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Physics Minor

Physics Minor

Student repairing laser equipment in lab

If you are majoring in engineering, mathematics, chemistry or other sciences and have an interest in physics, the minor in physics will give you concrete expertise and a path to a broad range of careers. A flexible mix of core and upper division courses will train you in basic and advanced concepts in theoretical and applied physics and impart technical knowledge and problem-solving skills. The advantage of a minor in physics is that it allows you to concentrate on the field of physics that interests you, be it modern electronics or classical physics.

Students pursuing a minor in physics take courses within the nationally recognized Paradigms in Physics curriculum which gives students broader instruction in problem solving across the various sub-fields of physics: electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, materials physics, statistical physics. The requirements for the minor in physics include 16 credits of introductory courses and 12 credits of selected upper-division courses.

Students from other major programs who complete introductory physics courses through PH 315 (Physics of Contemporary Challenges) have the option to complete a minor in physics with only 12 additional credits of upper-division physics.

Students interested in minoring in physics should contact the head advisor, Professor David McIntyre (phys-advising@science.oregonstate.edu Tel: 541-737-1696, Weniger 311).

Sample courses

Physics of Contemporary Challenges

Techniques of Theoretical Mechanics

Computer Interfacing and Instrumentation

Meet our students and alumni

Physics major has eyes set on healthcare

Katherine Banowetz stands out as the only woman in her senior year physics class.

Goldwater scholar is “a physicist to his fingertips”

Honors physics and mathematics student Ryan Tollefsen received a 2019 Goldwater award. He was one of four OSU students selected for the prestigious award.

The triple crown of science: Graduating with degrees in math, physics and nuclear engineering

Math, physics and nuclear engineering senior Jesse Rodriguez isn’t your average student by most measures. A transfer student, Rodriguez enjoyed an incredible and wide-ranging learning experience where his classes in the different subjects led him to many wonderful insights about the deeper connections among his majors, and ultimately to a more solid understanding of science itself. He was one of just 26 students in 2018 to earn a prestigious Department of Energy fellowship that will pay for his Ph.D. at Stanford University to study plasma physics.