Why Minor in Physics?
Physics is the foundation of the STEM fields, including engineering, biology, chemistry, biomechanics, and more.
A physics minor is an excellent complement to multiple degrees. Engineering majors only need a few more courses to complete a minor in physics. Mathematics majors can apply their skills in calculus, complex analysis, and linear algebra to the physical world. Biomechanics majors can gain deeper insight into complex modeling of motion and be better prepared for graduate education in biomechanical engineering. Chemistry majors can gain a better understanding of the modern and quantum physics that underlie chemical processes. Biology majors can utilize our upper-level coursework in biomedical physics to better understand modern medical instrumentation and physical processes within the human body. Pre-med students that complete a physics minor typically have higher acceptance rates into medical school.
Physics Minor
The physics minor requires 18 credit hours in physics coursework, as outlined below. Minimum grade required for each course is “C-“.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses: | 9 | |
| GENERAL PHYSICS I - CALCULUS LEVEL (4 cr) | ||
| GENERAL PHYSICS-CALCULUS LEVEL (4 cr) | ||
| GENERAL PHYSICS LABORATORY I (1 cr) | ||
|
or PHYS 1164
|
GENERAL PHYSICS LABORATORY II | |
| Students must select 9 credit hours of electives, with a minimum of 6 credits at the 3000/4000 level. | ||
| Select 6 credits from the following: | 6 | |
| CLASSICAL MECHANICS (3 cr) | ||
| THERMODYNAMICS AND STATISTICAL PHYSICS (3 cr) | ||
| ELECTRICITY AND MAGNETISM I (3 cr) | ||
| OPTICS (3 cr) | ||
| INTRODUCTION TO QUANTUM MECHANICS (3 cr) | ||
| Select an additional 3 credits in physics from 1000-4000 level, excluding PHYS 1030, 1034, 1050, 1054, 1110 and 1120. | 3 | |
| Total Credits | 18 | |
Note: PHYS 3250 is a common prerequisite to other physics courses and could be a helpful free elective. Additionally, MATH 1950 and MATH 1960 are required for PHYS 2110 and PHYS 2120 respectively, with MATH 1970 being a common prerequisite to other physics courses.