On-Demand & Perfect for Allied-Health Prereqisites

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Online Physics Prerequisite for PT School & Allied Health | Physics 1 & Physics 2


NCC is now offering two physics courses "on-demand". Physics 1 and Physics 2 are 4 credit, online, algebra-based, with lab-component courses are the perfect on-demand online physics prerequisites. Designed specifically for busy students chasing careers in medicine, veterinary science, physical therapy (PT), physician assistant (PA), nursing, and other allied health fields, this course offers monthly start dates (the 1st day of every month) without waiting for traditional fall or spring semester starts. Progress through high-quality recorded lectures, interactive hands-on labs, quizzes, and assignments at your speed with regular instructor check-ins and live-proctored exams to ensure engagement, accountability, and academic integrity. Finish in as little as 14 weeks, or faster if you're motivated. Upon successful completion, students can request their official transcript right away (always verify transferability with your target school first). Spaces fill quickly so start today and keep your career momentum moving forward! No application required to register.

Cost: $1299 per 4-credit course (full payment required at registration)

Textbook: OpenStax College Physics (free PDF download)
Lab Kit: Purchase not required.
Tech Requirements: Access to a computer with webcam, and reliable internet is required.
Math Prerequisite: College Algebra

Copies of the course outlines can be found below.
*Students are responsible for confirming this course will transfer*

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PHYS 101 (Physics 1)        Classes begin monthly on the 1st (March 1 is next start)

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This is an introductory, algebra-based, problem-solving physics course with a hands-on labs component. Topics covered are one and two-dimensional motion, forces, Newton's laws, work, power, energy, momentum, rotation, equilibrium, fluids, temperature, and heat.

MATH Prequisite: College Algebra (MATH 140, or equivalent with a C or better)

Physics 1 Course Outline



PHYS 151 (Physics 2)        Classes begin monthly on the 1st (April 1 is next start)

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This is the follow-on physics course to PHYS 101 (Physics I), and is an introductory, algebra-based, problem-solving course with a hands-on labs component. Topics covered are vibrations and waves, sound, electric charge and electric fields, circuits, magnetism, electromagnetic waves, light, and optics.

MATH Prequisite: Physics 1 (PHYS 101, or equivalent with a C or better)

Physics 2 Course Outline


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Frequently Asked Questions & Answers:

Allied health students (e.g., those pursuing prerequisites for programs like physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant, nursing, or similar graduate-level tracks) often need an algebra-based Physics 1 course with a lab component. Here are ANSWERS to the Top 10 questions students ask about NCC's online, on-demand physics prerequisites:

  • Will graduate programs (e.g., PT, OT, PA, or nursing schools) accept an online Physics 1 course, including the lab component, as a prerequisite?

    This is by far the most common concern-though many programs do prefer or require in-person labs for science prerequisites, many DO accept online/hybrid formats (especially post-COVID exceptions). Always best to confirm this requirement beforehand.

  • How is the lab component handled in NCC's on-demand Physics 1 & 2 courses? (e.g., at-home kits, virtual simulations, or in-person requirements?)

    Our lab components are a mix of hands-on, performed at home with online simulation labs. There is no need to purchase an expensive lab kit or to attend an in-person lab.

  • Is the online course from a regionally accredited institution, and will the credits transfer to my target graduate program?

    Yes, Northampton Community College (NCC) is an accredited institution. Upon successful completion, students will receive 4 credits for each course. Though we expect our courses to transfer to most if not all programs requiring an algebra-based physics course, it is the student's responsibility to confirm transferability of this algebra-based course by using the course outline linked on this page.

  • Is the Physics 1 course algebra-based (non-calculus) or calculus-based, and does it match what allied health programs expect?

    This is an algebra-based (general) physics course, which most allied health prerequisites require. It is not the calculus-based meant for engineering/physics majors. If you need two semesters of physics, we recommend also taking NCC's Physics II course in the same format.

  • What is the total cost (tuition + lab fees/kits), and are there affordable options?

    We know budget is a big factor and concern for students when choosing a provider. NCC's On-Demand Physics classes are currently only $1299 per course, with no additional fees or costs for lab kits, etc. This price point is much more affordable than the majority of schools offering online physics pre-requisites, with a cost savings of up to $500 in some cases.

  • How flexible is the course format (self-paced vs. scheduled semesters, asynchronous lectures)?

    Our physics courses are self-paced, with a few required instructor check-ins to maintain schedule and accountability to complete in 14 weeks. This fits well with working professionals or post-bacc students who need a self-paced or flexible option to fit around jobs/clinicals.

  • What is the course rigor and pass rate like? Is it easier or harder than in-person physics?

    Our courses are rigorous but completable with a strong grade if you put in the work. The instructor is personal and will walk this journey with you to ensure you complete the course and finish well.

  • Do I need to complete Physics 1 and 2 (both with labs), or is just Physics 1 sufficient for my programs?

    Many require a full year/sequence (ie. two semesters taking Physics 1 & 2), so students should clarify if just one semester suffices.

  • Are there specific recommended or commonly accepted online providers (e.g., UNE Online, MCPHS, Portage Learning, StraighterLine, community colleges)?

    Though students may seek "safe" recommendations that other applicants have successfully used for allied health admissions, NCC knows that budget is a big factor and concern when picking classes. NCC's On-Demand Physics classes are currently only $1299 per course, with no additional fees or costs for lab kits, etc. This is much more affordable than the majority of online providers offering online physics pre-requisites, with a cost savings of up to $500 in some cases.

  • I'm not a math person, can I successfully complete this Physics course?

    Our instructor will support you and help fill-in any skills you are missing in your math education. The math pre-req is a passing grade in college algebra. Also having some basic knowledge of Trigonometry (sine, cosine, tangent) is helpful but will be covered when needed.



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