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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.

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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:

  • ASTR 221, Observational Astronomy
  • PHYS 245, Experimental Physics III
  • PHYS 246, Data Reduction and Error Analysis
1 credit
Electives 4 credits
TOTAL 16 credits

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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:

  • ME 252, Materials Science (3 credits)
  • ME 462, Vibrations (3 credits)
  • PHYS 215, Mechanics of Materials (3 credits)
  • PHYS 333, Mechanical Measurements Laboratory (4 credits)
7 credits
TOTAL 16 credits

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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:

  • ECE 221, Digital Logic Design (3 credits)
  • ECE 222, Advanced Logic Design (3 credits)
  • ECE 261, Linear Circuit Theory I (3 credits)
  • ECE 262, Linear Circuit Theory II (3 credits)
  • PHYS 322, Embedded Microcontrollers (3 credits)
7 credits
TOTAL 16 credits

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