Physics

Tyler Wallace - Division Chair
509.793.2147
physics@bigbend.edu

Physics courses may be taken as part of the Associate in Arts and Science DTA degree or as part of the Associate in Science-Transfer (AS-T 2) degree. Within the Associate in Arts and Science DTA degree, these courses may be used toward the Natural Science Breadth requirements or for Specified or General Elective credit. Students seeking Associate in Arts and Science DTA degree should refer to the catalog section “Degrees & Certificates” for a detailed description of the degree, its program outcomes, and courses that will satisfy degree requirements.

Physics is the study of nature at its most fundamental level. It is the science upon whose principles all other sciences and technologies are based. Courses offered are designed to introduce the student to each of the major physical theories — Newtonian mechanics, thermodynamics, waves, sound, optics, electricity, and magnetism. There may also be an exposure to special relativity and quantum theory. The student tests the theories in the laboratory, learning some of the standard experimental techniques needed to work with modern apparatus such as computers and various electronic devices.

The curriculum is designed to prepare students transferring to a four-year college or university with majors in the following: chemistry, mathematics, physics, engineering, computer science, and related physics fields.

Within the Associate in Science-Transfer degree, physics courses satisfy the AS-T 2 Physics or Computer Science pre-major. The Associate in Science-Transfer degree allows students to prepare for upper division study toward a Bachelor of Science degree in physics (as well as other sciences). This degree gives students the opportunity to make substantial progress toward fulfilling major requirements while completing at least half of the Breadth requirements for Humanities and Social Science.

The degree is accepted by many baccalaureate institutions in the state of Washington. Unlike the DTA degree, the AS-T degree does not automatically fulfill the lower division (first and second year) general requirements at a university. Typically, the AS-T degree holder’s BBCC transcript will be evaluated on a course-by-course basis according to both its general requirements and major requirements.

While BBCC faculty advisors consult with students to help them plan effectively, the ultimate responsibility to plan rests with the student. The college recommends that the student identify one or two potential transfer institutions and then contact qualified program advisors at those institutions as early as possible to obtain specific, course-by-course advice. A BBCC advisor or the office of admissions at the transfer institution can help the student to contact these advisors. Ongoing contact with program advisors at the transfer institution facilitates a smooth and efficient transfer.

Since programs differ at each college, students who intend to transfer should consult program outlines published by the college or university. The following recommended courses prepare students for most baccalaureate institutions. Students should prepare their quarterly schedules with the assistance of an advisor knowledgeable in this transfer area.