Academic Catalogs

Physics, Associate in Science Degree for Transfer (AS-T)

Banner Code: 1_AST_PHYS

Control Number: 32074

Financial Aid Eligible


The Associate in Science in Physics for Transfer, also known as the Physics AS-T, provides students with foundational knowledge in physics and mathematics for transfer into a Physics program within the California State University system or other four-year university. The degree, in combination with upper-division coursework completed after transfer, prepares students for STEM-related careers in research, industry, and education. Students completing this degree with a minimum GPA of 2.0 in all CSU-transferable coursework are guaranteed admission into the CSU system, but not to a particular campus or major.

The Physics AS-T requires the completion of 60 CSU-transferable semester units with a minimum GPA of 2.0. This includes 30-31 semester units in the major (Required Core) along with the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC). Coursework in differential equations and linear algebra (e.g. MATH A285) is also strongly recommended for transfer preparation, although not required for this degree.

Program Outcomes

  1. Identify and describe major concepts and theoretical principles as applied to physics.
  2. Apply appropriate physical laws and mathematical techniques to analyze various physical situations.
  3. Perform various scientific experiments and to analyze data to check agreement with theoretical predictions.
  4. Students who complete the Associate in Science in Physics for Transfer degree will be eligible and prepared for admission (SB 1440 and Education Code 66746) to California State University system schools.

Associate Degree for Transfer Requirements

The following is required for all AA-T or AS-T degrees:

  1. Minimum of 60 CSU-transferable semester units.
  2. Minimum GPA of at least 2.0 in all CSU transferable courseworkWhile a minimum of 2.0 is required for admission, some majors require a higher GPAConsult with a counselor for more information.
  3. Completion of a minimum of 18-semester units in the major as detailed in the Degree and Certificate section of this catalogAll courses in the major must be completed with a grade of C (or “P”) or better.
  4. Certified completion of the Cal-GETC/Breadth.
  5. A minimum of 12 units in residence within the Coast Colleges (Orange Coast College, Golden West College and/or Coastline College).
Course Title Units
Required Core
PHYS A185Calculus-Based Physics: Mechanics with Lab5
or PHYS A185H Calculus-Based Physics: Mechanics with Lab Honors
PHYS A280Calculus-Based Physics: Electricity/Magnetism with Lab5
PHYS A285Calculus-Based Physics: Modern with Lab5
MATH A180Calculus 15
or MATH A180H Calculus 1 Honors
MATH A185Calculus 25
or MATH A185H Calculus 2 Honors
MATH A280Calculus 35-6
or MATH A280H Calculus 3 Honors
Subtotal30-31
Cal-GETC Reuirements34.0
Double Counting GE 1-7.0
Total Units60
1.

Area 5A/C and Area 2 are fulfilled through the Required Core (7 units double-counted)