This degree provides students with a comprehensive education in the physical sciences,
emphasizing foundational principles of astronomy. Students will develop a strong understanding
of the physical properties of celestial objects, examining planetary systems, stellar
structure and evolution, galaxies, and the large-scale structure of the universe.
Through a blend of theoretical coursework and practical, hands-on experiences, students
will gain proficiency in observational techniques, quantitative reasoning, and data
interpretation essential to analyzing cosmic phenomena. The curriculum incorporates
a wide-ranging exposure to various physical science courses, enhancing overall scientific
literacy. Graduates will be equipped with essential skills in astronomical instrumentation
and technologies, ready for transfer to four-year institutions, participation in research
opportunities, and successful careers in diverse STEM-related fields.
The Associate of Science degree is granted to students who have completed at least
12 semester units of the required 60-degree applicable semester units at Glendale
Community College. The required 60 semester units must include all of the following:
(1) Completion of the courses required in the major or area of emphasis with a grade
of “C” or better, or a “P” grade. (2) Completion of one of the following general education
patterns: GCC General Education Requirements or the California General Education Transfer
Curriculum (Cal-GETC) requirements. (3) A minimum GPA of 2.0 in the required 60 semester
units.
Program Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of this program, students will be able to identify, compare and
contrast physical properties of astronomical objects; visualize the general structure
and scale of the universe and our place within it; locate, identify and contrast prominent
astronomical objects in the night sky; identify and comprehend the purpose of elementary
equations used in astronomy and describe the functions; and demonstrate use of basic
astronomical tools.
Associate of Science Program Map
| REQUIRED COURSES FOR MAJOR |
UNITS |
| ASTRO 102 |
Observation Astronomy |
1 |
| ASTRO 110 |
Astronomy of the Solar System |
3 |
| ASTRO 120 |
Astronomy of Stars and Galaxies |
3 |
CHEM 110
or
CHEM 101 |
Elements of General Chemistry
or
General Chemistry A |
5
or
5 |
OCEAN 115
or
GEOL 101/101H |
Oceanography
or
Physical Geology
|
3
or
3 |
PHY 101
or
PHY 105
or
PHY 110 |
Physics for Scientists and Engineers: A
or
Algebra-Based Physics: A
or
Introduction to Physics
|
5
or
4
or
3 |
| TOTAL UNITS REQUIRED |
18-20 |
Units for the major may be double counted for Cal-GETC or GCC General Education. Elective
units may be used to reach the 60-unit degree requirement.
NOTE: ADDITIONAL COURSEWORK MIGHT BE REQUIRED DUE TO PREREQUISITES. SEE A COUNSELOR
FOR A PERSONALIZED STUDENT EDUCATIONAL PLAN.
| Spring 2026 |
GCC Catalog Addendum 2025-2026 |
| Important Notice: In the event of a discrepancy between the information presented
above and the online and/or print versions of the GCC Catalog, please contact a counselor
or the office of Admissions and Records. For previous years requirements please see
the catalog from that year. |
