Are you a curious person who is always looking to understand the world around you? If you are ready to learn how the world and everything in it works, then Allan Hancock College’s physics program is for you!
Physics is the science that explains how objects and energy interact with each other. It is the most fundamental of all the sciences; biologists, chemists, computer scientists, and especially engineers utilize the core concepts of physics. Studying physics will help students understand conceptually what happens in any given physical scenario, compute predictions of how fast or how far things will go, learn to simulate physical phenomena (with coding), and clearly and concisely communicate these processes.
Allan Hancock College’s physics program has engaging coursework that will allow students to test the performance of electric circuits, analyze patterns and images formed by light, evaluate temperature and phase changes of machines exposed to heat, code simulations of motion to compare to data from video tracking, model the behavior of objects subjected to multiple forces, and more. In addition, students will develop their communication and collaboration skills by presenting information to instructors and peers through both formal and informal reports.
Graduates of the physics program are prepared for entry-level careers as computer programmers, lab technicians, or research assistants. Students may also choose to transfer to a four-year university for further study.
This program will help you to:
- demonstrate knowledge of the fundamental laws of physics and physical terminology
- apply physical principles to solve a variety of simple problems
- demonstrate the proper use of physical apparatus for testing and observing physical theories
- write scientific reports on a given experiment indicating the significance of the experiment and the degree to which the results verify a principle or law
- analyze complex problems to identify single principle components and synthesize from multiple concepts
Suggested Course Sequence
The "Suggested Course Sequence" is an example of how to complete the requirements plus any additional general education that may be needed. If you would like to create a personalized Student Education Plan (SEP), schedule a meeting with a counselor.
This suggested plan assumes a student is eligible for MATH 181, PHYS 161 and CHEM 150.
Fall Semester (Year 1)
Course #
Course Title
Units
Prerequisite : Placement based upon Allan Hancock College's placement policy.
Designed to help students enhance their analytical reading and writing skills using a wide variety of texts. Emphasizes college-level expository essay construction, communication, and research methods leading to the preparation and writing of a research paper.
Prerequisite : CHEM 120
A study of the principles and theories of chemistry. Topics include the kinetic molecular theory of matter, atomic structure and the periodic table, chemical bonding, gases and stoichiometry. Experiments in standard qualitative and quantitative analysis emphasizing the collection and interpretation of data are covered in the lab. Lecture: 3 hours weekly. Lab: 6 hours weekly.
The first in a two-semester sequence comprising first-year calculus. Topics include functions, limits, continuity, the derivative, differentiation of algebraic, trigonometric and transcendental functions, applications of differentiation, the definite integral, and the use of technology to solve calculus problems.
Intended for students pursuing majors in a STEM discipline. Introduces students to related career choices, academic planning, and college resources. Develops appropriate skills necessary for academic success in a STEM major.
Total Units:
14
Spring Semester (Year 1)
Course #
Course Title
Units
Prerequisite : CHEM 150
A continuation of Chemistry 150, emphasizing the development of the principles and theories of chemical equilibria, chemical kinetics, thermodynamics and electro-chemistry, including an introduction to modern means of instrumental analysis. The laboratory consists of experiments in standard qualitative and quantitative analysis. Lecture: 3 hours weekly. Lab: 6 hours weekly.
Prerequisite : MATH 181
The second in a two-semester sequence comprising first-year calculus. Topics include methods and applications of integration, sequences and series, Taylor series, an introduction to differential equations, and the use of technology to solve calculus problems.
The initial semester of a three-semester course in calculus-based physics which emphasizes the origin, nature and application of fundamental concepts and principles. Required for most baccalaureate majors in the physical sciences, engineering and mathematics. Emphasizes mechanics, including measurement, linear and planar motion, statics and dynamics of particles and systems of particles, rigid, elastic and fluid systems.
Total Units:
13
Summer Semester (Year 2)
Course #
Course Title
Units
Courses that meet this requirement:
- Ethnic Studies 121
- History 107, 108, 118, 119, 121
- Political Science 101, 103
Courses that meet this requirement:
- Communication Studies 100, 101, 102, 106
- English 103, 104
- Philosophy 112, 114
Total Units:
6
Fall Semester (Year 2)
Course #
Course Title
Units
A continuation of PHYS 161 which discusses electrostatic forces, fields and potentials, steady electric currents and circuits, magnetic forces and fields, induced electric and magnetic fields, electric and magnetic properties of continuous media, reactive circuits, and electromagnetic waves.
If you take any of the following courses, you will also satisfy the Multicultural/Gender Studies requirement:
Courses that meet this requirement:
- Administration of Justice 101, 103, 115
- Anthropology 102, 103, 105, 107
- Business 121, 141
- Communications Studies 100, 110
- Early Childhood Studies 100, 101
- Economics 101, 102, 121, 141
- English 105, 150, 151,152, 153
- Ethnic Studies 101, 107, 150, 151,152, 153
- Geography 102, 103, 105
- Global Studies 141
- Graphics 127
- LGBT 101, 102
- Physical Education 128
- Political Science 101, 104, 105, 110
- Psychology 101, 112, 113, 117, 118, 119, 121
- Sociology 101, 102, 104, 120, 122, 155, 160
Select one course from the list below.
- American Sign Language 138
- Art 101, 103, 104, 105, 109, 170
- Communication Studies 108
- Dance 101, 110, 120, 130, 147
- Drama 103, 110, 111
- Early Childhood Studies 116, 123
- English 102, 106, 117, 118, 119, 130, 131, 132, 133, 135, 138,139, 140, 144, 145, 146, 148, 180
- Ethnic Studies 105, 120, 122
- Fashion 104, 105
- Film 101, 102, 103, 104, 108, 109, 110, 122
- French 101, 102
- Graphics 127
- History 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 120, 138
- Humanities 101, 102, 103, 104, 105
- Library 180
- Multimedia Arts and Communication 101, 102
- Music 100, 101, 102, 104, 106
- Philosophy 101, 102, 105, 121, 122
- Photo 110
- Spanish 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 112
Students will learn and synthesize information concerning the impact of the social determinants of health, including education, socioeconomic status, race, sexual orientation, disability and gender. Students are provided with a broad foundation of knowledge dealing with such social determinants in mental health, stress management, fitness, diet and weight control, prevention and control of communicable and non-communicable diseases, drugs and alcohol, first aid, cancer prevention and control, and the scope of, and access to community health services.
Total Units:
13
Spring Semester (Year 2)
Course #
Course Title
Units
A continuation of PHYS 161 which discusses temperature, heat, thermodynamics, simple harmonic and wave motion, sound, geometric and physical behavior of light, as well as topics in modern physics, which may include the special theory of relativity, and the quantum theory of atomic and nuclear systems.
Courses that meet this requirement:
- Anthropology 101, 110 (when taken in conjunction with 101)
- Astronomy 100
- Biology 100, 120, 124, 132
- Chemistry 110, 120
- Environmental Technology 101
- Food Science and Nutrition 110
- Geography 101, 115
- Geology 100, 111, 114, 115, 131, 141
- Physical Science 111, 112
- Physics 100
- Viticulture and Enology 102
Select one course from this list.
Courses that meet this requirement:
- Anthropology 107
- English 150, 151, 152, 153
- Ethnic Studies 101, 105, 107, 120, 121, 122, 150, 151, 152, 153
- Fashion 105
- Film 122
- History 120, 121
ALL courses in this category also fulfill the AHC Graduation Requirement: Multicultural and Gender Studies
You can choose a course in any subject that has a 100-199 in its title. For example ENGL 100 or ASTR 121.
NOTE: Not all 100-level courses are UC-transferable. See the IGETC sheet for UC eligible courses.
Total Units:
14
Suggested Course Sequence
The "Suggested Course Sequence" is an example of how to complete the requirements plus any additional general education that may be needed. If you would like to create a personalized Student Education Plan (SEP), schedule a meeting with a counselor.
This suggested plan assumes a student is eligible for MATH 181 and PHYS 161.
Fall Semester (Year 1)
Course #
Course Title
Units
Prerequisite : Placement based upon Allan Hancock College's placement policy.
Designed to help students enhance their analytical reading and writing skills using a wide variety of texts. Emphasizes college-level expository essay construction, communication, and research methods leading to the preparation and writing of a research paper.
The first in a two-semester sequence comprising first-year calculus. Topics include functions, limits, continuity, the derivative, differentiation of algebraic, trigonometric and transcendental functions, applications of differentiation, the definite integral, and the use of technology to solve calculus problems.
Intended for students pursuing majors in a STEM discipline. Introduces students to related career choices, academic planning, and college resources. Develops appropriate skills necessary for academic success in a STEM major.
Select one course from this list.
Select one course from this list.
Total Units:
12
Spring Semester (Year 1)
Course #
Course Title
Units
Prerequisite : MATH 181
The second in a two-semester sequence comprising first-year calculus. Topics include methods and applications of integration, sequences and series, Taylor series, an introduction to differential equations, and the use of technology to solve calculus problems.
The initial semester of a three-semester course in calculus-based physics which emphasizes the origin, nature and application of fundamental concepts and principles. Required for most baccalaureate majors in the physical sciences, engineering and mathematics. Emphasizes mechanics, including measurement, linear and planar motion, statics and dynamics of particles and systems of particles, rigid, elastic and fluid systems.
Choose one of the following courses:
- ENGL 103, Critical Thinking and Composition
- PHIL 112, Logic
- PHIL 114, Critical Thinking
- COMM 106, Argumentation and Debate
If you did not satisfy this requirement with high school coursework or an external exam, complete one of the courses from this list. If you are unsure if you have met this requirement, see a counselor.
- ES 120: Chicano History
- ES 121: African American History
- HIST 120: Chicano History
- HIST 121: African American History
NOTE: Students who started at Allan Hancock College (or any CCC or CSU) prior to Summer 2021 and have maintained continuous enrollment are not required to complete Area F for CSU GE Certification. See a counselor for further information.
Total Units:
14
Summer Semester (Year 2)
Course #
Course Title
Units
Recommended one from this list:
- ES 121, African American History
- HIST 107, US History to 1877
- HIST 108, US History from 1877 to the Present
- HIST 118, U S History American Institutions Requirement
Or choose a course from this list.
Note: Recommended courses also fulfill CSU US History and American Institutions Graduation Requirement
Select one course from this list.
Total Units:
6
Fall Semester (Year 2)
Course #
Course Title
Units
Prerequisite : MATH 182
Topics include vectors, functions of several variables; differentiation and integration in several dimensions; change of variables; parameterized curves and vector fields, line and surface integrals; Green's, Stokes', and divergence theorems.
A continuation of PHYS 161 which discusses electrostatic forces, fields and potentials, steady electric currents and circuits, magnetic forces and fields, induced electric and magnetic fields, electric and magnetic properties of continuous media, reactive circuits, and electromagnetic waves.
Choose one of the following courses:
- COMM 101, Public Speaking,
- COMM 102, Small Group Communication,
- COMM 106, Argumentation and Debate,
Select one course from this list.
Total Units:
14
Spring Semester (Year 2)
Course #
Course Title
Units
A continuation of PHYS 161 which discusses temperature, heat, thermodynamics, simple harmonic and wave motion, sound, geometric and physical behavior of light, as well as topics in modern physics, which may include the special theory of relativity, and the quantum theory of atomic and nuclear systems.
Select one course from this list.
Recommended one from this list:
- POLS 101, Introduction to Political Science
- POLS 103, American Government
Or choose a course from this list.
Note: Recommended courses also fulfill CSU US History and American Institutions Graduation Requirement
Select one course from this list.
You can choose a course in any subject that has a 100-199 in its title. For example ENGL 100 or ASTR 121.
NOTE: Not all 100-level courses are UC-transferable. See the IGETC sheet for UC eligible courses.
Total Units:
13+
Program Requirements:
"Program Requirements" specify the courses required for this program. See suggested course sequence for additional information.
Suggested Course Sequence
The "Suggested Course Sequence" is an example of how to complete the requirements plus any additional general education that may be needed. If you would like to create a personalized Student Education Plan (SEP), schedule a meeting with a counselor.
This suggested plan assumes a student is eligible for MATH 181 and PHYS 161.
Fall Semester (Year 1)
Course #
Course Title
Units
Prerequisite : Placement based upon Allan Hancock College's placement policy.
Designed to help students enhance their analytical reading and writing skills using a wide variety of texts. Emphasizes college-level expository essay construction, communication, and research methods leading to the preparation and writing of a research paper.
The first in a two-semester sequence comprising first-year calculus. Topics include functions, limits, continuity, the derivative, differentiation of algebraic, trigonometric and transcendental functions, applications of differentiation, the definite integral, and the use of technology to solve calculus problems.
Intended for students pursuing majors in a STEM discipline. Introduces students to related career choices, academic planning, and college resources. Develops appropriate skills necessary for academic success in a STEM major.
Select one course from area Area 3A: Arts or from area Area 3B: Humanities
Total Units:
12
Spring Semester (Year 1)
Course #
Course Title
Units
Prerequisite : MATH 181
The second in a two-semester sequence comprising first-year calculus. Topics include methods and applications of integration, sequences and series, Taylor series, an introduction to differential equations, and the use of technology to solve calculus problems.
The initial semester of a three-semester course in calculus-based physics which emphasizes the origin, nature and application of fundamental concepts and principles. Required for most baccalaureate majors in the physical sciences, engineering and mathematics. Emphasizes mechanics, including measurement, linear and planar motion, statics and dynamics of particles and systems of particles, rigid, elastic and fluid systems.
Choose one of the following courses:
- ENGL 103, Critical Thinking and Composition
- PHIL 114, Critical Thinking
If you are planning to transfer to a CSU campus, it is recommended that you take one U.S. History course (HIST 107, 108 or 118) AND one American Institutions (POLS 101 or 103) course. If not, select one course from this list.
Total Units:
14
Summer Semester (Year 2)
Course #
Course Title
Units
If you are planning to transfer to a CSU campus, it is recommended that you take one U.S. History course (HIST 107, 108 or 118) AND one American Institutions (POLS 101 or 103) course. If not, select one course from this list.
Select one course from this list.
Total Units:
6
Fall Semester (Year 2)
Course #
Course Title
Units
Prerequisite : MATH 182
Topics include vectors, functions of several variables; differentiation and integration in several dimensions; change of variables; parameterized curves and vector fields, line and surface integrals; Green's, Stokes', and divergence theorems.
A continuation of PHYS 161 which discusses electrostatic forces, fields and potentials, steady electric currents and circuits, magnetic forces and fields, induced electric and magnetic fields, electric and magnetic properties of continuous media, reactive circuits, and electromagnetic waves.
Choose one of the following courses:
- COMM 101, Public Speaking
- COMM 102, Small Group Communication
- COMM 106, Argumentation and Debate
You can choose a course in any subject that has a 100-199 in its title. For example ENGL 100 or ASTR 121.
NOTE: Not all 100-level courses are UC-transferable. See the IGETC sheet for UC eligible courses.
Select one course from this list.
Total Units:
16
Spring Semester (Year 2)
Course #
Course Title
Units
A continuation of PHYS 161 which discusses temperature, heat, thermodynamics, simple harmonic and wave motion, sound, geometric and physical behavior of light, as well as topics in modern physics, which may include the special theory of relativity, and the quantum theory of atomic and nuclear systems.
Select one course from this list.
If you did not satisfy this requirement with high school coursework or an external exam, complete one of the courses from this list. If you are unsure if you have met this requirement, see a counselor.
- ES 120: Chicano History
- ES 121: African American History
- HIST 120: Chicano History
- HIST 121: African American History
STEM Pathway Elective: Students who are planning to transfer to UC and have not satisfied the IGETC Area 6 requirement should take a course to fulfill this requirement. Students who are planning to transfer to UC and have satisfied the IGETC Area 6 requirement should take any UC transferrable course as an elective. Students who are planning to transfer to CSU should take a course to fulfill the CSUGE Area F (Ethnic Studies) requirement. Make sure you will complete 60 units total to meet graduation requirements.
Total Units:
13+
Programs you may also be interested in exploring:
Contact Information
Department Chair
Wendy Hadley
805-922-6966 ext. 3841
wendy.hadley@hancockcollege.edu
Administrative Assistant
Christina McMillan
805-922-6966 ext. 3202
cmcmillan@hancockcollege.edu
Dean, Academic Affairs
Sean Abel
805-922-6966 ext. 3537
sean.abel@hancockcollege.edu
LOCATION
Santa Maria Campus
Bldg. M
Map of Building M Locations
805-922-6966 ext. 3202