M.S. Degree

An M.S. degree strengthens core knowledge in physics and astronomy, involves students in the frontiers of research, and provides marketable skills for scientific careers. In addition to completing core courses, master’s students can choose a research-based thesis option or advanced electives in astronomy, electrodynamics, plasma physics, quantum physics, and solid-state physics.

Please note that these requirements supersede those on the university catalog while catalog changes are under review.

Degree Requirements

• Course Requirements: Students are required to complete a minimum number of 30 graduate-level credit hours in Physics or Astronomy at the 500, 600 or 700 level (or approved courses from other departments relevant to the program of study).
• Calculation of the GPA: Students must earn a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75, and a minimum GPA of 2.75 in courses applied to the degree.
• Research Requirements (if applicable): A thesis including original research will be defended in front of a committee of three faculty, including the research advisor. Research credits will make up the remainder of any unfulfilled course credits. The average completion time for a thesis-option degree is two years. For timely completion, students are expected to find a research advisor in their first semester in the program and start their research project in the second semester.
• Progress Toward Completion: The degree must be completed within three years of entering the program. Although, it is expected that most students will wish to complete within two years. Students will regularly meet with an academic advisor.