physics minor

the physics minor at usciences offers an excellent opportunity for students to enhance their scientific backgrounds by studying the fundamental laws of nature. the emphasis in the minor is on modern breakthroughs in physics, from quantum mechanics and relativity until today, and how these have influenced other sciences. students will learn how physics is a pivotal field of science with many important applications, from the use of radioisotopes in therapy to the use of magnetic resonance imaging in the detection of diseases.

the physics minor complements many different majors.  it provides students with the background needed for work or advanced studies in medical, biological, chemical, biochemical or pharmaceutical research, or in advanced physical therapy.

Coursework & Duration

prerequisite course

course number	course name	credits
py 212	physics ii	4 credits

required courses

course number	course name	credits
ma 202	mathematical analysis iv	4 credits
py 301	modern physics i	3 credits

elective courses

course number	course name	credits
ma 316 or ma320	linear algebra or differential equations	3 credits each
ma 350	chaos and complexity	3 credits
py 310	mechanics	3 credits
py 340	biophysics i	3 credits
py 380	electronics	3 credits
py 406	advanced lab	1 credits
py 410	electricity and magnetism	3 credits
py 420	optic and wave phenomena	3 credits
py 430	thermodynamics	3 credits
py 450	quantum mechanics	3 credits
py 460	topics in contemporary physics	1-3 credits
py 490	special topics or research in physics	1-3 credits
py 495	undergraduate research in physics	2 credits
other courses as approved by the department

Requirements & Expectations

the physics minor consists of 1 prerequisite course (4 credits), 2 required courses (7 credits) and at least 4 elective courses (totaling a minimum of 11 credits) from the list above.

a minimum of 12 credits of minor coursework must be completed in addition to any courses (required courses or program electives) included in your major curriculum.

up to 6 credits of coursework, with an earned grade of “c” or better, taken at another accredited institution, may be applied to the course requirements of the minor upon prior approval of the department chair.

you may not earn both a physics minor and a biophysics minor.

you should apply to the minor program early in your academic career, usually by the fifth semester of college work, but no later than the end of the drop/add period of the first semester of your last year of didactic work.