Physical Science

Minimum Units Required: 60.0 units

The Associate in Science Degree in Physical Science provides students the opportunity to investigate methods of scientific inquiry, and to gain scientific knowledge, through specialization in one or more Physical Science disciplines that align with their personal interests, such as Physics, Chemistry, Astronomy, and Geology. Crucially, students taking this degree will also gain an understanding of the factors that affect the Earth's climate, and will thereby develop a deep understanding of the important issue of Climate Change, which will allow them to be knowledgeable global citizens. Students will develop critical thinking skills, learn to communicate effectively in writing, and acquire an understanding of major scientific concepts. Through course options, students will employ methods of scientific inquiry to understand the world around them. Completion of the degree requirements will prepare students with the skills and resources needed to facilitate academic and career decisions. The Associate in Science can be obtained by completing the 34-unit major, general education requirements and electives as needed to complete a minimum of 60 units. All courses for the major must be completed with a minimum grade of C or a grade of P if the course is taken on a Pass/No Pass basis.

Program Learning Outcomes

• Develop and implement a plan of collecting and/or accessing experimental data, and performing data analysis

• Describe physical phenomena in multiple forms (verbal, pictorial, graphical, and mathematical).

• Qualitatively and quantitatively predict, analyze and/or explain the behavior of physical systems using fundamental physical principles and models.

Program Requirements