Academic Catalogs

Astronomy, Associate in Science Degree

Banner Code: 1_AS_ASTR

Control Number: 35182

Financial Aid Eligible


Upon completion of the requirements for the Associate in Science Degree in Astronomy, students will be prepared to transfer to CSU/UC and obtain a baccalaureate degree in the following majors: astronomy, astrophysics, or physics. This degree is also a stepping stone toward research internships, entry-level opportunities within the field, e.g., observatory and planetarium operations, and provides a solid foundation for pursuing an advanced degree.

The department strongly recommends that all declared Astronomy majors complete the following courses prior to transfer: CS A131 Python Programming I, MATH A185 Calculus 2 / MATH A185H Calculus 2 Honors, MATH A280 Calculus 3/MATH A280H Calculus 3 Honors, and MATH A285 Introduction to Linear Algebra and Differential Equations/MATH A285H Introduction to Linear Algebra and Differential Equations Honors.

Program Outcomes

  1. Describe the constituents of the Universe and the relevant physical processes underlying their behavior.
  2. Become familiar with the methods of observational astronomy and the analysis of data.
  3. Develop the necessary knowledge and skills to analyze evidence and evaluate claims as related to astronomy.
  4. Students who complete the degree will be prepared for admission to California State University/University of California schools in astronomy/astrophysics.

Review Graduation Requirements and General Education

Course Title Units
Required Courses
ASTR A100/A100HIntroduction to Astronomy3
ASTR A100L/A100MIntroduction to Astronomy Laboratory1
ASTR A200Introduction to Astrophysics4
Astronomy Electives
Select one of the following:3
Planetary Astronomy
Stellar Astronomy
Cosmology
Galactic Astronomy
Math Required Courses5-8
Calculus 1
and
Calculus 2
or
Calculus 1 and 2 Honors
Physics Required Courses8
Calculus Based Physics: Mechanics
and
Calculus Based Physics: Electricity/Magnetism
Calculus Based Physics: Modern
Total Units24-27
Requirement Units
Program Major Units 24-27
AS General Education Option 1, 2, or 3 Varies
Transferable electives as needed to satisfy unit requirement Varies
Total Minimum Degree Units 60

Program Sequence

These sequences at Orange Coast College are general course curriculum maps for students to finish all major and general education requirements for two-year completion of degrees, and/or fulfillment of transfer requirements. The course sequence may include course prerequisites and other placement requirements. Students are advised to meet with an Orange Coast College Counselor to review course selections and sequences to ensure that completion of this program will meet a student's transfer and career goals.

Plan of Study Grid
Year 1
Semester 1Units
ASTR A100
Introduction to Astronomy
or Introduction to Astronomy Honors
3
ASTR A100L
Introduction to Astronomy Laboratory
or Introduction to Astronomy Laboratory Honors
1
MATH A180
Calculus 1
or Calculus 1 Honors
4
OCC AS GE AREA A1 - CHOOSE ONE 3
OCC AS GE AREA C1- CHOOSE ONE 3
 Units14
Semester 2
Astronomy Restricted Electives - CHOOSE ONE 3
Planetary Astronomy
or Stellar Astronomy
or Cosmology
or Galactic Astronomy
 
MATH A185
Calculus 2
or Calculus 2 Honors
4
OCC AS GE AREA C2 - CHOOSE ONE 3
OCC AS GE AREA D - CHOOSE ONE 3
ELECTIVES (DEGREE APPLICABLE) 3
 Units16
Year 2
Semester 1
PHYS A185
Calculus Based Physics: Mechanics
or Calculus-Based Physics: Mechanics Honors
4
ELECTIVES (DEGREE APPLICABLE) 11
 Units15
Semester 2
PHYS A280
Calculus Based Physics: Electricity/Magnetism
or Calculus Based Physics: Modern
4
ASTR A200 Introduction to Astrophysics 4
ELECTIVES (DEGREE APPLICABLE) 1 7
 Units15
 Total Units60
1
VARIES TO REACH MIN. 60 DEGREE APPLICABLE UNITS