with a verbal score of 400 or higher and a GPA of 3.00 or higher. Writing ability (as measured by the new writing component of the GRE and other means) and previous related professional experience may also be considered during admission review. The faculty graduate admissions committee will decide acceptance into the program based upon program need, the guidelines stated herein and university admission requirements. Once admitted, the student must file a candidate plan of study (CPS) in the first semester of enrollment. Foundation courses that are found to be needed are added to the CPS and must be completed in or before the first year of enrollment.
Credit earned before acceptance.
No more than 9 hours of graduate level SWEN classes may be applied toward the SWEN degree if taken without admission into the program. No more than 6 hours credit may be transferred to the SWEN degree.
Foundation courses and their prerequisites are required for entry and must be completed before enrolling in graduate SWEN courses.
Foundation Courses Required for Entrance
| CSCI 3333 | Data Structures | 3 hours |
| MATH 3331 | Discrete Mathematics** | 3 hours |
| MATH 3334 | Prob and Statistics for Scientists and Engineers** | 3 hours |
| WRIT 3035 | Intermediate Writing * | 3 hours |
| WRIT 3135 | Technical Writing * | 3 hours |
*Required if verbal GRE <400, ** Required if quantitative GRE <500
| SWEN 5130 | Requirements Engineering | 3 hours |
| SWEN 5230 | Software Project Management | 3 hours |
| SWEN 5232 | Software Construction | 3 hours |
| SWEN 5233 | Software Architecture | 3 hours |
| SWEN 5234 | Software Engineering Processes | 3 hours |
| SWEN 5431 | Testing, Validation and Verification | 3 hours |
| SWEN 5432 | Software Engineering | 3 hours |
Capstone Option (3 hours of capstone + 12 hours of electives)
| SWEN 6837 Software Engineering Capstone Project** | 3 hours |
| **Capstone enrollment is limited to students who have completed all 21 hours of the SWEN CORE and their prerequisites. | |
| *SENG/CENG/CSCI/SWEN *elective, 4000-6000 level | 6 hours |
| *SENG/CSCI/CENG/SWEN *technical elective, 5100-6000 level | 6 hours |
*Courses taken as electives in SWEN require permission of the faculty advisor.
Thesis Option (6 hours of thesis + 9 hours of electives)
| SWEN 6939 Master's Thesis Research | 6 hours |
Students must form a thesis committee and prepare a thesis proposal in the semester prior to enrollment into thesis. Contact the School of SCE advising office for instructions.
| SENG/CENG/CSCI/SWEN *elective, 4000-6000 level | 6 hours |
| SENG/CSCI/CENG/SWEN *technical elective, 5100-6000 level | 3 hours |
*Courses taken as electives require permission of the faculty advisor.
Students interested in concentrating their study in a specific sub-area of software engineering such as Information Management Systems, Software Safety or Software Management may choose as electives those courses listed under the respective sub-plans listed below.
Information Management Systems
| CSCI 4333 | Design of Database Systems | 3 hours |
| CSCI 5333 | Database Management Systems | 3 hours |
| CSCI 5433 | Object-Oriented Database Systems | 3 hours |
| SENG 5330 | Risk Management | 3 hours |
| SENG 5334 | Human Factors Engineering | 3 hours |
| SWEN 5532 | Software Safety | 3 hours |
| SWEN 5435 | Personal Software Process | 3 hours |
| MGMT 5636 | Management of Technology | 3 hours |
| MGMT 5638 | Managing Technical and Professional People | 3 hours |
Web Based Electives (Distance Option)
| CSCI 5333 | Database Management Systems | |
| SENG 5330 | Risk Management | |
| SWEN 5430 | Software Metrics | |
| SWEN 5435 | Personal Software Process |
All courses have a dependency structure and students should consult the Software Engineering Course Roster in this catalog for prerequisites, co-requisites and sequencing of courses.
The Software Engineering program may be taken via the web by taking those SWEN courses that are offered as web-based and that meet the requirements of the SWEN program curriculum. All SWEN courses are available via the web whereas the foundation courses are not. Foundation courses are only offered as traditional on campus live lecture classes. Foundation courses must be taken either at UHCL or another university before entry into the SWEN distance option. Electives needed for the SWEN program are available over the web but they are restricted to a small set of available courses. (See web based electives listed with distance option above.) For more information see http://sce.uhcl.edu/swen/ms.htm. The web based courses do not require attendance for weekly lectures, all lectures and class materials are available online. However, some of our web based courses require attendance at the UHCL campus on exam days. There could also be academic administrative reasons that you might occasionally have to visit the campus.
Systems Engineering (Graduate)
The graduate plan in Systems Engineering leads to a master of science (MS) degree. The plan is designed to prepare engineers who are knowledgeable in interdisciplinary systems engineering approaches and engineering management and who therefore have the full range of concurrent engineering concepts and skills needed to specify, implement and support complete systems. Such knowledge is particularly important in the evolution of systems that are critical to achieving the mission of an organization and to sustaining the safety of life, health, property and the environment. Such systems are vital to many organizations that areserved by UHCL such as: aerospace, biomedical, chemical, energy, manufacturing and others. The plan consists of formal courses, laboratory work and research conducted under the guidance of a faculty advisor. Candidates can tailor their plan of study to emphasize systems engineering analysis or systems engineering management. The website for the Systems Engineering program is http://sce.cl.uh.edu/seng
The candidates should have a bachelor's degree and be approved by the graduate admissions committee to ensure that the appropriate background knowledge base is present. This background must include, at a minimum:
| CSCI 3133 | Programming with C | 3 hours |
| MATH 3334 | Prob.and Statistics for Scientists and Engineers | 3 hours |
| MATH 4131 | Ordinary Differential Equations and Apps | 3 hours |
Candidates who do not have the required or equivalent preparation are required to take the appropriate courses before enrolling in certain graduate career courses in SENG, SWEN, CSCI and CENG. The committee recommends that candidates take CENG 5131 Engineering Applications as a preparation elective.
| SENG 5130 | Systems Engineering Processes | 3 hours |
| SENG 5230 | Systems Engineering Economics | 3 hours |
| SENG 5231 | Concurrent Engineering | 3 hours |
| SENG 5232 | Engineering Specialty Integration | 3 hours |
| SENG 5233 | Systems Engineering Analysis & Modeling | 3 hours |
| SENG 5330 | Risk Management | 3 hours |
| SWEN 5230 | Software Project Management | 3 hours |
| SENG 5332 | Decision Analysis for Systems Engineering | 3 hours |
| SENG 5334 | Human Factors Engineering | 3 hours |
| SENG 5532 | Adv. Decision Analysis for Systems Eng. | 3 hours |
| MGMT 5636 | Management of Technology | 3 hours |
| MGMT 5638 | Managing Technical and Professional People | 3 hours |
Thesis Option (6 hours of thesis + 9 hours of electives)
| SENG 6939 Master's Thesis Research in Systems Engineering | 6 hours | ||
| Electives in engineering, science and math approved by the student's advisor | 9 hours |
Capstone Option (3 hours of capstone + 12 hours of electives)
| SENG 6837 Systems Engineering Capstone Project | 3 hours |
| Electives in engineering, science and math approved by the student's advisor 12 hours |
MATHEMATICAL SCIENCE AND STATISTICS DEGREES
Mathematical Science (Undergraduate)
The plan in Mathematical Science leads to the bachelor of arts (BA) or bachelor of science (BS) degree. The undergraduate degree is designed to prepare the student for a career in industry or education, or to prepare the student for graduate study in mathematics, statistics, operations research or other mathematically based disciplines. The plan includes courses in both the classical foundations of mathematics and the modern concern with numerical issues spawned by the computer.
Students who are seeking teaching certification will follow the degree plan and certification on notated pages. Please consult the School of Education for 4-8 degree and certification as well as for 8-12 degree and certification.
The Mathematics plan participates in the national William Lowell Putnam Mathematical Competition for undergraduate mathematics students. Weekly problem sessions are held during the fall semester to aid students in preparing for the December exam. Students may receive one hour of credit under MATH 4819 with approval of the plan chair.
Basic Preparation for the BA Degree (20-21 hours)
Applicants for the BA in Mathematical Science should have completed these courses in preparation for core requirements:
| Calculus I,II | 8 hours |
| *Calculus III | 3-4 hours |
| *Natural science | 6 hours |
| *Scientific programming language | 3 hours |
*Courses that are available at UHCL.
If lower-level credit is given for any of the following courses, additional upper-level course work selected from the list of electives will be required. In addition to the three semester calculus sequence, students must complete the following courses:
| MA TH 3131 | Applied Linear Algebra |
| MATH 4030 | Intro to Modern Algebra and Number Theory |
| MATH 4434 | Intro to Probability |
Additional Requirements (6 Hours)
The remainder of the required hours are selected from the following:
| MATH 4031 | History of Math Sciences | MATH 4231 | Predicate Logic |
| MATH 4132 | Number Theory | MATH 4232 | Abstract Algebra |
| MATH 4135 | Numerical Analy & Its Appl | MATH 4235 | Theory of Models |
| MATH 4136 | Math Software Applications | MATH 4435 | Introduction to Statistics |
Basic Preparation for BS Degree (20-21 Hours)
Applicants for the BS in Mathematical Science should have completed these courses in preparation for plan core requirements:
| Calculus I, II | 8 hours |
| *Calculus III | 3-4 hours |
| *Natural science | 6 hours |
| *Scientific programming language | 3 hours |
*Courses that are available at UHCL.
If lower-level credit is given for any of the following courses, additional upper level course work selected from the list of electives will be required. In addition to the three semester calculus sequence, students must complete the following courses:
| MATH 3131 | Applied Linear Algebra | MATH 4434 | Intro to Probability |
| MATH 4131 | Ord Diff Equations/Appl | MATH 4232 | Abstract Algebra or |
| MATH 4136 | Math Software Appl | MATH 4435 | Introduction to Statistics |
| MATH 4331 | Advanced Calculus |
Additional Requirements (9 Hours)
The remainder of the required hours are selected from the following:
| MATH 4132 | Number Theory | MATH 4232 | Abstract Algebra |
| MATH 4133 | Topology | MATH 4235 | Theory of Models |
| MATH 4135 | Numerical Anal & Appl | MATH 4431 | Introduction to Analysis |
| MATH 4231 | Predicate Logic | MATH 4633 | Functions of Complex Variable |
Mathematical Science (Graduate)
The graduate plan in Mathematical Science leads to the master of science (MS) degree. Applicants for candidacy should have a bachelor's degree in mathematics. Students with other degrees may apply if their preparation includes a substantial number of advanced credits in mathematics. In some cases, additional preparatory courses may be required.
Course selections will be arranged in consultation with a faculty advisor while preparing the CPS. Students selecting the extended course work option must complete MATH 6837 (Research Project 1). This is to be taken after successfully completing nine hours of core and during the last 9 hours of course work. MATH 6838 (Research Project II) can be completed following MATH 6837 with faculty advisor approval prior to registration.
| MATH 5131 | Advanced Algebra | MATH 5136 | Ord Diff Equations & Dynamic Systems |
| MATH 5132 | Real Analysis | STAT 5431 | Theory and Application of Probability |
Students will select two courses from the following four:
| MATH 5134 | Logic | MATH 5333 | Numerical Analysis |
| MATH 5231 | Adv Linear Algebra | MATH 6131 | Intro to Algebraic Topology & Geometry |
Thesis or Internship Option (18 Hours)
| MATH, STAT courses, 5000-6000 level | 6 hours |
| Electives, 5000-6000 level courses | 6 hours |
| MATH 6739 Internship in Math or MATH 6939 Master's Thesis Research | 6 hours |
Extended Course Work Option (18 Hours)
| MATH, STAT courses, 5000-6000 level | 6 hours |
| Electives, 5000-6000 level courses | 6 hours |
| MATH Electives, 4000-6000 level | 3 hours |
| MATH 6837 Research Project I | 3 hours |
The plan in Statistics leads to a master of science (MS) degree. This plan emphasizes a curriculum that is designed to educate students in the theory and application of statistics. The plan is suitable for students with an undergraduate background in mathematics, engineering or the sciences.
Students with degrees in engineering, science or other fields will be considered if their preparation includes an adequate number of upper- level credits in mathematics and statistics. In some cases, additional preparatory courses may be required.
The following courses or their approved substitutes are required:
| MATH 5231 | Advanced Linear Algebra | |||
| STAT 5431 | Theory & Appl of Probability | STAT 5532 | Linear Models & Regression Analysis | |
| STAT 5432 | Theory & Appl of Statistics | STAT 5533 | Statistical Comp w/SAS & S-Plus | |
| STAT 5531 | Multivariate Statistical Analysis |
| STAT courses, 5000-6000 level | 3 hours |
| Electives, 5000-6000 level | 3 hours |
| MATH or STAT electives, 4000-6000 level | 6 hours |
| STAT 6939 Master's Thesis Research | 6 hours |
Extended Course Work Option (18 Hours)
Students desiring to follow the extended course work option must complete STAT 6837 and STAT 6838 during the last 18 hours of course work.
| STAT courses, 5000-6000 level | 3 hours |
| Electives, 5000-6000 level | 3 hours |
| MATH or STAT electives, 4000-6000 level | 6 hours |
| STAT 6837 and STAT 6838 | 6 hours |
Biological Sciences (Undergraduate)
The plan in Biological Sciences leads to the bachelor of science (BS) or bachelor of arts (BA) degree. This plan is designed to prepare students for advanced study, technical positions in environmental or biomedical research or teaching. The biomedical sciences sub-plan within the BS plan is particularly applicable to students preparing for medical or dental school or for future graduate studies. The BA in Biological Sciences is designed for students interested in teaching biology. Students who plan to pursue a teaching career must have dual advisement in both the subject field (Biological Sciences) and education. Please refer to the School of Education section of the catalog for the appropriate grades 4-8 or 8-12 degree and certification.
Basic Requirements for the BA Degree
Applicants for the BA in Biological Sciences must have completed these courses in preparation for upper-level study:
| Chemistry with lab (including 3 hours of organic) | 11 hours |
| Biology | 6 hours |
In addition, two semesters of college physics are recommended.
Students must complete a minimum of 12 upper-level hours with grades of "C" or better (grades of "C-" or below are not acceptable) in the Biological Sciences at UHCL. The CPS must include at least one course of upper- or lower-level study in each of these areas of Biological Science:
| Environment and Population | 3 hours |
Examples: marine biology, ecology or epidemiology
| Anatomy | 3 hours |
Examples: human anatomy, plant anatomy,microbiology or comparative animal morphology
| Physiology | 3 hours |
Examples: human physiology, comparative animalphysiology or plant physiology
| Cellular Biology | 3 hour |
Examples: biochemistry or cell biology
| Genetics | 3 hours |
The BA in Biological Sciences also requires that students complete these support courses:
| Statistics (MATH 3038 or equivalent) | 3 hours |
| Technical Writing | 3 hours |
Basic Requirements for the BS Degree
Applicants for the BS in Biological Sciences must have completed these courses in preparation for upper-level study:
| General Chemistry | 8 hours |
| Organic Chemistry | 8 hours |
| Physics | 6 hours |
| Mathematics (including 1 semester of calculus) | 6 hours |
| Biology | 6 hours |
The course of study for the BS in Biological Sciences requires 45 semester hours, which include 17 hours of core courses, plus 18-19 hours within a specialization area, plus 9-10 hours of approved electives.
Students must complete the following core courses with grades of "C" or better (grades of "C-" or below are not acceptable) in the Biological Sciences.
Core courses for the BS in Biological Sciences (17 Hours):
| Biochemistry | (BIOL 4431) | 3 hours |
| Biochemistry Laboratory | (BIOL 4422) | 2 hours |
| Genetics | (BIOL 3431) | 3 hours |
| Genetics Laboratory | (BIOL 3411) | 1 hour |
| Ecology | (BIOL 4131) | 3 hours |
| Statistics | (MATH 3038 or equivalent) | 3 hours |
| Seminar | (BIOL 4728) | 2 hours |
Three Specialization Areas are available to students pursuing the BS degree in Biological Sciences. In all cases prerequisites for each course must be satisfied prior to enrollment in the course. Students in each Specialization Area must complete the required courses with grades of "C" or better (grades of "C-" or below are not acceptable).
Required Courses for Specialization Areas in Biological Science:
Cell/Molecular Specialization Area (18-19 Hours)
| Biochemistry II (BIOL 4432) | 3 hours | |
| Choose one of the following courses: | 3 hours | |
| Human Physiology (BIOL 4435) | ||
| Comparative Animal Physiology (BIOL 4434) | ||
| Plant Physiology (BIOL 3134) | ||
| Choose one of the following courses: | 3-4 hours | |
| Human Anatomy & Lab (BIOL 3733 & BIOL 3713) | ||
| Comparative Animal Morphology (BIOL 3031) | ||
| Plant Anatomy (BIOL 3133) | ||
| Cell Physiology (BIOL 4437) | 3 hours | |
| Molecular Biology (BIOL 4531) | 3 hours | |
| Developmental Biology (BIOL 4438) | 3 hours |
Physiology/Pre-Health Specialization Area (19 Hours)
| Biochemistry II (BIOL 4432) | 3 hours | |
| Human Physiology (BIOL 4435) | 3 hours | |
| Human Anatomy & Lab (BIOL 3733 & BIOL 3713) | 4 hours | |
| Microbiology (BIOL 3231) | 3 hours | |
| Immunology (BIOL 4631) | 3 hours | |
| Choose one of the following courses: | 3 hours | |
| Cell Physiology (BIOL 4437) | ||
| Pathophysiology (BIOL 4436) | ||
| Neuroscience | ||
| Molecular Biology (BIOL 4531) |
Ecology/Microbiology Specialization Area (20 Hours)
| Physiology (BIOL 4434 or BIOL 3134) | 3 hours |
| Anatomy (BIOL 3031 or BIOL 3133) | 3 hours |
| Microbiology & Lab (BIOL 3231 & BIOL 3221) | 5 hours |
| Environmental Toxicology (BIOL 4235) | 3 hours |
| Choose one of the following courses: | 3 hours |
| Environmental Biology (BIOL 3333) | |
| Field Biology (BIOL 4233) | |
| Microbial Ecology or Marine Biology (BIOL 3131) | |
| Choose one of the following courses: | 3 hours |
| Plant Identification (BIOL 4237) | |
| Env & Public Health Micro (BIOL 3334) |
An additional 9-10 hours of coursework in the sciences must be selected in consultation with a Biology Program faculty advisor and must be completed with a grade of "C-" or better.
Premedical and predentistry students are advised that most medical schools require the following courses; however, students are responsible for determining the specific requirements of those medical schools selected for application:
| General Chemistry | One year with laboratory |
| Organic Chemistry | One year with laboratory |
| General Physics | One year with laboratory |
| Calculus | Onehalf year |
| Biology | Two years, one with laboratory |
Requests for letters of recommendation from the PreHealth Profession Evaluation Committee must be in the Premedical Advisor's office no later than the third Monday in September.
Biological Sciences (Graduate)
The graduate plan in Biological Sciences leads to the master of science (MS) degree. Applicants for candidacy should have a bachelor's degree in Biology, although applicants with other degrees may apply if their degrees or preparation include a significant number of plan core courses in the Biological Sciences, as well as appropriate chemistry, physics and mathematics courses.
Students should have completed the basic requirements of the bachelor of science degree in Biological Sciences at UHCL or the following courses (including prerequisites or equivalents) before applying for admission:
| BIOL 3431 | Genetics | BIOL 4437 | Cellular Physiology | |
| BIOL 4431 | Biochemistry I | BIOL 4531 | Molecular Biology | |
| BIOL 4434 | Comparative Animal Physiology or | MATH 3038 | Computational Statistics | |
| BIOL 4435 | Human Physiology |
A maximum of six credit hours of the 4000 level courses listed above may be applied toward the MS degree.
Graduate students who select the master's thesis option are advised to take BIOL 5530, Research Methods in Biology, early in their studies as preparation for beginning the thesis. The remaining graduate hours may be taken in related areas and will be arranged with the faculty advisor during the preparation of the CPS. At minimum, 24 of the 36 hours must be in the Biological Sciences. Students who select the non-thesis option are required to complete BIOL 6838, the capstone project course, during their last 12 hours. Students who fail to meet the School GRE and GPA standards for admission may be required to meet additional performance criteria such as past performance in critical courses, withdrawal and drop history, letters of recommendation, personal knowledge of past performance, improvement on repeated courses, work and/or life experiences and individual faculty support as a mentor in the research laboratory.
Option for Certificate in Biotechnology
A student may work toward a Certificate in Biotechnology, which requires the completion of at least seven biology laboratory courses at UHCL. The certificate option targets students who are working toward or have already completed a BS degree and wish to add course work that will be focused on the biotechnology field. Training in these laboratories will prepare students for careers in academic, industrial, biomedical, clinical, state/federal or environmental areas.
Prerequisites for the Certificate in Biotechnology
Students who are currently majoring in biology, environmental science or chemistry, or who have already completed a bachelor's degree, must have completed introductory biology (6 hours), general chemistry (8 hours), organic chemistry (8 hours) and calculus as general prerequisites. In addition, students must have completed or be currently enrolled in the following courses: biochemistry, cell biology or cell physiology, genetics, animal/human/plant physiology and microbiology.
Current UHCL students (degree-seeking BS or MS students or post-baccalaureate non-degree seeking students) who wish to participate in the certificate option must be in good academic standing, maintain a minimum 2.500 GPA in the laboratory courses and be advised by a faculty member in the Biology program.
A minimum of seven laboratory courses must be completed for the Certificate in Biotechnology.
The following three core courses are required:
| BIOL 4422 | Laboratory for Biochemistry |
| BIOL 4522 | Molecular Biology Laboratory |
| BIOL 4523 | Laboratory for Biotechnology |
At least four of the following courses are required:
| BIOL 3221 | Laboratory for Fundamentals of Microbiology |
| BIOL 3713 | Laboratory for Human Anatomy |
| BIOL 4121 | Ecology Laboratory |
| BIOL 4225 | Environmental Toxicology Laboratory |
| BIOL 4332 | Histology (Lecture/Lab) |
| BIOL 4421 | Laboratory for Physiology |
| BIOL 4535 | Tissue Culture |
| BIOL 4x2x | Neuroscience Laboratory |
BIOTECHNOLOGY
Biotechnology (Graduate)
The graduate plan in Biotechnology leads to the master of science (M.S.) degree. In addition to satisfying admission requirements of the university and School of SCE (e.g., transcripts and GRE scores), applicants for the M.S. in Biotechnology program should have completed a bachelor's degree in biology or a related discipline. All applicants must submit two letters of recommendation directed to the chairperson of the admissions committee for the M.S. in Biotechnology. Upon acceptance to the M.S. in Biotechnology, a student must identify the concentration to be pursued.
Applicants should have completed the appropriate foundation course work. Applicants missing certain required courses in their undergraduate preparation, but who meet the minimum university standards for admission, may be admitted on condition that they will complete specific undergraduate foundation courses for full admission to the program. If additional coursework is required to meet prerequisites for courses in a concentration area, students may enroll in these after admittance to the program.
Courses listed as foundation courses on the CPS for either the core or concentration area will not apply to the credit hours required for the M.S. degree. Students requiring significant prerequisite or foundation coursework should anticipate an extended time commitment for earning the graduate degree.
Basic Prerequisite Requirements
Applicants must have completed the equivalent of the basic requirements for the Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences, or the following courses or equivalents before applying for admission:
| BIOL 3431 Genetics | BIOL 4437 Cellular Physiology |
| BIOL 4431 Biochemistry I | BIOL 4531 Molecular Biology |
| BIOL 4434, 4435 or 3134Animal, Human or Plant Physiology | MATH 3038 Computational Statistics |
In all cases above, evidence of completion of the course with a grade of "C" or better is required.
Concentration Prerequisite Requirements
The following additional prerequisite courses are required for the specific concentration chosen by the student:Molecular Biotechnology Concentration (UHCL course or equivalent)BIOL 4438 Developmental BiologyBIOL 4522 Molecular Biology LaboratoryBIOL 4535 Tissue Culture
Bioinformatics / Computational Biology Concentration (UHCL course or equivalent)
CSCI 3133 Programming with C CSCI 3333 Data Structures
CSCI 3134 Programming with Java CSCI 3532 Advanced Data Structures and Algorithms
CSCI 3233 Object-Oriented Design CSCI 4333 Design of Database Systems
and Programming
Biotechnology Management and Marketing Concentration (UHCL course or equivalent)
**MGMT 3031Management Theory and Practice
**MGMT 4534Organizational Behavior
**MKTG 3031Marketing: Creating Value for Customers
**If students have not taken MGMT 3031, MGMT 4534, and MKTG 3031 they may take MGMT 5032 and MKTG 5031 to fulfill the foundation requirements of this concentration.
In all cases above, evidence of completion of the course with a grade of "C" or better is required.
Core Requirements for the M.S. Degree
The M.S. degree requires the completion of 36 hours. All core requirements and Biotechnology electives must be completed with a grade of "C" or better. Although the M.S. in Biotechnology does not require an internship, field experience or thesis, these options are available and students are encouraged to participate in them.
Biotechnology Core Curriculum (27 hours)
Required courses (18 hours):
BIOL 5731 Applied Biotechnology3 hours
BIOL 5733 Bioinformatics3 hours
BIOL 5736 Biomedical Ethics3 hours
BIOL 5831 Advanced Methods in Biotechnology I3 hours
BIOL 5832 Advanced Methods in Biotechnology II3 hours
STAT 5135 Applied Statistical Methods3 hours
Extended Coursework Option (9 hours):
Under the Extended Coursework Option, a minimum of 27 hours of Biotechnology core curriculum (including 6 hours of approved electives from any of the three concentrations and 3 hours of *BIOT 6838 Capstone Seminar), plus 9 hours of electives within their specific concentration area must be completed.
*Pending Coordinating Board Approval
Thesis Option (9 hours):
Under the Thesis Option, a minimum of 27 hours of Biotechnology core curriculum (including 3 hours of *BIOT 5530 Research Methods in Biotechnology and 6 hours of *BIOT 6939 Master's Thesis Research), plus 9 hours of electives within their specific concentration area must be completed (Note: an additional 3 credit hours of *BIOT 6939 may be used as a plan elective). Graduate students who select the master's thesis option are advised to take *BIOT 5530, Research Methods in Biotechnology, early in their studies as preparation for beginning the thesis.
*Pending Coordinating Board Approval
Concentration Areas and Electives in the Biotechnology Program
Molecular Biotechnology Concentration (9-15 Hours)
BIOL 5131 Membrane Biology BIOL 5732 Advances in Molecular Biology
BIOL 5132 Cell SignalingBIOL 5734 Oncogenes
BIOL 5332 ToxicologyBIOL 5737 Molecular Vectors
BIOL 5333 Industrial Microbiology BIOL 5738 Gene Therapy
BIOL 5433 EnzymologyBIOL 5833 Proteomics
BIOL 5435 Advanced Immunology*BIOT 5915 Cooperative Education Work Term
BIOL 5634 Apoptosis*BIOT 5931 Research Topics in Biotechnology
BIOL 5635 Neuroscience
Bioinformatics / Computational Biology Concentration (9-15 Hours)
BIOL 5737 Molecular VectorsCSCI 5633 Web Database Development
BIOL 5833 ProteomicsCSCI 5733 XML Application Development
CSCI 5333 Database Management Systems CSCI 5833 Data Mining: Tools and Techniques
CSCI 5433 Object-Oriented Database Systems *BIOT 5915 Cooperative Education Work Term
CSCI 5530 Pattern Classification*BIOT 5931 Research Topics in Biotechnology
CSCI 5532 Pattern Recognition and Image
Processing
Biotechnology Management and Marketing Concentration (9-15 Hours)
BAPA 5131 The Global Environment of BusinessMGMT 6332 International Business Management
MGMT 5133 Teamwork & Leadership Skills: MKTG 5332 Executive Decisions In Marketing
Theory in PracticeMKTG 5532 International Marketing Strategy
MGMT 5636 Management of TechnologyINDH 6135 Radiation Protection
MGMT 5638 Managing Technical and *BIOT 5931 Research Topics in Biotechnology
Professional People
*Pending Coordinating Board Approval
Plans in Chemistry lead to the bachelor of arts (BA), bachelor of science (BS) and master of science (MS) degrees. The Chemistry Program has completed evaluation and assessment by the American Chemical Society (ACS), and is added to the ACS list of approved chemistry programs nationwide. Therefore students may now obtain ACS-certified BS degrees in chemistry if they complete the appropriate curriculum. Undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in the Chemistry plan may choose from high quality content courses in all of the traditional areas of Organic, Analytical, Physical and Inorganic Chemistry, as well as in the closely related fields of Biochemistry and Environmental Chemistry. Moreover, students are encouraged to further enhance their studies by undertaking research with one of the Chemistry plan's faculty in any of these areas. In regard to such research, it should be noted that during the past nine years the Chemistry plan has received endowments from the Welch Foundation in the form of a Chemistry Departmental Research Grant. Those funds have been expended in support of the research efforts carried out by the plan's faculty during the training of students. This grant has just been renewed through the year 2004. The Chemistry plan also has an endowment from the Zeon Chemicals Company.
All chemistry courses taken at UHCL more than one year prior to being admitted to the Chemistry plan are subject to faculty review before being accepted for degree credit. Further information on the Chemistry plan is available from the Chair of Chemistry.
The BA degree is recommended for students preparing for careers in interdisciplinary areas such as medicine, secondary school teaching, patent law or environmental science. Students seeking a career in secondary school teaching must also file a certification plan with the School of Education. The BS degree is designed to meet the needs of students planning careers as professional chemists and is recommended as preparation for graduate training or for a career in the chemical industry.
Basic Requirements for BA Degree
Students seeking a BA degree in Chemistry must meet the following minimum requirements or equivalents before being admitted.
| General (Freshman) Chemistry I & II with laboratory | 8 hours | |
| Calculus I (Differential Calculus) | 3 hours | |
| College Physics I and II with laboratory | 8 hours | |
| Introduction to Computer Programming | ||
| (e.g., BASIC, FORTRAN, C or PASCAL) | 3 hours |
In all cases above, evidence of completion of the course with a grade of "C-" or better is required.
Students seeking a BA degree in Chemistry must successfully complete the following courses or their equivalents:
| Organic Chemistry (CHEM 3233, CHEM 3234, CHEM 3224) | 8 hours |
| Analytical Chemistry (CHEM 4635, CHEM 4636, CHEM 4622) | 8 hours |
| Physical Chemistry (CHEM 3230 or CHEM 4231) | 3 hours |
| Inorganic Chemistry (CHEM 4335) | 3 hours |
| Chemistry Seminar (CHEM 4732) | 3 hours |
| Mathematics (MATH 3038 or MATH 3131) | 3 hours |
| Advanced CHEM elective (approved by faculty advisor) | 3 hours |
A minimum of 12 hours in the CHEM rubric must be successfully completed at UHCL. For successful completion of any core requirement or chemistry elective, a grade of "C-" or better must be attained.
Basic Requirements for the BS Degree
Students seeking the BS degree in Chemistry must meet the following requirements before being admitted.
| General (Freshman) Chemistry I and II with lab | 8 hours | |
| Calculus I and II | 8 hours | |
| *Calculus-based Physics with lab | 8 hours | |
| Introduction to Computer Programming | ||
| (e.g., BASIC, FORTRAN, C or PASCAL) | 3 hours |
*Course available at UHCL.
In all cases above, evidence of completion of the course with a grade of "C-" or better is required.
Students seeking the BS degree in Chemistry must successfully complete the following courses or their equivalents:
| Organic Chemistry (CHEM 3233, CHEM 3234, CHEM 3224) | 8 hours |
| Analytical Chemistry (CHEM 4635, CHEM 4636, CHEM 4622) | 8 hours |
| Physical Chemistry (CHEM 4231, CHEM 4232, CHEM 4222) | 8 hours |
| Inorganic Chemistry (CHEM 4335, CHEM 4325) | 5 hours |
| Chemistry Seminar (CHEM 4732) | 3 hours |
| Advanced Mathematics (approved by faculty advisor) | 3 hours |
| Biochemistry (CHEM 4431) | 3 hours |
| Advanced Organic Chemistry (CHEM 4638) | 3 hours |
| Undergraduate Research (CHEM 4729) | 2 hours |
A minimum of 15 hours in the CHEM rubric must be successfully completed at UHCL. For successful completion of any core requirement or chemistry elective, a grade of "C-" or better must be attained.
An advanced studies plan in Chemistry leads to the master of science (MS) degree. The thesis option affords students opportunities to develop research skills appropriate for terminal degrees as professional chemists or for continuation into PhD plans. The extended course work option emphasizes classroom instruction in advanced chemical sciences and is particularly appropriate for educational advancement by industry professionals and secondary school teachers.
Students seeking the MS degree in Chemistry must have completed, at minimum, the following courses with grades of "C-" or better:
| General (Freshman) Chemistry I & II with laboratory | 8 hours |
| Organic Chemistry I & II with laboratory | 8 hours |
| Analytical Chemistry I & II with laboratory | 8 hours |
| Physical Chemistry I & II with laboratory | 8 hours |
| Inorganic Chemistry with laboratory | 5 hours |
Most of these course requirements may be met at UHCL prior to entering the graduate Chemistry plan by completing the following courses with grades of "C-" or better: CHEM 3233, CHEM 3234, CHEM 3224; CHEM 4635, CHEM 4636, CHEM 4622; CHEM 4231, CHEM 4232, CHEM 4222; CHEM 4335.
None of these courses is normally accepted for degree credit toward the hours in the graduate plan.
Students must successfully complete a minimum of 18 hours of graduate career chemistry courses, 12 hours of which must be taken at UHCL. All core requirements and chemistry electives must be completed with a grade of "B-" or better. A minimum of three hours must come from each of the following:
| Organic Chemistry (CHEM 5134, CHEM 5336, CHEM 5337, CHEM 5638) |
| Analytical Chemistry (CHEM 5133, CHEM 5235, CHEM 5636) |
| Physical Chemistry (CHEM 5235, CHEM 5337) |
| Inorganic Chemistry (CHEM 5335, CHEM 5336) |
| CHEM 6731 Graduate Seminar |
Under the extended course work option, a minimum of 30 hours of formal course work (including three hours CHEM 6731 Graduate Seminar) must be completed. In addition, students must choose an advisor and complete a total of six hours credit in the two Research Project and Seminar courses (CHEM 6837 and CHEM 6838).
Under the thesis option, a minimum of 24 hours of formal course work (including three hours of CHEM 6731 Graduate Seminar) must be completed. In addition, students must complete a minimum of six hours of CHEM 6939, Master's Thesis Research. A maximum of nine hours of CHEM 6939 can be applied toward graduation requirements. Remaining course work for a total of 36 hours may come from CHEM 6838 Research Project and Seminar or additional formal courses.
Environmental Science (Undergraduate)
The plan in Environmental Science leads to the Bachelor of Science (BS) degree. This plan seeks through an interdisciplinary approach to prepare students for opportunities in the private sector and in governmental agencies where environmental issues are being addressed. Graduates of the plan will also be prepared to pursue further academic training in Environmental Science. Students may also prepare for the professional certification examinations in Industrial Hygiene or Safety.
Students must specialize in one of the following areas: Environmental Biology, Environmental Chemistry, Environmental Geology, Industrial Hygiene or Safety. The Environmental Geology specialization is currently inactive and not accepting students.
Applicants for the BS in Environmental Science must have completed the following courses (grade of C- or better) in preparation for upper-level study:
| Chemistry I, II | 8 hours |
| Calculus I | 3 hours |
| General Physics I, II | 8 hours |
| Technical Writing | 3 hours |
In addition to the above requirements, at least 12 hours in science (biology, chemistry, physics and/or geology) must be completed before admission to the Environmental Science plan. Other courses specific to the specialization area (e.g., Biology I, II for those specializing in Environmental Biology; and Anatomy and Physiology for those specializing in Industrial Hygiene ) should also be completed.
(Must be completed with a grade of "C-"or better)
| Organic Chemistry I | 3 hours |
| Environmental Chemistry | 3 hours |
| Environmental Biology | 3 hours |
| Environmental Geology | 3 hours |
| Environmental Health and Safety | 3 hours |
| Statistics (MATH 3038 or Equivalent) | 3 hours |
| Internship, Co-Op, Independent Study, Seminar or Adv. Studies | 3 hours |
Required Courses or their equivalents for sub-plans:
(Must be completed with a grade of "C-"or better)
Environmental Biology
| BIOL 3334 | Environmental and Public Health Microbiology | 3 hours |
| BIOL 4131 | Ecology | 3 hours |
| BIOL 4235 | Environmental Toxicology | 3 hours |
| BIOL 4434 | Comparative Animal Physiology | 3 hours |
| CHEM 4521 | Lab for Environmental Analysis | 2 hours |
| CHEM 4535 | Environmental Sampling & Monitoring | 3 hours |
Environmental Chemistry
| CHEM 3230 | Survey of Physical Chemistry | 3 hours |
| CHEM 3234 | Organic Chemistry II | 3 hours |
| CHEM 4521 | Lab for Environmental Analysis | 2 hours |
| CHEM 4535 | Environmental Sampling & Monitoring | 3 hours |
| CHEM 4635 | Analytical Chemistry I | 3 hours |
| CHEM 4636 | Analytical Chemistry II | 3 hours |
Environmental Geology (Program inactive, not accepting students)
| GEOL 3631 | Photogeology | 3 hours |
| GEOL 4222 | Laboratory for Geomorphology | 2 hours |
| GEOL 4234 | Geomorphology | 3 hours |
| GEOL 4235 | Sedimentation and Stratigraphy | 3 hours |
| GEOL 4531 | Geology of Groundwater | 3 hours |
Industrial Hygiene
| INDH 3131 | Industrial Health and Hygiene | 3 hours |
| INDH 3332 | Principles of Safety | 3 hours |
| INDH 4131 | Noise and Hearing Conservation | 3 hours |
| INDH 4133 | Industrial Ventilation | 3 hours |
| INDH 4135 | Industrial Radiological Health | 3 hours |
| INDH 4231 | Human Factors in IH & Safety | 3 hours |
| INDH 4232 | I H Sampling and Analysis | 3 hours |
| INDH 4431 | Adv Studies in IH & Safety | 3 hours |
| BIOL 4235 | Environmental Toxicology | 3 hours |
Safety
INDH 3131Industrial Health and Hygiene3 hours
INDH 3332Principles of Safety3 hours
INDH 3430Techniques of Safety Eng & Analysis3 hours
INDH 4231Human Factors, Ergonomics & Workplace Des3 hours
INDH 4232I H Sampling and Analysis3 hours
INDH 4236Accident Investigation & Sys Safety3 hours
INDH 4333Construction & General Industry Safety3 hours
INDH 4431Advanced Studies in I H & Safety3 hours
Additional required electives must be selected in consultation with a faculty advisor and shall be completed with grades "C-" or better. In all cases, prerequisites for each course must be satisfied. A maximum of six hours of environmental management courses may be included.
Environmental Science (Graduate)
The graduate plan in Environmental Science leads to the master of science (MS) degree. The plan seeks, through an interdisciplinary approach, to prepare students for opportunities in government and the private sector. Graduates of the plan may also be prepared to pursue further academic training in environmental sciences and occupational health. Students must specialize in one of the following areas: Environmental Biology, Environmental Chemistry, Environmental Geology, Industrial Hygiene or Safety. The Environmental Geology specialization is currently inactive and not accepting students
Students seeking a master's degree must have course work preparation appropriate to their area of specialization. At least 34 hours of natural science and 6 hours of mathematics are required prior to admission.
Students should submit a letter to the Office of the Dean of Science and Computer Engineering specifying their educational goals and objectives as well as their intended areas of specialization, i.e., Environmental Biology, Environmental Chemistry, Environmental Geology, Industrial Hygiene or Safety. Basic requirement courses do not count toward the degree. These courses do, however, count toward the total hours required above. The following must be completed prior to admission into the graduate plan:
| General Chemistry | 2 semesters |
| General Physics | 2 semesters |
| Calculus I | 1 semester |
The following must be completed prior to or within the first year of study:
| Organic Chemistry I | 1 semester |
| Statistics | 1 semester |
The master's degree requires completion of a minimum of 36 hours. The core consists of STAT 5135, ENSC 5530, and ENSC 6731 or ENSC 6838 or ENSC 6939, which must be taken in the order listed. Thesis and research project course options are available and are described below.
| ENSC 5530 | Research Methods: Environmental Science | 3 hours |
| ENSC 6939 | Master's Thesis: Environmental Science | 6 hours |
| STAT 5135 | Applied Statistical Methods | 3 hours |
Designated electives (maximum of 6 hours of 4000 level credit) 24 hours
Research Project Course Option (36 Hours)
| ENSC 5530 | Research Methods: Environmental Science | 3 hours | |
| ENSC 6838 | Research Project | 3 hours | |
| Or ENSC 6731 Graduate Seminar | 3 hours | ||
| STAT 5135 | Applied Statistical Methods | 3 hours | |
| Designated electives (maximum of 6 hours of 4000 level credit) | 27 hours |
Electives are selected in consultation with the faculty advisor and must include at least one course from three of the following areas: biology, chemistry, geology or industrial hygiene and safety. A maximum of six hours of environmental management courses may be included.
All graduate students are required to produce a major paper and present a public seminar. Prior to enrolling in ENSC 6731 or ENSC 6838, students must have a faculty advisor and an approved research topic.
Students pursuing the research project option may be advised to complete hours in independent study or internship in addition to ENSC 6838. Before enrolling in thesis, students must have a faculty thesis advisor and an approved research proposal.
Physical Sciences (Undergraduate)
The plan in Physical Sciences leads to the bachelor of science (BS) degree. Emphasis is placed on interdisciplinary applications of the physical sciences appropriate to careers in industry, government or teaching; the physics sub-plan also prepares students for the M.S. degree in Physics at UHCL. Students may select electives in areas of particular interest. Students who plan to pursue a teaching career must have dual advisement in both the subject field and education. These students must also file a certification plan with the School of Education. Please see the BS degree below and the section for the 8-12 requirements for teaching certification.
Basic Requirements for the BS Degree
Students seeking a BS degree in the Physical Sciences should complete the following requirements before seeking admission to the plan:
| Calculus I & II | 8 hours | |
| Programming Language Course (e.g., C, C++, Fortran, Java) | 3 hours | |
| Technical Writing | 3 hours | |
| General Chemistry I and II with laboratories | 8 hours | |
| Organic Chemistry I | 4 hours |
PHYS 3031& 3011University Physics 1 with Lab
PHYS 3032& 3012University Physics 2 with Lab
PHYS 3033Modern Physics
PHYS 4732 Modern Physics Research Seminar
Teacher Preparation sub-plan: (25 hours)
CHEM 3230 Survey of Physical Chemistry
CHEM 3234 Organic Chemistry 2
INDH 3034 Safety, Health & Liability in Schools
MATH 3038 Computational Statistics
PHYS 4031& 4011 Methods in the Physical Sciences with Lab
In addition to the core requirements, the student, in consultation with a faculty advisor, selects 9 hours of SCE approved electives.
MATH 3131 Applied Linear Algebra
MATH 3231 Calculus 3
MATH 3334 Probability & Statistics for Scientists & Engineers
MATH 4131 Ordinary Differential Equations and Applications
MATH 4633 Functions of a Complex Variable
PHYS 4839 Independent Study Research
In addition to the core requirements, the student, in consultation with a faculty advisor, selects 12 hours of SCE approved electives.
Approved Electives for both sub-plans:
ASTR 3131 Modern Astronomy
*ASTR 4131Universal Origins
*ASTR 4132Astrobiophysics
CSCI 3231Numerical Methods
CHEM 3333Environmental Chemistry
CHEM 4222Physical Chemistry Lab
CHEM 4231Physical Chemistry 1
CHEM 4232Physical Chemistry 2
CHEM 4532 Water Chemistry & Water Pollution
CHEM 4535Environmental Sampling & Monitoring
CHEM 4635 Analytical Chemistry 1
CHEM 4636 Analytical Chemistry 2
GEOL 3034Fundamentals of Planetary Geology
MATH 4030Introduction to Modern Algebra and Number Theory
MATH 4135Numerical Analysis and its Applications
MATH 4136Mathematic Software Applications
MATH 4235Theory of Models and Applications
PHYS 4331Principles of Electromagnetism
PHYS 4432Quantum Mechanics
*PHYS 4531Thermodynamics & Fluid Mechanics
* New Course
PHYSICS
The graduate plan in Physics leads to the Master of Science (MS) degree. The goal of this program is to prepare students for doctorial work and advanced research in Physics and Astronomy. This program also serves to expand the knowledge base of practicing engineers. Students in this program gain better problem-solving abilities as well as increased knowledge of Astronomy, Orbital Mechanics, Relativity or Plasma Physics. The physics program provides students with a deeper understanding of the essential science used in many of the engineering disciplines and in the space industry.
Applicants for candidacy should have the Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in one of the physical sciences, mathematics or engineering. Applicants with other degrees may also apply if they meet the requirements listed below. Equivalent courses or appropriate substitutions will be determined in consultation with a faculty advisor. If background deficiencies exist, students may be required to take courses that will not apply toward the graduate degree.
Students should take the following courses (or equivalents) in preparation for the program:
| University Physics I & II with Laboratory | 8 hours | |
| Modern Physics | 3 hours | |
| Calculus I, II | 8 hours | |
| Calculus III | 3 hours | |
| Differential Equations | 3 hours | |
| Complex Variables | 3 hours | |
| Linear Algebra | 3 hours |
The following 15 hours of graduate physics courses are required for both the thesis and extended course work options.
| PHYS 5331 | Electrodynamics | 3 hours |
| PHYS 5431 | Classical Mechanics | 3 hours |
| PHYS 5531 | Mathematical Methods in Physics I | 3 hours |
| PHYS 5631 | Quantum Mechanics | 3 hours |
| PHYS 5731 | Statistical Mechanics and Thermodynamics | 3 hours |
Advanced Electives
Advanced ASTR, PHYS, GEOL, MATH or CSCI courses that meet the needs of students' professional goals may be selected in consultation with a faculty advisor. Below are recommended advanced elective courses for Physics MS students.
Orbital Mechanics
ASTR 5431 Fundamental of Astrodynamics3 hours
ASTR 5432 Perturbation Methods in Astrodynamics3 hours
PHYS 5533 Methods in Computational Physics 3 hours
Astronomy
ASTR 5131 Graduate Astronomy3 hours
ASTR 5231 Stellar Structure and Evolution3 hours
ASTR 5531 Planetary Science3 hours
GEOL 5730 Planetary Geology3 hours
Relativity
PHYS 5532 Mathematical Methods in Physics II3 hours
PHYS 5533 Methods in Computational Physics3 hours
PHYS 6131 Fundamentals of Spacetime3 hours
PHYS 6132 General Relativity3 hours
Plasma Physics
PHYS 5533 Methods in Computational Physics 3 hours
PHYS 6231 Plasma Physics3 hours
PHYS 6232 Magnetohydrodynamics (not yet approved)3 hours
Under the thesis option, a minimum of 24 hours of formal course work must be completed. In addition, students must complete a minimum of 6 hours of PHYS 6939; Master's Thesis Research. A maximum of 12 hours of PHYS 6939 can be applied toward graduation requirements. Remaining course work for a total of 36 hours may come from additional formal courses.
Under the extended course work option, a minimum of 30 hours of formal course work must be completed. In addition, students must choose an advisor and complete 3 credit hours of Independent Study Research (PHYS 5739 or PHYS 5939) and 3 hours in the Research Project and Seminar Course (PHYS 6838). Students completing the sub-plan in Technical Management should complete either PHYS 5739 or PHYS 6848 as a capstone.
Sub-plan in Technical Management
A good technical manager needs both an advanced broad-based technical background and insight into how to lead a team of people from different technical disciplines. Because physics is the scientific basis of all engineering, it can satisfy much of the broad-based technical requirement for a degree training technical managers. The physics core is complimented by a combination of systems engineering and management courses in order to create a plan that provides both the technical background and the leadership training. This results in a unique new approach to training technical managers. Please note that this sub-plan can only be completed with the non-thesis option.
Systems Engineering (at least two courses): 6 hours
SENG 5230 Systems Engineering Economics3 hours
SENG 5231 Concurrent Engineering3 hours
SENG 5330 Risk Management3 hours
SENG 5332 Decision Analysis for Systems Engineering3hours
Management (at least two courses): 6 hours
MGMT 5032 Human Behavior in Organizations3 hours
MGMT 5133 Teamwork & Leadership Skills: Theory in Practice3 hours
MGMT 5638 Managing Technical & Professional People3 hours
Approved Electives: 6 hours
Approved courses in SCE (All ASTR, PHYS and SENG courses qualify) and any approved course in the School of Business.