Summer and Winter Online Introductory Physics Courses

The Department of Physics offers five online classes during the summer and winter breaks. The content and structure are similar to standard classes, but the lectures are in the form of recorded videos and interactive online recitations. All exams are proctored, both on campus and elsewhere, and are treated exactly the same – in terms of transcript and transferring credits to other schools – as their counterparts during the regular semester.

Summer and winter classes differ from other semesters in the number of mid-term exams: Two for summer courses and one for winter courses. All courses have a final exam. The labs associated with the courses are separate courses; these are not offered online, only during the fall and spring semesters and on campus in the summer semester. 

Lecture videos may be viewed at any time. Both recitation and office hours are online and interactive. All homework assignments are completed and submitted online. Exams may be taken either at UB, or at scheduled times at testing centers at colleges and universities elsewhere. 

Course Descriptions

PHY 100 Introduction to Physics 
Students who struggle with College Physics (algebra-based) and General Physics (calculus-based) typically have difficulty with the mathematics portion and/or applying math to physics concepts. This course offers a preparation in math and application of math to physics problems, skills critical to success in introductory physics courses. This course is intended to places struggling students on an even playing field with their peers who possess stronger math backgrounds. The algebra portion is tested, and optional material on calculus and its application to physics problems is included, though not tested on, with the intention of providing thorough assistance to students who will take calculus-based General Physics. (Syllabus)

PHY 101 College Physics I
This algebra-based course is required by health-related majors and some science and other programs (not including Physics). It covers mechanics, heat, waves, and sound. (Syllabus)

PHY 102 College Physics II
This course is the second section of College Physics I, also required by health related majors and some science and other programs. It covers electricity and magnetism, light, optics, and modern physics. (Syllabus)

PHY 107 General Physics I
Sometimes referred to as "University Physics" in other universities, PHY 107 is typically required by physics and engineering programs. This calculus-based course covers kinematics, Newton's laws, energy, momentum, rotational motion, and oscillations. (Syllabus)

PHY 108 General Physics II
This course is the second section of General Physics I, also typically required by physics and engineering programs. It covers the electric field, Gauss's law, electric potential, capacitance, DC circuits, RC circuits, magnetic field, Faraday's law, inductance, LR circuits, AC circuits, and Maxwell's equations. (Syllabus)

Contact Us

General course registration: cas-advisor@buffalo.edu

Late registration: ndmercer@buffalo.edu

All other questions: jcerne@buffalo.edu