Physics and Astronomy

Physics and Astronomy

Associate of Science - Transfer, Track 2 (PHST2AS)

If you are curious about the mysteries of the universe, and you enjoy math and science, this pathway could be a good choice for you! This pathway is designed to meet Associate in Science Track 2 degree requirements with a concentration in Physics and Astronomy. This ...

If you are curious about the mysteries of the universe, and you enjoy math and science, this pathway could be a good choice for you! This pathway is designed to meet Associate in Science Track 2 degree requirements with a concentration in Physics and Astronomy. This pre-major pathway is designed to prepare you to transfer at the junior-level into a bachelor’s program at a four-year college or university. In this pathway, you’ll explore Newton’s Laws of Motion, conservation of energy and momentum, and other principles that help explain the physical world. You’ll also test these concepts in the lab and gain a strong understanding of the scientific method of experimentation, observation and analysis. South’s program is well-known for it’s active-learning curriculum, so enter this pathway prepared to conduct many hands-on experiments on your own or with classmates. A degree in this area provides opportunities for challenging and exciting careers in many professions, because physics and astronomy teaches skills that are transferable to these professions. These skills include problem solving, analytical abilities, mathematical modeling, design and interpretation of experiments, research experience, and communication skills. ​Physicists and astronomers have global opportunities to work in areas such as aerodynamics, technological design, medical physics, and more. It can also be excellent preparation for students planning to enter Business School or Medical School. Medical Schools seek out students with majors in physics because of the high-tech nature of medical care. Business schools consider a major in physics outstanding preparation for an understanding of manufacturing and the high-tech aspect of our economy.

Estimated Length of Completion

Degree Quarters Units
Associate of Science - Transfer, Track 2 (PHST2AS) Full time : 6 90

You may need more or fewer units depending on your transferred credits, individual situation, and goals.

Before Quarter One

Step 1: Apply and register at South Seattle College anytime (the application is always free). Once you become a student, register for classes using the online class schedule and go to the academic calendar for registration dates and tuition deadlines.

Step 2: See an advisor to create a personalized educational plan by the end of your second quarter. Your plan will include prerequisites, graduation requirements, and transfer preparation if you plan to transfer to another college or university to earn a bachelor's degree.

Sample Schedule and Quarterly To-Do List

90 Units

A sample schedule and quarterly to-do list are below. The schedule and to-do list will help you explore courses and complete tasks on time. The guide assumes a fall quarter start, but you can begin in any quarter and start at any placement level.

Note about the sample schedule: Classes are offered in various formats such as online (e-learning) and may not be offered each quarter. Click the button with arrows throughout the map to expand the section and view detailed information.

Click to see details

Quarter 1
To-Do List
18 UNITS
To-Do List
  • Schedule an appointment with your advisor in Starfish to meet and discuss your goals. 
  • Explore careers and majors through workshops, counseling, and WorkSource career services
  • Visit the Library to get help with research; check out resources; access computers and study space; and create media projects. 
  • Visit the Tutoring Center to learn about tutoring services offered in-person and online. 
  • Get involved on campus! Check out some of the resources, clubs and activities available to you through Student Life and TRiO, RST, and more! 
MATH&141
Precalculus I
5 units
CHEM&139
General Chemistry Prep
5 units
POLS&202 or PSYC&100 or ENVS150
Choose a course
5 units
STEM 111 (Recommended)
Stem Skills
3 units
Quarter 2
To-Do List
18 UNITS
To-Do List
  • Create an educational plan with your advisor. 
  • Research and develop a list of four-year colleges and universities. 
  • Attend transfer workshops and/or a transfer fair. Find more information on our Transfer Resources page. 
  • Apply for financial aid for the upcoming school year in Fall or early Winter Quarter to maximize your funding options. 
  • Visit South’s transfer webpage for transfer information.  
MATH&142
Precalculus II
5 units
CHEM&161
General Chem W/Lab I
6 units
CSC110 or ASTR&100 or BIOL&160
Choose a course
5 units
STEM 118 (Recommended)
Science, Equity & Soc Justice
2 units
Quarter 3
To-Do List
15 UNITS
To-Do List
  • Update your educational plan with your assigned advisor. 
  • Attend a resume building or career workshop. 
  • Connect with potential universities (virtually or in person) and determine application deadlines. 
  • Research and apply for scholarships
ENGL&101
English Composition I
5 units
MATH&151
Calculus I
5 units
CSC110 or CSC142 or CHEM&162
Choose a course
variable units
Quarter 4
To-Do List
15 UNITS
To-Do List
  • Update your educational plan with your advisor. 
  • Attend transfer workshops, including a personal statement workshop. 
  • Write your personal statement. 
  • Build relationships with faculty and staff at South to learn more about your pathway and future opportunities. 
  • Apply to universities or colleges and scholarships. 
MATH&152
Calculus II
5 units
PHYS&221
Engineering Physics I
5 units
SOC&101 or ANTH&100 or any ENGL Literature Course
Choose a course
5 units
Quarter 5
To-Do List
15 UNITS
To-Do List
  • Apply for financial aid for the upcoming school year in Fall or early Winter Quarter to maximize your funding options. 
  • Apply to universities or colleges and scholarships. 
  • Explore internships in your major/career. 
  • Apply for graduation for your degree. 
MATH&163
Calculus 3
5 units
PHYS&222
Engineering Physics II
5 units
CMST&220 or ART101
Choose a course
5 units
Quarter 6
To-Do List
15 UNITS
To-Do List
  • Check in with your university for transfer planning.
  • Order cap and gown for commencement and join alumni association.
  • Attend commencement ceremony.
PHYS&223
Engineering Physics III
5 units
MATH238
Differential Equations
5 units
Pick one from the following list
Choose a course
5 units

More Information

Tuition and Funding

It's time to apply for Financial Aid for next year by completing
either the FAFSA or the WASFA 2024-25.

Need help paying for college?

To apply for financial aid, including grants and scholarships you don’t have to pay back, visit South's Financial Aid Department for details. Part-time and full-time students can qualify for financial aid funds.

Learn more about the estimated cost of attendance and general fees to attend college.

Career Opportunities

  • Physicist
  • Astronomer
  • Nuclear Physicist
  • Accelerator Operator
  • Applications Engineer
  • Data Analyst
  • Design Engineer
  • Physics Instructor
  • Lab Technician
  • Laser Engineer
  • Optical Engineer
  • Software Developer
  • Solar Physicist
  • Process Engineer
  • Seismologist
  • Materials Scientist
  • Patent Agent
  • Meteorologist

A bachelor’s degree or higher degree may be required for some careers listed above. For current employment and wage estimates, please visit the following online resources and search for the relevant occupational term:

Future Education Opportunities

Once you complete this Associate degree, additional education opportunities include:

  • A bachelor’s degree in physics, astronomy, applied physics, engineering, computer science or a related field at a four-year college or university.
  • A Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degree at one of the Seattle Colleges.

South Seattle College has direct transfer agreements with four-year institutions throughout Washington state, including University of Washington, Washington State University and Seattle University. Graduates from South have also transferred to out-of-state institutions.

Program and admissions requirements vary from college to college. Contact an advisor to create an educational plan tailored to transfer to the institution of your choice.

Additional Information

Learn more about the Transfer process, Transfer agreements, and Bachelor’s degrees including transferring to top universities around the state and nation, such as Historically Black Universities and Colleges.

Area of Study

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math

Program Contact

New or Prospective Students: Please connect with the Welcome Center to discuss South’s program options and for help navigating the Steps to Enroll

Email: southwelcomecenter@seattlecolleges.edu 
Phone: 206-934-7943  

Current Students: Please connect with Advising to create an educational plan and discuss specific class offerings for your program. 

Email: advisorsouth@seattlecolleges.edu 
Phone: 206-934-5387

Advising Contact

If you are already registered for classes or a returning student, please see your primary advisor to create an educational plan. If you need assistance getting connected to the appropriate advisor, visit the Advising Center website.  

Emailadvisorsouth@seattlecolleges.edu
Phone: 206-934-5387