Associate in Science-Transfer to Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, and Atmospheric Sciences (Concentration: Physics)

Physics encompasses the study of the universe from the largest galaxies to the smallest subatomic particles. The goal of physics is to understand how and why things work from first principles. Applications range from quantum computers to new radiotherapies for curing cancer to sustainable energy sources. Physics is great preparation for almost any career because it teaches us how to analyze complex problems and equips us with strong quantitative reasoning skills that can be applied to any scientific or technical field. This is typically achieved through active learning in lecture- or discussion-based teaching combined with hands-on laboratory experience. The broad range of outcomes satisfies requirements for various majors in STEM, as well as developing or improving scientific literacy applicable to many industrial settings.

The Associate of Science degree in Physics lays a foundation for a bachelor’s degree in physics or astronomy, as well as a useful starting point for bachelor’s degrees in math or engineering physics. A bachelor’s physics degree is a passport into a wide range of careers in science, engineering, and technology including research, teaching, medicine, law, science journalism, science and energy policy, government, non-profit and finance. The skills obtained can also be immediately applicable to employment as a laboratory assistant, quality control officer or physical sciences technician.

Associate in Science Track 2, Physics Requirements

Communications Requirement - 5 credits

ENGL& 101 - English Composition I

Distribution Requirements - 15 credits

Complete the following:

five credits in Humanities;
five credits in Social Sciences; and
five credits in either Humanities or Social Sciences

Quantitative Skills Requirement: 15 credits

Complete the following:

Pre-Major Program: 30 credits

Complete the following:

Remaining Credit Requirement: 25 credits

Remaining Program Credits

Choose 25 additional credits from the following courses. Course selection is often dependent on the transfer institution. Math courses, such as MATH 220, Linear Algebra; MATH& 264, Calculus IV; MATH 230, Differential Equations are strongly recommended. Suggestions for the remaining credits include: ASTR& 101, Introduction to Astronomy with Lab; and/or CSCI 232, Data Science with Python. If unsure, please consult an advisor about the proper courses to complete your degree

Total Program Credits: 90

Learning Outcomes

Understand the physics of motion, Newton’s laws, conservation of energy and momentum, electricity and magnetism, basic thermodynamics, waves and oscillations.
Apply algorithmic and symbolic thinking to the problem-solving process.
Use order of magnitude calculations to understand the scale of phenomena.
Compare and contrast observations of physical phenomena with expected, theoretical and/or modeled behavior.
Prepare, logical, well-reasoned, clear and concise lab reports.
Apply classroom knowledge to private and public discussions of science issues.
Understand, interpret and assess the value of publicly presented science issues.

Program Notes

Importance of Advising. Advising is an important part of completing a degree. Students are responsible for checking the transfer requirements of 4-year schools they plan to attend; advisors can help with this.

Students can meet with Pathway Advisors during their first 30 credits. International Student Programs, Running Start, TRiO and many other programs also offer advising. Making an appointment with an advisor will help students stay on track with their academic plans.

After completing 30 credits, a student should meet with a faculty advisor. Faculty Advisors are teachers and experts in their subject. If a student does not already have a faculty advisor, they can fill out the Faculty Advisor Request Form.