Physics answers questions about the physical world, from the smallest particles to day-to-day life activities to stars, galaxies, and the universe. In the physics minor, students learn about the unifying interconnections among the vast number of seemingly diverse phenomena observed in the physical world. Aspiring astronomers can catch a falling star through a robotic telescope or explore how theoretical physics can be applied to practical creations, like sensors or organ simulators. Students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills and understand that physics is about observation and reasoning, not just about learning facts.

The Physics Minor is available to students in eligible degree programs. All students in the minor must complete the prerequisite courses MATH 114 and either PHYS 124 and PHYS 126, or PHYS 144 and PHYS 146. In addition, students in the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science must complete 18 senior-level credits, including a minimum of 6 credits at the 300- or 400-level. Students in other degree programs may use either a junior-level PHYS course in place of one 300- or 400-level course and therefore must complete 15 credits in senior-level courses, including a minimum of 3 credits at the 300- or 400-level.

Note: MATH 115 is a prerequisite for most 300-level and higher PHYS courses. Students considering future enrollment in 300-level or higher PHYS courses are strongly encouraged to take MATH 115 (or MATH 114 and one of MATH 120 or MATH 125) to satisfy the mathematics requirements.

Course List

Code	Title	Credits
Specific Minor Requirements
The following two courses are required
PHYS 208	Quantum Aspects of Physics	3
PHYS 261	Physics of Heat and Energy	3
General Minor Requirements
Choose 12 credits from senior-level PHYS. Students can also use a maximum of 3 credits in PHSC. 1		12
Total Credits		18

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Students in programs other than the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science may substitute a junior-level PHYS course for one 300- or 400-level PHYS course.