Astronomy, Associate of Science (AS)
Program Overview
Astronomy, Associate of Science (AS)
Overview
Astronomy has played an important role in the development of modern science and technology. Astronomers study the formation, chemistry, composition, and evolution of celestial objects. Modern astronomers work with advanced technology and instrumentation to study planets, stars galaxies, nebulae, black holes, and the universe itself. Students take astronomy courses to prepare for a major in astronomy, or to fulfill general education requirements in related fields, or to prepare for various vocational jobs as technicians for high-tech industries. Graduates with a bachelor's degree in astronomy pursue careers as museum and planetarium directors, astronomers/astrophysicists, space scientists, mission data analysts, spacecraft and instrument designers, teachers, observatory technicians, telescope operators, electronics technicians, computer programmers, or to work in the fields of optics, mathematics, electronics, or computer programming.
Requirements
- Complete all of the following:
- All Department Requirements listed below with a “C” or better or “P” in each course (at least 20% of the department requirements must be completed through SBCC).
- One of the following three General Education options:
- OPTION 1: A minimum of 18 units of SBCC General Education Requirements (Areas A-D) and Institutional Requirements (Area E) and Information Competency Requirement (Area F) OR
- OPTION 2: IGETC Pattern OR
- OPTION 3: CSU GE Breadth Pattern
- A total of 60 degree-applicable units (SBCC courses numbered 100 and higher).
- Maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or better in all units attempted at SBCC.
- Maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or better in all college units attempted.
- A minimum of 12 units through SBCC.
Course List
Code | Title | Units |
---|---|---|
CHEM 155 | General Chemistry I | 5 |
CS 105 | Theory and Practice I | 3-4 |
or CS 133 | Introduction to Programming for Engineers | |
or CS 137 | C Programming | |
or CS 140 | Object-Oriented Programming Using C++ | |
ERTH 101 | Introductory Astronomy | 3-4 |
or ERTH 101H | Introductory Astronomy, Honors | |
ERTH 102 | Observational Astronomy Laboratory | 1 |
ERTH 106 | Black Holes and the Universe 1 | 3-4 |
or ERTH 111 | Dynamic Earth - Physical Geology | |
or ERTH 111H | Dynamic Earth - Physical Geology, Honors | |
or ERTH 141 | Physical Geography | |
or GEOG 101 | Physical Geography | |
MATH 150 | Calculus with Analytic Geometry I | 5 |
MATH 160 | Calculus with Analytic Geometry II | 5 |
PHYS 121 | Mechanics Of Solids And Fluids | 5 |
PHYS 122 | Electricity and Magnetism | 5 |
PHYS 123 | Heat, Light and Modern Physics | 5 |
Total Units | 40.00-43.00 |
Learning Outcomes
- Recognize how science works, the scientific method, the reliance on logic, critical thinking, data analysis and interpretation, cause and effect relationships.
- Research historical facts that reveal the human dilemmas, the moral and ethical issues in science.
- Learn the facts, and classify information, physical properties, and attributes of objects being studied.
- Recognize famous theories, fields of study, scientific developments, milestones in science.
Recommended Sequence
Make an appointment with your SBCC academic counselor through Starfish to create a Student Education Plan that reflects a recommended course sequence for this program that is tailored to your individual needs.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Astronomy, Associate of Science (AS)
Overview:
Astronomy has played a crucial role in the development of modern science and technology. Astronomers study the formation, chemistry, composition, and evolution of celestial objects. They work with advanced technology and instrumentation to explore planets, stars, galaxies, nebulae, black holes, and the universe itself. Students take astronomy courses to prepare for a major in astronomy, fulfill general education requirements in related fields, or prepare for various vocational jobs as technicians for high-tech industries.
Objectives:
- Gain a strong foundation in the principles of astronomy
- Develop critical thinking and analytical skills
- Learn to use scientific methods to investigate astronomical phenomena
- Prepare for further study in astronomy or related fields
- Prepare for careers in astronomy, astrophysics, space science, and other related fields
Program Description:
The Astronomy, Associate of Science (AS) program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles of astronomy. The program covers topics such as:
- The history of astronomy
- The solar system
- Stars and galaxies
- Cosmology
- The search for extraterrestrial life Students will also gain hands-on experience through laboratory and observational activities.
Outline:
Department Requirements
- CHEM 155: General Chemistry I (5 units)
- CS 105: Theory and Practice I (3-4 units)
- OR CS 133: Introduction to Programming for Engineers
- OR CS 137: C Programming
- OR CS 140: Object-Oriented Programming Using C++
- ERTH 101: Introductory Astronomy (3-4 units)
- OR ERTH 101H: Introductory Astronomy, Honors
- ERTH 102: Observational Astronomy Laboratory (1 unit)
- ERTH 106: Black Holes and the Universe 1 (3-4 units)
- OR ERTH 111: Dynamic Earth - Physical Geology
- OR ERTH 111H: Dynamic Earth - Physical Geology, Honors
- OR ERTH 141: Physical Geography
- OR GEOG 101: Physical Geography
- MATH 150: Calculus with Analytic Geometry I (5 units)
- MATH 160: Calculus with Analytic Geometry II (5 units)
- PHYS 121: Mechanics Of Solids And Fluids (5 units)
- PHYS 122: Electricity and Magnetism (5 units)
- PHYS 123: Heat, Light and Modern Physics (5 units)
Careers:
Graduates with a bachelor's degree in astronomy pursue careers as:
- Museum and planetarium directors
- Astronomers/astrophysicists
- Space scientists
- Mission data analysts
- Spacecraft and instrument designers
- Teachers
- Observatory technicians
- Telescope operators
- Electronics technicians
- Computer programmers
- Optics specialists
- Mathematicians
- Electronics engineers
- Computer programmers
Santa Barbara City College
Overview:
Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) is a community college located in Santa Barbara, California. It offers a wide range of academic programs, including transfer degrees, certificates, and non-credit courses. SBCC is known for its diverse student body and its commitment to providing accessible and affordable education.
Services Offered:
SBCC provides a variety of services to its students, including:
Academic advising:
Students can receive personalized guidance on course selection, degree planning, and career exploration.Financial aid:
SBCC offers a variety of financial aid options to help students pay for their education.Career services:
Students can access resources to help them with job searching, resume writing, and career planning.Student support services:
SBCC provides a range of support services, such as tutoring, counseling, and disability services.Library and learning resources:
SBCC has a well-equipped library and learning center with access to books, journals, computers, and other resources.Student Life and Campus Experience:
SBCC offers a vibrant campus experience with opportunities for students to get involved in:
Student clubs and organizations:
Students can join a variety of clubs and organizations based on their interests, such as academic, cultural, and recreational groups.Athletics:
SBCC has a competitive athletics program with teams in various sports.Campus events:
SBCC hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, and performances.Key Reasons to Study There:
Affordable tuition:
SBCC offers a relatively low tuition rate compared to other colleges and universities.Transfer opportunities:
SBCC has strong transfer agreements with four-year universities, making it easy for students to continue their education after graduation.Small class sizes:
SBCC offers smaller class sizes, which allows for more personalized attention from instructors.Location:
SBCC is located in a beautiful and vibrant city with access to beaches, mountains, and cultural attractions.Academic Programs:
SBCC offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Arts and Humanities:
Art, Communication, English, History, Music, Philosophy, Theatre ArtsBusiness and Entrepreneurship:
Business Administration, EntrepreneurshipCulture, Society, and Human Behavior:
Anthropology, Chicano Studies, Communication, Economics, Global and International Studies, History, Law and Society, Political Science, Psychology, SociologyEnglish as a Second Language, Adult High School, GED:
ESL, Adult High School Diploma, GEDHealthcare, Wellness, and Public Service:
Nursing, Dental Hygiene, Emergency Medical Services, Social WorkIndustry and Applied Technologies:
Automotive Technology, Culinary Arts, Welding, Computer ScienceNature, Numbers, and Engineering:
Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, EngineeringOther:
SBCC is a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI), which means that it serves a significant population of Hispanic students. The college is committed to providing a welcoming and supportive environment for all students.