Physics
The Physics curriculum at William Jewell College is designed to provide students with scientific and technical experience, with a strong background in the liberal arts. The liberal arts background insures that students have skills in writing, speaking, and interpersonal relationships that enhance their careers in the sciences and in other technical fields.
Studying Physics at William Jewell provides opportunities to participate in a variety of college-sponsored programs (intercollegiate athletics, music, fine arts, and Christian missions); to study in a department that offers personal attention and small classes (taught exclusively by Ph.D. professors); and to become active in research and professional societies as undergraduates.
Degree programs offered:
- Bachelor of Arts:
- Physics
- Physics Education
- Science and Technology Management with emphasis in physics
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Dual Degree Engineering:
- In conjunction with Washington University, Vanderbilt University, Columbia University, University of Kansas
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Minor in Physics
Distinctives:
In addition to majoring in physics, students can major in mathematics. Through this course of study, students can explore connections between the various areas of mathematics and other liberal arts courses. Many physics and math majors choose to double major or create their own majors. This option allows students to customize their education and focus their attention and research interests in specific and meaningful directions. Other unique aspects of this program include:
- Students are prepared for many careers in business and not-for-profit organizations, or graduate studies;
- Students are able to collaborate on research projects with other students and professors, broadening students’ experiences and research backgrounds;
- Small class sizes and personal attention allow students to be active in the learning process and enhance the educational experience.
Are you ready to get your hands dirty in the lab? Drop us an email, schedule a visit, or call us toll free (1-888-2-JEWELL).
Physics Faculty:
D. Blane Baker, Ph.D.
Professor of Physics
Dr. Baker teaches a variety of courses in physics ranging from General Physics to Quantum Mechanics; he also teaches a General Education class entitled Sport Science and Ethical Issues. His research interests focus on using spectroscopic techniques such as NMR and EPR to study novel materials. One of these materials has potential as a component of fuel cells due to its high hydrogen ion conductivity. Dr. Baker also enjoys reading, running, and working on home improvement projects; he is also an avid sports fan. --
- B.A., William Jewell College (summa cum laude)
- M.A., Washington University
- Ph.D., Washington University
Maggie Brewer, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Physics
Dr. Brewer teaches a range of undergraduate physics classes from introductory physics to mechanics and thermodynamics as well as two General Education courses, one in Astronomy & Cosmology and the other in Energy and the Environment. Her research is in observational astronomy, working on Milky Way stellar populations using both spectroscopy and photometry.
- B.S., Emory and Henry College
- M.S., Ph.D., University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill
Patrick H. Bunton, Ph.D.
Professor of Physics and Chair
Dr. Bunton teaches several physics courses including College Physics, Engineering Statics, Electricity & Magnetism, and Electronic Measurements (computer interfacing with Labview). He particularly enjoys teaching Optics and the Optics Laboratory which includes research-grade components such as interferometry, Schlieren optics, optical isolators, holography, and optical image processing. He also developed a CTI course “The Science of Sound and Sight” which addresses musical acoustics and light from perspectives of physics, physiology, and perception. His research is in applying optical and EPR spectroscopies to issues in materials science such as point defects in oxides and radical formation in polymerization. He also works in water purification development for use in the developing nation of Honduras. He enjoys camping with his family, reading, and classical guitar. --
- BA Physics and Mathematics, -East Tennessee State University, 1984
- MS Physics, Vanderbilt University, 1987
- Ph.D. Physics, Vanderbilt University, 1990
Charles Don Geilker, Ph.D.
Emeritus Professor of Physics
A.B., William Jewell College; M.A., Vanderbilt; Ph.D., Case Institute of Technology. His special interests include experimental physics, micro-electronics, the electromagnetic signatures of severe convective storms and observational astronomy.
