Physical Science PHY SCI

PHY SCI 5 California Teach 1: Introduction to Science and Mathematics Teaching

Units

3

Same as BIO SCI 14

Restrictions: School of Biological Sciences students, School of Physical Sciences students, School of Engineering students, and School of Information and Computer Sciences students have the first consideration for enrollment

First in a series for students interested in becoming middle or high school teachers of mathematics or science. Students gain an understanding of effective, research-based teaching strategies. Includes supervised field experience in a K-12 classroom.

Offered: Fall 2026 (2 sections)

PHY SCI 9 Introduction to Computation for Scientists and Engineers

Units

6

Prerequisite

MATH 2A (may be taken concurrently) or AP Calculus AB with a minimum score of 3 or AP Calculus BC with a minimum score of 3 or AP Calculus AB Subscore with a minimum score of 3

Same as I&C SCI 9

Overlaps with PHYSICS 2

(II and (Va or Vb).)

Introduces principles, techniques, and computational tools for quantitative approach to basic problem solving in physics and engineering. Project-based course that actively explores how programming techniques are used for solving STEM real-world problems.

Not on the Fall 2026 schedule.

PHY SCI 80 Skills Development

Units

0

Prerequisite

Satisfactory completion of the Lower-Division Writing requirement

1.5 Workload Units

Restrictions: School of Physical Sciences students have the first consideration for enrollment

Undergraduates identify, cultivate, and practice relevant soft skills applicable to careers in mathematics and science. The focus is on career readiness, how to market oneself to future employers, and what to expect from the professional world.

Not on the Fall 2026 schedule.

PHY SCI 105 California Teach 2: Middle School Science and Mathematics Teaching

Units

3

Prerequisite

PHY SCI 5 or BIO SCI 14

Same as BIO SCI 101

Restrictions: School of Biological Sciences students, School of Physical Sciences students, School of Engineering students, and School of Information and Computer Sciences students have the first consideration for enrollment

Second in a series for students interested in becoming middle or high school teachers of mathematics or science. Students gain an understanding of effective, research-based teaching strategies for grades 6-8. Includes supervised field experience in a middle school classroom.

Offered: Fall 2026 (1 section)

PHY SCI 139W Technical Writing and Communication Skills

Units

4

Prerequisite

Satisfactory completion of the Lower-Division Writing requirement

Restrictions: School of Physical Sciences students have the first consideration for enrollment

(Ib)

Workshop in writing technical reports, journal articles, proposals. Oral presentations. Communicating with the public. May not be used in satisfaction of any School or departmental requirement.

Offered: Fall 2026 (1 section)

PHY SCI 220 Science Communication Skills

Units

2

Development of effective communication skills, oral and written presentations. Topics range from the art of creating keynote slides to strategically crafting a personal story, culminating in a live presentation to an invited audience.

Not on the Fall 2026 schedule.