Physics Minor

Physics Minor

IN THIS SECTION

Enhance your major with a minor in physics.

In the Physics Minor, you will get a solid foundation in the fundamentals of physics, which you can then apply in a variety of fields. You will develop your understanding of basic principles, mathematical modeling, and practical applications. Your physics background will be useful in many domains, including imaging techniques in medicine and biology, analytical instrumentation in chemistry, remote-sensing techniques in the geosciences, and development of realistic physical models in computer science and mathematics.

Explore sample courses in this program.
PY-221 General Physics I
Physics with algebra and trigonometry, including kinematics, dynamics, energy, momentum, gravity, oscillators, waves, and heat. 3 hours’ lecture and 2 hours’ lab.
4 credits
PY-222 General Physics II
Physics with algebra and trigonometry including electric and magnetic fields, resistance, capacitance, inductance, reflection, refraction, interference, relativity, and quantum physics. 3 hours’ lecture and 2 hours’ laboratory.
4 credits
PY-241 Physics I (Mechanics)
Physics with calculus, including kinematics, dynamics, energy, momentum, gravity, oscillators, waves, and heat. 3 hours’ lecture and 2 hours’ lab.
4 credits
PY-242 Physics II (Electricity, Magnetism, and Optics)
Physics with calculus including electric and magnetic fields, resistance, capacitance, inductance, reflection, refraction, interference, relativity, and quantum physics. 3 hours’ lecture and 2 hours’ lab.
4 credits
PY-101 Introduction to Astronomy
Tools of the astronomer. The nature of stars and their location and cosmology. Planets and the solar system.
3 credits
PY-112 Physics in Art
Concepts in optics and modern physics applied to the analysis of paintings, conservation of art objects, and detection of forgeries. 3 hours’ lecture and 2 hours’ laboratory.
4 credits
PY-114 Physics of Waves
Wave phenomena, including water waves, sound, acoustics, musical instruments, optics, and quantum mechanics. Analysis of propagation, power, scattering, and interference.
3 credits
PY-240 Optics
Image formation with mirrors and lenses. Interference, diffraction, dispersion, and polarization. Lasers. Microscopes and spectrometers. Cameras and image processing.
3 credits
PY-250 Observational Astronomy
Orientation in the night sky. Use of telescopes and cameras. Conduct astronomical observations. Analysis and interpretation of astronomical data.
3 credits
PY-370 Introduction to Nuclear Science
Fundamentals of nuclear science. Topics include nuclear structure and forces, radioactive decays, nuclear reactions, and modern applications.
3 credits

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