CAP_STEM-Physics-New
Career & Academic Pathways >> STEM
Contact Information
Lijuan Wei (Department Chair)
(831) 645-1391
lwei@mpc.edu
For Additional Info
• Download our Info Sheet
• Visit MPC Physics
• Connect with a Counselor 

Program Overview

Physics is the study of matter, energy, and the interactions between them – from the heat of a stove to orbiting planets. In the Physics program, students learn key concepts and laws and develop the qualitative and quantitative reasoning skills to analyze real-world situations. Through coursework and hands-on experiments, students learn to apply laws and principles of physics to problems involving motion, heat, light, electro-magnetism, and matter. 

Job Outlook

Program graduates can choose from a range of potential career paths and avenues for further study. A third of those graduating with a bachelor’s degree in physics enter the private sector, where industries from aerospace to telecommunications rely on physics expertise. For those who pursue advanced degrees, research opportunities abound in government, education, and the private sector.  Physics graduates also go on to teach at the high school and college level.

Potential Careers

*Physicists
(may require additional training)

$66,380 - $189,660

*Astronomers
(may require additional training)

$60,490 - $208,000+

*Data Scientists
(may require additional training)

$65,980 - $179,900

*High School Physics Teachers
(may require additional training)

$56,560 - $115,360 

*Natural Sciences Managers
(may require additional training)

$99,070 – $208,000+

MPC Degrees and Certificates

  • Physics - Associate Degree for Transfer (AS-T)
  • Physics - Associate in Science (UCT)

Suggested Course Sequence (AS-T)

Year 1

FALL
 UNITS
 SPRING UNITS
ENGL 1A
 3 ENGL 2 3

MATH 20A

 4

MATH 20B

 4

IGETC 3A 

 3

PHYS 3A

 4

IGETC 5B  

3-4

Area 4: US-1 rec.

 3

PERS 10 or LIBR 50

 1

       
Total Fall Units
 14-15
 Total Spring Units
 14

Year 2

FALL
 UNITS
 SPRING UNITS

PHYS 3C or 3B

 4

Area 1C (CSU req. only)

 3

MATH 20C 

 4

PHYS 3B or 3C

 4

Area 3B

 3

Area 3A or B

 3

Area 4

 3 Area 4 3

   US-2 & 3 rec. 

Area 6 (UC req. only)

 5 
   

   or UC Elective

  
       
Total Fall Units
 14 Total Spring Units 18

This is a suggested sequence of coursework and is one pathway for students to earn their degree/certificate. This is not an official educational plan. A counselor is able to assist you with creating a personalized education plan based on your academic, career, and personal goals. For more information about counseling and up-to-date program requirements, please visit www.mpc.edu/counseling. 

Testimonials 

Daniel Bautista

I attended MPC for three years before transferring to UC Berkeley to finish my degree in physics and astrophysics. The classes I took during my time here gave me a firm foundation both in conceptual knowledge as well as skills to calculate answers to problems. My instructors were very helpful in office hours and always answered my questions, both about course material as well as other physics related questions that were beyond the scope of the course. I think this caused my interest in the material to grow and helped me realize that I was interested in getting involved in research and the idea of grad school after I finish my undergrad. After I finished my physics classes, I still had some time left at MPC before transferring, and I was able to be a TA for the labs. This helped me keep my knowledge sharp and gave me a better understanding of the material, since I was explaining the material and answering questions about it. I was able to carry this preparation over after transferring, where I have been able to maintain a high GPA as well as contribute to research projects under Berkeley astronomy faculty.