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II. Programs

  1. Combined BS/MS

    The five-year combined B.S./M.S. in physics program provides undergraduate students the opportunity to earn a M.S. degree in five years. Students are able to start their graduate coursework in their Junior year and can use up to two elective requirements between degrees. This program is designed for students who intend to go into private industry upon graduation and is not well-suited for those that ultimately want a Ph.D. in Physics. The Combined BS/MS has two applications, one at the Departmental Level (due second quarter of Junior year) and then another at the Graduate Program level (due first quarter of Senior year).  Upon successful completion of their undergraduate requirements students are awarded their B.S. in Physics and, assuming that they still meet the relevant criteria, may continue into the M.S. program.  In order to be awarded the M.S. students finish any remaining M.S. coursework and then defend their M.S. Thesis. 

  2. Terminal MS

    The MS program requires students to complete eight required courses in addition to either Written Qualifying Examinations or completion of the MS Thesis. Terminal MS students are considered unfunded and should not count on receiving any financial support from the Department.  The termial MS program is designed for students who intend to go into private industry upon graduation and is not well-suited for those that ultimately want a Ph.D. in Physics.  Admission to the terminal MS program is infrequent and the vast majority of our current graduate students are in the Ph.D. program. 

  3. Ph.D. 

    Doctoral students first must meet their in-flight MS requirements which include completing eight required courses in addition to passing five Written Qualifying Examinations.  After passing a written qualifying examination, Ph.D. students pursue independent research leading to Advancement to Candidacy and completion of a dissertation.