Physics for Life Sciences Majors: Mechanics and Energy
Physics for Life Sciences Majors: Mechanics and Energy
This is the first course in pre-medical physics sequence, which discusses the statics and dynamics of forces, motion and energy.
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What you can learn.
About This Course
Statics and dynamics of forces; motion; and energy, including thermal energy, with applications to biological and biochemical systems. Transferable for UC credit.
Calculus series, such as LIFESCI 30A, 30B or MATH 3A, 3B, 3C (3C may be taken concurrently); or MATH XL 31A, 31B; or equivalent. PHYSICS 5A, 5B, and 5C form a one-year sequence in basic physics for students in the biological and health sciences. Calculus is used throughout. Successful completion of basic calculus courses is a prerequisite for admission to this sequence.
Summer 2026 Schedule
Enrollment/class participation contingent on signing a liability waiver form.
Physics XL 5B and XL 5C will be offered in Winter Quarter and Spring Quarter. Nonscience majors interested in a general physics course should take XL 10 Physics when next offered. Internet access required to retrieve course materials.
Fulfills in part the UCLA General Education requirement for Physical Sciences.
Enrollment limited to 26 students. Visitors not permitted. Enrollment deadline: June 28, 2026 11:59:59 PM PST.
Enrollment is typically reserved for adult students 18 years of age and older. Students under 18 years of age may receive consent to enroll based on special academic competence and approval by the instructor. If you are a student under 18 years of age, you must submit a request to enroll in the course 8 weeks before the course start date to hss@uclaextension.edu for your request to be considered.
Fall 2026 Schedule
No meeting November 24 & 26, 2026.
Enrollment/class participation contingent on signing a liability waiver form.
Physics XL 5B and XL 5C will be offered in Winter Quarter and Spring Quarter. Nonscience majors interested in a general physics course should take XL 10 Physics when next offered.
Fulfills in part the UCLA General Education requirement for Physical Sciences.
Enrollment limited to 25 students. Visitors not permitted. Enrollment deadline: September 27, 2026 11:59:59 PM PST. Internet access required.
No Meeting on November 11, 2025 and November 25 & 27, 2026.
Enrollment/class participation contingent on signing a liability waiver form.
Physics XL 5B and XL 5C will be offered in Winter Quarter and Spring Quarter. Nonscience majors interested in a general physics course should take XL 10 Physics when next offered.
Fulfills in part the UCLA General Education requirement for Physical Sciences.
Enrollment limited to 26 students. Visitors not permitted. Enrollment deadline: September 27, 2026 11:59:59 PM PST. Internet access required.
Enrollment is typically reserved for adult students 18 years of age and older. Students under 18 years of age may receive consent to enroll based on special academic competence and approval by the instructor. If you are a student under 18 years of age, you must submit a request to enroll in the course 8 weeks before the course start date to hss@uclaextension.edu for your request to be considered.
This course applies toward the following programs
Pre-Medical and General Science Studies
Boost your academic foundation to pursue a career change, apply to a health/professional program or enhance your knowledge in the sciences. Earned credits in this rigorous post-baccalaureate certificate program are transferable to UC and Cal State campuses, as well as other universities nationwide (some limitations may apply). Federal financial aid is available.