What can I do with this?
The Liberal Arts: Math and Science AA Degree
- Is set up to satisfy general education requirements for transfer students.
- Emphasizes the natural sciences which examine the physical universe, its life forms, and its natural phenomena.
You can use this to:
- Earn a two-year Associates Degree
- Transfer to a 4-year degree program
What will I learn?
- To describe the nature of science, the methods applied in scientific investigations, and the value of those methods in developing a rigorous understanding of the physical world.
- To apply algebraic, graphical, numerical, and other methods to solve applied problems in the areas of mathematics, natural sciences, computer graphics, and computer animation.
What courses do I take?
Note: Some courses within the major may have a required prerequisite. If you feel you have equivalent knowledge and skills to those included in the prerequisite course through professional experience, licensure, or certification, you have the opportunity to submit a Prerequisite Challenge to be reviewed by the faculty chair. For the Prerequisite Challenge to be considered, you must submit documentation/verification to substantiate the basis for the challenge. Please consult a counselor for more information regarding Prerequisite Challenge.
Select a minimum of 18 units from the following courses.
At least one course must be from Mathematics and at least two courses from the sciences, including one laboratory or field experience course (*).
C-ID: ANTH 110 Introduction to Biological Anthropology
Advisory: ENGL C070.
54 hours lecture. This course examines humans as biological organisms from an evolutionary perspective. Areas covered include concepts, methods, findings, and issues in the study of the order primates, including relationships between fossil monkeys, apes and humans, and the significance of genetic diversity among modern populations. Approved for IGETC Area 4 or 5B, CSU GE Area B2 or D1, Local GE Area 1 or 2.
C-ID: ANTH 110 Introduction to Biological Anthropology
Pre-requisite: ENGL C070. Limitation on Enrollment: Acceptance for the Honors Program or eligibility for this honors course as determined in consultation with the instructor.
72 hours lecture. This course examines humans as biological organisms from an evolutionary perspective. Areas covered include concepts, methods, findings, and issues in the study of the order primates, including relationships between fossil monkeys, apes and humans, and the significance of genetic diversity among modern populations. The honors course provides more content and requires greater intensity and depth of study than the non-honors class. Approved for IGETC Area 4 or 5B, CSU GE Area B2 or D1, Local GE Area 1 or 2.
C-ID: ANTH 115L Biological Anthropology Laboratory
Co-requisite: ANTH C121 or ANTH C121H
54 hours laboratory. This laboratory course is offered as a supplement to Biological Anthropology and must be taken concurrently with ANTH C121. Laboratory exercises are designed to introduce students to the scientific method, and explore genetics, human variation, human and non-human primate anatomy and behavior, the primate/hominin fossil record, and other resources to investigate processes that affect human evolution. Approved for IGETC Area 5C, CSU GE Area B3, Local GE Area 1.
Advisory: ENGL C101
54 hours lecture. This course provides a biological survey for non-majors. Topics cover principles of organization, cell structure and function, metabolism, genetics, organ systems of plants and animals, ecology, evolution, and biodiversity. Approved for IGETC Area 5B, CSU GE Area B2, Local GE Area 1.
Advisory: ENGL C101
54 hours lecture/54 hours laboratory. This is an introductory course in biological science with laboratory experience for non-majors. The course illustrates the principles of organization, cell structure and function, genetics, metabolism, organ systems, reproduction (plant and animal), ecology, evolution, and animal behavior. The course is not open to students with credit in BIOL C101. Approved for IGETC Area 5B & 5C, CSU GE Area B2 & B3, Local GE Area 1.
Pre-requisite: ENGL C101 Limitation on Enrollment: Enrollment in this honors course is limited to students enrolled in the associated course. Students will be required to read and comprehend challenging materials and analyze in depth a chosen topic appropriate for intensified study and must be able to maintain a minimum standard of coursework at the honors level.
72 hours lecture/54 hours laboratory. This is an introductory course in biological science with laboratory experience for non-majors. The course illustrates the principles of organization, cell structure and function, genetics, metabolism, organ systems, reproduction (plant and animal), ecology, evolution, and animal behavior. The course is not open to students with credit in BIOL C101. The honors course provides more content and requires greater intensity and depth of study than the non-honors class. Approved for IGETC Area 5B & 5C, CSU GE Area B2 & B3, Local GE Area 1.
Prerequisite: MATH C055 Advisory: CHEM C101, ENGL C070
72 hours lecture/54 hours laboratory. This is an introductory course for students majoring in biological sciences and related subjects. The course covers principles of cell biology, metabolism, biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics, and physiology. Approved for IGETC Area 5B & 5C, CSU GE Area B2 & B3, Local GE Area 1.
Pre-requisite: ENGL C070, MATH C055 Advisory: CHEM C101 Limitation on Enrollment: Acceptance to the Honors Program or eligibility for this honors course as determined by the instructor.
90 hours lecture/54 hours laboratory. This is an introductory course for students majoring in biological sciences and related subjects. The course covers principles of cell biology, metabolism, biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics, and physiology. The honors course provides more content and requires greater intensity and depth of study than the non-honors class. Approved for IGETC Area 5B & 5C, CSU GE Area B2 & B3, Local GE Area 1.
Prerequisite: ENGL C101, MATH C055
72 hours lecture/54 hours laboratory. This course is for students majoring in biological sciences and related subjects. It covers organism diversity and examines the basic principles governing evolution of organisms and their interactions with the environment. The course sequence includes evolutionary biology, phylogenetics, anatomy and physiology of plants, ecology, and the major taxa of protists, fungi, plants, and animals. BIOL C111 is not a prerequisite of BIOL C112. Approved for IGETC Area 5B & 5C, CSU GE Area B2 & B3, Local GE Area 1.
Prerequisite: ENGL C101, MATH C055. Limitation on Enrollment: Enrollment in this honors course is limited to students enrolled in the associated course. Students will be required to read and comprehend challenging materials and analyze in depth a chosen topic appropriate for intensified study and be able to maintain a minimum standard of coursework at the honors level.
90 hours lecture/54 hours laboratory. This course is for students majoring in biological sciences and related subjects. It covers organism diversity and examines the basic principles governing evolution of organisms and their interactions with the environment. The course sequence includes evolutionary biology, phylogenetics, anatomy and physiology of plants, ecology, and the major taxa of protists, fungi, plants, and animals. The honors class provides more content and requires greater intensity and depth of study than the non-honors class. BIOL C111 is not a prerequisite for this course. Approved for IGETC Area 5B & 5C, CSU GE Area B2 & B3, Local GE Area 1.
Advisory: ENGL C101
54 hours lecture. This is an introductory anatomy and physiology course. Emphasis is on the structure and function of human cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems. Human development and heredity are also covered. Not open to students who have completed BIOL 125. Approved for IGETC Area 5B, CSU GE Area B2, Local GE Area 1.
Advisory: ENGL C101
54 hours lecture/54 hours laboratory. This course is an introductory anatomy and physiology course for students in health career programs. Emphasis is on the structure and function of human cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems. Human development and heredity are also covered. The laboratory component provides a hands-on approach to learning anatomical structures and their physiology. Not open to students who have completed BIOL 121. Approved for IGETC Area 5B & 5C, CSU GE Area B2 & B3, Local GE Area 1.
Prerequisite: ENGL C070
54 hours lecture. This course explores environmental science with a focus on the scientific
method. It explores human interactions with the environment and their consequences
for living and nonliving systems. Topics include ecologic principles, environmental
resources and ways of protecting these resources. Critical evaluation of environmental
issues and problems is a focus of this course. Not open to students who have completed
BIOL C145. Approved for IGETC Area 5B, CSU GE Area B2, Local GE
Area 1.
Prerequisite: ENGL C070
54 hours lecture/54 hours laboratory. This course explores environmental science with a focus on the scientific method. It explores human interactions with the environment and their consequences for living and non-living systems. Topics include ecologic principles, environmental resources and ways of protecting these resources. Critical evaluation of environmental issues and problems is a focus of this course. Lab, field and computer tools will be used to study the scientific method, experimental design, sampling methods, data gathering and analysis for hands-on experience of environmental sciences. Not open to students who have completed BIOL C141. Field trips required. Approved for IGETC Area 5B & 5C, CSU GE Area B2 & B3, Local GE Area 1.
C-ID: BIOL 110B Human Anatomy with Lab
Prerequisite: ENGL C101
54 hours lecture/54 hours laboratory. This course covers the structural organization of the human body and includes the study of microscopic and gross anatomy of body organs and systems, including skeletal, muscular, nervous, circulatory, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, endocrine, reproductive, and integumentary systems. Approved for IGETC Area 5B & 5C, CSU GE Area B2 & B3, Local GE Area 1.
C-ID: BIOL 120B Human Physiology with Lab
Prerequisite: ENGL C101. Advisory: BIOL C125, CHEM C101, MATH C055
54 hours lecture/54 hours laboratory. This course provides students with an understanding of the function and regulation of the human body and physiological integration of the organ systems to maintain homeostasis. Course content includes neural and hormonal homeostatic control mechanisms, as well as functions of the integumentary, musculoskeletal, circulatory, respiratory, digestive, urinary, lymphatic and immune, reproductive, and endocrine systems. Approved for IGETC Area 5B & 5C, CSU GE Area B2 & B3, Local GE Area 1.
Prerequisite: BIOL C255, ENGL C101. Advisory:CHEM C101
54 hours lecture/108 hours laboratory. This course offers an introduction to major topics and sub-disciplines in microbiology including microbial diversity and classification, microbial anatomy and physiology, microbial genetics, microbial ecology, medical microbiology and immunology, epidemiology and public health, and biotechnology. The course is designed for students interested in health careers. Approved for IGETC Area 5B & 5C, CSU GE Area B2 & B3, Local GE Area 1.
Prerequisite: MATH C055
54 hours lecture/54 hours laboratory. This course covers measurement and units in chemistry, properties of matter, the structure of the atom, inorganic compounds, organic compounds, the periodic table, calculations from balanced chemical equations, basic chemical bonding, the ideal gas law, properties of aqueous systems, solutions and other liquids. Approved for IGETC Area 5A & 5C, CSU GE Area B1 & B3, Local GE Area 1.
C-ID: CHEM 110 General Chemistry for Science Majors I, with Lab
Prerequisite: MATH C055
72 hours lecture/54 hours laboratory. This course covers matter and measurement, atoms, molecules, ions, calculations with chemical formulas and equations, aqueous reactions and solution stoichiometry, thermochemistry, the electronic structure of atoms, periodic properties of the elements, concepts of chemical bonding, molecular geometry and bonding theories, the gaseous state, intermolecular forces in solids and liquids, modern materials, and properties of solutions. Approved for IGETC Area 5A & 5C, CSU GE Area B1 & B3, Local GE Area 1.
Prerequisite: CHEM C111
72 hours lecture/54 hours laboratory. This course covers modern materials, properties of solutions, kinetics, chemical and aqueous equilibrium, acids and bases, environmental chemistry, thermodynamics, electro- chemistry, nuclear chemistry, metallurgy, chemical trends in the periodic chart, coordination compounds, and organic chemistry. Approved for IGETC Area 5A & 5C, CSU GE Area B1 & B3, Local GE Area 1.
Prerequisite: CHEM C111. Limitation on Enrollment: Acceptance to the Honors Program or eligibility for this honors course as determined by the instructor.
72 hours lecture/108 hours laboratory. In this course students learn about modern materials, properties of solutions, kinetics, chemical and aqueous equilibrium, acids and bases, environmental chemistry, thermodynamics, electro-chemistry, nuclear chemistry, metallurgy, chemical trends in the periodic chart, coordination compounds, and bioorganic chemistry. The honors course provides more content in the form of advanced topics in chemistry and requires greater intensity and depth of study above and beyond that of the non-honors class. Approved for IGETC Area 5A & 5C, CSU GE Area B1 & B3, Local GE Area 1.
C-ID: CHEM 150 Organic Chemistry for Science Majors I, with Lab
C:ID: CHEM 160 S Organic Chemistry for Science Majors Sequence A
Prerequisite: CHEM C111
72 hours lecture/54 hours laboratory. This course covers structure and bonding, polar bonds, alkanes, cycloalkanes, stereochemistry, synthesis, structure and reactivity of alkenes, synthesis, structure and reactivity of alkynes, handedness in chemistry, synthesis, structure and reactivity of alkyl halides, carbocations, the concept of resonance, nucleophilic substitutions and eliminations, basic biochemistry, mass spectrometry, infrared, nuclear magnetic resonance and ultraviolet spectroscopy and aromaticity. This Organic Chemistry I course is taught according to standards developed by the American Chemical Society. Approved for IGETC Area 5A & 5C, CSU GE Area B1 & B3, Local GE Area 1.
C-ID: CHEM C160 S Organic Chemistry for Science Majors Sequence A
Prerequisite: CHEM C221.
72 hours lecture/108 hours laboratory. This course covers the chemistry of aromatic compounds, alcohols, thiols, ethers, epoxides and sulfides, aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids and carboxylic acid derivatives, amino acids, proteins, amines, phenols, carbohydrates, lipids, heterocycles, polymers, and biological systems. Pericyclic carbonyl condensation, alpha substitution, and other reaction mechanisms are also covered. This Organic Chemistry II course is taught according to the standards developed by the American Chemical Society. Approved for IGETC Area 5A & 5C and CSU GE Area B1 & B3.
C-ID: CHEM C160 S Organic Chemistry for Science Majors Sequence A
Prerequisite: CHEM C221. Limitation on Enrollment: Enrollment in this honors course is limited to students enrolled in the associated course. Students will be required to read and comprehend challenging materials and analyze in depth a chosen topic appropriate for intensified study and be able to maintain a minimum standard of coursework at the honors level.
72 hours lecture/108 hours laboratory. In this course, students learn about the chemistry of aromatic compounds, alcohols, thiols, ethers, epoxides and sulfides, aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids and carboxylic acid derivatives, amino acids, proteins, amines, phenols, carbohydrates, lipids, heterocycles, polymers, and biological systems. Pericyclic carbonyl condensation, alpha substitution, and other reaction mechanisms are also covered. This Organic Chemistry II course is taught according to the standards developed by the American Chemical Society. Approved for IGETC Area 5A & 5C, CSU GE Area B1 & B3.
C-ID: COMP 122 Programming Concepts and Methodology I
Prerequisite: MATH C055. Advisory: IT C101
36 hours lecture/54 hours laboratory. This course explores topics that provide students with a foundation in computer science. This course covers the fundamental issues of algorithms, computer organization, software, computational theory, fundamental object oriented programming and social and ethical issues of computing.
C-ID: COMP 132 Programming Concepts and Methodology II
Prerequisite: CSCI C252. Advisory: MATH C151
54 hours lecture. This course follows the Introduction to Computer Science course with a focus on object oriented programming and design. A greater emphasis is placed on abstraction and using programming to solve a wide range of problems. Intermediate data structures are also addressed including trees, graphs, stacks, queues and linked lists. Students learn how to use the program development life cycle to design, code, and test programs.
C-ID: COMP 152 Discrete Structures
Prerequisite: CSCI C252
54 hours lecture. This course covers mathematical topics essential for work in computer science, including number bases, mathematical induction, sets, functions, recursion, probability, graphs, trees, logic, Boolean algebra, and proof techniques.
Advisory: ENGL C070
54 hours lecture. This lecture course covers the study of the Earth as an integrated system, including Earth-Sun relationships and motions, weather, climatic types and regions, ecosystems, soils, natural hazards, resource management, landforms, and the ocean. An emphasis is placed on understanding human-land relationships and examining current world problems from a geographical perspective. Not open to students who have completed GEOG C111. Approved for IGETC Area 5A, CSU GE Area B1, Local GE Area 1.
Advisory: ENGL C070
54 hours lecture/54 hours laboratory. This lecture and laboratory course covers the study of the Earth as an integrated system. Lecture topics include Earth-Sun relationships and motions, weather, climatic types and regions, ecosystems, soils, natural hazards, resource management, landforms, and the ocean. An emphasis is placed on understanding human-land relationships and examining current world problems from a geographical perspective. Meanwhile, laboratory provides practical experience in field techniques and supplemental exercises that enhance and reinforce topics covered in lecture. Not open to students who have completed GEOG C101. Approved for IGETC Area 5A & 5C, CSU GE Area B1 & B3, Local GE Area 1.
C-ID: GEOL 100 Physical Geology
Advisory: ENGL C070
54 hours lecture/54 hours laboratory. This course covers the study of the earth as an integrated system of hydrologic, tectonic, atmospheric, and human processes, including the origin and evolution of continents, mountains, earth materials, oceans, and life forms. It also covers geologic hazards, such as earthquakes, floods, groundwater contamination, and global climate change. Laboratories are designed to complement and reinforce topics covered in the lecture and will apply geologic principles to local geologic and land use issues such as earthquake hazards, flash floods, and the evolution of landforms in eastern California. Approved for IGETC Area 5A & 5C, CSU GE Area B1 & B3, Local GE Area 1.
C-ID ITIS 130 Introduction to Programming Concepts and Methodologies
Prerequisite: IT C101
36 hours lecture/54 hours laboratory. This course is an introduction to the fundamental concepts and models of application development including the basic concepts of program design, data structures, programming, problem solving, programming logic, and fundamental design techniques for event-driven programs. Students receive hands-on experience with a modern application programming language and development platform.
Prerequisite: MATH C053 or MATH C055
72 hours lecture. This is a transfer-level algebra course for non-STEM majors which includes theory and applications of the following: linear functions and graphs, laws of exponents and logarithms, exponential and logarithmic functions, power functions, and quadratic and polynomial functions. A lab provides support to review basic algebra. Approved for CSU GE Area B4, Local GE Area 4.
C-ID: MATH 110 Introduction to Statistics
Prerequisite: MATH C053 or MATH C055
54 hours lecture/54 hours laboratory. This course covers data analysis using descriptive and inferential statistics. Graphs and computations include measures of central tendency and dispersion, correlation and regression, and presentation of data on a histogram, scatter plot, box plot, and the normal curve. Probability concepts include those for discrete and continuous random variables. Sampling and hypothesis testing are covered for means and variances. Topics from algebra are combined with applications in statistics in the lab portion of the class. This course applies to the degree requirements for students not majoring in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) fields. Approved for IGETC Area 2, CSU GE Area B4, Local GE Area 4.
C-ID: MATH 110 Introduction to Statistics
Prerequisite: MATH C053 or MATH C055. Advisory: ENGL C101 Limitation on Enrollment: Acceptance to the Honors Program or eligibility for this honors course as determined by the instructor.
72 hours lecture/54 hours laboratory. This course covers elements of descriptive statistics, measures of central tendency, dispersion and presentation of data. Included are concepts of probability, random variables and normally distributed random variables. Sampling error, sampling processes and the distribution of sample means are applied to real life examples. Students will conduct hypothesis testing of means and proportions for one and two populations and linear regression testing using the least squares criterion. Students use descriptive and inferential methods employing linear regression and study one and two way analysis of variance. The honors section provides more content and requires greater intensity and depth of study than the non-honors class; the honors course also requires at least one extra research assignment. Approved for IGETC Area 2, CSU GE Area B4, Local GE Area 4.
Prerequisite: MATH C055
72 hours lecture. Finite Mathematics is designed for students majoring in Business/Economics, Computer Information Systems, and Social Sciences. Topics to be covered include matrices, linear programming, mathematics of finance, sets and Venn diagrams, descriptive statistics, probability and combinations. Approved for IGETC Area 2, CSU GE Area B4, Local GE Area 4.
C-ID: MATH 140 Business Calculus
Prerequisite: MATH C055
72 hours lecture. This course emphasizes the concepts of differential calculus and integral calculus as they relate to business and economics. The course integrates rates of change, interest formulas, concepts of demand and elasticity, as well as exponential and logarithmic applications. Approved for IGETC Area 2, CSU GE Area B4, Local GE Area 4.
Prerequisite: MATH C055
72 hours lecture. This pre-calculus course is an intensive study of algebraic functions and relations and their graphical representations, exponential and logarithmic functions and their applications, theory of equations, matrices, sequences, series, mathematical induction, the binomial theorem, and an introduction to the theory of limits. Approved for IGETC Area 2, CSU GE Area B4, Local GE Area 4.
Prerequisite: MATH C055
72 hours lecture. An intensive study of trigonometric and inverse trigonometric functions and the graphical representations of these functions. This course includes solving trigonometric equations, verifying identities, and solving triangles in the plane and on the sphere. Topics also include complex numbers, DeMoivre's theorem, analytic geometry in two and three dimensions, polar coordinates, and vectors. Applications are included. Approved for CSU GE Area B4, Local GE Area 4.
Prerequisite: MATH C141, MATH C142
72 hours lecture. This course provides students with a foundation in differential and integral calculus with emphasis on both skills and applications. Topics include functions, limits, derivatives of polynomial, trigonometric, parametric, and implicit functions, applications of differentiation, the indefinite integral, the definite integral, and applications of the definite integral. Approved for IGETC Area 2, CSU GE Area B4, Local GE Area 4.
Prerequisite: MATH C151
72 hours lecture. This course is a continuation of Analytic Geometry and Calculus I, extending the skills of differentiation and integration by learning new techniques and working with the transcendental functions. Other major topics include sequences, series, polar coordinates and parameterization of plane curves. Approved for IGETC Area 2, CSU GE Area B4, Local GE Area 4.
Prerequisite: MATH C152
72 hours lecture. This course is a continuation of Analytical Geometry and Calculus II, extending the skills of differentiation and integration by learning new techniques and working with partial derivatives and double and triple integrals. Other major topics include cylindrical and spherical coordinates, quadric surfaces, vector functions, vector analysis, Green's theorem and Stoke's theorem. Approved for IGETC Area 2, CSU GE Area B4.
Prerequisite: MATH C251. Advisory: A computer algebra system or graphing calculator and basic computer skills are strongly recommended
72 hours lecture. This course provides students with a foundations of differential equations of change, motion, and growth within chemical, physical, biological, and business systems with problem solving and applications. Students are introduced to modeling using mathematical software used in industry to solve complex problems. First, second, and higher order differential equations including Euler's Method, Eigenvalues, Numerical Methods, Non-linear Systems, and La Place Transforms are covered. Approved for IGETC Area 2, CSU GE Area B4.
Prerequisite: MATH C152
72 hours lecture. This course covers the following topics: systems of linear equations, matrices, n-dimensional real vector spaces, general vector spaces, linear transformations, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, and applications of the above topics. Approved for IGETC Area 2, CSU GE Area B4, Local GE Area 4.
Advisory: ENGL C070
54 hours lecture. This lecture course covers the study of the Earth as an integrated system, including Earth surface processes, tectonics and mountain building, surface water and groundwater, Earth-Sun relationships and motions, weather, climatic types, soil types, natural hazards, resource management, landforms, and the ocean. An emphasis is placed on understanding geologic issues important to society. Not open to students who have completed PHSC C105. Approved for IGETC Area 5A, CSU GE Area B1, Local GE Area 1.
Advisory: ENGL C070
54 hours lecture/54 hours laboratory. This lecture and laboratory course covers the study of the Earth as an integrated system. Lecture topics include Earth surface processes, tectonics and mountain building, surface water and groundwater, Earth- Sun relationships and motions, weather, climatic types, soil types, natural hazards, resource management, landforms, and the ocean. An emphasis is placed on understanding geologic issues important to society. Meanwhile, laboratory provides practical experience in field methods and enhancement of lecture topics such as topographic map reading, air photo interpretation, soils, natural hazards, resource management, landforms, Earth-Sun relationships and motions, weather, climatic types and regions, ecosystems, and the ocean. Not open to students who have completed PHSC C101. Approved for IGETC Area 5A & 5C, CSU GE Area B1 & B3, Local GE Area 1.
Prerequisite: MATH C050. Advisory: ENGL C070
54 hours lecture/54 hours laboratory. This course covers conceptual topics in physics and chemistry, with applications to the earth sciences and astronomy, for the non-science major. Topics such as motion, energy, electricity, magnetism, waves, atoms, chemistry and chemical reactions are covered. The laboratory portion of this course covers conceptual experiments in physics and chemistry, with applications to the earth sciences and astronomy. Experiments in motion, energy, electricity, magnetism, waves, atoms, chemistry and chemical reactions are performed. Not open to students who have completed PHSC 111. Approved for IGETC Area 5A & 5C, CSU GE Area B1 & B3, Local GE Area 1.
Prerequisite: MATH C055. Advisory: ENGL C040
54 hours lecture. This course covers conceptual topics in physics and chemistry, with applications to the earth sciences and astronomy, for the non-science major. Topics such as motion, energy, electricity, magnetism, waves, atoms, chemistry and chemical reactions are covered. Not open to students who have completed PHSC C115. Approved for IGETC Area 5A, CSU GE Area B1, Local GE Area 1.
Advisory: ENGL C040, MATH C050
54 hours lecture. This lecture course is a general survey of the physical Universe from the standpoint of modern astronomy. The course first introduces the methods and tools used in astronomy and then applies them to investigate the many scales of physical structure and phenomena in the Universe. Topics include Solar System scale objects, such as planets, moons, asteroids, comets, and meteoroids, stellar scale objects, such as stars, star clusters, and nebulae, galactic scale objects, such as galaxies and galaxy clusters, and finally the entire Universe itself. Not open to students who have completed PHSC C125. Approved for IGETC Area 5A, CSU GE Area B1, Local GE Area 1.
Advisory: ENGL C070, MATH C040
54 hours lecture/54 hours laboratory. This lecture and laboratory course is a general survey of the physical Universe from the standpoint of modern astronomy. The course first introduces the methods and tools used in astronomy and then applies them to investigate the many scales of physical structure and phenomena in the Universe. Topics include Solar System scale objects, such as planets, moons, asteroids, comets, and meteoroids, stellar scale objects, such as stars, star clusters, and nebulae, galactic scale objects, such as galaxies and galaxy clusters, and finally the entire Universe itself. The laboratory portion of this course covers optical principles, the use of telescopes and binoculars, the use of star charts and sky simulation software, and the observation of celestial objects and phenomena. Not open to students who have completed PHSC C121. Approved for IGETC Area 5A & 5C, CSU GE Area B1 & B3, Local GE Area 1.
54 hours lecture. This lecture course in introductory meteorology emphasizes meteorology's interdisciplinary physical science basis and methods. The course covers the following concepts: atmospheric composition and structure, solar-terrestrial relations, radiation, heat, temperature, air pressure, humidity, atmospheric stability, clouds and cloud systems, precipitation, wind and circulation, thunderstorms, tornadoes and hurricanes, weather analysis and forecasting, and climate. Approved for IGETC Area 5A, CSU GE Area B1, Local GE Area 1.
Co-requisite: PHSC C131
54 hours laboratory. This course provides laboratory experience that will make the topics covered in the Introductory Meteorology lecture more meaningful and realistic to the student. Interdisciplinary Physical Science concepts and methods are used to explain weather phenomena. Included in the course are measurement of basic weather parameters (such as temperature, pressure, wind, and humidity), weather map interpretation, data plotting and interpretation, instrument usage, and weather analysis and forecasting. Field activities emphasize the interaction between weather phenomena and human activity. Designed for the non-science major. Approved for CSU GE Area B3, Local GE Area 1.
Advisory: ENGL C070
54 hours lecture/54 hours laboratory. This lecture and laboratory course in introductory meteorology emphasizes meteorology's interdisciplinary physical science basis and methods. Concepts covered include atmospheric composition and structure, solar-terrestrial relations, radiation, heat, temperature, seasons, air pressure, humidity, atmospheric stability, clouds and cloud systems, precipitation, wind and circulation, thunderstorms, tornadoes, hurricanes, weather analysis and forecasting, climate, and climate change. Approved for IGETC Areas 5A & 5C, CSU Areas B! & B3, Local GE Area 1.
Prerequisite/Co-requisite: MATH C151
63 hours lecture/81 hours laboratory. This course covers the fundamental laws of nature governing the motion of bodies and their relation to external forces. Motion in 1, 2, and 3 dimensions is covered as well as energy, linear momentum, angular momentum, gravitation, fluids, oscillations, and simple harmonic motion. Approved for IGETC Area 5A & 5C, CSU GE Area B1 & B3, Local GE Area 1.
Prerequisite: PHYS C111, MATH C152 or concurrent enrollment
63 hours lecture/81 hours laboratory. This course covers electromagnetic principles such as charge and matter, electric and magnetic fields, potential, capacitors, dielectric materials, resistance, current, AC and DC circuits, induction, Maxwell's equations, and electromagnetic waves. Approved for IGETC Area 5A & 5C, CSU GE Area B1 & B3, Local GE Area 1.
Prerequisite: PHYS C113
63 hours lecture/81 hours laboratory. This course covers the laws governing wave motion, thermodynamics, optics, atomic physics, quantum physics, and other aspects of modern physics. Approved for IGETC Area 5A & 5C, CSU GE Area B1 & B3, Local GE Area 1.
General Ed Requirements
Complete one of the following general education patterns:
Program Pathways
Additionally, some of the general education courses needed to complete this major are available at all our locations.
The classes needed for this degree are available at nearly all of our campuses. Some of the other courses and general education courses may also be available online and at other campuses. Consult a counselor at your local campus for degree pathway options.
See Counseling for specific help with enrolling and completing this major.
How can I afford it?
This degree requires 60.0 units and will likely take 4 semesters.
Approximate Total Costs
CA Residents
60.0 units
at $46 per unit
Equals $2,760 in tuition and fees
Plus approximately $3,600* for books and supplies
Total cost $6,360 for 4 semesters
Non-residents
60.0 units
at $388 per unit
Equals $23,280 in tuition and fees
Plus approximately $3,600* for books and supplies
Total cost $26,880 for 4 semesters
*This is an estimate. Actual costs will vary.
Need help? Financial Aid can help with fee waivers and scholarships and other aid. Make sure to fill out your FAFSA every January.