PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The Associate in Science Degree in Physics is a program at GCCC and your first step to understanding the fundamental rules of the universe and answering big questions. As the foundation of modern science, physics investigates and seeks to understand the basic laws of nature, from the domain of the very small-subatomic particles-to the very large-astronomical objects-and everything in between. It is the major for anyone with a passion for understanding how things work and for those who enjoy scientific experiments and mathematics. They physics program is designed to give you a rock-solid foundation that fulfills the prerequisite background four-year colleges require for their own undergraduate physics preparation. Think of it as your launchpad-perfect for aspiring physicists, engineers, astronomers, data scientists or anyone who wants a powerful foundation for a career in a STEM field. Physics graduated find employment in diverse and cutting-edge occupations such as: Research and Development, Aerospace and Defense, Medical Physics, Software Design, Astronomy and Astrophysics and Finance. This degree fulfills the College’s mission of developing skills in written communication, oral communication, and critical thinking while advancing knowledge in diversity and social responsibility. The semester-by-semester plans described below are general guidelines. Students should work closely with their academic advisors and transfer program/school to develop a plan that best meets their own individual needs and goals.

PROGRAM OUTCOMES AND CURRICULUM MAP.

Systemwide General Education Bucket Requirements (SGE)

Beginning in Fall 2024, GCCC will participate with all state universities, Washburn University and all community colleges in Kansas in the systemwide general education (SGE) framework for associate in arts (AA) and associate in science (AS) degrees. GCCC’s SGE framework includes 34-37 credit hours organized in 7 “buckets” identified by an individual SGE code. Any student who has completed the full credit hour requirement in all buckets will be considered to have completed the Kansas SGE framework for associate in arts (AA) and associate in science (AS) degrees. The completion of the 34-37 credit hour general education package will be noted on the student’s transcript.

Math Pathways

All public colleges and universities in Kansas follow Math Pathways guidance for satisfying general education math requirements as prescribed by the Kansas Board of Regents. All programs use one of three courses (College Algebra, Contemporary Mathematics or Fundamentals of Statistics), but also recognize other advanced math courses as acceptable. The course listed in the degree plan for your program is the course recommended by the Kansas Board of Regents. College Algebra can be substituted for Contemporary Mathematics or Fundamentals or Statistics.

Articulation Agreements for Bachelor Degree Completion:

• Baker University  
• Bellevue University  
• Bethany College  
• Kansas Wesleyan University  
• Newman University