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Associate of Science Degree
Astronomy

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.

Apply Now!


Sample Education Plan

This sample education plan for the 2025-2026 catalog year represents one possible pathway through the program. Each university (UC, CSU, private, and others) has their own transfer requirements; please see a counselor to create an education plan that is customized to meet your needs. Additional course descriptions may be found in the College Catalog.
Select sample path/map:
CourseUnitsTypically Offered
1st Semester
Select one: MATH 190 / MATH 190H (RHC GE 2)M4.0
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)
Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: MATH 170, MATH 190 or MATH 190H)

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)
Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: MATH 170, MATH 190 or MATH 190H)

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 M3.0
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.
Transfers to: UC, CSU
(*Students will receive credit from UC one of the following courses: ASTR 110 or ASTR 110H)

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
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts and have a knowledge of elementary algebra concepts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: ASTR 110 or ASTR 110H)

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 M1.0†
ASTR 112 - Observational Astronomy (1.0 units)

(Formerly ASTR 002B)

Prerequisite/Corequisite: ASTR 110
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.
Transfers to: UC (credit limit*), CSU
(*Students will receive credit from UC for only one of the following courses: ASTR 112 or ASTR 114)

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.
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to:UC,CSU

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 SciencesGE3.0

Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite.

Select one:
AJ 101
ANTH 102, 102H, 103, 104, 110, 115, 125;
CD 106, 208;
CHST 101, 146, 148, 148H, 150;
ECON 101, 101H, 102, 102H, 106, 135;
EGSS 110, 120, 130;
GEOG 102, 103;
HIST 101, 102, 122, 131, 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 167, 170;
HUM 110, 111, 125, 125H, 130;
KIN 170, 190, 195
MSCM 103, 128;
PHIL 128, 128H, 135;
POLS C1000, C1000H, 115, 125, 128, 128H, 130, 135,140,150;
PSY 112, 114, 180, 200;
PSYC C1000, C1000H;
SOC 101, 101H, 102, 105, 110, 114, 116, 120, 127, 130;
SPCH 150

RHC GE 7b - HumanitiesGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units. 

Select one:
ANTH 104;
ASL 101, 124, 201, 202;
CHIN 101, 102;
CHST 101, 146, 148, 148H, 150;
EGSS 130;
ENGL 126, 131;
FR 101, 102, 201, 202;
HIST 101, 102, 122, 131, 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 167, 170;
HUM 110, 111, 125, 125H, 130, 140, 145;
JAPN 101, 102;
KIN 199
LIT 102, 102H, 112A, 112AH, 112B, 112BH, 114, 114H, 117, 117H, 130, 130H,140, 140H, 141, 141H, 142, 142H, 144A, 144AH, 144B, 144BH, 145, 145H, 146A, 146AH, 146B, 146BH, 147, 147H, 148, 148H, 149, 149H;
MSCM 128;
PHIL 101, 101H, 102, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128, 128H, 135, 140;
POLS 128, 128H, 150;
SPAN 101, 101S, 102, 102S, 201, 201H, 202;
SPCH 130, 132

Total Semester Units:14.0† 
2nd Semester
MATH 191 - Calculus IIM4.0
MATH 191 - Calculus II (4.0 units)

Prerequisite: MATH 190 or MATH 190H
Transfers to: UC, CSU

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)GE5.0
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.
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*Credit limit), CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: CHEM 110, CHEM 120; no credit if taken after CHEM 130)

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)GE3.5
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.
Transfers to:UC, CSU

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 EducationGE1.0

Select one: KINA or DANC activity course.
Students who have completed a Fire, Police, Wildland Fire, or Corrections Academy from an accredited institution are automatically waived from this requirement, as are students with a DD214 on file. Exemption may be granted to those students physically unable to complete this requirement. Exemption forms are available in Student Health & Psychological Services.

Total Semester Units:1.0 
3rd Semester
MATH 250 - Calculus IIIM4.0
MATH 250 - Calculus III (4.0 units)

Prerequisite: MATH 191
Advisory:ENGL C1000
Transfers to: UC, CSU

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 IM5.0
CHEM 130 - General Chemistry I (5.0 units)

(Formerly CHEM 001A)

Prerequisite: CHEM 120
Advisory: ENGL C1000; MATH 175
Transfers to: UC, CSU

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 ArtsGE3.0

Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite.

Select one:
ARCH 103
ART 101, 104, 105, 105H, 106, 106H, 107, 108, 109, 110, 112, 113, 115, 117, 120, 130, 135, 140;
DANC 179, 179H, 199, 199H;
GDSN 110:
MUS 101, 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 135, 136;
MUST 151, 152;
PHTO 110, 130;
THTR 101, 105, 105H, 110, 150

Total Semester Units:12.0 
4th Semester
PHY 211 - Physics for Scientists and Engineers - IM4.0
PHY 211 - Physics for Scientists and Engineers - I (4.0 units)

(Formerly PHY 201)

Prerequisite:MATH 190 or MATH 190H
Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU
(*Students will receive credit for one physics series: PHY 150 and PHY 160 or PHY 211, PHY 212, and PHY 213)

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 - HumanitiesGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units. 

Select one:
ANTH 104;
ASL 101, 124, 201, 202;
CHIN 101, 102;
CHST 101, 146, 148, 148H, 150;
EGSS 130;
ENGL 126, 131;
FR 101, 102, 201, 202;
HIST 101, 102, 122, 131, 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 167, 170;
HUM 110, 111, 125, 125H, 130, 140, 145;
JAPN 101, 102;
KIN 199
LIT 102, 102H, 112A, 112AH, 112B, 112BH, 114, 114H, 117, 117H, 130, 130H,140, 140H, 141, 141H, 142, 142H, 144A, 144AH, 144B, 144BH, 145, 145H, 146A, 146AH, 146B, 146BH, 147, 147H, 148, 148H, 149, 149H;
MSCM 128;
PHIL 101, 101H, 102, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128, 128H, 135, 140;
POLS 128, 128H, 150;
SPAN 101, 101S, 102, 102S, 201, 201H, 202;
SPCH 130, 132

CHEM 140 - General Chemistry IIGE5.0
CHEM 140 - General Chemistry II (5.0 units)

Prerequisite: CHEM 130
Advisory: ENGL C1000; MATH 180
Transfers to:UC, CSU

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 EducationGE1.0

Select one: KINA or DANC activity course.
Students who have completed a Fire, Police, Wildland Fire, or Corrections Academy from an accredited institution are automatically waived from this requirement, as are students with a DD214 on file. Exemption may be granted to those students physically unable to complete this requirement. Exemption forms are available in Student Health & Psychological Services.

Total Semester Units:1.0 
5th Semester
PHY 213 - Physics for Scientists and Engineers - IIIM4.0
PHY 213 - Physics for Scientists and Engineers - III (4.0 units)

(Formerly PHY 202)

Prerequisite: PHY 211 and MATH 191
Advisory: MATH 250
Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU (*Students will receive credit for one physics series: PHY 150 and PHY 160 or PHY 211, PHY 212, and PHY 213)

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 ThinkingGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.

Select one:
CIT 101, 125, 135;
COMM C1000, C1000H;
ENGL 125, C1001, C1001H;
DSCI 101;
FIN 101;
GIS 120;

MATH 140, 150, 160, 170, 175, 180, 185, 190, 190H, 191, 250, 251, 260, 270;
PHIL 110, 110H, 112, 112H, 115;
PSY 190;
SPCH 100, 100H, 120, 140;
STAT C1000, C1000H;
READ 101;
VOCB 101

RHC GE 9 - Ethnic StudiesGE3.0

Select one:
CHST 101;
EGSS 110

ElectiveEL3.0

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† 
Notes:
  • AP exams and courses taken outside of Rio Hondo College may fulfill general education and/or major requirements. Please check with a counselor.
Legend:
Some classes may have higher units
M Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement
GEGeneral Education course
ELElective Course
CourseUnitsTypically Offered
1st Semester
Select one: MATH 190 / MATH 190H (Cal-GETC 2)M4.0
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)
Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: MATH 170, MATH 190 or MATH 190H)

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)
Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: MATH 170, MATH 190 or MATH 190H)

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 M3.0
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.
Transfers to: UC, CSU
(*Students will receive credit from UC one of the following courses: ASTR 110 or ASTR 110H)

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
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts and have a knowledge of elementary algebra concepts.
Transfers to: UC, CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: ASTR 110 or ASTR 110H)

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 M1.0†
ASTR 112 - Observational Astronomy (1.0 units)

(Formerly ASTR 002B)

Prerequisite/Corequisite: ASTR 110
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.
Transfers to: UC (credit limit*), CSU
(*Students will receive credit from UC for only one of the following courses: ASTR 112 or ASTR 114)

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.
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to:UC,CSU

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 - ArtsGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.

Select one:
ARCH 103
ARTS: ART 104, 105, 105H, 106, 106H, 107, 108, 109, 110, 112, 113, 115, 117
DANC 179, 179H, 199, 199H
GDSN 110
MUS 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 135, 136
MUST 151, 152
THTR 101, 105, 105H

Cal-GETC 4 - Social and Behavioral SciencesGE3.0

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
A total of 6 units required in Social and Behavioral Sciences from 2 different disciplines.

 Select one:
AJ 101
ANTH 102, 102H, 103, 110, 115, 125
CD 106, 208
CHST 101, 146, 148, 148H, 150
ECON 101, 101H, 102, 102H, 106, 135
EGSS 110, 120, 130
GEOG 102, 103
HIST 101, 102, 122, 131, 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158,159, 159H, 167, 170
HUM 110, 111, 125, 125H, 130
MSCM 128
PHIL 128, 128H, 135
POLS C1000, C1000H, 115, 125, 128, 128H, 130,135, 140, 150
PSY 112, 114, 200
PSYC C1000, C1000H
SOC 101, 101H, 102, 105, 110, 114, 116, 120, 127, 130
SPCH 150

Total Semester Units:14.0† 
2nd Semester
MATH 191 - Calculus IIM4.0
MATH 191 - Calculus II (4.0 units)

Prerequisite: MATH 190 or MATH 190H
Transfers to: UC, CSU

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)GE5.0
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.
Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*Credit limit), CSU
(*Students will receive credit for only one of the following courses: CHEM 110, CHEM 120; no credit if taken after CHEM 130)

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)GE3.5
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.
Transfers to:UC, CSU

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 IIIM4.0
MATH 250 - Calculus III (4.0 units)

Prerequisite: MATH 191
Advisory:ENGL C1000
Transfers to: UC, CSU

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 IM5.0
CHEM 130 - General Chemistry I (5.0 units)

(Formerly CHEM 001A)

Prerequisite: CHEM 120
Advisory: ENGL C1000; MATH 175
Transfers to: UC, CSU

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 CompositionGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.

Select one:
ENGL C1001, 1001H
PHIL 110, 110H

Total Semester Units:12.0† 
4th Semester
PHY 211 - Physics for Scientists and Engineers - IM4.0
PHY 211 - Physics for Scientists and Engineers - I (4.0 units)

(Formerly PHY 201)

Prerequisite:MATH 190 or MATH 190H
Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU
(*Students will receive credit for one physics series: PHY 150 and PHY 160 or PHY 211, PHY 212, and PHY 213)

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 - HumanitiesGE3.0†

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
† some classes may have higher units.

Select one:
ANTH 104
ASL 124, 201
CHIN 102
CHST 101, 146, 148, 148H
ENGL126
FR 102, 201, 202
HIST 101, 102, 122, 131, 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 167, 170
HUM 110, 111, 125, 125H, 130, 140, 145
JAPN 102
LIT 102, 102H, 112A, 112AH, 112B, 112BH, 114, 114H, 117, 117H, 130, 130H, 140, 140H, 141, 141H, 142, 142H, 144A, 144AH, 144B, 144BH, 145, 145H, 146A,146AH, 146B, 146BH, 147, 147H, 148, 148H, 149, 149H
PHIL 101, 101H, 102, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128, 128H, 135, 140
POLS 128, 128H;
SPAN 102, 201, 201H, 202

CHEM 140 - General Chemistry IIGE5.0
CHEM 140 - General Chemistry II (5.0 units)

Prerequisite: CHEM 130
Advisory: ENGL C1000; MATH 180
Transfers to:UC, CSU

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 - IIIM4.0
PHY 213 - Physics for Scientists and Engineers - III (4.0 units)

(Formerly PHY 202)

Prerequisite: PHY 211 and MATH 191
Advisory: MATH 250
Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU (*Students will receive credit for one physics series: PHY 150 and PHY 160 or PHY 211, PHY 212, and PHY 213)

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 StudiesGE3.0

Select one:
CHST 101
EGSS 110

Cal-GETC 4 - Social and Behavioral SciencesGE3.0

Notes:
All honors courses have a prerequisite.
A total of 6 units required in Social and Behavioral Sciences from 2 different disciplines.

 Select one:
AJ 101
ANTH 102, 102H, 103, 110, 115, 125
CD 106, 208
CHST 101, 146, 148, 148H, 150
ECON 101, 101H, 102, 102H, 106, 135
EGSS 110, 120, 130
GEOG 102, 103
HIST 101, 102, 122, 131, 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158,159, 159H, 167, 170
HUM 110, 111, 125, 125H, 130
MSCM 128
PHIL 128, 128H, 135
POLS C1000, C1000H, 115, 125, 128, 128H, 130,135, 140, 150
PSY 112, 114, 200
PSYC C1000, C1000H
SOC 101, 101H, 102, 105, 110, 114, 116, 120, 127, 130
SPCH 150

UC/CSU ElectiveEL3.0

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† 
Notes:
  • AP exams and courses taken outside of Rio Hondo College may fulfill general education and/or major requirements. Please check with a counselor.
Legend:
Some classes may have higher units
M Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement
GEGeneral Education course
ELElective Course
Advising Sheet:
Click or tap here to open the program's advising sheet.

Program Learning Outcomes

About RHC

Rio Hondo College, serving the communities of El Monte, Pico Rivera, Santa Fe Springs, South El Monte, and Whittier for over 50 years.

Contact

Rio Hondo College
3600 Workman Mill Road
Whittier, CA 90601

Phone: (562) 692-0921
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