Math and Sciences: Associate in Science in Physics for Transfer

• AVC Transfer Degrees

The Associate in Science in Physics for Transfer (AS-T in Physics) degree offers students a fundamental knowledge of Physics and its relation to science, technology, and engineering. Students will enhance their problem solving and critical thinking skills by applying mathematical models to real world problems or utilizing mathematical objects and theorems to evaluate the validity of a statement or to prove mathematical statements.

The Associate in Science in Physics for Transfer (AS-T in Physics) degree meets the requirements of SB 1440 for Associate Degrees for Transfer (ADT). These degrees are intended to make it easier for students to transfer to California State University campuses, but do not exclude admittance to other colleges or universities.

To earn an Associate in Science in Physics for Transfer (AS-T in Physics) degree a student must complete the following:

• Completion of 60 semester units or 90 quarter units that are eligible for transfer to the California State University, including both of the following:
  • The Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) or the California State University General Education – Breadth Requirements.
  • A minimum of 18 semester units or 27 quarter units in a major or area of emphasis, as determined by the community college district.
• Obtainment of a minimum grade point average of 2.0.

ADTs also require that students must earn a C or better in all courses required for the major or area of emphasis. A “P” (Pass) grade is not an acceptable grade for courses in the major.

Program Learning Outcomes

1. Students will demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental principles and concepts of physics that include mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, modern physics, and quantum mechanics.
2. Students will competently apply this knowledge and analyze physical systems by constructing mathematical models in which the identify the essential aspects of a problem, formulate a strategy for solution, make appropriate approximations, evaluate the correctness of their solution, and communicate their work clearly.
3. Students will use basic computational techniques for modeling physical systems including those that don’t have analytical answers.
4. Students will explore physical systems by setting up experiments, collecting and analyzing data, identifying sources of uncertainty, and interpreting their results in terms of the fundamental principles and concepts of physics.
5. Students will communicate physics concepts, processes, and results effectively, both verbally and in writing.

Except in cases of prerequisite requirement, it is not required that courses be taken in exactly this sequence; they are recommended in this order to facilitate success.