Their goal in taking the course should be to be able to observe a physical phenomena and realize that they might be able to figure out an explanation based on what they learned in college physics. They need at least as much hands-on lab experience as the majors but at a lower analytical level. Careers Careers in physics are limited. However, physics majors have the ability to enter engineering graduate programs. There are opportunities out there, it just takes a little imagination.
Most students tend to think physics is an impossible course to understand.
They tend to shy away from it and advisors don't really push it as a viable science elective for many students. That's unfortunate in that physics is the most basic of sciences and is required of anyone who wishes to be able to make logical realistic decisions on anything having to do with science related issues in society. I believe students short-change themselves when they take this attitude and nurture this fear of physics and mathematics. All it really takes is a bit of discipline and work and students will come away learning something significant and even receive a reasonable grade. Of course, this is true in all curricula.