Degrees & Certificates
Physics
Associate in Science
2022-2023
About the Program
Physics, the study of natural phenomena from the smallest subatomic scales to the largest astronomical scales, is the foundation of all natural sciences and technological fields. Physics includes a wide variety of specializations, ranging from practical, technology-driven fields to the study of the fundamental laws and structure of the universe. The physics program at Las Positas College includes three tracks of study: calculus-based physics, algebra-based physics, and conceptual physics.
About the Degree
The Associate of Science in Physics is designed to prepare students for to transfer ready for upper division work towards a bachelor's degree in Physics, Applied Physics, and related fields such as Astronomy and Astrophysics. The study of Physics encompasses a wide variety of disciplines and specializations, ranging from technology-driven fields to the study of the fundamental laws and structure of the universe.
Career Opportunities
Career opportunities for physicists with a bachelor's degree (or higher) include working as a staff scientist at a telescope facility, a researcher at an industry, university, or government-funded scientific agency (NASA, DOE, national laboratories, etc.), in K-12 or higher education, or as a scientist who interacts with the public (through museums, science policy in government, etc.). Because a physicist’s skill set is versatile, physicists also find jobs in other technical fields that value mathematical and computing skills, including technology or engineering companies, financial institutions, and companies requiring data analysts.
Program Outcomes
- Upon completion of an AS in Physics, students are able to analyze physical situations quantitatively using fundamental physics principles, ranging from Newtonian mechanics to modern physics.
- Upon completion of an AS in Physics, students are able to design and conduct laboratory experiments, and analyze and interpret their data.
- Upon completion of an AS in Physics, students are able to effectively communicate
the methods, analysis, results, and conclusions of their own scientific experiments.
| Course | Units |
|---|---|
| MATH 1 Calculus I | 5 |
| MATH 2 Calculus II | 5 |
| MATH 3 Multivariable Calculus | 5 |
| MATH 5 Ordinary Differential Equations | 3.5 |
| PHYS 1A General Physics I | 5 |
| PHYS 1B General Physics II | 5 |
| PHYS 1C General Physics III | 5 |
| PHYS 1D General Physics IV | 3 |
| Course | Units |
|---|---|
| MATH 7 Elementary Linear Algebra | 3.5 |
ᅀRequired if a student uses the Las Positas College General Education Pattern for Associate of Science (AS) Degree
| Units Category | Units |
|---|---|
| Total Units in the Major | 36.5 |
The Associate Degree is conferred upon those students who complete the required 60
or more semester units of the degree pattern with a grade-point average of 2.0 or
better, of which 12 units must be earned at Las Positas College. In addition, students
must complete a General Education pattern in order to earn a degree: see the Las Positas
College General Education Pattern for Associate of Science (AS) Degree, California
State University General Education-Breadth, or the Intersegmental General Education
Transfer Curriculum (for CSU) patterns for listing of areas and courses. Double counting
courses in GE and the major is permissible. The number of units that may be double
counted will depend on the entry point to the degree program, the optional course(s)
taken, and the GE pattern selected. Elective units are degree applicable. Consult
with an adviser or a counselor to plan the courses necessary to achieve your academic
goal.
Updated: July 2022