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Physics

Subject Details

Physics courses at Inver Hills cover descriptions of physics and astronomy as well as algebra, trigonometry, and calculus.

Topics you will explore in your physics coursework include our solar system, galaxies, cosmology, motion, heat, sound, gravity, electricity, magnetism, light, mechanics, fluids, and much more.

You can study this subject area as part of course requirements for an award - degree, diploma or certificate - in another discipline. If you want to eventually earn a Bachelor’s degree in this subject, talk to a counselor or advisor early on and create a transfer plan.

Physics at Inver Hills

Click each item below to see content

Physics Student Skill Set

  • Think critically using logic and reasoning to identify complex issues
  • Solve problems using mathematics and scientific methods
  • Effectively convey information orally and in writing
  • Actively listen, comprehend, and employ powerful learning strategies
  • Apply sound judgment and decision-making skills
  • Manage your time
  • Analyze, monitor, and evaluate systems and operations

Professional Organizations

American Association of Physics Teachers (AAPT)
American Astronomical Society (AAS)
American Geophysical Union (AGU)
American Institute of Physics (AIP)
American Physical Society (APS)
Institute of Physics (IOP)
National Academy of the Sciences (NAS): Board on Physics and Astronomy
National Association of Black Physicists (NABP)
Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG)

Career Field Options in Detail

Astronomy
Astrophysics

Biophysics
Chemical physics
Econophysics
Electromagnetism
Geophysics
Medical physics
Optics
Physical chemistry
Quantum mechanics
Theory of Relativity
Statistical mechanics
Thermodynamics

Physics-Related Occupations in Detail

Aerospace Engineers
Biochemists and Biophysicists

Computer and Information Research Scientists
Mathematicians and Statisticians
Nuclear Engineers
Physicists and Astronomers

Career Links

  • NASA: Careers at NASA
  • PhysOrg
  • Institute of Physics (IOP): Careers with physics
  • Institute of Physics (IOP): Where physics could take you: Career paths
  • American Physical Society: Job Prospects for Physicists
  • American Institute of Physics (AIP): Career Resources

Physics at Inver Hills Adds Up

What you’ll accomplish as a student in our Physics program:

  1. Work directly with accomplished, student-centric physics faculty
  2. Benefit from small class sizes and collaborating with likeminded classmates  
  3. Apply sound judgment and decision-making skills
  4. Solve problems using mathematics and the scientific method
  5. Think critically using logic and reasoning to identify complex issues
  6. Acquire the comprehensive, versatile, in-demand skillset you’ll need to thrive in any workplace or profession
  7. Save money and continue your academic and professional careers with less student debt

According to U.S. News & World Report, national student loan debt topped $1.7 trillion in the second quarter of 2021, or roughly $740 billion more than U.S. total credit card debt.

In Minnesota, 900,000 student loan borrowers owe an average $31,250 in federal and private student debt. That debt translates into an average monthly payment topping $250. 

Tuition and fees for one year at Inver Hills costs a little less than $5,500. Compare that to $15,000 to $20,000 at a for-profit college, or $40,000 to $50,000+ at a private college or university. You can complete your first two years at Inver Hills getting a topflight, hands-on education from knowledgeable, caring and experienced faculty and then transfer to a four-year school as a junior all while saving thousands of dollars.

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© 2023 Inver Hills Community College. Inver Hills is a member of Minnesota State, and an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer and educator. This information is available in an alternate format by calling TTY/Minnesota Relay at 1-800-627-3529 or contacting The Office for Accessibility Resources. HLC Accreditation