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 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
- Please visit the Steps to Enroll page for everything you need to do.
- Review the Academic Calendar for key enrollment dates.
- If you need help with the Steps to Enroll, please contact the Welcome Center.
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 UnitsA 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
- 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!
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Check in with your university for transfer planning.
- Order cap and gown for commencement and join alumni association.
- Attend commencement ceremony.
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 MathProgram 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.
Email: advisorsouth@seattlecolleges.edu
Phone: 206-934-5387