Associate's in Physics at Community College: Worth It?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the value of obtaining an Associate's Degree in Physics from a community college (C.C.). Participants highlight that the degree typically includes essential courses such as Calculus 1, 2, and 3, General Chemistry, and introductory Physics courses covering Mechanics, Electricity & Magnetism, and Modern Physics. It is emphasized that the degree serves as a foundational step for transferring to a university for further studies in science or engineering. The consensus suggests that while self-learning is an option, the structured curriculum of a community college provides significant benefits for those intending to pursue higher education.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Calculus 1, 2, and 3
  • Familiarity with General Chemistry principles
  • Basic knowledge of Physics concepts, including Mechanics and Electricity & Magnetism
  • Awareness of linear algebra and differential equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research community colleges offering Associate's Degrees in Physics
  • Explore transfer requirements for universities with strong physics programs
  • Investigate self-learning resources for Calculus and Physics
  • Learn about the career paths available with an Associate's Degree in Physics
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for prospective physics students, community college advisors, and individuals considering a career in science or engineering who are evaluating the merits of formal education versus self-study.

burgerusmc
Messages
4
Reaction score
1
Anyone on here do an Associate's in Physics at a C.C.? Was the cost worth the knowledge you gained? Or would self learning have been the way to go? Thanks.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
burgerusmc said:
Anyone on here do an Associate's in Physics at a C.C.? Was the cost worth the knowledge you gained? Or would self learning have been the way to go? Thanks.

I went to community college and transferred to university for physics.

What do you intend to do with an associates in physics? It would probably take three years to get, assuming you need remedial courses in mathematics. Do you plan to transfer to university, go to graduate school?
 
Associate Degree in Physics would be most typical a set of courses to be able to continue onto most undergraduate science or engineering educations. Nearly all such undergraduate degrees require Calculus 1,2,3; one year of General Chemistry, Beginning Physics series of courses on Mechanics, Electricity & Magnetism, and "Modern Physics"; and maybe one or two Biology intro courses. That is typically what you would have taken to earn the A.A. degree in (for example) Physics.

Expect the A.A. degree to also include maybe one combination course of linear algebra and differential equations.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 43 ·
2
Replies
43
Views
5K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 38 ·
2
Replies
38
Views
5K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
16
Views
5K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
Replies
13
Views
3K
  • · Replies 42 ·
2
Replies
42
Views
4K