Physics Graduate Programs
Master of Science in Physics
In the physics department, research is organized into small groups of faculty members, post-doctoral associates, graduate students and undergraduate students working closely on related projects. The principal active areas include experimental and theoretical elementary particle physics, synchrotron radiation physics, accelerator physics, structural and computational biophysics, magnetism and electrodynamics. Classes are generally small and informal, and thesis research is carried out in close collaboration with the faculty adviser.
In recognition of the value of teaching experience in strengthening an individual's understanding of his or her field of study and as an aid in making career decisions, the department requires full-time students to participate in instructional activities. Each new graduate student is assigned a graduate student adviser and must obtain the approval of the adviser each semester before registering for any graduate classes.
Degree Requirements
The requirements for the Master of Science in physics are the completion of 32 credit hours in coursework approved by the faculty advisor and the passing of a written M.S. comprehensive examination. For those interested in research, up to 6 credit hours of PHYS 591 (Thesis Research) may be applied to the 32-credit hour requirement. The basic program of coursework must include 2 semesters of PHYS 585 or 685 (Colloquium) and the M.S. core:
| PHYS 501 | Methods of Theoretical Physics I | 3 Credits |
| PHYS 505 | Electromagnetic Theory | 3 Credits |
| PHYS 508 | Analytical Dynamics | 3 Credits |
| PHYS 509 | Quantum Theory I | 3 Credits |
| PHYS 510 | Quantum Theory II | 3 Credits |
| PHYS 515 | Statistical Mechanics | 3 Credits |
The remaining course requirements may be satisfied by additional graduate or advanced undergraduate electives.