Undergraduate

Physics

Explore foundational training in universal principles and problem-solving methods.

Degree

Minor

Location

Durham, NH

Courses

Credit

19 hrs.

Full-time

- -

Part-time

- -

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Physics & Astronomy

The Physics minor at UNH offers foundational training in universal principles and problem-solving methods. Here you'll be able to study subatomic particles, cosmic origins and many other subjects with opportunities to conduct research in a variety of areas.

With collaborative learning opportunities and broad scientific training, this program prepares you for careers in teaching, technical fields, and pre-professional paths.

Physics & Astronomy Department

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Innovation Scholars

The only first-year research and innovation program of its type in the region!

The Innovation Scholars program, open to all CEPS majors, offers students an exceptional launch to their college experience. Through multiple interdisciplinary cohorts and hands-on research in world-class facilities, students build confidence, gain real experience, and open doors to paid research, internships, and future graduate study. It’s a proven program that helps students shape their future from day one.

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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

Curriculum & Requirements

Program Description

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

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.

Requirements for the Program

Academic policies related to Minors.

Credit toward the minor will only be given for courses passed with C- or better, and a 2.00 grade-point average must be maintained in courses for the minor.

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 and PHYS 408 or the equivalent. These two courses are prerequisites for all other physics courses.

Course List
Code	Title	Credits
Required Courses
PHYS 407	General Physics I	4
PHYS 408	General Physics II	4
PHYS 505	General Physics III	3
Elective ¹		4
Elective ¹		4
Total Credits		19

¹: Select a four-credit physics course, chosen in consultation with the student's physics minor advisor.

PHYS 407, PHYS 408, 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
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
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