Physics and Astronomy

Program Overview

North Seattle College's Physics and Astronomy program offers two transfer tracks: a regular track and an accelerated track. Both tracks provide a solid foundation in physics and astronomy, preparing students for advanced studies at four-year universities. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through laboratory experiments and projects, covering topics such as mechanics, electricity and magnetism, optics, thermodynamics, and introductory astronomy. Students are encouraged to consult with a transfer advisor to ensure a smooth transition to their intended university.

Program Outline

Outline:

Physics Associate of Science - Transfer, Track 2 (PHST2AS):

• Overview: This two-year transfer program allows students to complete their freshman and sophomore-level coursework at a subsidized cost before transferring to a four-year university.
The program emphasizes hands-on learning and preparing students for advanced studies in physics or astronomy.
• Structure: The program comprises 90-113 quarter credits and is typically completed in 8 quarters for full-time students and 11 quarters for part-time students.
• Content: The program covers fundamental physics and astronomy concepts through coursework in mechanics, electricity and magnetism, optics, thermodynamics, and introductory astronomy.
Students also gain laboratory experience through hands-on experiments and projects.
• Module 1: Mechanics: Explores the fundamentals of motion, forces, energy, and momentum.
• Module 2: Electricity and Magnetism: Covers electric circuits, fields, and electromagnetic waves.
• Module 3: Optics: Investigates the behavior of light and its interaction with matter.
• Module 4: Thermodynamics: Delves into the study of heat, temperature, and entropy.

Physics (Accelerated) Associate of Science - Transfer, Track 2 (PHST2AS):

• Overview: This accelerated two-year transfer program allows students to complete their freshman and sophomore-level coursework in physics at an even faster pace before transferring to a four-year university.
It is designed for highly motivated students with a strong foundation in mathematics and physics.
• Structure: The program comprises 90-108 quarter credits and can be completed in 6 quarters for full-time students and 9 quarters for part-time students.
• Content: The program covers the same fundamental physics and astronomy concepts as the regular track but at a more accelerated pace.
• Module 1: Accelerated Mechanics: Covers the same topics as module 1 in the regular track with additional emphasis on advanced concepts.
• Module 2: Accelerated Electricity and Magnetism: Covers the same topics as module 2 in the regular track with additional emphasis on advanced concepts.
• Module 3: Optics: Covers the same topics as module 3 in the regular track.
• Module 4: Thermodynamics: Covers the same topics as module 4 in the regular track.

Other:

• Program Pathways: The Physics and Astronomy program is part of the College Transfer program at North Seattle College, which offers several pathways to guide students towards their academic and career goals.
• Transfer Advisor: Students are encouraged to consult with a transfer advisor at North Seattle College and their intended four-year university to ensure smooth transfer and course selection.