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Physics Minor

The physics minor fits flexibly into many majors and encourages you to explore complementary interests.

Core courses set the groundwork for studying all areas of physical science, based on a deeper understanding of classical and modern physics. You will learn several forms of analysis in classical mechanics, electrodynamics and quantum physics that are meant to teach you the interconnected nature of all scientific disciplines and their interrelationships based on a common language of mathematics.

A physics minor on your resume will certainly attract the attention of prospective employers. By choosing the appropriate electives, you can complement the knowledge gained in your major. For example, a chemistry major would benefit from taking courses in quantum mechanics and heat and thermodynamics, while a mathematics major could take mathematical physics, and a computer science major could take electronics to learn something about the inner workings of the computer.

If you plan to attend graduate school for chemistry or mathematics, you will certainly have an advantage over other students without your background in physics.

Class sizes are small, allowing you to receive personalized attention while you work your way through the program. You are invited to participate in the Physics Club, an undergraduate society of physics students sharing activities and outings related to physics.

Course work for a Physics Minor

This minor requires 26 credit hours of physics, along with the appropriate mathematics prerequisites. If the student declaring the minor has already taken either the PHYS 121,PHYS 122 sequence or the PHYS 205,PHYS 206 with their associated labs, the PHYS 221,PHYS 222 requirement is waived for the minor.

Visit the catalog for course descriptions.

Required Courses:

  • PHYS 221 - Fundamentals of Physics I 
  • PHYS 222 - Fundamentals of Physics II 
  • PHYS 301 - Mathematical and Numerical Techniques in the Sciences 
  • PHYS 311 - Quantum I 
  • PHYS 321 - Electricity and Magnetism I 
  • PHYS 331 - Mechanics I 

Contact the Physics Department

Franklin Science Center 215B, 1871 Old Main Drive, Shippensburg, PA 17257 Phone: 717-477-1570