The Physics program is a transfer program that is approved by the Illinois Board of Higher Education and ICCB. The program provides the standard foundations of physics principles, which include motion, electricity and magnetism, optics, relativity and quantum theory. Students use state of the art equipment such as LABQUEST analytical devices for data handling. In addition, the program emphasizes “hands on “analytical laboratory experiments that depict real world situations. At the end of the program, students will have earned an AS.
Mission
The mission of the Physics program is to prepare students for a seamless transfer into a four-year institution to earn a BS or higher degree in analytical or theoretical Physics that will enable them to be productive members of society.
Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs)
- Students will learn how to use units and measurements to solve conversion problems.
- Students will be able to apply concepts of kinematics and dynamics to solve problems involving motion.
- Students will apply laws of thermodynamics, temperature, heat, buoyancy, Electric field potential, Magnetic field, and light to solve various simple and complex problems. Also, they will apply these concepts to real world problems.
- Students will utilize concepts of Magnetic Field and forces to solve problems involving Electromagnetic Induction and wave.
- Students will perform and take data on standard and complexed physics experiments, analyze the obtained data to write a laboratory report describing the procedure, result and a brief conclusion.
Overview for College Success
Overview for College Success (OCS 121) is a course designed to assist students in the navigation of becoming successful in college and life. Major topics include setting academic, career and personal goals; effective communication strategies; study skills; critical thinking; self-discovery; and learning styles. In addition, this course delves into topics such as stress management, diversity and other well-being topics. Students will develop educational and career plans, learn to utilize college resources and receive extensive help in course planning. OCS 121 credit is not calculated in the course minimum credit totals listed in this section.
Students must take OCS 121 if they meet one or more of the following:
- First time degree seeking students
- Transfer student with less than 12 credit hours and no evidence of similar course on transcript
- Registering for 6 or more credits
- Test into 2 or more developmental classes
- Currently does not have OCS credit or registered for OCS
Recommended AS Transfer Curriculum for Physics
This is only a suggested transfer program and might not be appropriate for every student. Some four-year institutions accept more than 62 credits in transfer to complete requirements in physics. Consult the College & Career Success Center for help in selecting courses appropriate for the program at the college or university where you plan to transfer.
Faculty are available during scheduled office hours to advise students about their courses and programs. Peruse some of the offerings in the Physical Sciences Department.
Minimum General Education (47)
| Overview for College Success | CREDITS | |
|---|---|---|
| OCS 121 | Overview for College Success | 1 |
| Communications (9) | ||
|---|---|---|
| ENG 101 | Composition and Rhetoric | 3 |
| ENG 102 | Composition and Research | 3 |
| SPE 108 | Oral Communication | 3 |
| Humanities and Fine Arts (9) | ||
| GROUP II | Select from Humanities Electives Students earning an Associate degree must meet the requirement for coursework on improving human relations as defined in Public Act 87-581. | 9 |
| Social and Behavioral Science (9) | ||
| GROUP III | Select from Social Science Electives Students earning an Associate degree must meet the requirement for coursework on improving human relations as defined in Public Act 87-581. | 9 |
| Mathematics (5) | ||
| MTH 190 | Calculus and Analytic Geometry I | 5 |
| Physical and Life Science (8-9) | ||
| GROUP V | Select from Physical Science Electives (Must include one lab) | 4-4.5 |
| GROUP V | Select from Life Science Electives (Must include one lab) | 4-4.5 |
Area of Concentration/Electives (25-26)
The selected electives listed above may satisfy the additional Math and Physical or Life Science courses required for the AS.
| PHY 210 | University Physics I | 4 |
| PHY 211 | University Physics II | 4 |
| PHY 212 | University Physics III | 4 |
| MTH 203 | Calculus and Analytic Geometry II MTH 203 is a required prerequisite to the junior level Physics courses at four-year institutions. | 5 |
MTH 204 MTH 205 | Calculus and Analytic Geometry III OR Differential Equations MTH 204 and 205 are required prerequisites to the junior level Physics courses at four-year institutions. | 5 4 |
| Minimum for AS Degree | 62 | |
|---|---|---|