MASTER OF SCIENCE IN PHYSICS
Minimum requirements for admission without deficiencies are at least thirty hours of fundamental undergraduate courses in physics in addition to general chemistry and mathematics through differential equations. Graduate Record Examination scores (verbal, quantitative, and analytical) must be submitted.

All candidates for the degree must attain a level of proficiency in the areas of electromagnetic theory, advanced mechanics, and quantum mechanics as represented by PHYS 6501, 6301, and 6401, respectively. Although there is no specific minor requirement, the student is expected to have earned a minimum of six semester hours (as an undergraduate or graduate student) in approved courses in mathematics beyond the level of differential equations as represented by MATH 2221.

The minimum requirement for the MS degree in Physics is 24 credit hours of course work plus at least six hours of thesis credit (PHYS 7000). Of the 24 credit hours of course work a minimum of 18 must be in physics, of which at least 12 are taken in courses numbered above 6000. Each graduate student is expected to participate in the weekly seminar, PHYS 6198. However, a maximum of one credit hour in PHYS 6198 can be used to satisfy program requirements. A comprehensive final examination, which shall be either written or oral or both, must be passed by the candidate in at least the major field and the thesis.

The average time required to complete a Master’s program in the Department of Physics is four full-time semesters. Work during the summer sessions may shorten this, while part-time pursuit of the degree will of course extend the period of study. Full-time students are encouraged to apply to the Department of Physics for graduate assistantships.

All electives are subject to the approval of the Department of Physics. The group of physics electives should normally include either PHYS 6502 (Electricity and Magnetism II) or PHYS 6402 (Quantum Mechanics II), or both. The general electives may be taken from the areas of physics, mathematics, chemistry, engineering, geophysics, computer science, and related areas. You are invited to discuss the various program possibilities with the Graduate Coordinator, who may be reached at (504) 280-6341.