Physical Science
Physical science, the study of the nature and properties of energy and nonliving matter, is an interdisciplinary field that includes astronomy, geology, physics, and chemistry. Students take physical science courses to explore the discipline, satisfy general education requirements, and meet one of the science requirements for the liberal studies (K–5) teaching major.
Academic and Career Pathway: Math and Sciences
Contact Information
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Chairs: Kent McCorkle , John Turbeville Dean: Michael Fino |
Department: Chemistry and Physical Sciences Office: Building OC3600, 760.757.2121 x6924 |
How to Read Course Descriptions
For more detailed information about a course, such as its content, objectives, and fulfillment of a degree, certificate, or general education requirement, please see the official course outline of record, available at http://www.miracosta.edu/governance/coursesandprograms/courseoutlines.html.
Courses
PHSN 101: Introduction to Physical Science: Physics, Chemistry, Earth Science, and Space Science
Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 3 hours.
Course Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
This physical science survey course includes astronomy, geology, physics, and chemistry. It emphasizes an understanding of the fundamental principles, procedures, and methods in science. UC CREDIT LIMITATION: No credit if taken after college course in astronomy, chemistry, geology, or physics.
PHSN 106: Introduction to Physical Science: Physics and Chemistry
Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Advisory: ACE 150, ENGL 50, ESL 150, or eligibility determined by the English placement process.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 3 hours.
Course Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
This course introduces the non-scientist to the fundamental concepts of physics and chemistry. Physics topics include motion, force, work, energy, gravity, electricity, magnetism, light, and subatomic particles and forces. Chemistry topics include chemical and physical properties of elements and compounds, the periodic table, atomic theory and structure, chemical bonding, and nuclear structure and processes. This course also teaches students how to analyze and solve problems using critical thinking and the scientific method. UC CREDIT LIMITATION: No credit if taken after college course in chemistry or physics.
PHSN 106L: Introduction to Physical Science: Physics and Chemistry (Lab)
Units: 1
Prerequisites: PHSN 106.
Enrollment Limitation: Concurrent enrollment in PHSN 106 if prerequisite not met.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Laboratory 3 hours.
Course Typically Offered: Fall, Spring
This course uses lab activities to introduce non-science majors to select topics from the fields of physics, chemistry, and related sciences. Students will analyze and solve problems using the scientific method and critical thinking skills. This course is not recommended for students majoring in science, engineering, or related fields.
PHSN 108: Introduction to Climate Change
Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with prior credit in PHSN 108H.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 3 hours.
Course Typically Offered: Fall or Spring
This course explores the principles underlying the interdisciplinary and rapidly growing field of climate science and climate change. Topics include the Earthӳ climate system and climate history, the physics and chemistry of greenhouse gases, and evidence for climate change. The course investigates human influences on the climate system, including greenhouse gas emissions and potential impacts of climate change. It also considers various possible responses to climate change, including alternative energy production, policy responses, and adaptation. UC CREDIT LIMITATION: Credit for PHSN 108 or PHSN 108H.
PHSN 108H: Introduction to Climate Change (Honors)
Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with prior credit in PHSN 108.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU, UC
Lecture 3 hours.
Course Typically Offered: Fall or Spring
This course offers highly motivated students an enriched opportunity to explore the principles underlying the interdisciplinary and rapidly growing field of climate science and climate change. Topics include the Earthӳ climate system and climate history, the physics and chemistry of greenhouse gases, and evidence for climate change. The course investigates human influences on the climate system, including greenhouse gas emissions and potential impacts of climate change. Students investigate and evaluate various possible responses to climate change, including alternative energy production, policy responses, and adaptation. UC CREDIT LIMITATION: Credit for PHSN 108 or PHSN 108H.
PHSN 292: Internship Studies
Units: 0.5-3
Prerequisites: None
Corequisite: Complete 75 hrs paid or 60 hrs non-paid work per unit.
Enrollment Limitation: Instructor, dept chair, and Career Center approval. May not enroll in any combination of cooperative work experience and/or internship studies concurrently.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Course Typically Offered: To be arranged
This course provides students the opportunity to apply the theories and techniques of their discipline in an internship position in a professional setting under the instruction of a faculty-mentor and site supervisor. It introduces students to aspects of the roles and responsibilities of professionals employed in the field of study. Topics include goal-setting, employability skills development, and examination of the world of work as it relates to the student's career plans. Students must develop new learning objectives and/or intern at a new site upon each repetition. Students may not earn more than 16 units in any combination of cooperative work experience (general or occupational) and/or internship studies during community college attendance.
