A minor in physics gives students across disciplines a deeper understanding of the fundamental principles governing natural and human-designed systems, while developing strong analytical and quantitative problem-solving skills. It broadens the foundation for work in technical fields such as engineering, computer science, mathematics, chemistry, and biology. For students in the humanities and social sciences, physics complements their disciplinary perspectives with quantitative ways of thinking grounded in logical reasoning and evidence-based analysis, enhancing data literacy and problem-solving abilities valuable in research, policy, journalism, and public communication. Overall, a physics minor better equips students to approach complex problems from first principles and engage thoughtfully with the scientific and technological issues shaping modern society.
Physics Minor requirements:
- PHYS 121 Introductory Physics I: Mechanics (4 credits)
- PHYS 122 Introductory Physics II: Electricity and Magnetism (4 credits)
- PHYS 211 Introductory Physics III: Waves and Relativity (3 credits)
- PHYS 212 Introductory Physics IV: Thermal and Quantum Physics (3 credits)
Complete 9 credits selected from upper-level physics courses and/or PHYS 131L, 132L or 133L. No more than 3 credits of PHYS 499 or PHYS 499H may apply.
For further details, see the UMBC Undergraduate Catalog: Physics Minor.
Contact Information:
Questions may be directed to Dr. Eric Anderson, Undergraduate Program Director:
- Email: andersoe@umbc.edu
- Phone: 410-455-5823
Declaring or changing to the Physics major
Students interested in declaring a major or minor should complete the Registrar’s Office Declaration/Change of Major Form.