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Associate of Science in Physics Degree

Physics focuses on the nature of energy and matter, space, and time. It is a prerequisite to any in-depth study of the sciences and technologies. It leads to careers in engineering, astronomy, astronautics, medical research, geophysics, meteorology, and biophysics. Physics is a "hard" science, which means it is based on mathematics. A solid foundation in mathematics is essential for success in physics and engineering.

About the Physics Degree
The study of physics requires that you learn fundamental scientific concepts and become proficient in problem solving. Usually there is only one correct answer based on the science and the mathematics. At PPSC, you will acquire a solid understanding of physical concepts through diligent analysis and careful calculation in order to find those answers.

An Associate of Science (AS) degree in physics opens a variety of doors. Strong backgrounds in mathematics and the physical sciences lend themselves to careers in engineering, computer science, astronomy, and meteorology.

Transfer Options
At PPSC, you can complete the basic physics courses and many of the mathematics courses needed for a bachelor’s degree in physics or engineering. You will need to take the more advanced and specialized physics courses at a four-year university.

Physics AS with Designation

The Associate of Science Degree with Designation in Physics is designed for students intending to transfer to a four-year school and pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Physics. The Statewide Transfer Agreement will allow students to transfer to a Colorado public four-year school and complete their degree with an additional 60 credit hours. For more information about the Transfer Agreement please visit: cdhe.colorado.gov/students/attending-college/credit-transfer/transfer-degrees

  • Full-Time 4 Semester Schedule
  • Your personalized schedule will be best determined by meeting with an Academic Advisor.
  • Math Requirements: Student should place into or above MAT 2410.
  • English Requirements: Students should place into or above ENG 1021.

  • MAT 2410 - Calculus I MA1 (5)
  • ENG 1021 - English Composition I CO1 (3)
  • PHI 1011 - Introduction to Philosophy AH3 (3)
  • CHE 1111 - General College Chemistry I with Lab SC1 (5)

Total 16 Credits

  • MAT 2420 - Calculus II MA1 (5)
  • ENG 1022 - English Composition II CO2 (3)
  • PHY 2111 - Physics: Calculus Based I with Lab SC1 (5)
  • CHE 1112 - General College Chemistry II with Lab SC1 (5)

Total 18 Credits

  • MAT 2430 - Calculus III MA1 (4)
  • HIS 2000 - History of Science & Technology HI1 (3)
  • PHY 2112 - Physics: Calculus Based II with Lab SC1 (5)
  • PHI 1012 - Ethics AH3 (3)

Total 15 Credits

  • MAT 2560 - Differential Equations MA1 (3)
  • PSY 1001 - General Psychology I SS3 (3)
  • PHY 2113 - Physics: Calculus Based III with Lab SC1 (5)
  • PHI 1013 - Logic AH3 (3)

Total 14 credits