Minor in Physics

Physics (Minor)

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What is physics?

The physics minor is tailored to students who want a broad introduction to physics.You can explore fundamental aspects of the universe, from subatomic particles to the origin of the cosmos, and you’ll learn how to approach, analyze and solve complex problems. Combined with majors such as education, journalism, business or other sciences, the minor in physics can serve as preparation for teachers, science writers, pre-med and pre-law students, as well as those wishing to pursue technical careers in industry, research and engineering.

Why study physics at UNH?

The program offers introductory physics in a lecture and studio format —an active learning environment that includes group work and labs all in a single room with a professor and graduate teaching assistants. This style allows for a coherent, connected and supportive experience. You’ll have opportunities to conduct research with physics faculty and other scientists, working on projects funded by NASA, the National Science Foundation, the Department of Education, Department of Defense, National Institutes of Health and other agencies and organizations.

Potential career areas

  • Aerospace sciences
  • Applied optics
  • Business management
  • Education
  • Engineering research
  • Materials research
  • Medicine
  • Patent and intellectual property law
  • Science journalism
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View Course Catalog
Department of Physics
DeMeritt Hall 237A
9 Library Way
Durham, NH 03824

Phone: (603) 862-2669
Email: physics.dept@unh.edu  

Curriculum & Requirements

This program allows students to become more deeply involved in physics without the commitment of a major.

  • The minor consists of 5 four-credit courses in physics.
  • At most only two minor courses can also fulfill a major requirement.
  • The following courses may NOT be used to fulfill minor requirements: PHYS 400, PHYS 401, PHYS 402, PHYS 409, PHYS 501.
  • Physics minors must take PHYS 407 General Physics I and PHYS 408 General Physics II or the equivalent. These two courses are prerequisites for all other physics courses.

To minor in physics, request a minor advisor at the physics office as soon as possible. Advisors assist in course selection to fit your interests, schedule, and help ensure you have met mathematical and physics prerequisites.

PHYS 407General Physics I4
PHYS 408General Physics II4
PHYS 505General Physics III3
Elective 14
Elective 14
Total Credits19

Examples of course combinations used to fulfill minor requirements:

  1. PHYS 407 General Physics I, PHYS 408 General Physics II, PHYS 505 General Physics III & PHYS 506 General Physics III Laboratory, PHYS 508 Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics, PHYS 615 Classical Mechanics and Mathematical Physics I
  2. PHYS 407 General Physics I, PHYS 408 General Physics II, PHYS 406 Introduction to Modern Astronomy, PHYS 615 Classical Mechanics and Mathematical Physics I,  PHYS 616 Classical Mechanics and Mathematical Physics II
  3. PHYS 407 General Physics I, PHYS 408 General Physics II, PHYS 615 Classical Mechanics and Mathematical Physics I, PHYS 616 Classical Mechanics and Mathematical Physics II, PHYS 703 Electricity and Magnetism I

Note: many physics courses have mathematics prerequisites. Prerequisites are listed in the course descriptions.

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