A.S. in Physical Science

Physical science is a branch of science which focuses on the study of non-living systems. The Associate in Science in Physical Science is designed to prepare students for transfer to four-year institutions as majors in chemistry or related science disciplines.

A.S. Degree Level Student Learning Outcomes

Students completing the Physical Science A.S. Degree will:

  1. Describe physical phenomena in multiple forms (verbal, pictorial, graphical and mathematical).
  2. Qualitatively and quantitatively predict, analyze and/or explain the behavior of physical systems using fundamental physical principles and models.
  3. Develop and implement a plan of experimental measurements and data analysis.

Students receiving this degree must meet the following requirements:

  1. Complete the District General Education Pattern or Cal-GETC.
    If transferring to a CSU or UC students are strongly recommended to complete the Cal-GETC General Education Pattern. Students looking to transfer to an out of state or private college should consult with a counselor for the appropriate GE pattern selection.
  2. Complete with a “C” or better each course as specified by the major.
  3. Maintain an overall GPA of a 2.0 or better in all degree applicable coursework.
  4. Meet the local area requirement of Kinesiology/Dance/Counseling.
  5. Meet the 12-unit residency requirement. 
Required courses:
CHEM 111General Chemistry I5
CHEM 112General Chemistry II5
MATH 190Calculus with Analytic Geometry l5
MATH 191Calculus with Analytic Geometry ll5
PHYS 201Physics A: Mechanics5
or PHYS 201H Physics A: Mechanics - Honors
Select eight (8) to ten (10) units from the following courses:
CHEM 210
Organic Chemistry A3
CHEM 211L
Organic Chemistry A Laboratory1
CHEM 220
Organic Chemistry B3
CHEM 221L
Organic Chemistry B Laboratory1
MATH 210
Calculus with Analytic Geometry lll5
PHYS 202
Physics B: Thermodynamics and Electromagnetism5
PHYS 203
Physics C: Waves, Optics & Modern Physics5
Total Units33-35
1

Students should consult their transfer institution regarding the transferability of the Organic Chemistry Sequence (CHEM 210 Organic Chemistry A, CHEM 211L Organic Chemistry A Laboratory, CHEM 220 Organic Chemistry B, AND CHEM 221L Organic Chemistry B Laboratory) as lower division.

Career Opportunities

There are a variety of careers you can do with this major.

 

To explore more about this major, schedule an appointment with a career counselor.