Field of Interest
Prepare for a future in science.
Take the first step toward a career in physics. Our program is designed to provide you with the first two years of a four-year curriculum—preparing you for future studies that can lead to career paths that include teaching, medicine, patent law, science writing, energy policy, and government.
University Transfer Degree
Want to pursue a bachelor’s degree at a university? Save money by starting at MCC in manageable, small classes taught by renowned faculty. Our transfer pathways with Arizona universities help you achieve two goals: completing an associate’s degree while also staying on track to earn a bachelor’s degree at your transfer destination. MCC’s university partnerships throughout the nation assure your seamless transition toward a four-year degree.
A list of available transfer degrees offered in the Physics program
| Name |
Type |
Title |
Courses |
|
Associate in Science |
AS |
Associate in Science, Emphasis in Physics |
Pathway Map |
Career Opportunities
Successful completion of a degree or certificate within the Physics program may lead to employment in a variety of different occupations and industries. Below are examples of related occupations with associated Maricopa County-based annual median wages*. Some occupations may require additional education or training. You can click on any occupation to view more detail regarding education level, wages, and employment information.
Research and study the structures and chemical properties of various natural and synthetic or composite materials, including metals, alloys, rubber, ceramics, semiconductors, polymers, and glass. Determine ways to strengthen or combine materials or develop new materials with new or specific properties for use in a variety of products and applications. Includes glass scientists, ceramic scientists, metallurgical scientists, and polymer scientists.
Typical Education Level
a Bachelor's degree
Hourly Median Wage
$36.11
Annual Median Wage
$75,127
Number of People Employed
80
4-Year Employment Growth
Increase by 13.8%
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as life sciences, physical sciences, mathematics, statistics, and research and development in these fields.
Typical Education Level
a Doctoral degree or more
Hourly Median Wage
$62.17
Annual Median Wage
$129,331
Number of People Employed
523
4-Year Employment Growth
Increase by 20.1%
Conduct research into physical phenomena, develop theories on the basis of observation and experiments, and devise methods to apply physical laws and theories.
Typical Education Level
a Doctoral degree or more
Hourly Median Wage
$97.56
Annual Median Wage
$202,942
Number of People Employed
162
4-Year Employment Growth
Increase by 14.2%
Teach courses pertaining to the laws of matter and energy. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
Typical Education Level
a Doctoral degree or more
Hourly Median Wage
$35.06
Annual Median Wage
$72,944
Annual Job Openings
2,879
Number of People Employed
26,552
4-Year Employment Growth
Increase by 13.3%
Conduct tests to determine quality of raw materials, bulk intermediate and finished products. May conduct stability sample tests.
Typical Education Level
a high school diploma or less
Hourly Median Wage
$21.32
Annual Median Wage
$44,355
Number of People Employed
539
4-Year Employment Growth
Increase by 17.3%
Apply remote sensing principles and methods to analyze data and solve problems in areas such as natural resource management, urban planning, or homeland security. May develop new sensor systems, analytical techniques, or new applications for existing systems.
Typical Education Level
a Bachelor's degree
Hourly Median Wage
$46.78
Annual Median Wage
$97,304
Number of People Employed
173
4-Year Employment Growth
Increase by 12.7%
Apply remote sensing technologies to assist scientists in areas such as natural resources, urban planning, or homeland security. May prepare flight plans or sensor configurations for flight trips.
Typical Education Level
a Bachelor's degree
Hourly Median Wage
$21.32
Annual Median Wage
$44,355
Number of People Employed
539
4-Year Employment Growth
Increase by 17.3%
Teach one or more subjects to students at the secondary school level.
Typical Education Level
a Bachelor's degree
Hourly Median Wage
$30.38
Annual Median Wage
$63,199
Annual Job Openings
1,105
Number of People Employed
15,112
4-Year Employment Growth
Increase by 4.7%
* Career and wage information provided by Lightcast using data, reports, and forecasts which are generated using government data sources and Lightcast’s proprietary analytical processes. Lightcast’s data covers multiple classes of workers including QCEW, non-QCEW, and those who are self-employed. Disclaimer
Financial Aid
You can get a high-quality, affordable education. MCC’s low tuition rates and various financial aid opportunities make it possible. Explore federal and state grants, Federal Work-Study, scholarships, student loans, and other options today.
Connect with an Advisor
Click here for MCC’s easy-to-use Enrollment Steps.
Before signing up for classes, you’ll want to connect with an academic advisor. Together, you’ll lay out an academic plan that suits you best. This step is essential to your academic success.
