Department of Physics and Astronomy

Systems and Laboratory Automation Concentration

The Systems and Laboratory Automation concentration focuses on electronics engineering, automation, computer interfacing, optics instrumentation, and mechatronics. The curriculum includes a core of courses in analog and digital electronics, digital system design, robotics, design and implementation of microcontroller-based instrumentation, and laboratory automation. All of the courses have a three-hour hands-on laboratory component for related, practical application of the course material. A research project is required and conducted under the supervision of a member of the Department's graduate faculty.

A complete description of program requirements can be found in the 2026-27 Graduate Bulletin.

Thesis and Non-Thesis Options

 The program has both a thesis and non-thesis option. Both options can be completed in two years.

 The thesis option requires a minimum of 30 semester hours of graduate coursework credit and incorporates six hours for the thesis. The comprehensive exam is given over the thesis area only.

 The non-thesis option requires a minimum of 36 semester hours of graduate coursework credit.  These hours include three hours of credit in directed research for the associated research project. The comprehensive exam is given in PHY 5405: Graduate Seminar.

Typical Program of Study for Systems and Laboratory Automation Concentration

First Year

Second Year

Common electives in Fall include:

(3) PHY 5020: Computational Methods in Physics & Engineering

(4) PHY 5430: Digital Systems

(4) PHY 5450: Programmable Logic Controllers

(4) PHY 5620: Optics

(4) PHY 5860: Physical Principles of Electron Microscopy

Common electives in Spring include:

(4) PHY 5435: Laboratory Automation

(4) PHY 5635: LabVIEW Interfacing and Robotics

(3) PHY 5845: Nanoscience and Technology

(3) PHY 5850: Advanced Materials Science Laboratory

For more information, contact Dr. Michael Briley (brileymm@appstate.edu).

Program Educational Objectives

PEO 1: Technical Practice & Applied Problem Solving

Graduates will demonstrate technical competence by applying principles of engineering physics, systems automation, electronics, and instrumentation to design, analyze, and solve complex problems in industrial, government, or research environments.

PEO 2: Professional Advancement & Lifelong Learning

Graduates will advance professionally in their careers—taking on technical engineering challenges, managing projects, or successfully pursuing doctoral studies and specialized professional credentials—by adapting to emerging technologies and engaging in continuous learning.

Student Learning Objectives

1. an ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics

2. an ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors

3. an ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences

4. an ability to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts

5. an ability to function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives

6. an ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions

7. an ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.