Online, On-Demand & Perfect for Allied-Health Prereqisites

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.

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.

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.

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.

NCC's On-Demand Physics classes are currently only $1299 per course, with no additional fees or costs for lab kits. This price point is much more affordable than the majority of schools offering online physics prerequisites, with a cost savings of up to $500 in some cases.

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.

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.

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

The math pre-req is a passing grade (C or better) in college algebra. Solving equations and a basic knowledge of Trigonometry (sine, cosine, tangent) expected.

Online physics labs simulate or enable hands-on experiments allowing students to learn concepts like motion, forces, electricity, optics, and waves without needing a physical lab space. They became especially common during remote learning periods and remain popular for flexibility, safety, and accessibility. NCC's online courses will use a mix of hands-on experiments and online simulations, some using some common household items like a phone timer, string, ball, etc. Therefore there is no cost to the student for lab equipment.

Short answer: online physics isn’t inherently “harder”—but for many students, it feels harder because of how physics is learned. Here’s the honest breakdown. ?? What research says Studies show online and in-person learning can be equally effective overall when designed well Some physics-specific research even found online students improved as much as (or more than) in-person students BUT outcomes depend heavily on structure, interaction, and student habits ?? Translation: the format itself isn’t the main issue—how you engage with it is. ?? Why online physics feels harder Physics isn’t memorization—it’s problem-solving + conceptual understanding. Online formats can make that tougher: Less immediate help In person, you can ask questions instantly. Online, you might wait or not ask at all. More passive learning Watching lectures ? doing physics. Online courses often lean passive unless you push yourself. Fewer interactions Discussion, peer problem-solving, and feedback are harder to replicate online Distractions + self-discipline No structured environment = easier to fall behind ?? Where physics specifically suffers online Physics has two big components: Problem solving ? needs practice + feedback Labs ? hands-on intuition Online can struggle with both: Harder to debug mistakes without real-time guidance Virtual labs may not build the same intuition (though they can still work) ?? When online physics can actually be easier For the right student, online can be an advantage: You can pause/replay lectures at your pace More flexible schedule Time to think deeply instead of keeping up with a live lecture ?? Strong independent learners often do just as well—or better. ?? The real answer It depends less on the class and more on you: If you: stay disciplined actively solve problems (not just watch) seek help when stuck!!! reach out to your instructor, watch the recorded lectures, etc. ?? online physics ˜ same difficulty If you: procrastinate rely on lectures alone avoid asking questions ?? online physics will feel much harder ?? Bottom line Physics itself is hard Online removes support structure, so it amplifies your habits For most students, that makes it feel harder—even if it’s not inherently so.

Yes—universities and colleges often accept online physics credits, but there are some important caveats. The short answer is: they’re accepted if the course meets the right standards. NCC's is an accredited insitution, but we recommend you get pre-approval from your school or intended transfer program that NCC's courses will transfer. Use the Course Outlines posted on this page if need documentation. The only sticking point for transfer is if they require an in-person lab or not.

You can study physics online without being strong in math—but you should go in clear-eyed: math is the language of physics, so you won’t be able to avoid it entirely. The real question isn’t “Can you do it?”—it’s how you approach it. ?? What “not good at math” actually means Usually it’s one of these: You haven’t practiced enough You learned it in a rushed or confusing way You struggle with algebra/calculus foundations That’s very fixable. It’s not a fixed trait. ?? What will be hard (especially online) Physics requires you to: Translate words ? equations Manipulate equations (mostly algebra at first) Understand relationships (not just plug numbers) Online learning adds difficulty because: You don’t get immediate help when stuck It’s easier to avoid practicing the math parts Concepts can pile up quickly ?? Why it’s still doable If you approach it right, online can actually help: You can pause and rewatch explanations You can learn math alongside physics at your own pace Many courses emphasize conceptual understanding first ?? The realistic path (what actually works) If your math is shaky, don’t just “push through” physics. Pair them: At minimum, be comfortable with: Algebra (solving equations, rearranging formulas) Basic trigonometry (sin, cos) For calculus-based physics: You’ll need derivatives and integrals—but you can learn them as you go ?? Strategy that makes it work Instead of: “I’m bad at math, I’ll just try physics anyway” Do this: Study physics and math together When you hit an equation you don’t understand ? pause and learn that math piece Focus on why the equation makes sense, not just solving it ?? Important truth (no sugarcoating) If you: avoid the math rely only on videos don’t practice problems ?? physics will feel impossible If you: practice consistently fix math gaps as they appear ask for help when stuck ?? Bottom line Yes, you can study physics online without strong math But you’ll need to build math skills alongside it—there’s no shortcut around that

Think of math in physics as a toolkit—you don’t need everything at once, but you do need the right tools at each stage. NCC's courses are Algebra-based, which is the minimum for most online physics classes. The pre-req is College Algebra. Knowing some basic trig will be helpful. You should be comfortable with: Solving equations (for example, rearranging v=u+at) Working with fractions and exponents Basic graphs (slope, interpreting lines) Word problems ? turning them into equations This shows up everywhere in physics (velocity, acceleration, etc.). ?? 2. Trigonometry (needed pretty quickly) Physics involves angles, especially in: Forces on inclines Projectile motion Vectors You should know: sine, cosine, tangent right triangles resolving components (breaking vectors into x and y) ?? What actually matters most It’s not about knowing everything—it’s about being fluent in: Rearranging equations Understanding relationships (not just plugging numbers) Moving between words, graphs, and math ?? Practical advice for online courses Before starting, make sure you can: Solve something like F=ma for any variable Handle basic triangles (find sides/angles) Interpret a simple graph If you can do those, you’re ready for most intro online physics courses. ?? Bottom line Algebra + trig = enough for most intro physics (including NCC's classes) Weak math doesn’t stop you—but ignoring it will

The time commitment for an online physics course varies a lot, but here’s a realistic, no-nonsense breakdown based on how these courses actually run. NCC's physics courses are 14-weeks long, but you can complete sooner if motivated. ?? Typical weekly time commitment ?? Intro (algebra-based physics) 6–10 hours per week 2–4 hrs: lectures/videos 3–6 hrs: problem sets 1–2 hrs: reviewing / studying ?? Why physics takes more time than other classes Physics isn’t just reading or memorizing—you’ll spend most of your time: Solving problems (this is where learning actually happens) Getting stuck and working through confusion Re-doing problems until they make sense ??? Online vs in-person time difference Online courses often: Take the same or slightly more time Feel longer because: You don’t get instant help You have to self-teach more It’s easier to lose focus ?? What actually determines your time Two students in the same course can have very different experiences: If you have strong math + study habits ? less time If you’re learning math at the same time ? more time If you procrastinate ? way more time (and stress) ?? Practical expectation If you’re taking an online physics course, plan for: At least 1–2 hours per day (on average) More before exams Some frustrating sessions where progress feels slow That’s normal—not a sign you’re doing it wrong. ?? Bottom line Expect 6–15 hours per week, depending on level Physics is time-intensive because it’s skill-based Online courses require more self-discipline, not less

Short answer: yes—at least a little physics is usually necessary, but not always in the way people fear. Most allied health programs (like nursing, radiologic technology, respiratory therapy, or physical therapy) either require a basic physics course or embed physics concepts into other classes. It’s not about solving abstract equations—it’s about understanding how the body and medical equipment work. Here’s what that looks like in practice: 1. It’s practical, not theoretical You’re not diving deep into hardcore Quantum Mechanics. Instead, you’ll see applied ideas like: Motion and forces (important for lifting patients safely) Fluid flow (blood circulation, IVs, breathing) Energy and heat (body temperature regulation) 2. Some fields rely on it more than others Heavily physics-based: radiologic tech, ultrasound, radiation therapy Moderate use: respiratory therapy, physical therapy Light use: nursing, medical assisting For example, imaging careers depend on principles like X-ray imaging and wave behavior, while respiratory therapy uses airflow and pressure concepts. 3. You might not need a full standalone course Some programs let you take: “Applied physics for health sciences” Or cover physics inside anatomy/physiology courses 4. Why it matters Even basic physics helps you: Use medical equipment correctly Understand patient safety (radiation, pressure, oxygen flow) Make better clinical decisions If you’re worried about difficulty: most allied health physics courses are much more approachable than traditional engineering physics. They focus on concepts you’ll actually use, not abstract math.

First—“not a science person” isn’t really a fixed trait. Physics feels hard mostly because it’s taught abstractly, not because you’re incapable of it. You don’t need to love it—you just need a strategy that fits how it’s actually tested. Here’s how to get through it efficiently: 1. Treat physics like a language, not a talent Physics is mostly learning how to interpret symbols and relationships. When you see something like Newton's Laws of Motion, don’t try to memorize definitions—translate it into plain English: “Objects keep doing what they’re doing unless something changes it” “Force = push or pull that changes motion” If you can explain it simply, you understand it enough to pass. 2. Focus on patterns, not memorization Most intro physics revolves around a small set of ideas: Motion Forces Energy Basic waves (sometimes things like Ohm's Law if electricity is included) Instead of cramming formulas, learn: When to use each idea What kind of problem it solves A lot of exams are just pattern recognition in disguise. 3. Do problems wrong on purpose Reading examples feels productive—but it’s not enough. You need to struggle a bit. Try this: Attempt a problem Get stuck Look at the solution Redo it without looking That “friction” is what actually builds understanding. 4. Ignore unnecessary math complexity You don’t need to be a math genius. Most allied-health-level physics uses: Basic algebra Rearranging formulas If you get lost, slow it down: Write what you know Write what you need Plug in numbers step-by-step 5. Use visuals whenever possible Physics clicks faster when you can see it: Draw arrows for forces Sketch motion Use simple diagrams Even rough sketches help your brain organize the problem. 6. Study smarter, not longer A solid routine: 30–45 minutes max per session Mix concepts + practice problems Review mistakes right away Cramming doesn’t work well for physics because it builds on itself. 7. Learn just enough, not everything You’re trying to pass, not become Albert Einstein. Focus on: Core concepts your teacher emphasizes Homework and practice exams (they’re often similar to real tests) 8. Get help early (this matters a lot) If something doesn’t make sense after a day or two: Ask your instructor Use tutoring or classmates Watch short targeted videos (not hours of random content) Physics confusion stacks fast—don’t let it pile up. What actually works for most “non-science people” It usually comes down to this: Do more practice than you think you need Accept confusion as part of the process Focus on understanding situations, not memorizing formulas

It depends on the program and how you take the course, but for most allied health paths, a physics prerequisite is pretty manageable time-wise. Typical timelines: 1. One semester (most common) About 12–16 weeks Usually called “Intro to Physics” or “Applied Physics” Often enough for programs like nursing, respiratory therapy, or radiologic tech 2. Two-semester sequence (less common for allied health) Around 6–8 months total More detailed coverage (motion, energy, waves, electricity) More likely if your program leans heavily on physics (like imaging fields) 3. Accelerated options 5–8 week courses (summer or online) Faster, but more intense—expect daily studying Good if you want to move quickly but can keep up What you’ll actually study Most prerequisite courses revolve around a few core ideas: Motion and forces (based on Newton's Laws of Motion) Energy and work Fluids and pressure (important for health fields) Basic electricity (sometimes using ideas like Ohm's Law) How much time per week? A typical 3–4 credit course: Class time: 3–4 hours/week Study time: 5–10 hours/week (this is where most people underestimate) What can affect your timeline Your math background (basic algebra vs rusty) Whether there’s a lab component Online vs in-person format How fast your school’s term system runs Bottom line Fastest realistic path: ~5–8 weeks (accelerated) Most typical: ~3–4 months (one semester) Longer route: ~6–8 months (two courses)