Program Description
Graduate studies in physics and astronomy may be pursued by well-prepared students in the physical and mathematical sciences or engineering. As the basic physical science, physics offers unique intellectual opportunities. Theoretical, experimental, or computer-simulated studies of the physical universe, ranging from cosmology to quantum physics, and from atmospheric phenomena to biomolecular interactions, are available.
Students seeking an MS degree usually choose to prepare a research thesis, although a non-thesis option is available. For the thesis option, 30 credit hours, including six credit hours of PHYS 8910 , and a final oral examination on the general area of study and thesis defense are required. In the non-thesis option, 36 credit hours are required, including six credit hours of PHYS 8900 . A written report must be submitted on the directed studies. A final oral examination on the general area and directed activities completes the requirements for the non-thesis option.