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Imaging Science BS
Program overview
Imaging science is a multidisciplinary field based on physics, mathematics, computer science, systems engineering, and chemistry. Students study the theory behind the technologies used to create images, the integration of those technologies into imaging systems, and the application of those systems to solve scientific problems. The imaging science curriculum includes the study of:
- the physical observables associated with the subject of an image, such as reflected or emitted electromagnetic radiation;
- how those observables are captured by devices using optics and detectors such as satellites, digital cameras, and astronomical observatories;
- how the captured observables are processed using computers and specialized software;
- how processed signals are converted into images displayed on paper or electronic devices and perceived by humans; and
- how image quality is assessed and scientific information is extracted.
Concepts presented in the classroom are reinforced through laboratory experiments and a capstone research experience, which can examine a problem in any of several imaging applications such as remote sensing, astronomy, biomedical imaging, manuscript imaging and enhancement, optics, color science, image quality, or visual perception. Both theoretical studies and practical application of technologies are integral parts of the curriculum.
Graduates are in demand by both industry and governmental agencies to work on the design, development, testing, or production of specialized imaging systems or technologies, or to use imaging systems to perform scientific research. Faculty members are deeply committed professionals who divide their time between teaching and the pursuit of scientific advances.
Faculty, staff, and students conduct research sponsored by both industry and the government. The research support ensures that students are exposed to the latest developments in a rapidly expanding field.
Curriculum
Cooperative education experience is not required but is recommended for the summers following the second and third years of the program. Opportunities to participate in research work with faculty are also available during academic and summer semesters.
Imaging science, BS degree, typical course sequence (semesters), effective fall 2013
| Course | Sem. Cr. Hrs. | |
|---|---|---|
| First Year | ||
| IMGS-181, 182 | Freshman Imaging Project I (WI), II | 6 |
| MATH-181, 182 | LAS Perspective 7A, 7B: Project-Based Calculus I, II | 8 |
| LAS Perspective 1, 2 | 6 | |
| LAS Foundation 1: First Year Seminar† | 3 | |
| LAS Foundation 2: First Year Writing | 3 | |
| PHYS-211 | LAS Perspective 5: University Physics I | 4 |
| Wellness Education* | 0 | |
| Second Year | ||
| IMGS-201 | Introduction to Imaging Systems | 3 |
| MATH-221 | Multivariable and Vector Calculus | 4 |
| IMGS-221 | Vision and Psychophysics | 3 |
| PHYS-212 | LAS Perspective 6: University Physics II | 4 |
| LAS Perspective 3, 4 | 6 | |
| IMGS-251 | Radiometry | 3 |
| IMGS-261 | Linear and Fourier Methods for Imaging | 4 |
| IMGS-211 | Probability and Statistics for Imaging | 3 |
| PHYS-213 | Modern Physics I | 3 |
| Third Year | ||
| IMGS-321 | Geometric Optics | 3 |
| IMGS-351 | Color Science | 3 |
| IMGS-361, 362 | Digital Image Processing I, II (WI) | 6 |
| IMGS-365 | IDL Programming | 1 |
| LAS Electives | 6 | |
| LAS Immersion 1, 2 | 6 | |
| IMGS-322 | Physical Optics | 3 |
| IMGS-341 | Interactions Between Light and Matter | 3 |
| IMGS-401 | Research Practices | 1 |
| Fourth Year | ||
| IMGS-441 | Noise and System Modeling | 3 |
| IMGS-471, 472 | Imaging Systems Analysis I, II | 6 |
| IMGS-475, 476 | Advanced Imaging Laboratory I, II | 2 |
| IMGS-502, 503 | Imaging Science Senior Project I, II | 6 |
| LAS Immersion 3 | 3 | |
| Free Electives | 6 | |
| IMGS-451 | Imaging Detectors | 3 |
| Total Semester Credit Hours | 124 | |
Please see New General Education Curriculum–Liberal Arts and Sciences (LAS) for more information.
(WI) Refers to a writing intensive course within the major.
* Please see Wellness Education Requirement for more information.
† The First Year Seminar requirement is replaced by an LAS Elective for the 2013-14 academic year.