Physics

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Physics

Physicists study matter, energy, and the relationships between them and devise methods to apply laws and theories of physics to industry, medicine, and other fields. Some career titles include acoustic physicist, astrophysicist, engineer, satellite data analyst, and medical or nuclear physicist.

For additional career possibilities, visit the Career Services Center on the main campus to utilize computerized career information systems and other valuable career resources.

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Programs Offered

Transfer Preparation
Career Opportunities
Associate Degree for Transfer
- Physics 2.0

Associate Degree for Transfer Requirements

Completion of 60 semester units or 90 quarter units of degree-applicable courses,
Minimum overall grade point average of 2.0,
Minimum grade of “C” (or “P”) for each course in the major, and
Completion of Cal-GETC.

Catalog Rights

Transfer Preparation

Many colleges/universities offer baccalaureate degrees in this field. Students planning to transfer to a four-year college or university should complete the lower-division major requirements and the general education pattern for the specific transfer institution. SMC has articulation agreements with the many UC and CSU campuses, as well as several private and out-of-state institutions.

Exact major requirements for UC and CSU campuses can be found online at assist.org.

A listing of private, nonprofit California colleges and universities can be found online at aiccu.edu. For articulation agreements between SMC and some of these institutions see smc.edu/articulation.

SMC offers the Physics 2.0 Associate Degree for Transfer. Students completing this degree are eligible for priority transfer admission consideration in the majors at many California State University campuses. In addition, students will be required to complete no more than 60 semester/90 quarter CSU units of coursework after transfer to complete the baccalaureate degree.

NOTE: Students considering transfer to a UC, private, or out-of-state school should consult a counselor BEFORE applying to transfer, as the transfer requirements may be different from those required for the Physics 2.0 AS-T.

The most current list of CSU campuses accepting this Associate Degree for Transfer is available online at CalState Associate Degree for Transfer Major & Campus Search

Physics 2.0, Associate Degree for Transfer

The Associate in Science in Physics 2.0 for Transfer Degree focuses on a scientific understanding of mechanics, electromagnetism, optics, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics. Students majoring in physics will study Newton’s Laws of Motion, Conservation Principles, Maxwell’s Equations, image formation, diffraction, heat transport, and the arrow of time. The program will focus on the application of scientific methods to perform precise experiments and construct complete models of natural phenomena. Upon completion of the Associate in Science in Physics 2.0 for Transfer (AS-T), students will have a strong academic foundation in the field and be prepared for upper division baccalaureate study. Completion of the degree indicates that the student will have satisfied the lower division requirements for transfer into physics or similar major for many campuses in the California State University system.

Note: while a minimum GPA of 2.0 is required for admission to a CSU, some majors/campuses may require a higher GPA. Please consult with a counselor for details.

Program Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of the program, students will outline a logical process based on well-established physics principles and demonstrate the ability to use basic mathematical techniques when presented with a physical situation to solve a particular physics problem. Apply the scientific method to construct a clear and testable hypothesis, collect and record accurate measurements, calculate and evaluate uncertainties, and interpret experimental data to draw evidence-based conclusions consistent with scientific principles in both laboratory experiments and written lab reports.

Area of Emphasis: (39 units)

Required Core: (15 units)

PHYSCS 21,Mechanics with Lab(5)

PHYSCS 22 ,Electricity and Magnetism with Lab(5)

PHYSCS 23,Fluids, Waves, Thermodynamics, Optics with Lab(5)

Economics: (3 units)

MATH 7,Calculus 1(5)

MATH 8,Calculus 2(5)

MATH 11,Multivariable Calculus(5)

MATH 13,Linear Algebra(3)

MATH 15,Ordinary Differential Equations(3)

Programming Concepts and Methodologies: select 1 course from the following: (3 units)

CS 30,MATLAB Programming(3)

CS 52,C++ Programming(3)

CS 55,Java Programming(3)

CS 87A,Python Programming(3)