The Associate of Science Degree in Astronomy will prepare those students interested in laying a foundation for further study and for a bachelor's degree in an Astronomy field from a four-year college or university. This degree program is for the Associate of Science Degree in Astronomy and fulfills many of the requirements and foundation courses for transfer to baccalaureate astronomy-related majors, but does not satisfy all transfer requirements for specific institutions. Students should consult with a counselor for major preparation for specific universities and colleges.
Please contact the Student Success Team for this program if you have any questions.Course | Units | Typically Offered |
1st Semester | ||
Select one: MATH 190 / MATH 190H (RHC GE 2)M | 4.0 | |
MATH 190 - Calculus I (4.0 units) Prerequisite:MATH 180 or MATH 185 or appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures) This course is designed for students planning to pursue programs in engineering, mathematics, computer science, and physical sciences. It is the first course in differential and integral calculus of a single variable, and covers functions, limits and continuity, the techniques and applications of differentiation and integration, and the fundamental theorem of calculus. MATH 190H - Calculus I Honors (4.0 units) Prerequisite:ENGL C1000 and MATH 185 or MATH 180 or appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures) This course is designed for students planning to pursue programs in engineering, mathematics, computer science, and physical sciences. It is the first course in differential and integral calculus of a single variable, and covers functions, limits and continuity, the techniques and applications of differentiation and integration, and the fundamental theorem of calculus. This course is intended for students who meet Honors Program requirements. | ||
Select one: ASTR 110 / ASTR 110H M | 3.0 | |
ASTR 110 - General Astronomy (3.0 units) (Formerly ASTR 001) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level, read college-level texts and have a knowledge of elementary algebra concepts. This descriptive, nonmathematical course is designed for students who want to develop an appreciation of astronomy and a broad cosmic perspective. The emphasis of the course is on the current state of knowledge about our solar system, our galaxy, and the universe. Topics on the frontier of astronomical knowledge such as black holes and the search for extraterrestrial life are explored. This course is designed for students with an interest in astronomy or anyone who desires to expand their cosmic horizons. ASTR 110H - General Astronomy Honors (3.0 units) Prerequisite: ENGL C1000 This descriptive, nonmathematical course is designed for students who want to develop an appreciation of astronomy and a broad cosmic perspective. The emphasis of the course is on the current state of knowledge about our solar system, our galaxy, and the universe. Topics on the frontier of astronomical knowledge such as black holes and the search for extraterrestrial life are explored. This course is designed for students with an interest in astronomy or anyone who desires to expand their cosmic horizons. It is intended for students who meet Honors Program requirements. | ||
Select one: ASTR 112 / ASTR 137 M | 1.0† | |
ASTR 112 - Observational Astronomy (1.0 units) (Formerly ASTR 002B) Prerequisite/Corequisite: ASTR 110 This course is designed to acquaint students with the methods, techniques, and tools of the astronomer. Indoor labs demonstrate classical methods and techniques of science. Students learn the critical thinking processes needed to acquire and analyze scientific data; become familiar with visible objects including constellations, planets, star clusters, galaxies, meteors, and the phases of the moon; and learn to locate objects visually and use astronomical coordinate systems. The development of skills in the operation of optical telescopes is emphasized. This course is designed for students with an interest in learning about night skies and the tools astronomers use to explore the cosmos. Observatory facilities are utilized often, weather permitting. ASTR 137 - An Introduction to Cosmology: From the Big Bang to the Multiverse (4.0 units) Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an elementary algebra course. This course introduces students to the science of cosmology and the study of the origins and development of the universe. The course covers Newtonian mechanics, Einstein’s theories of special relativity and the curvature of space-time, the Big Bang theory, the cosmic microwave background, cosmic inflation, dark matter and energy, and associated evidence and theories that explain these phenomena, including string theory and multiverse theory. Laboratory topics cover the conceptual underpinnings of observational cosmology through experiments in modern and classical physics. This course is intended for students who are enthusiastic cosmology amateurs and requires only a high school-level mathematics background. | ||
RHC GE 6 - Social and Behavioral SciencesGE | 3.0 | |
Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite. Select one: | ||
RHC GE 7b - HumanitiesGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
Total Semester Units: | 14.0† | |
2nd Semester | ||
MATH 191 - Calculus IIM | 4.0 | |
MATH 191 - Calculus II (4.0 units) Prerequisite: MATH 190 or MATH 190H This semester-long course continues the study of calculus begun in MATH 190. The course includes techniques of integration, improper integrals, anti-derivatives, applications of the definite integral, differential equations, Taylor polynomials, series, polar equations, and parametric equations. This course is the second course of the calculus sequence required of all engineering, physics, and mathematics majors. | ||
CHEM 120 - Introduction to Chemistry (RHC GE 5)GE | 5.0 | |
CHEM 120 - Introduction to Chemistry (5.0 units) (Formerly CHEM 090) Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an intermediate algebra course. This one-semester course is designed for students intending to major in science or engineering. The course primarily prepares students for CHEM130; additionally, it fulfills the General Education requirement in the physical sciences. This course introduces the fundamental principles of general chemistry, with emphasis on chemical nomenclature and quantitative problems in chemistry. The lecture presents classical and modern chemistry, including atomic theory, periodic properties, chemical bonding, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, acids and bases, gas laws, and solutions. The laboratory introduces the techniques of experimental chemistry with examples from all areas of chemistry. | ||
ENGL C1000 - Academic Reading and Writing (formerly ENGL 101) (RHC GE 1)GE | 3.5 | |
ENGL C1000 - Academic Reading and Writing (formerly ENGL 101) (3.5 units) (Formerly ENGL 001A, ENGL 101) Prerequisite:Placement as determined by the college’s multiple measures assessment process. In this course, students receive instruction in academic reading and writing, including writing processes, effective use of language, analytical thinking, and the foundations of academic research. This composition course enables students to generate logical, coherent essays that incorporate sources necessary for academic and professional success. Students become proficient in researching, evaluating, and incorporating sources, and in learning critical reading and thinking skills through expository and persuasive reading selections before applying these skills to creating original documented essays. The writing workshop component of the course is designed to assist students with improving and refining their writing and language skills: Students complete writing workshop activities that enhance their ability to compose logical, well-supported arguments that exhibit grammatical fluency and correct citation styles. Students meet with composition instructors through individual or small group conferences that address students’ specific writing concerns. | ||
Total Semester Units: | 12.5 | |
Summer 1 | ||
RHC GE 3 - Physical EducationGE | 1.0 | |
Select one: KINA or DANC activity course. | ||
Total Semester Units: | 1.0 | |
3rd Semester | ||
MATH 250 - Calculus IIIM | 4.0 | |
MATH 250 - Calculus III (4.0 units) Prerequisite: MATH 191 This course involves a study of functions of two or more variables using the principles of calculus, vector analysis, and parametric equations. Also included is a study of solid regions using partial differentiation, vector analysis, and multiple integration, as well as a study of vector calculus topics including line and surface integrals, Green’s theorem, Stokes’ theorem, and the divergence theorem. This is the third course of the calculus sequence required for engineering, physics, and mathematics majors. | ||
CHEM 130 - General Chemistry IM | 5.0 | |
CHEM 130 - General Chemistry I (5.0 units) (Formerly CHEM 001A) Prerequisite: CHEM 120 This course is the first semester of a two-semester sequence designed for students intending to major in science and engineering. The lecture course covers classical and modern chemistry, with applications in stoichiometry and classical atomic theory of chemistry, periodic properties, gas laws, modern quantum theory of atomic and molecular structure and periodic properties, thermochemistry, liquids and solids, and solution chemistry. The laboratory introduces experimental chemistry with examples from all areas of chemistry. | ||
RHC GE 7a - Fine ArtsGE | 3.0 | |
Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite. Select one: | ||
Total Semester Units: | 12.0 | |
4th Semester | ||
PHY 211 - Physics for Scientists and Engineers - IM | 4.0 | |
PHY 211 - Physics for Scientists and Engineers - I (4.0 units) (Formerly PHY 201) Prerequisite:MATH 190 or MATH 190H This course is the first of a three-semester sequence designed for students transferring to four-year institutions with majors in the sciences and engineering. Topics covered include kinematics, dynamics, energy, work, momentum, and conservation principles. | ||
RHC GE 7b - HumanitiesGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
CHEM 140 - General Chemistry IIGE | 5.0 | |
CHEM 140 - General Chemistry II (5.0 units) Prerequisite: CHEM 130 CHEM 140 is a continuation of CHEM 130. Theory and techniques of elementary physical chemistry are stressed. Emphasis is placed on the dynamics of chemical change using thermodynamics and reaction kinetics as the major tools. A thorough treatment of equilibrium is given, with many examples of acid/base, buffer, solubility, and complex ions. Entropy and free energy, electrochemistry, coordination compounds and a brief introduction to organic chemistry and nuclear chemistry are presented. Various analytical techniques used in modern chemistry are introduced. Descriptive chemistry of representative metallic and nonmetallic elements is included. The Laboratory introduces experimental chemistry with examples from areas of kinetics, equilibrium, acid/base and buffer preparation, differential titration, electrochemistry, and qualitative analysis. Modern instrumental methods are used in some exercises. | ||
Total Semester Units: | 12.0† | |
Summer 2 | ||
RHC GE 3 - Physical EducationGE | 1.0 | |
Select one: KINA or DANC activity course. | ||
Total Semester Units: | 1.0 | |
5th Semester | ||
PHY 213 - Physics for Scientists and Engineers - IIIM | 4.0 | |
PHY 213 - Physics for Scientists and Engineers - III (4.0 units) (Formerly PHY 202) Prerequisite: PHY 211 and MATH 191 This course is the first of a three-semester sequence designed for students transferring to four-year institutions with majors in the sciences and engineering. Topics covered include electric fields, electric potential, current, circuits, magnetic fields, Gauss' law, Ampere's law, Maxwell's equations, induction, and electromagnetic waves. | ||
RHC GE 8 - Oral Communication and Critical ThinkingGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: MATH 140, 150, 160, 170, 175, 180, 185, 190, 190H, 191, 250, 251, 260, 270; | ||
RHC GE 9 - Ethnic StudiesGE | 3.0 | |
Select one: | ||
ElectiveEL | 3.0 | |
Select any course that is numbered 40 or above. Please see a counselor to discuss course options. | ||
Total Semester Units: | 13.0† | |
Total Units for Astronomy AS program | 65.5† | |
|
† | Some classes may have higher units |
M | Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement |
GE | General Education course |
EL | Elective Course |
Course | Units | Typically Offered |
1st Semester | ||
Select one: MATH 190 / MATH 190H (Cal-GETC 2)M | 4.0 | |
MATH 190 - Calculus I (4.0 units) Prerequisite:MATH 180 or MATH 185 or appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures) This course is designed for students planning to pursue programs in engineering, mathematics, computer science, and physical sciences. It is the first course in differential and integral calculus of a single variable, and covers functions, limits and continuity, the techniques and applications of differentiation and integration, and the fundamental theorem of calculus. MATH 190H - Calculus I Honors (4.0 units) Prerequisite:ENGL C1000 and MATH 185 or MATH 180 or appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures) This course is designed for students planning to pursue programs in engineering, mathematics, computer science, and physical sciences. It is the first course in differential and integral calculus of a single variable, and covers functions, limits and continuity, the techniques and applications of differentiation and integration, and the fundamental theorem of calculus. This course is intended for students who meet Honors Program requirements. | ||
Select one: ASTR 110 / ASTR 110H M | 3.0 | |
ASTR 110 - General Astronomy (3.0 units) (Formerly ASTR 001) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level, read college-level texts and have a knowledge of elementary algebra concepts. This descriptive, nonmathematical course is designed for students who want to develop an appreciation of astronomy and a broad cosmic perspective. The emphasis of the course is on the current state of knowledge about our solar system, our galaxy, and the universe. Topics on the frontier of astronomical knowledge such as black holes and the search for extraterrestrial life are explored. This course is designed for students with an interest in astronomy or anyone who desires to expand their cosmic horizons. ASTR 110H - General Astronomy Honors (3.0 units) Prerequisite: ENGL C1000 This descriptive, nonmathematical course is designed for students who want to develop an appreciation of astronomy and a broad cosmic perspective. The emphasis of the course is on the current state of knowledge about our solar system, our galaxy, and the universe. Topics on the frontier of astronomical knowledge such as black holes and the search for extraterrestrial life are explored. This course is designed for students with an interest in astronomy or anyone who desires to expand their cosmic horizons. It is intended for students who meet Honors Program requirements. | ||
Select one: ASTR 112 / ASTR 137 M | 1.0† | |
ASTR 112 - Observational Astronomy (1.0 units) (Formerly ASTR 002B) Prerequisite/Corequisite: ASTR 110 This course is designed to acquaint students with the methods, techniques, and tools of the astronomer. Indoor labs demonstrate classical methods and techniques of science. Students learn the critical thinking processes needed to acquire and analyze scientific data; become familiar with visible objects including constellations, planets, star clusters, galaxies, meteors, and the phases of the moon; and learn to locate objects visually and use astronomical coordinate systems. The development of skills in the operation of optical telescopes is emphasized. This course is designed for students with an interest in learning about night skies and the tools astronomers use to explore the cosmos. Observatory facilities are utilized often, weather permitting. ASTR 137 - An Introduction to Cosmology: From the Big Bang to the Multiverse (4.0 units) Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an elementary algebra course. This course introduces students to the science of cosmology and the study of the origins and development of the universe. The course covers Newtonian mechanics, Einstein’s theories of special relativity and the curvature of space-time, the Big Bang theory, the cosmic microwave background, cosmic inflation, dark matter and energy, and associated evidence and theories that explain these phenomena, including string theory and multiverse theory. Laboratory topics cover the conceptual underpinnings of observational cosmology through experiments in modern and classical physics. This course is intended for students who are enthusiastic cosmology amateurs and requires only a high school-level mathematics background. | ||
Cal-GETC 3a - ArtsGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
Cal-GETC 4 - Social and Behavioral SciencesGE | 3.0 | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
Total Semester Units: | 14.0† | |
2nd Semester | ||
MATH 191 - Calculus IIM | 4.0 | |
MATH 191 - Calculus II (4.0 units) Prerequisite: MATH 190 or MATH 190H This semester-long course continues the study of calculus begun in MATH 190. The course includes techniques of integration, improper integrals, anti-derivatives, applications of the definite integral, differential equations, Taylor polynomials, series, polar equations, and parametric equations. This course is the second course of the calculus sequence required of all engineering, physics, and mathematics majors. | ||
CHEM 120 - Introduction to Chemistry (Cal-GETC 5A)GE | 5.0 | |
CHEM 120 - Introduction to Chemistry (5.0 units) (Formerly CHEM 090) Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an intermediate algebra course. This one-semester course is designed for students intending to major in science or engineering. The course primarily prepares students for CHEM130; additionally, it fulfills the General Education requirement in the physical sciences. This course introduces the fundamental principles of general chemistry, with emphasis on chemical nomenclature and quantitative problems in chemistry. The lecture presents classical and modern chemistry, including atomic theory, periodic properties, chemical bonding, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, acids and bases, gas laws, and solutions. The laboratory introduces the techniques of experimental chemistry with examples from all areas of chemistry. | ||
ENGL C1000 - Academic Reading and Writing (formerly ENGL 101) (Cal-GETC 1A)GE | 3.5 | |
ENGL C1000 - Academic Reading and Writing (formerly ENGL 101) (3.5 units) (Formerly ENGL 001A, ENGL 101) Prerequisite:Placement as determined by the college’s multiple measures assessment process. In this course, students receive instruction in academic reading and writing, including writing processes, effective use of language, analytical thinking, and the foundations of academic research. This composition course enables students to generate logical, coherent essays that incorporate sources necessary for academic and professional success. Students become proficient in researching, evaluating, and incorporating sources, and in learning critical reading and thinking skills through expository and persuasive reading selections before applying these skills to creating original documented essays. The writing workshop component of the course is designed to assist students with improving and refining their writing and language skills: Students complete writing workshop activities that enhance their ability to compose logical, well-supported arguments that exhibit grammatical fluency and correct citation styles. Students meet with composition instructors through individual or small group conferences that address students’ specific writing concerns. | ||
Total Semester Units: | 12.5 | |
3rd Semester | ||
MATH 250 - Calculus IIIM | 4.0 | |
MATH 250 - Calculus III (4.0 units) Prerequisite: MATH 191 This course involves a study of functions of two or more variables using the principles of calculus, vector analysis, and parametric equations. Also included is a study of solid regions using partial differentiation, vector analysis, and multiple integration, as well as a study of vector calculus topics including line and surface integrals, Green’s theorem, Stokes’ theorem, and the divergence theorem. This is the third course of the calculus sequence required for engineering, physics, and mathematics majors. | ||
CHEM 130 - General Chemistry IM | 5.0 | |
CHEM 130 - General Chemistry I (5.0 units) (Formerly CHEM 001A) Prerequisite: CHEM 120 This course is the first semester of a two-semester sequence designed for students intending to major in science and engineering. The lecture course covers classical and modern chemistry, with applications in stoichiometry and classical atomic theory of chemistry, periodic properties, gas laws, modern quantum theory of atomic and molecular structure and periodic properties, thermochemistry, liquids and solids, and solution chemistry. The laboratory introduces experimental chemistry with examples from all areas of chemistry. | ||
Cal-GETC 1b - Critical Thinking and CompositionGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
Total Semester Units: | 12.0† | |
4th Semester | ||
PHY 211 - Physics for Scientists and Engineers - IM | 4.0 | |
PHY 211 - Physics for Scientists and Engineers - I (4.0 units) (Formerly PHY 201) Prerequisite:MATH 190 or MATH 190H This course is the first of a three-semester sequence designed for students transferring to four-year institutions with majors in the sciences and engineering. Topics covered include kinematics, dynamics, energy, work, momentum, and conservation principles. | ||
Cal-GETC 3b - HumanitiesGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
CHEM 140 - General Chemistry IIGE | 5.0 | |
CHEM 140 - General Chemistry II (5.0 units) Prerequisite: CHEM 130 CHEM 140 is a continuation of CHEM 130. Theory and techniques of elementary physical chemistry are stressed. Emphasis is placed on the dynamics of chemical change using thermodynamics and reaction kinetics as the major tools. A thorough treatment of equilibrium is given, with many examples of acid/base, buffer, solubility, and complex ions. Entropy and free energy, electrochemistry, coordination compounds and a brief introduction to organic chemistry and nuclear chemistry are presented. Various analytical techniques used in modern chemistry are introduced. Descriptive chemistry of representative metallic and nonmetallic elements is included. The Laboratory introduces experimental chemistry with examples from areas of kinetics, equilibrium, acid/base and buffer preparation, differential titration, electrochemistry, and qualitative analysis. Modern instrumental methods are used in some exercises. | ||
Total Semester Units: | 12.0† | |
5th Semester | ||
PHY 213 - Physics for Scientists and Engineers - IIIM | 4.0 | |
PHY 213 - Physics for Scientists and Engineers - III (4.0 units) (Formerly PHY 202) Prerequisite: PHY 211 and MATH 191 This course is the first of a three-semester sequence designed for students transferring to four-year institutions with majors in the sciences and engineering. Topics covered include electric fields, electric potential, current, circuits, magnetic fields, Gauss' law, Ampere's law, Maxwell's equations, induction, and electromagnetic waves. | ||
Cal-GETC 6 - Ethnic StudiesGE | 3.0 | |
Select one: | ||
Cal-GETC 4 - Social and Behavioral SciencesGE | 3.0 | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
UC/CSU ElectiveEL | 3.0 | |
Select a course that transfers to UC. Please see a counselor to discuss course options. | ||
Total Semester Units: | 13.0 | |
Total Units for Astronomy AS program (Transfer to Cal-GETC) | 63.5† | |
|
|
† | Some classes may have higher units |
M | Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement |
GE | General Education course |
EL | Elective Course |
Click or tap here to open the program's advising sheet. |
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