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.
The School of Science and Technology offers Associate of Science (A.S.) degrees in the following areas of study. As an additional transfer option, AACC has the unique Transfer Studies degree. Each of these degrees will prepare you to transfer to a four-year institution. Whichever path you choose, we strongly encourage you to meet with an advisor and structure your AACC studies to meet your specific transfer goals.
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.
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.
The Transfer Studies, A.A. allows you to explore different subjects or concentrate on a specific course plan that will best meet your in-state (and even some out-of-state) transfer goals. This option is particularly good if you are undecided in your ultimate career direction, not sure where you'd like to eventually transfer or just looking to complete general education requirements while "testing the waters" of a particular major. No matter what brings you to Transfer Studies, the result is a well-rounded associate degree preparing you for further studies and successful career.
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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.
Our degrees in physical science are designed to prepare you to transfer to another institution and receive your bachelor’s degree. Once you have completed your education, you’ll have the opportunity to pursue a wide range of career paths.
Astronomers frequently enter into teaching, government or the aerospace industry. A degree in chemistry can lead to a variety of positions in the medical field. The study of physics provides strong math and technical skills. These graduates are sought after in government and industry. Earth science prepares you for rewarding careers including oceanography, meteorology and geology, to name a few. Centers like the the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the National Aeronautic and Space Administration (NASA) and the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center are needing earth scientists to join their organization.
Learn more about career opportunities, median salaries and job outlook by checking out AACC's Career Coach:
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 nath programs.
What if they aren't really unconnected? In this podcast episode, host Dan Baum discovers the rewards Seth McCoy has found by majoring in both chemistry and dance. Lynda Fitzgerald explains what dance and teaching dancers has meant to her. Redefine U, Episode 6: Parts of the Whole.
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