If you have a curiosity about the way things work and how they are connected to one another, then a degree in one of AACC’s Physical Science programs might be the path for you. Our physical science programs open your eyes to an exciting variety of disciplines, including astronomy, chemistry, earth science and physics. You'll expand your knowledge and skills while having the opportunity to take part in hands-on learning experiences inside our state-of-the-art labs. In our courses, you will have the opportunity to learn from top-notch faculty who bring their field experience and enthusiasm for their subjects into the classroom. By the time you finish your degree, you’ll be well on your way to transferring to a four-year college or university of your choosing.
Chemistry is critical for solving the problems of the world, including climate change, environmental concerns and health issues. A foundation in chemistry is also strong preparation for the medical fields. You’ll take a broad range of general education classes, specializing in general and organic chemistry. By the time you finish your degree, you’ll be ready to transfer to a four-year college or university.
What's behind climate change? Does the ocean still keep secrets? Why was that storm so powerful? Our planet holds many mysteries just waiting to be uncovered. Earth sciences students learn to measure and address the world’s environmental issues related to climate change, with the ability to specialize in dirt, water or air. You’ll get hands-on experience as you work to improve the Chesapeake Bay. You’ll also go on educational sailing cruises and visit geologically interesting sites in Maryland.
AACC offers an earth science concentration in the Arts and Science Transfer Associate of Science degree. The 60-credit-hour program features introductory courses in these
amazing topics:
Physics is the study of fundamental forces in the universe – the mathematical description of the world we experience every day. Physicists work on a wide variety of topics including classical mechanics, electricity and magnetism, thermodynamics, atomic physics, quantum mechanics, particle physics, general relativity, string theory, biophysics, astrophysics and cosmology, and geophysics, to name a few. Through this program, you can expect to learn about many of these topics and will investigate various phenomena.
Astronomy is the study of the universe and the objects and phenomena within the universe. Astronomers study a variety of topics, including planets, moons, galaxies, black holes, supernovae, astrobiology and the origin and evolution of the universe. You’ll use math and physics to begin to understand the universe around us. You’ll also gain plenty of hands-on experience, both in the lab and in our state-of-the-art observatory. Astronomy is a graduate-level degree, but AACC will give you a solid start and prepare you to transfer to a top four-year college or university.
This Science Transfer degree is designed for students whose academic and career goals are not fully addressed by the college’s existing science transfer options. This program provides a customizable pathway for students pursuing specialized or emerging fields, such as Nutrition, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or other science‑related disciplines with unique prerequisite requirements. Through guided course selection, you may tailor your degree plan to meet the specific admission or preparatory needs of your intended four‑year program.
Interested in getting even more out of your academic experience? Look no further! AACC offers a wealth of opportunities to engage in authentic, student-driven research.
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Physics wasn’t always easy for Matt Bacho, but that’s exactly what made him fall in love with it. Bacho liked that it could answer questions he never thought he’d understand. Concepts like quantum mechanics and special relativity, which once felt out of reach, started to click – especially when he saw how they applied to the world around him.
Read Matt's Story
Our A.S. degrees in the Physical Sciences are designed to prepare you to transfer to another institution to receive your bachelor’s degree. And with four-year transfer agreements with dozens of colleges and universities in Maryland and beyond, a degree from AACC has never been a better investment. We have partnerships and transfer agreements in place with many colleges and universities so you can easily transfer when you're ready. Transfer agreements (or articulation agreements, as they’re officially called) are formal arrangements between institutions that allow certain credits to transfer seamlessly from one school to the other. We currently have transfer agreements related to Physical Sciences with:
In addition to the schools above, you can work with a transfer advisor to set up a specific plan to transfer to the four-year school of your choice.
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School of Science, Technology and Education
Physical Sciences
Anthony Santorelli, who teaches classes in general physical science, oceanography and meteorology, always tries to create a comfortable atmosphere in the classroom. He wants students to learn new things and be able to ask questions freely.
AACC's Super Science Club provides an opportunity for students and members of the community who are interested in earth science, chemistry, astronomy and much more to share their enthusiasm about the subjects! Events include lectures by guest speakers and local field trips centered around increasing student awareness of the AACC science and math programs.
Live theatre is inherently risky, with technical, human and mechanical issues looming around every corner. But what about Mother Nature? Learn how one physics major stepped out of the lab and into the booth to keep the spotlight on during an AACC production.
Read Jack's Story