Conceptual Physics
PHYS-40021
Gain an introduction to the key concepts of physics as they relate to the physical world around us. This course covers forces and motion, heat, fluids, conservation laws, vibrations and waves, electricity and magnetism, and sound and light. This non-calculus based course is designed for individuals interested in this topic as well as those pursuing Clinical Laboratory Scientist training programs and professions in the health or life sciences.
Learning Outcomes:
- Understand the fundamental laws and concepts of physics.
- Know how to apply principles of physics to solve textbook and real-world problems, including both qualitative and quantitative problems.
- Use multiple representations (words, graphs, drawings, equations) of a physical situation and understand the relationships among them.
- Relate mathematical concepts to their physical meaning and construct mathematical representations of physical concepts.
- Design, execute, analyze, and explain a scientific experiment to test a hypothesis.
Course Format: Online
Course Length: 11 weeks
Course Information
Course sessions
Section ID:
Class type:
This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.
Textbooks:
All course materials are included unless otherwise stated.
Policies:
- No refunds after: 11/17/2025
Schedule:
Instructor:
Bao Minh Trang Tran
Bao Minh Trang Tran is currently an instructor of physics at UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies. She is also an adjunct faculty of San Diego Community College District. She has experience teaching a wide range of introductory and general physics courses.
Her education includes a Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Physics and Mathematics and a Master’s Degree in Physics, with academic interests include optical materials, mathematical methods, and physics education. Trang Tran is passionate about making physics accessible and engaging for all learners. She likes to inspire students on how physics can illuminate the workings of the natural and technological world.
Section ID:
Class type:
This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.
Textbooks:
No textbook required.
Policies:
- No refunds after: 1/12/2026
Schedule:
Instructor:
Bao Minh Trang Tran
Bao Minh Trang Tran is currently an instructor of physics at UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies. She is also an adjunct faculty of San Diego Community College District. She has experience teaching a wide range of introductory and general physics courses.
Her education includes a Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Physics and Mathematics and a Master’s Degree in Physics, with academic interests include optical materials, mathematical methods, and physics education. Trang Tran is passionate about making physics accessible and engaging for all learners. She likes to inspire students on how physics can illuminate the workings of the natural and technological world.