Physics Minor
February 3, 2022 2026-03-20 21:48physics
Physics at Rocky Mountain College
*The physics minor is currently under moratorium and is not presently accepting new students.
Physics sits at the core of the sciences. Its concepts and principles underpin chemistry, biology, environmental science, geology, engineering, and many health professions. At Rocky Mountain College, physics courses introduce you to the major ideas of classical and modern physics while building the quantitative and analytical skills that let you understand and describe the physical universe.
Whether you’re a science major, an aviation student, headed toward engineering or health sciences, or simply curious about how the world works, physics at Rocky gives you a rigorous yet supportive path into the subject.
Why Choose Physics at Rocky
Physics at RMC emphasizes both conceptual understanding and problem-solving. You’ll see how physics shapes everything from planetary motion and energy systems to modern technology, medical imaging, and flight. Courses are offered at different mathematical levels—from algebra-based fundamentals to full calculus-based general physics—so you can choose the path that fits your major and goals. Across all levels, you’ll practice precise quantitative reasoning, clear scientific communication, and careful lab work.
$42K
average annual pay for a Physic degree in Montana according to ZipRecruiter
Learning Outcomes
The Physics minor and course sequence are designed to help students:
- Build a solid conceptual understanding of classical and modern physics.
- Develop strong quantitative and mathematical reasoning skills.
- Gain experience designing and interpreting experiments in the lab.
- Communicate physical ideas clearly in written, oral, and graphical forms.
- Be well prepared for further study or professional programs that rely on physics.
- Communicate effectively in writing and oral presentation
99%
of students receive scholarships or grants
88%
of students are placed in internships
Coursework and Requirements
Physics courses range from algebra-based surveys to calculus-based sequences and upper-division topics. You can start with Fundamental Physics I and II or the Principles of Physics course for aviation, or you can jump into the General Physics I and II sequence if you’re in chemistry, biology or another science-heavy track. Advanced offerings in relativity, quantum theory, optics, and health physics allow interested students to explore deeper concepts and applications.
Information
Minors:
Physics
Faculty
Toby Anderson
- Contact
- Call: (406) 657-1026
- Text: (406) 606-6440
- Email: admissions@rocky.edu
Course highlights include:
Course highlights include algebra-based Fundamental Physics I and II, which build a solid understanding of motion, forces, energy, waves, light, and modern physics; Principles of Physics, which applies these ideas directly to aviation topics; and the calculus-based General Physics I and II sequence for students in chemistry and other sciences. Advanced options like Modern Physics, Relativity Theory, Quantum Theory, Classical and Modern Optics, Introduction to Health Physics, and Physics Lab Projects let you explore deeper concepts and design more sophisticated experiments as your interests and skills grow.
Explore Areas in Physics
Physics Minor
Ideal for students in chemistry, mathematics, biology, geology, environmental science, aviation, or pre-health who want a formal credential in physics and a solid conceptual and quantitative foundation.
Career Pathways:
The Physics minor supports paths in research labs, engineering-related fields, data analysis, aviation, environmental and geotechnical work, and health professions. It also strengthens applications to graduate programs in chemistry, geoscience, engineering, or medical and allied health programs that value strong physics preparation.
Career Ready
With a strong foundation in physics, you’ll bring in-demand analytical and quantitative skills to careers in research, engineering-related fields, aviation, environmental and geotechnical work, data analysis, and health professions. The physics minor and advanced courses also strengthen applications to graduate programs in science, engineering, and medicine.
Field Experience and Mentorship
Physics at RMC emphasizes hands-on lab work and close interaction with faculty. You’ll design and carry out experiments, analyze data, and present results—skills that transfer directly to labs, engineering teams, and research environments. Independent study options let exceptional students pursue deeper topics or projects under faculty supervision, tailoring their physics experience to fit their goals.
Information
Minors:
Physics
Faculty
Toby Anderson
- Contact
- Call: (406) 657-1026
- Text: (406) 606-6440
- Email: admissions@rocky.edu
Connect and Learn More
Ready to inspire the next generation?
