Physical Science - A.S. Degree
Explore the Nature of Energy and Matter in the Physical World
Physical science involves studying and analyzing the nature and properties of energy and non-living things. At ACC you’ll have the opportunity to explore subjects such as oceanography, meteorology, earth science, organic chemistry, engineering, physics, astronomy, and more. Our associate degree transfer program provides you with a strong scientific and mathematical foundation that will prepare you for transfer to a four-year college/university and a variety of career opportunities.
Career Opportunities
An associate's degree in Physical Science can lead to a number of entry-level jobs in the sciences including Environmental Science Technician, Mechanical Engineering Technician, and Geology Technician. However, many careers in this field require more advanced levels of education.
For more information on career opportunities in Physical Science, please visit Career Coach where you can explore the local job market, take a career assessment, and build a resumé.
What Will I Study?
Your journey through the Physical Sciences A.S. degree program will allow you to take core courses in mathematics, computer science, and humanities. You will have the option for more in depth study in one of three degree paths in Chemistry, Geology, or Physics.
| PHYSICAL SCIENCE ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCE (A.S.) 60 credit hours |
|
| FIRST YEAR - FIRST SEMESTER | CREDITS |
|
+ENGL 1301 - Composition I |
3 |
|
+MATH 2412 - Pre-Calculus Math |
4 |
|
+Select from Physical Science Degree Path |
4 |
|
+PSYC 1300 - Learning Framework |
3 |
| SECOND SEMESTER | |
|
+Select from American History Core Curriculum |
3 |
|
+ENGL 1302 - Composition II |
3 |
|
+MATH 2413 - Calculus I |
4 |
|
+Select from Physical Science Degree Path |
4 |
| THIRD SEMESTER | |
|
+Select from American History Core Curriculum 3 |
3 |
|
+Select from Component Area Options - Group 1 |
3 |
| SECOND YEAR - FIRST SEMESTER | |
|
+GOVT 2305 - Federal Government |
3 |
|
+Select from Physical Science Degree Path |
7 |
|
+Select from Social & Behavioral Sciences Core Curriculum |
3 |
| SECOND SEMESTER | |
|
+Select from Creative Arts Core Curriculum |
3 |
|
+GOVT 2306 - Texas Government |
3 |
|
+Select from Language, Philosophy & Culture Core Curriculum |
3 |
|
+Select from Physical Science Degree Path |
4 |
| PHYSICAL SCIENCE (A.S.) DEGREE – CREDIT HOURS | 60 |
+Denotes core requirement. Speak with Department Chair or Academic Advisor for proper course selection.
Degree Paths:
- Chemistry majors take CHEM 1411 and CHEM 1412 (first year) and CHEM 2423, CHEM 2425 and PHYS 2425 (second year).
- Geology majors take GEOL 1403 and GEOL 1404 (first year) and CHEM 1411, CHEM 1412 and GEOL 1405 (second year).
- Physics majors take CHEM 1411 and CHEM 1412 (first year) and PHYS 2425, PHYS 2426 and MATH 2414 (second year).
The ACC Physical Sciences degree program is designed to help you transfer to a four-year college or university to obtain a Bachelor’s degree. By first obtaining an associate's degree, you will have the flexibility to explore different branches of science to find your match without spending as much time and money.
Students who transfer to a four-year college typically major in one of the following subject areas:
- Biology
- Business Administration
- Chemistry
- Communications
- Conservation
- Engineering
- Forestry
- Geology
- Mathematics
- Pharmacy
- Physics
- Pre-Dentistry
- Pre-Medicine
- Pre-Veterinary
When planning your degree program and selecting electives, it is important to understand the requirements of the major department in the college or university you expect to transfer to.
Approximate yearly costs for the A.S. Degree program including tuition and fees are $4,200 for in-district students, $6,960 for students out-of-district, and $9,840 for non-residents. Additional fees for books and supplies may vary.
For more information on education costs, payment options, payment plans, deadlines and more, visit our Tuition and Fees section.
Financial assistance is available for those who qualify. For more information, visit our Financial Aid section.
*Alvin Community College may change tuition rates and other fees without notice or when so directed by the Board of Regents.
COLLEGE & CAREER PATHWAYS
Physical Science is part of our Science, Technology, Engineering, & Mathematics Career Pathway. Click the box below to see other programs that may interest you.
Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics Career Pathway