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Instructor doing a physics experiment at the front of a classroom

Why choose Physics at PCC?

Physics is the most basic and fundamental science, providing the basis for other sciences such as:

  • Astronomy
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Geology
  • Oceanography

Many of the technological innovations that we rely on every day, including GPS, medical imaging, and wireless internet, originate from advances in physics. From as long ago as 500 BC, physicists have been blending mathematics with experiments and observations to derive the laws that govern the universe.

Degrees and certificates

PCC offers classes in this program but not a degree. These classes can be used as electives and as part of the following university transfer plans:

Degrees and certificates by number of terms to complete
Award Length (attending full-time) Financial aid eligible Currently accepting students?
Associate of Arts Oregon Transfer 2 years
Associate of General Studies 2 years
Associate of Science 2 years

What will you learn?

Physics topics covered at PCC include:

  • Astronomy: our solar system, stars, galaxies, and cosmology
  • Electricity, magnetism, electric circuits, and magnetic induction
  • Heat, work, and the laws of thermodynamics
  • Isaac Newton’s laws of motion, force, and energy
  • Light waves, sounds waves, optics, and images

What will you do?

Physics not only teaches you the laws and theories that describe the universe, you will also develop strong analytical thinking and problem solving skills that are applicable to every field and are extremely attractive to employers. An education including physics provides an excellent foundation for a career in finance, law, journalism, engineering, medicine, computer science, and many others.

Next steps

Applying to PCC is free and only takes a few minutes.Apply now

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Related programs

PCC offers more than 90 programs.