Foothill College
PHYS 12
INTRODUCTION TO MODERN PHYSICS · 5 units · used in 32 transfer pathways
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Where this page’s information comes from
- Foothill catalogcourse record · 2026-2027
- FHDA class listingsWinter 2027 sections
- Cherrypickercourse matching and pathway links — our analysis
About this course
Non-mathematical introduction to the ideas of modern physics, intended for majors in the physical sciences. Introduction to the history and ideas of physics, focusing on three areas of modern physics: thermodynamics and the concept of entropy, Einstein's special and general theories of relativity, and quantum mechanics. The key ideas in these areas are explained using demonstrations, analogies, and examples drawn, whenever possible, from the student's own experience. Examine the impact these physics ideas have had on other fields, such as poetry, literature, and music. No background in science or math is assumed.
Sections this term
Winter 2027 · updated Oct 17, 11:09 PM UTCNo section is scheduled at Foothill College for Winter 2027. The course can still be offered in a later quarter.
Enrollment availability changes frequently. Confirm status in the official FHDA registration system before enrolling.
Prerequisites
- Intermediate Algebra
- or
Catalog wording: “Intermediate Algebra or equivalent.”
Advisory: “Advisory: Not open to students with credit in PHYS 12H.”
Transfer pathways that use PHYS 12
ASSIST maps PHYS 12 to a requirement in 32 published pathways from Foothill College — 24 shown.
- Aerospace EngineeringFoothill → UC Irvine
- Mechanical EngineeringFoothill → UC Irvine
- BiologyFoothill → UC Santa Cruz
- Environmental Studies/Biology Combined MajorFoothill → UC Santa Cruz
- Clinical Laboratory ScienceFoothill → National University
- Construction ManagementFoothill → National University
- Electrical & Computer EngineeringFoothill → National University
- Manufacturing Design Engineering TechnologyFoothill → National University
- Liberal Studies B.A. Elementary Teaching Content Preparation ProgramFoothill → CSU Stanislaus
- Child and Adolescent Development, Preparation for Teaching W/CSET WaiverFoothill → San Jose State
- Communicative Disorders and SciencesFoothill → San Jose State
- Environmental Studies, Preparation for Teaching, (Multiple Subjects)Foothill → San Jose State
- Industrial DesignFoothill → San Jose State
- Liberal Studies, Preparation for Teaching, (Multiple Subjects)Foothill → San Jose State
- Public Health, BS - Occupational Health and SafetyFoothill → CSU Sacramento
- Cognitive Science: Cognitive and Behavioral NeuroscienceFoothill → UC San Diego
- PsychologyFoothill → UC San Diego
- Psychology B.A. with a Specialization in Clinical PsychologyFoothill → UC San Diego
- PsychologyFoothill → UC San Diego
- Psychology B.S. with a Specialization in Clinical PsychologyFoothill → UC San Diego
- Psychology B.S. with a Specialization in Cognitive PsychologyFoothill → UC San Diego
- Psychology B.S. with a Specialization in Developmental PsychologyFoothill → UC San Diego
- Psychology B.S. with a Specialization in Human HealthFoothill → UC San Diego
- Psychology B.S. with a Specialization in Sensation and PerceptionFoothill → UC San Diego
Spot something wrong?
Articulation, prerequisites, course details and class availability all come from sources that change. If something here does not match the official record, tell us and we will fix it — corrections from students and staff are the fastest way this stays accurate.