The Physics Minor

The physics minor offers WPI students the chance to strengthen their scientific background to better prepare them for the rapidly changing technologies of today's world. There are various reasons to minor in physics, most of which are the same reasons to major in physics. Here we detail some of those reasons and link you to the guidelines for the minor.

Why Minor in Physics?

  1. Because you like physics! Enjoying the topic of physics is one of the best reasons to study it. Many of us who teach physics entered the field because we found it so intriguing and exciting. It is also satisfying because physics can explain so much of the world around us.
  2. It is the foundation of all technology. Physics forms the foundation of most of today's rapidly changing technologies. By having a better grasp on physics allows you to adapt quickly to the new and emerging technologies.
  3. Improve your job options and diversity. Just as physics prepares you for the ever-changing technologies, it also qualifies you for a wider variety of jobs. And within the position that you will have, you will be ensured more job diversity because of the skills you acquire in physics.

Guidelines for the Physics Minor

The Physics Minor offers non-Physics majors the opportunity to broaden their understanding of both the principles of physics and the application of those principles to modern day engineering problems. In these times of rapid technological change, knowledge of fundamental priciples is a key to adaptability in a changing workforce.

Two units of coordinated physics activity are required for the Physics Minor, as follows (note that, in accordance with Institute policy, no more than 3/3 of these units may be double-counted toward other degree requirements):

  1. Any ar all of the following four introductory courses:
    PH 1110 or PH 1111
    PH 1120 or PH 1121
    PH 1130
    PH 1140
  2. 2. At least 2/3 unit of upper level physics courses (2000 level or higher), which may include IS/P courses or independent studies approved by the program review committee. Examples of courses of this type which might be selected are (but are not limited to):
    PH 2201 Intermediate Mechanics I
    PH 2301 Electromagnetic Fields
    PH 2651 Physics Laboratory
    PH 3401 Quantum Mechanics I
    PH 3504 Optics
    PH 2501 Photonics
    IS/P Quantum Engineering
    Students who have taken the four course introductory sequence should have an adequate physics background for these courses; see, however, the individual course descriptions for the expected mathematical background. Other physics courses may be selected for the physics minor, but the reccommended background for such courses often includes one or more of the courses listed above.
  3. Capstone Experience
    The capstone experience for the physics minor can be satisfied either by an independent study arranged for this purpose, or by one of the upper level courses. IF the second option is chosen, the student must discuss this with the instructor prior to the start of the course. In either case, documentation of the capstone experience will consist of a paper, prepared in consultation with the instructor or independent study advisor, which incorporates and ties together concepts learned in the physics courses selected.

For more information, or assistance in selecting a minor advisor or an independent study advisor, see the Head of the Physics Department in Olin Hall 119. Majors in Physics or Engineering Physics do not qualify for a Minor in Physics.

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Last modified: July 02, 2008 14:12:09