The department offers a Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Physics, with both thesis and non-thesis options. There is considerable flexibility in the selection of courses, including those from related disciplines, which permits highly individualized programs of study. Thesis research can be carried out in any area in which a student and a faculty member find a common interest, though the bulk of present research efforts at the doctoral level are centered in the broad area of condensed matter physics.

Thesis Option

Requirements

• A total of 30 course credits in approved individualized program of study
• The 30 credits must include 6 research credits and 21 credits of required core physics courses
• The remaining credits can come from elective physics courses or from courses offered by other departments if approved for the student’s individualized program of study
• Master’s thesis about research project
• Oral thesis defense
• Minimum grade of C for any course credit
• Minimum grade average of B

A well-prepared student should be able to complete the M.S. degree program in two years or less.

Up to 6 hours of transfer credits are accepted for equivalent courses taken at other universities.

Non-Thesis Option

Requirements

• A total of 30 course credits in approved individualized program of study.
• The 30 credits must include 21 credits of required core physics courses. elective physics courses or from courses offered by other departments if approved for the student’s individualized program of study.
• Paper on independent study project.
• Written comprehension examination.
• Final oral examination.
• Minimum grade of C for any course credit.
• Minimum grade average of B.

Full-time students must fulfill these requirements in four years of less, part-time students in seven years or less.

A well-prepared student should be able to complete the M.S. degree program in two years or less.

Up to 6 hours of transfer credits are accepted for equivalent courses taken at other universities.

For more information, please contact one of the Graduate Program Director:
Dr. Leonard Kahn