Astronomy
Associate in Science Degree Astronomy · Orange Coast College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Upon completion of the requirements for the Associate in Science Degree in Astronomy, students will be prepared to transfer to CSU/UC and obtain a baccalaureate degree in the following majors: astronomy, astrophysics, or physics. This degree is also a stepping stone toward research internships, entry-level opportunities within the field, e.g., observatory and planetarium operations, and provides a solid foundation for pursuing an advanced degree.
The department strongly recommends that all declared Astronomy majors complete the following courses prior to transfer: CS A131 Python Programming I, MATH A185 Calculus 2 / MATH A185H Calculus 2 Honors, MATH A280 Calculus 3/MATH A280H Calculus 3 Honors, and MATH A285 Introduction to Linear Algebra and Differential Equations/MATH A285H Introduction to Linear Algebra and Differential Equations Honors.
Program Outcomes
Program Learning Outcomes
- Describe the constituents of the Universe and the relevant physical processes underlying their behavior.
- Become familiar with the methods of observational astronomy and the analysis of data.
- Develop the necessary knowledge and skills to analyze evidence and evaluate claims as related to astronomy.
- Students who complete the degree will be prepared for admission to California State University/University of California schools in astronomy/astrophysics.
Requirements
Review Graduation Requirements and General Education.
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Required Courses | ||
| ASTR A100 | Introduction to Astronomy | 3 |
| orASTR A100H | Introduction to Astronomy Honors | |
| ASTR A100L | Introduction to Astronomy Laboratory | 1 |
| orASTR A100M | Introduction to Astronomy Laboratory Honors | |
| ASTR A200 | Introduction to Astrophysics | 4 |
| orASTR A200H | Introduction to Astrophysics Honors | |
| Astronomy Electives | ||
| Select one of the following: | 3 | |
| ASTR A101 | Planetary Astronomy | |
| ASTR A102 | Stellar Astronomy | |
| ASTR A103 | Cosmology | |
| ASTR A104 | Galactic Astronomy | |
| Math Required Courses | 5-10 | |
| MATH A180 | Calculus 1 | |
| orMATH A180H | Calculus 1 Honors | |
| AND | ||
| MATH A185 | Calculus 2 | |
| orMATH A185H | Calculus 2 Honors | |
| Physics Required Courses | 10 | |
| PHYS A185 | Calculus-Based Physics: Mechanics with Lab | |
| AND | ||
| PHYS A280 | Calculus-Based Physics: Electricity/Magnetism with Lab | |
| orPHYS A285 | Calculus-Based Physics: Modern with Lab | |
| Total Major Units | 26-31 | |
| OCC AS General Education | up to 21 | |
| Transferable electives as needed to satisfy unit requirements | Varies | |
| Total Minimum Degree Units - OCC AS GE | 60 | |
- Some program major units may also meet GE requirements.
- Cal-GETC pattern (up to 34 units) may be substituted.
Program Sequence
Program Sequence
These sequences at Orange Coast College are general course curriculum maps for students to finish all major and general education requirements for two-year completion of degrees, and/or fulfillment of transfer requirements. The course sequence may include course prerequisites and other placement requirements. Students are advised to meet with an Orange Coast College Counselor to review course selections and sequences to ensure that completion of this program will meet a student's transfer and career goals.
Year 1
| Semester 1 | Units |
|---|---|
| ASTR A100or ASTR A100H | Introduction to Astronomyor Introduction to Astronomy Honors |
| ASTR A100Lor ASTR A100M | Introduction to Astronomy Laboratoryor Introduction to Astronomy Laboratory Honors |
| MATH A180 | Calculus 1 |
| OCC AS GE AREA 1A- CHOOSE ONE | 3 |
| OCC AS GE AREA 3 - CHOOSE ONE | 3 |
| Units |
| Semester 2 |
|---|
| Astronomy Restricted Electives - CHOOSE ONE |
| ASTR A101or ASTR A102or ASTR A103or ASTR A104 |
| MATH A185 |
| OCC AS GE AREA 4 - CHOOSE ONE |
| ELECTIVES (DEGREE APPLICABLE) 1 |
Year 2
| Semester 1 |
|---|
| PHYS A185 |
| ELECTIVES (DEGREE APPLICABLE) 1 |
| Semester 2 |
|---|
| ASTR A200or ASTR A200H |
| PHYS A280 |
| OCC AS GE AREA 6 - CHOOSE ONE |
| ELECTIVES (DEGREE APPLICABLE) 1 |
- VARIES TO REACH MIN. 60 DEGREE APPLICABLE UNITS