Physics 4, general physics with calculus, is a 3-semester sequence that satisfies lower-division physics requirements for physics and chemistry majors, as well as engineering majors. Other majors, such as architecture, that require a demonstrated understanding of physical principles may require one or more of the courses from Physics 4 sequence.
To check upcoming semester’s schedule and to enroll, log into Student Campus Solutions.
Note: Biology majors may also take Physics 4 series, but as many transfer institutions require only two semesters of physics for biology majors, you may wish to explore the option of taking Physics 3 series, in order to cover all the topics of lower-division physics in two semesters, rather than three.
Physics 4A
This first-semester course covers mechanics (motion, forces, energy and momentum, rotational dynamics, oscillations and waves, and fluids). Offered every semester. Prerequisite: Math 3A. Corequisite or Prerequisite: Math 3B.
Syllabus examples: Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2020, Fall 2018, Spring 2018, Fall 2017
Physics 4B
This second-semester course covers thermodynamics and electromagnetism. Offered every fall semester and some spring semesters. Prerequisite: Math 3B and Physics 4A. Corequisite or Prerequisite: Math 3C.
Syllabus Examples: Fall 2023, Fall 2022, Fall 2020, Fall 2018, Fall 2017, Spring 2017
Physics 4C
This third-semester courses covers optics, quantum mechanics, special relativity, and other additional topics in modern physics (molecular interaction, nuclear physics, particle physics, and/or cosmology). Offered in spring semesters. Prerequisite: Math 3C and Physics 4B. Corequisite or Prerequisite: Math 3E and 3F.
Some engineering departments do not require Physics 4C. Check with your transfer institution.
Contact the Physics Department if you need the pre-requisites waived.
Syllabus Examples: Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022, Spring 2019, Spring 2018, Spring 2017
Course Materials
Required Textbook: University Physics, by OpenStax. Avaliable at:
Each volume of University Physics corresponds to each course:
- Physics 4A: needs Volume 1
- Physics 4B: needs Volume 2
- Physics 4C: needs Volume 3
Online Lectures
Physics 4A, 4B, and 4C at College of Alameda are offered in hybrid format (online lecture, face-to-face lab). Publicly available online lectures can be found on YouTube: