Student-Led Courses

At CCS, students don't just take classes, they lead them too! From sharing their own knowledge to organizing speakers, students have created courses based on their diverse interests. Explore this page to learn more about past, current, and upcoming student-led courses. 

Review the guidelines & eligibility criteria

Apply to lead a colloquium

 

2024-2025

Spring 2025


CMPTGCS 5: Machine Learning Theory and Statistical Mechanics

Enroll Code: 63602
 
Description:  
This is a colloquium on the influence of physics on both foundational and cutting edge machine learning methods. We will explore how statistical physics can be used to build intuition for and prove properties of machine learning models and algorithms. We will examine the most foundational neural networks, like the multilayer perceptron, and the state-of-the-art generative models, like energy based models and diffusion models.

This colloquium is intended for Computer Science, Physics and Math students. Familiarity with calculus, linear algebra, and probability will be helpful, as will basic conceptual understanding of machine learning, but we will go over the relevant ideas.
 
Instructor: Led by Sidharth Kannan under the supervision of Eric Vigoda.
 

 

PHYS CS 5: Introduction to Quantum Mechanics

Enroll Code: 63628
 
Description:  
The Stern-Gerlach experiment, two-state systems, mathematical formalism of quantum mechanics, uncertainty, wavefunctions, energy quantization, the Schrödinger equation, quantum entanglement, and other topics of interest to the class (time permitting). Recommended preparation: calculus (MATH 3B), linear algebra (MATH 4A), and physics to the level of PHYS 21.
 
Instructor: Led by Simon Blanch under the supervision of Tengiz Bibilashvili.
 
 

PHYS CS 5: Classical and Quantum Field Theory

Enroll Code: 63636
 
Description:  
Introduction to classical and quantum field theory. Classical scalar, spinor, and vector fields; free field equations of motion; interaction of classical fields. Review of quantum mechanics; canonical quantization; Wick's theorem and Feynman diagram; regularization and renormalization.

Prerequisites: Phys 103 and Phys 115A. Recommended preparation: Phys 104 and Phys 115B.
 
Instructor: Led by Morgan Qi under the supervision of Ian Banta.
 
 

W&L CS 5: Creating Consciousness; What's The Point?

Enroll Code: 63644
 
Description: 
 

It's no secret that the role and value of the artist in a society built on the accumulation of wealth has been put into question. So, what is the point of being an artist/creating art in an era where it is not monetarily appreciated? This class will focus on Literary Theories and philosophies with a historical materialist lens to answer this question and explore the possibilities of what it means to be an artist from a creative perspective. Intended for Humanities majors, the course is open to all with an interest or passion for the arts. Email me at: derekuy@ucsb.edu if you have any questions.

 
Instructor: Led by Derek Uy under the supervision of James Donelan.