Natural Science
6 courses · Orange Coast College · 2026-2027 Catalog
NS A115 Science and Technology in Music
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours
- Advisory
- Successful completion of a course at the level of elementary algebra or Appropriate OCC math placement.
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
An introduction to the physics that shapes our natural world through an investigation of the creation, transmission, and perception of sound and music. Fundamentals of oscillations, waves, forces, energy, and electromagnetism are explored through scientific inquiry of musical tones, harmony, timbre, acoustics, and acoustic and electronic instruments.
NS A195 Special Topics in Science - Lunar Exploration
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 18 lecture hours; 54 lab hours
- Transfers to
- CSU
Introduction to engineering design while building teamwork and communication skills and examining the engineering major offered and engineering careers. Completion of hands-on engineering design projects, preparation of short reports describing projects, and presentation of results. The specific project challenges students to explore a lunar lava tube with an eye toward its potential for human habitation. The overall goal is to build a rover and develop programs that allow an unmanned autonomous rover to navigate a model lunar lava tube.
NS A196 Special Topics in Science - Exploring Mars
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 18 lecture hours; 54 lab hours
- Transfers to
- CSU
Introduction to engineering design while building teamwork and communication skills and examining the engineering major offered and engineering careers. Completion of hands-on engineering design projects, preparation of short reports describing projects, and presentation of results. The specific project challenges students to explore the surface of Mars with an eye toward its potential for human habitation. The overall goal is to build a rover and develop programs that allow an unmanned autonomous rover to navigate the surface.
NS A197 Special Topics in Science - Exploring Ocean Worlds of the Outer Solar System
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 18 lecture hours; 54 lab hours
- Transfers to
- CSU
Introduction to engineering design while building teamwork and communication skills and examining the engineering major offered and engineering careers. Completion of hands-on engineering design projects, preparation of short reports describing projects, and presentation of results. The specific project challenges students to explore the ocean worlds of the outer solar system with an eye toward its potential for life. The overall goal is to build an unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) and develop programs that allow the rover to navigate an underwater environment.
NS A010N MESA (Math, Engineering, Science Achievement) Seminar
- Hours
- 9 lecture hours; 54 lab hours
Noncredit course focusing on supporting students majoring in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) through workshops, enrichment activities, and professional connections. Intended for students participating in the MESA program.
NS A011N MESA (Math, Science, Engineering Achievement) Laboratory and Industry Exploration
- Hours
- 9 lecture hours; 54 lab hours
The second course, in a two-course certificate of competency program for MESA students, will support and enhance the student’s academic success within the STEM pathways through the development of knowledge and understanding of the existing college processes and resources. The class also provides a forum and instruction in soft-skill (writing, speaking, etc.) development that will improve workforce preparation.