Associate of Science Degree (Physics) - Transfer

The Associate of Science degree is designed to satisfy the first two years of a bachelor’s degree in majors that require advanced math or science and transferrable to California State University, University of California, and Independent Colleges and Universities.Students will Communicate scientific ideas, both qualitatively and quantitatively, using an appropriate technical vocabulary. Collaborate with others from diverse backgrounds. Provide order of magnitude estimates for physical quantities in appropriate units. Describe, predict, and explain real-world phenomena, utilizing a variety of different representations, such as mathematical, graphical, and pictorial formalisms. Collect and analyze experimental data, and then draw reasonable conclusions to both develop and support the laws of Physics. Apply principles of Physics to solve problems both inside and outside the classroom. Transfer information and problem-solving methods from familiar to unfamiliar contexts. Students will be able to apply the Laws of Physics to real-world problems. Students will be able to collect and analyze data to verify physical principles. Students will be prepared for upper division course at a 4-year college.

Career Path

A large percentage of Physics majors select employment with universities as researchers and/or professors. Private industry employs approximately two-thirds of all non-academic physicists in companies manufacturing aircraft and missiles, chemicals, electrical equipment, and scientific equipment. Government, hospitals, and commercial research laboratories also employ Physics graduates. Specific careers include aerodynamist, airplane navigator, air pollution operating specialist, ballistics expert, educator, electrical or mechanical engineer, electrician, hydrologist, industrial hygienist, and electrical, laser, mechanical or optics physicist.