Physical Science: Transfer Associate

The Physical Science: Transfer Associate program at Harrisburg Area Community College is designed to provide students with a comprehensive foundation in the fundamental sciences, including physics, chemistry, astronomy, and geology. This program aims to prepare students for a successful transition to a four-year institution where they can pursue a bachelor's degree in physical sciences, earth sciences, or related fields. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical laboratory skills, ensuring students develop a strong understanding of scientific principles and their applications. Courses cover core topics such as classical mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, organic and inorganic chemistry, mineralogy, and planetary science, among others. In addition to coursework, students have opportunities to engage in research projects and internships that enhance their learning experience and prepare them for advanced study or entry into scientific careers. The program is tailored to meet the needs of students seeking a flexible pathway into four-year universities, with transfer credits that can typically be applied toward a bachelor's degree in physical sciences or similar disciplines. Harrisburg Area Community College also provides dedicated academic advising and support services to assist students in selecting appropriate transfer institutions, fulfilling graduation requirements, and planning their career trajectories. Graduates of this program are well-equipped with a solid scientific knowledge base, laboratory proficiency, and critical thinking skills, making them competitive candidates for further education or roles in scientific research, industry, and education. The Physical Science: Transfer Associate program is ideal for students passionate about understanding the physical universe and pursuing careers in science, engineering, or technology fields.

General Education   
ENGL 101 English Composition I  3 
ENGL 102 English Composition II  3 
COMM 101 Effective Speaking  3 
Core A Elective  3 
Core B Elective  3 
Core B Elective  3 
Core C CHEM 101 General Inorganic I  4 
Core C PHYS 201 (or) PHYS 211  4 
Core C MATH 121 (or) MATH 122  4 
General Education Transfer Elective  3 
Physical Education & Wellness  1 

Major Requirements   
CHEM 102 General Inorganic Chemistry/Qual. Analysis  4 
GIS 141 Intro to Geographic Information Systems  3 
PHYS 202 General Physics II (or)  4 
  PHYS 212 Physics: Engineers/Scientists II  (4) 
*Program Electives  8 
Transfer Electives  9 

This curriculum is designed to prepare graduates of the program to:

Transfer to and succeed in a Bachelor’s program

Demonstrate an understanding of scientific principles and concepts

Appreciate scientific accomplishments and how they affect technology, politics and society

Apply the scientific method to solve scientific problems

Demonstrate computer literacy in data manipulation, mining, and analysis

Perform technician work in a typical laboratory while following appropriate safety procedures

Effectively communicate results both orally and through written reports

Appreciate accomplishments in the arts and sciences

Apply for a Full-Ride Scholarship

Are you a future student and ready to apply to HACC? 
By applying to HACC, you have the opportunity to apply for a full-ride scholarship! HACC will fund two years of your education – enough to complete your associate degree.

Thanks to the support of the HACC Foundation, the College is able to offer FREE money to support future students, like you, in reaching your educational goals. Six full-ride scholarships are available – one from each of the five campuses and one through HACC’s Virtual Learning Program. 

Please note that current students are not eligible for the full-ride scholarships. However, there are more than 250 scholarships available for current students.

What should you know about the full-ride scholarship?

The scholarship covers tuition, books and fees for a full academic year. 

The scholarship will automatically renew each term for up to six consecutive terms if you maintain your eligibility.

Once you apply to the College and receive a HACC ID and email address, you may apply for the full-ride scholarship. You do not have to register for classes before applying for the scholarship.

Are you eligible?

To be eligible, you must:

Apply to HACC

Take 12-15 credits each term for no more than six consecutive terms (two years)

Live in Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Juniata, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry, Schuylkill or York county

Have a minimum cumulative high school GPA of 3.0

Provide a 480 SAT reading score, 21 ACT or comparable scores on the College’s placement test

Maintain a GPA of 3.0 while enrolled at HACC

Participate in at least two HACC student organizations

The Transfer Associate in Physical Science at Harrisburg Area Community College is designed for students who wish to pursue a bachelor’s degree in physical science or related fields at a four-year institution. This program provides foundational coursework in physics, chemistry, mathematics, and general science, equipping students with the essential knowledge and skills needed for advanced study in physical sciences. The curriculum typically includes courses such as Introduction to Physics, General Chemistry, College Algebra or Calculus, and Scientific Research Methods. It aims to develop critical thinking, laboratory competencies, and analytical skills that are vital for success in both academic and professional settings in the sciences.

Students enrolled in this program benefit from a flexible, student-centered learning environment, often available through daytime, evening, or online classes. The program emphasizes hands-on laboratory work, fostering practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge. This prepares students to undertake independent research, collaborate effectively in teams, and communicate scientific concepts clearly. The transfer pathway is supported by advising services that help students select courses aligned with the requirements of their intended four-year university program, whether it’s in physics, chemistry, earth sciences, or related disciplines.

Harrisburg Area Community College maintains partnerships and articulation agreements with various four-year institutions, facilitating a smooth transfer process for students. The credits earned during the associate’s degree are generally accepted by partner universities, which helps students reduce their overall time and cost toward earning a bachelor's degree. The program also encourages participation in science clubs, internships, and research projects to enhance practical experience and professional development.

Careers related to physical science include roles in research and development, education, environmental consultation, and applied sciences in industries such as healthcare, energy, manufacturing, and technology. While the associate degree itself is primarily focused on transfer preparedness rather than immediate employment, graduates are well-positioned to continue their education with a strong scientific foundation. Overall, the Physical Science Transfer Associate program offers a comprehensive pathway for students aiming to advance their scientific knowledge and pursue higher education opportunities in physical sciences at partnered universities and colleges.