Astronomy, Associate in Science

Astronomy is the branch of science which studies celestial objects and processes. Astronomers draw on many other disciplines to explain celestial phenomena including mathematics, physics, and chemistry. The Associate in Science degree in Astronomy at Monterey Peninsula College gives students a foundation in the introductory science and math which are needed for further study in Astronomy or a related field.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to:

  • Use the scientific method to investigate phenomena in the natural world and use concepts, experiments, and/or theory to explain them.

Associate in Science Degree Major Requirements

Required Core
Select at least 18 units from the following:18
Introduction to Astronomy
and Introduction to Astronomy Laboratory
General Chemistry I
General Chemistry II
Calculus with Analytic Geometry I
Calculus with Analytic Geometry II
Science and Engineering Physics I
Science and Engineering Physics II
TOTAL MAJOR UNITS18
Additional Requirements42
Complete Competency Requirements and a general education pattern (MPC General Education, CSU General Education, or IGETC) for a total of 60 degree-applicable units 1 1
Total Units60
1

Contact an MPC counselor for major preparation at specific institutions.

Please refer to the graduation requirements section of the Catalog for information about degree and certificate requirements including Reading and Writing, Mathematics, Information Competency, and General Education requirements.  
 

The model sequence of coursework below is one pathway for students to complete the program. The information below is not an official educational plan. An MPC Counselor can assist you with creating a personalized education plan based on your academic, career, and personal goals. Visit MPC’s Counseling website for more information about Counseling and up-to-date program requirements.

Suggested 2-Year Course Sequence

Plan of Study Grid
Year 1
FallUnits
ENGL 1A
College Composition
or College Composition: Enhanced
3
LIBR 50 Introduction to Library and Research Skills 1
MATH 13 Pre-Calculus 5
ASTR 10
& ASTR 10L
Introduction to Astronomy
and Introduction to Astronomy Laboratory
4
IGETC Area 4 (US-1 Course Recommended) 3
 Units16
Spring
ENGL 2 Argumentative Writing and Critical Thinking 3
MATH 20A Calculus with Analytic Geometry I (Recommended Major Core Course) 4
IGETC Area 3A 3
IGETC Area 3B 3
IGETC Area 4 (US-2 & 3 Course Recommended) 3
 Units16
Year 2
Fall
SPCH 1
Public Speaking (CSU Requirement)
or Small Group Communication
3
PHYS 3A Science and Engineering Physics I (Recommended Major Core Course) 4
MATH 20B Calculus with Analytic Geometry II (Recommended Major Core Course) 4
IGETC Area 3A or 3B 3
 Units14
Spring
MATH 20C Calculus of Several Variables 4
PHYS 3B Science and Engineering Physics II (Recommended Major Core Course) 4
IGETC Area 4 3
IGETC Area 5B 3
IGETC Area 6 (UC requirement) 0
 Units14
 Total Units60