Physical Science
Physical Science
Program Purpose: Students who complete Physical Science courses will apply fundamental physical science laws and equations describing physical science phenomena to analyze both quantitatively and qualitatively specific problems in the physical science universe; recognize, comprehend, and apply the similar principles in the various discipline of physical science, and critically evaluate and analyze observations and measurements through the use of accepted scientific methods and report the results in formal papers that conform to the style of modern scientific writing.
The strong emphasis on physical sciences on fundamental concepts and problem solving makes it one of the most versatile majors available. The Physical Science major provides the basis for careers in teaching science at the secondary level, serving as a technical administrator in government and industry, or completing legal work with patents, scientific librarianship, and scientific journalism.
NOTE: Some courses may have credit limitations. Refer to the Credit Limitations and UC Credit Limitations areas, and the UC Transfer Course Agreement page for details.
Introduces facts, principles and laws from physics, chemistry, and astronomy. Includes motion, force, energy, wave motion, electricity and magnetism, light, atomic and nuclear structure, chemical bonding and chemical reactions, solutions, organic chemistry, the solar system and planet Earth.
Examines some of the basic phenomena in physics, chemistry, and astronomy. Applies common, modern laboratory instruments, in hands-on experiments. Teaches the principles of data taking, reduction, synthesis, and analysis, in addition to the writing of scientific reports.
Provides on-the-job learning to develop effective work habits, attitudes, and career awareness in paid or unpaid internships that are related to the discipline. Involves the development and documentation of learning objectives and the completion of an internship paper, presentation, or project. Includes both workplace supervisor and faculty adviser feedback and/or written evaluations. Course Credit Limitation: To take this course, contact the Career Transfer Center. Requires orientation session. Students receive one unit of credit for each 60 hours unpaid or 75 hours paid work. May enroll in up to 4 units a semester with a maximum of 16 total units of any type of work experience.
Allows independent study for students who wish to extend their knowledge of a particular area of Physical Science through research and study. Utilizes an approved independent project. Includes one-on-one work with instructor. Interested students should contact a Physical Science instructor for assistance in developing a contract for learning about a specific topic.