Physics Minor

A minor in physics allows students to master the basics of physics and develop effective problem-solving skills. This skill set can be applied across various disciplines, making physics a valuable addition to any major and preparing students for successful graduate studies in the sciences.

The Physics minor at Union Commonwealth University is designed for students who want to complement their primary degree with a deeper understanding of how physical principles shape real-world systems. Through a structured sequence of calculus-based coursework, laboratory experience, and modern physics concepts, students gain hands-on exposure to experimentation, data analysis, and scientific modeling. This interdisciplinary approach is especially valuable for majors in engineering, mathematics, chemistry, and computer science, as well as for students interested in careers that require strong analytical reasoning. By combining theoretical knowledge with applied learning, the program helps students strengthen their ability to interpret complex systems and approach challenges with a quantitative, evidence-based mindset.

RESOURCES


  • Admission Information

    A minimum 2.0 GPA is the requirement for admission at Union Commonwealth University. 

  • Curriculum Summary

    Physics Minor Requirements (36 Credit Hours)


    36-39 semester hours in Physics including: 17 to 20 hours in Physics; 4 hours in Chemistry; 12 hours in Calculus; and 3 hours of Electives. The following courses are required:


    PHYS 211 General Physics I (4 Credit Hours)

    A two-semester sequence which must be taken in order. Mechanics of solids, liquids and gases; laws of thermodynamics; kinetic-molecular theory, vibrating bodies; wave physics; laws of Coulomb, Faraday, Ampere, Ohm, Joule, and Lenz; electromagnetism; and optics. Prerequisite or Corequisite: MATH 242


    PHYS 212 General Physics II (4 Credit Hours)

    A two-semester sequence which must be taken in order. Mechanics of solids, liquids and gases; laws of thermodynamics; kinetic-molecular theory, vibrating bodies; wave physics; laws of Coulomb, Faraday, Ampere, Ohm, Joule, and Lenz; electromagnetism; and optics. Prerequisite or Corequisite: MATH 242


    PHYS 213 General Physics Lab I (1 Credit Hour)

    Laboratory components accompanying PHYS 111 and PHYS 112 respectively. A general physics laboratory course involving experiments in mechanics, heat, sound, electricity, magnetism, and optics. Experiments are coordinated with PHYS 211-PHYS 212. No credit may be received for these laboratory courses without concurrent or prior completion of the corresponding lecture course.


    PHYS 214 General Physics Lab II (1 Credit Hour)

    Laboratory components accompanying PHYS 111 and PHYS 112 respectively. A general physics laboratory course involving experiments in mechanics, heat, sound, electricity, magnetism, and optics. Experiments are coordinated with PHYS 211-PHYS 212. No credit may be received for these laboratory courses without concurrent or prior completion of the corresponding lecture course.


    PHYS 304 Modern Physics (3 Credit Hours)

    Study of modern physics: relativity, quantum mechanics, wave/particle duality, atomic/nuclear/particle physics, and cosmology. Prerequisites: PHYS 111 and PHYS 112, or PHYS 211 and PHYS 212. Even years only.


    PHYS 305 Problem Solving in Modern Physics (1 Credit Hour)

    Problem Solving in Modern Physics, (F) (1). Calculus-based problem-solving supplement to PHYS 304, Modern Physics. Prerequisites: PHYS 211 and 212, and MATH 242. Prerequisite or Corequisite: PHYS 304. Even years only.


    PHYS 331 Heat and Thermodynamics (3 Credit Hours)
    Thermodynamic systems and processes, equations of state, PVT surfaces and real substances, laws of thermodynamics, energy equations, enthalpy, entropy, thermodynamic potentials, and application of thermodynamics to simple systems. Prerequisite: PHYS 212. Prerequisite or Corequisite: MATH 243. Odd years only.


    CHEM 314 Physical Chemistry Lab (1 Credit Hour)

    A laboratory course designed to accompany CHEM 313, CHEM 332, and PHYS 331.


    CHEM 332 Physical Chemistry (3 Credit Hours)

    A study of atomic structures and chemical bonding in terms of modern quantum theory. Topics include quantum mechanics, molecular spectra, and chemical kinetics. Prerequisites: MATH 242 and PHYS 212. Odd years only


    MATH 241 Differential Calculus & Analytic Geometry (4 Credit Hours)

    Review of algebra, limits, the derivative, differentiation of algebraic and trigonometric functions, applications of the derivative, extrema, and the antiderivative. Prerequisite: MATH 134 or permission from instructor.


    MATH 242 Integral Calculus & Analytic Geometry (4 Credit Hours)

    Course contains the integral, applications of the integral, logarithmic and exponential functions, trigonometric functions, hyperbolic functions, techniques of integration, L’Hospital’s Rule and indeterminate forms, and improper integrals. Prerequisite: MATH 241.


    MATH 243 Advanced Calculus & Analytic Geometry (4 Credit Hours)

    Topics selected from polar coordinates, vectors, solid analytic geometry, partial differentiation, multiple integration, infinite series, and differential equations. Prerequisite: MATH 242.


    And 3 hours of electives to be chosen from:


    PHYS 402 The Physics of Solids (3 Credit Hours)

    A study of the physical, mechanical, thermal, electrical, and magnetic properties of solid phase materials. Also, to be considered are experimental methods for investigating solids. Prerequisites: MATH 131 and either PHYS 111 and PHYS 112, or PHYS 211 and PHYS 212.


    CIS 250 (or higher) Linear Algebra (3 Credit Hours)

    This is an introductory course in computer programming in which visual programming and object-oriented programming is employed. It introduces basic programming concepts such as data types, decisions, looping, arrays, files, and databases. The course will utilize the most current language in the marketplace. (Formerly COMP 250)


    Or


    MATH 332 (or higher) Linear Algebra (3 Credit Hours)

    Vector spaces, subspaces, linear independence, linear transformations, determinants, inner product spaces, orthogonality, and unitary transformations. Prerequisite: MATH 331. Odd years only.


FAQ


  • What skills can I gain from a Physics minor?

    Students develop analytical thinking, quantitative reasoning, and problem-solving skills through coursework in mechanics, thermodynamics, and modern physics.

  • Do I need a strong math background to pursue a Physics minor?

    Yes, the program includes calculus requirements, so a solid foundation in mathematics is important for success in physics coursework.

  • How does a Physics minor complement my major?

    A Physics minor pairs well with majors such as engineering, chemistry, mathematics, and computer science by strengthening technical and analytical skill sets.

  • Are there lab components in the Physics minor program?

    Yes, the program includes laboratory courses that provide hands-on experience in areas such as electricity, magnetism, optics, and thermodynamics.

  • What topics are covered in modern physics courses?

    Students explore concepts such as relativity, quantum mechanics, atomic structure, and particle physics as part of their upper-level coursework.

Gather your supporting documents and visit our Undergraduate Application for Admission to begin your educational journey at Union Commonwealth University.


Contact Us


Union Commonwealth University Admissions

Phone: 1-800-489-8646


Union Commonwealth University

310 College Street

Barbourville, KY 40906



admissions@unionky.edu