Is forensic science a minor or major program?

Forensic science can be both a minor and a major program. A minor can be an added as a specialty concentration within a broader program. Pursuing a minor in forensic science allows students to complement their primary major by gaining specialized knowledge in this area. Forensic science as a major program allows you to focus exclusively on this field of study by obtaining a bachelor's or master’s degree.

Can you major in physical therapy and minor in athletic training?

Yes, it is possible to major in a physical therapy degree program and minor in an athletic training program. For example, if your interests lie in sports performance and the realm of physical therapy, you might consider earning your BS in Exercise Science with an Emphasis in Sports Performance complemented by a Minor in Pre-Athletic Training. For those seeking a comprehensive education in athletic training, the MS in Athletic Training can provide a valuable pathway to enhance your expertise and capabilities.

What can you do with a nutrition minor?

A nutrition minor can complement a variety of career paths, such as the BS in Nutritional Sciences or the MS in Nutrition and Dietetics by providing a strong foundation in health and dietary principles. With this minor, you can learn areas such as health and wellness coaching, fitness training, public health advocacy, school education, healthcare administration or even contribute to research and writing in the health sector. Your enhanced understanding of nutrition can be a valuable asset in promoting healthier lifestyles, whether in corporate wellness programs, nonprofit organizations, the food industry or entrepreneurial ventures.

Should I get a biology or chemistry minor?

The decision between pursuing a biology or chemistry minor depends on your interests, career goals, and how the minor aligns with your major field of study. It may also be particularly relevant if you're aiming for healthcare professions or have a keen interest in environmental sciences. On the other hand, a chemistry minor may complement science or engineering majors, equipping you with a deeper grasp of chemical interactions, molecular structures and the intricacies of matter. This may prove invaluable for careers in research, pharmaceuticals, chemical industries or any field centered around molecular analysis and synthesis.

Technology and Engineering Minors

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Overview

Enhance Your Education With a STEM Minor

Given the significance of engineering, technology and math (STEM) fields, the College of Engineering and Technology presents minor degree programs tailored to the modern and competitive workforce of the 21st century. The curriculum for STEM minors is built upon the collaborative efforts of academics and industry connections, leveraging the professional ethics inspired by our Christian worldview. Each minor program provides a platform for innovation, cross-disciplinary exposure, and the development of essential workplace skills.

Minors

Technology Minors

Minors in computer science can be an exciting avenue for students who wish to delve into the ever-evolving landscape of technology and computing. These computer science minors can teach the basics of programming languages, algorithms, data structures and software development methodologies. You have the opportunity to explore the intricacies of computer systems, software engineering principles and emerging technologies through hands-on projects and theoretical concepts.

Minor in Cybersecurity

The minor in cybersecurity can provide students with foundational information technology skills in programming, system administration and computer networks as well as concepts and practical applications of cybersecurity tools, technologies and procedures. Deploying advanced techniques in exploitation, vulnerability assessment, penetration testing, policy management and security program design, with practical hands-on activities that go beyond theory are integrated within this computer science minor.

The minor in cybersecurity at GCU is 24 credits and includes these courses:

Applications of College Algebra (MAT-154)
Introduction to Computer Science and Information Technology (CST-111)
Platforms and Network Technologies (ITT-116)
System Administration and Maintenance (ITT-121)
Cyber Security Foundations (ITT-307)
Cyber Security and Ethical Hacking (ITT-340)

Minor in Embedded Systems

The minor in embedded systems is tailored for technology students aiming to learn about integrating software and hardware within electronic devices. This minor blends hands-on learning with practical applications, teaching you the skills needed in industries such as manufacturing, finance, engineering and technology. It can prepare you to tackle complex challenges and innovate in various technological fields.

The minor in embedded systems at GCU is 16 credits and includes these courses:

Java Programming II (CST-239)
Operating System Fundamentals (CST-321)
Embedded Systems I (SWE-350)
Embedded Systems II (SWE-450)

Minor in Machine Learning

The minor in machine learning is designed for students interested in how algorithms evolve and improve with experience. This minor covers both theoretical and practical aspects of machine learning, including algorithm development, data processing and ethical considerations. It offers a blend of in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience, helping to prepare you to address complex challenges and apply innovative solutions in the field.

The minor in machine learning at GCU is 16 credits and includes these courses:

Python Programming I (CST-180)
Data Mining and Machine Learning (AIT-104)
Statistical Learning Theory (AIT-110)
Deep Learning (AIT-204)

Minor in Mixed Reality

The minor in mixed reality is intended for students who want to design and develop immersive environments that integrate physical and digital worlds. This minor explores mixed reality technologies, including augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), through hands-on projects and theoretical study. You will be taught skills in creating interactive applications where real and virtual elements interact seamlessly.

The minor in mixed reality at GCU is 16 credits and includes these courses:

Introduction to Game Engines (GDT-115)
Game Engine Architecture (GDT-110)
Virtual Reality and Game Development (GDT-120)
Augmented Reality and Game Development (GDT-220)

Minor in Networking Technology

This minor in networking technology can offer opportunities for you to learn technical skills in areas such as design, deployment, integration and administration of networks and communication infrastructures in an organization. Using in-house and cloud-based solutions, you will study how to implement routing and switching while explaining the physical and transport layers relevant to the IT discipline. This technology minor may also provide opportunities to implement tools and strategies to meet business objectives and ensure network security as well as explore issues around network management.

The minor in networking technology at GCU is 24 credits and includes these courses:

Applications of College Algebra (MAT-154)
Introduction to Computer Science and Information Technology (CST-111)
Platforms and Network Technologies (ITT-116)
Routing and Switching (ITT-270)
Wireless Networks (ITT-370)
Analysis, Design and Management of Secure Corporate Networks (ITT-425)

Minor in Object Oriented Programming in C# I

This minor can help provide students with the opportunity to delve into the fundamentals of object-oriented programming using the C, C# and C++ languages, as well as concepts in secure programming. Throughout the minor, students will be taught practical skills in software development and how to design and implement efficient and scalable applications using industry-standard practices. Whether you're a novice programmer or looking to enhance your coding abilities, this minor can provide a comprehensive foundation in C# I programming and help you prepare for a variety of technical roles in the software development industry.

The minor in object-oriented programming at GCU is 16 credits and includes these courses:

Programming in C# I (CST-150)
Programming in C# II (CST-250)
Object-Oriented Programming Lecture and Lab (CST-210)
Programming for Security Professionals (ITT-310)

Minor in Object Oriented Programming in Java

This minor in object-oriented programming in Java can provide students with a comprehensive understanding of object-oriented programming principles using the Java language. You will explore key concepts such as inheritance, polymorphism and encapsulation while developing practical skills in Java programming. Whether you're interested in software development, web applications or data analysis, this minor can help provide a solid foundation in Java programming that may be essential for various technical roles in the field of computer science.

Required prerequisite: Applications of College Algebra (MAT-154)

The minor in object-oriented programming in Java at GCU is 16 credits and includes these courses:

Computer Programming (CST-105)
Programming in Java II (CST-239)
Object-Oriented Programming Lecture and Lab (CST-210)
Programming for Security Professionals (ITT-310)

Minor in Web Application Development

This web application development minor offers students a structured look into foundational web development techniques utilizing HTML, CSS and JavaScript, an introduction to database development incorporating NoSQL and MySQL databases. You will work toward developing web applications using the Express, Angular and ReactJS JavaScript frameworks.

The minor in web application development at GCU is 20 credits and includes these courses:

Introduction to Web Development (CST-120)
Computer Programming I (CST-105)
Programming in Java II (CST-239)
Database Design and Development (CST-345)
JavaScript Web Application Development (CST-391)

FAQ

FAQs for Technology and Engineering Minors

If you’re looking for an avenue that will teach you the landscape of technology and computing, GCU’s minors may be an excellent choice. Read through our frequently asked questions to help you decide whether a minor is right for you.

What STEM minors are good for engineering majors?

STEM minors that can complement engineering majors often encompass an array of fields, fostering interdisciplinary skills and enriching your engineering expertise. For example, a mathematics minor can serve as a cornerstone, enhancing problem-solving acumen crucial across various engineering disciplines. Further, if you enjoy network infrastructure and deployment solutions, a networking technology minor can be invaluable in contemporary engineering landscapes like software development. Tailoring your STEM minor to align with your engineering major and career goals can provide a strong foundation, bolstered by guidance from academic advisors and industry insights.

Do STEM minors matter in computer science jobs?

Yes. STEM minors provide added value in computer science jobs by equipping you with the core skills needed to work toward roles in the tech industry. For example, a minor in cybersecurity can be advantageous for roles involving data analysis, machine learning and artificial intelligence. Moreover, having a STEM minor can showcase your versatility and adaptability, as it can demonstrate your ability to grasp concepts beyond your core field.

Start Your Journey Today

Find an engineering or technology minor that meets your personal or professional goals. Contact us today to enroll or get answers to remaining questions about choosing your minor.

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