Minors in Physics
The Valparaiso University Department of Physics and Astronomy offers several minors for students seeking to explore the field beyond the introductory level. All require a minimum of 16 credits.
This minor offers a deeper understanding of the basic principles of physics than the introductory course provides.
Required Courses
| PHYS 141 | Newtonian Mechanics | 3 credits | |
| PHYS 141L | Experimental Physics I | 1 credit | |
| PHYS 142 | Physics: Electricity, Magnetism, and Waves | 3 credits | |
| PHYS 142L | Experimental Physics II | 1 credit | |
| PHYS 243 | Physics: Atoms and Nuclei | 3 credits | |
At least one course from the following options:
|
1 credit | ||
| Electives | 4 credits | ||
| TOTAL | 16 credits | ||
This applied-science minor focuses on the action of forces on bodies and the properties of matter. It is useful for students planning careers in engineering and industry and may include one or more courses in the College of Engineering.
Required Courses
| PHYS 109 | Mechanics — Statics | 3 credits | |
| PHYS 252 | Materials Science | 3 credits | |
| PHYS 440 | Condensed Matter Physics | 3 credits | |
Seven credits from the following options:
|
7 credits | ||
| TOTAL | 16 credits | ||
Required Courses
This applied-science minor focuses on courses of special interest in the design and development of electronic devices. Some required courses are taught in the College of Engineering.
| PHYS 342 | Electronics | 3 credits | |
| PHYS 372 | Electromagnetic Waves and Physical Optics | 3 credits | |
| PHYS 440 | Condensed Matter Physics | 3 credits | |
Seven credits from the following options:
|
7 credits | ||
| TOTAL | 16 credits | ||