Minoring in Physics or Astronomy at SJSU
Are you interested in Physics and Astronomy but already committed to another major? Consider adding a minor! Our department offers two different minors that offer an excellent opportunity to broaden your depth of knowledge in physics and astronomy at SJSU.
Program Requirements
Students interested in pursuing the Physics Minor are required to complete 18 units worth of courses with a “C” (2.0 GPA) average or better, normally including Physics 50, Physics 51, Physics 52, and an additional 6 units of approved upper-division physics or astronomy courses. PHYS 180 and 184 (up to four units, combined) count for this, as do all other 100-level courses except for PHYS 100W and ASTR 101. Official requirements can be viewed by visiting the SJSU Academic Catalog link at the bottom of this page.
Students interested in pursuing the Astronomy Minor are required to complete 21 units worth of courses with a grade of a "C" (2.0 GPA) or better, normally including Physics 50, Physics 51, Physics 52, ASTR 117A, ASTR 117B, and ASTR 155. Official requirements can be viewed by visiting the SJSU Academic Catalog link at the bottom of this page.
Apply for a Minor
For more information about majoring in physics, contact the department minor advisor (Prof. Christopher Smallwood) by messaging physics-advising@sjsu.edu or by filling out the form linked below.
Applications for the physics or astronomy minor should be submitted to the College of Science (see the action buttons below). Application windows are open during September for the fall semester. They are open during January-February for the spring semester. Applications are processed 4-6 weeks after submission. Students must usually have taken and passed PHYS 50 and 51 with a "C" or better before their application for the minor will be approved. Minor applications that postpone a student's graduation date will not be accepted.
Course Offerings
- List of Courses
- Undergraduate Course Map [pdf] (including courses required for the BA and BS, prerequisites, and semesters in which courses are typically offered)
