PHYS 1100 Structure of the Universe I
An introductory course directed at non-science majors. Physical principles are developed and applied to our space and astrophysical environment. Topics include structure and evolution of the solar system, physics of the sun and planets, space discoveries, creation and structure of stars and galaxies, relativity and cosmology, extraterrestrial life, and astronomical concepts.
Course overview
- Department
- Physics
- School
- MCAS
- Credits
- 3
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Offered
- Every Fall
Catalog details
- Satisfies core
- Natural Science
Requirements fulfilled
- University Core: Natural Science (All undergraduates)
Course evaluations
- Course rating
- 3.45 / 5 · Good
- Instructor rating
- 3.74 / 5 · Very Good
- Terms evaluated
- 7
| Term | Instructor | Course overall | Instructor overall | Well organized | Clear learning objectives | Intellectually challenging | Helpful assignments | Applicable beyond course | Attendance necessary | Weekly effort | Responses |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall 2025 | Cyril Opeil | 3.8 | 4.1 | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.3 | 4.3 | 4.1 | 4.0 | 1–3 hrs/week | 125 of 150 |
| Summer 2025 | Alexander Auner | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | — | 2 of 4 |
| Fall 2024 | Cyril Opeil | 3.4 | 3.7 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4.1 | 3.8 | 3.8 | 1–3 hrs/week | 80 of 100 |
| Summer 2024 | Alexander Auner | 4.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 5.0 | 4.0 | 7–9 hrs/week | 1 of 5 |
| Fall 2023 | Kevin Bedell | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | 22 of 29 |
| Fall 2022 | Kevin Bedell | 3.2 | 3.3 | 3.5 | 3.5 | 4.0 | 3.8 | 3.3 | 3.6 | 1–3 hrs/week | 23 of 30 |
| Fall 2021 | Kevin Bedell | 2.3 | 2.5 | 2.7 | 3.0 | 3.3 | 3.1 | 3.1 | 2.6 | 1–3 hrs/week | 15 of 28 |