This degree provides students with a comprehensive education in the physical sciences, emphasizing foundational principles of chemistry. Students will develop a strong understanding of chemical and physical properties of matter, exploring key concepts such as atomic structure, chemical bonding, molecular interactions, and reaction mechanisms. Through a combination of theoretical coursework and hands-on laboratory experiences, students will build skills in conducting precise chemical experiments, quantitative reasoning, and interpreting data to address real-world challenges. The curriculum incorporates a broad exposure to various physical science courses, fostering enhanced scientific literacy. Graduates will be proficient in essential laboratory techniques and instrumentation, well-prepared for transfer to four-year institutions, involvement in research opportunities, and successful careers in environmental science, medicine, materials science, and other 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 explain the difference between evidence and theory in science and cite an example in their explanation; use instruments and computers to accurately measure, graph, and analyze physical situations; and demonstrate the understanding of common conceptual situations in the physical sciences and be able solve quantitative problems. 

Associate of Science Program Map

REQUIRED COURSES FOR MAJOR UNITS
 CHEM 101 General Chemistry A  5
 CHEM 102 General Chemistry B  5

ASTRO 110
or
ASTRO 120

Astronomy of the Solar System
or
Astronomy of the Solar System
 3

3
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 19-21

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.