Physics Minor
Build a solid foundation in classical and modern physics — and add a credential that signals strong quantitative and problem-solving skills to any employer or graduate program.
Program Overview
The physics minor at Shawnee State University is designed for students who want to strengthen their analytical and quantitative skills through the study of physics. Whether you’re pursuing a career in science, engineering, mathematics, computer science, or pre-professional health fields, this minor in physics adds value by building a solid foundation in classical and modern physics, calculus, and scientific reasoning.
This 20-credit-hour minor equips students with the tools to better understand the physical world while supporting advanced career goals, including graduate school in physics or related disciplines. By adding a physics minor to your existing major, you’ll demonstrate strong problem-solving abilities and scientific fluency—highly sought-after traits across many industries.
At A Glance
Physics Minor
Degree
Minor
Format
On campus
Length
Complete alongside your major
Credits
20
Why Study Physics Minor at Shawnee University
You'll build a full calculus-based physics foundation: Calculus 2 and 3, plus Modern Physics, before you choose upper-level electives.
Elective options let you focus on thermodynamics, mechanics, electricity and magnetism, or quantum mechanics — and you can take Intermediate Lab or undergraduate research credit.
Classes are small enough that you'll work directly with faculty on problem sets, labs, and research questions instead of fading into a lecture hall.
The minor strengthens any STEM major and gives you a credential that travels well into graduate school or technical careers in engineering, computing, or science.
The Physics minor is 20 credit hours: 12 hours of core mathematics and physics, plus 8 hours of upper-level physics electives.
- Core Requirements (12 hrs.): MATH 2120 Calculus 2, MATH 2130 Calculus 3, PHYS 2250 Modern Physics
- Electives (8 hrs.) chosen from: PHYS 3000 Intermediate Laboratory, PHYS 3010 Thermodynamics, PHYS 3020 Mechanics, PHYS 4000 Electricity and Magnetism, PHYS 4010 Quantum Mechanics, or PHYS 4495 Undergraduate Research (max 3 credits)
- Mathematics, chemistry, biology, and natural sciences majors
- Computer science and engineering technologies majors
- Pre-professional health students (pre-med, pre-PA, pre-pharmacy)
- Any student who wants to demonstrate strong quantitative and analytical skills — the minor pairs with any bachelor's degree at the University
Physics coursework and labs are taught in Massie Hall on the Portsmouth campus.
Physics Minor Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — Calculus 1 is a prerequisite for the calculus sequence and for PHYS 2250 Modern Physics. Plan your math sequence early.
Yes. PHYS 4495 Undergraduate Research counts toward the elective hours (up to 3 credits). Faculty work with students on experimental and theoretical projects.
It's a strong fit. The calculus and upper-level physics coursework deepens the science behind what you study in the ETEC programs.
