The Minor in Physics provides students with the opportunity to broaden their scientific knowledge, literacy and perspective through the exploration of modern physics, astronomy and technology which will be valuable in a wide range of fields including engineering, technology and research.
Physics is the most fundamental science, in that all other science, engineering and technology disciplines are founded upon the first principles of physics. The study of physics is highly quantitative, utilizing many advanced mathematical methods and techniques that share significant overlap with these adjcent subject areas. Our Minor in Physics embraces that reality and draws from existing courses in chemistry, mathematics, engineering and health science to prepare students for the interdisciplinary demands of the workforce of the future.
Open to students pursuing any undergraduate major, our Minor in Physics complements major programs in STEM fields. As students sharpen their problem-solving and critical thinking skills, they will effectively build a foundation for future study or graduate work in fields such as science education, engineering, mathematics, biophysics, medical physics and physical chemistry.
The Minor in Physics is open to students pursuing any undergraduate major, though students in closely related fields may take special interest in this discipline.
The primary aim of the Minor in Physics is to equip students with a foundational understanding of key principles and concepts within the discipline. Students will delve into fundamental theories, laws and experimental techniques that form the backbone of physics.
Students will gain practice with written communication particularly in the process of writing lab reports, and academic discourse during class discussions and small group activities.
The Minor in Physics places a strong emphasis on higher-order thinking skills, especially critical thinking. Students will analyze complex problems, synthesize information and apply theoretical concepts to practical situations including hands-on laboratory activities.
Particularly competency in analysis and data skills. Students will analyze experimental and simulated data, distinguish between core and peripheral information and evaluate and construct arguments based on physics principles and experimental evidence.
Course List
| Code | Title | Credits |
| Required Courses | ||
| PHY 110 / 110L OR PHY 121 | General Physics I OR University Physics I | 4 |
| PHY 111 / 111L OR PHY 122 | General Physics II OR University Physics II | 4 |
| PHY 301 | Modern Physics | 3 |
| Elective Courses (take at least 6 xredits, including one course with a PHY prefix) | ||
| PHY 107 | Intro to Astronomy | 3 |
| PHY 105 / 105L | Physics of Music | 4 |
| PHY 200 | Special Topics in Physics I | 3 |
| PHY 300 | Special Topics in Physics II | 3 |
| PHY 399 | Independent Study | 3 |
| CHE 301 / 301L | Physical Chemistry I | 4 |
| CHE 302 / 302L | Physical Chemistry II | 4 |
| DMS 200 | Sonography Physics and Instrumentation I | 3 |
| MA 265 | Matrix Algebra / Differential Equations | 4 |
| MA 365 | Ordinary Differential Equations | 3 |
| MER 330 / 330L | Introduction to Circuits | 4 |
| RS 260 | Radiologic Physics and Instrumentation | 3 |
| RS 415 / 415L | Introduction to Magnetic Resonance Imaging | 4 |
| Total Credits | 17-19 | |
Below are sample course schedules depending on the major area of study. All plans of study should be discussed with your academic adviser prior to registration.
PHY 110/110L or 121 (4 credits)*
PHY 111/111L or 122 (4 credits)
PHY 301 (3 credits)*
PHY 107 (3 credits)
PHY 105/105L (4 credits
Credit total: 18 credits
PHY 121 (4 credits)*
PHY 122 (4 credits)
PHY 301 (3 credits)*
PHY 107 (3 credits) or PHY 105/105L (4 credits)
MER 330/330L (4 credits)* or MA 265 (4 credits)* or MA 365 (3 credits)
Credit total: 17 to 19 credits
PHY 110/110L or 121 (4 credits)
PHY 111/111L or 122 (4 credits)
PHY 301 (3 credits)*
PHY 107 (3 credits) and/or PHY 105/105L (4 credits)
CHE 301 or 302 (3 credits)* or CHE 301/301L or CHE 302/302L (4 credits)*
Credit total: 17 to 19 credits
PHY 121 (4 credits)*
PHY 122 (4 credits)
PHY 301 (3 credits)*
PHY 107 (3 credits) or PHY 105/105L (4 credits)
MA 265 (4 credits)* or MA 365 (3 credits)
Credit total: 17 to 19 credits
*Indicates that there are required prerequisites for this course in addition to what is already included in the minor curriculum. See course descriptions for details.
Our undergraduate admissions counselors are here to answer any questions you may have and help you navigate the application process.