All candidates for the M.S. degree must achieve 32 points of credit, at least 24 in residence at the Graduate School, at least 20 points in the Physics Department, and a GPA of B (3.0) or better. They are further required to pass at least 5 of the following 6 courses:
- Statistical Physics (PHYS-GA-2002)
- Electromagnetism (PHYS-GA-2005)
- Classical & Quantum Mechanics I and II (PHYS-GA-2011, 2012)
- Experimental Physics (PHYS-GA-2075)
- Computational Physics (PHYS-GA-2000)
Option A: Report
The report is a comprehensive review article based on the literature in a specialized field of physics, prepared under supervision of a faculty advisor. In addition to submitting the report, students choosing this option must receive credit for 9 regular courses (one-semester, 4-point courses, not including reading and research).
Option B: Thesis
The thesis is based on physics research (experimental or theoretical) supervised by a faculty advisor, demonstrating originality and comprehensiveness but these may be at a level below that required for Ph.D. research. In addition to the standard course requirements, the student is expected to enroll in one semester of a research course.
M.S. candidates are permitted to take at most 2 courses outside the Department, with permissionof the Director of graduate Studies.
Option C: Examination
In addition to receiving credit for eight regular courses (one-semester, 4-point courses, not including reading and research), a student choosing this option must pass the core courses with an average grade of B or better. For each course, the student has the option of
- enrolling in the course;
- taking the midterm and final examination of the course if the student is not enrolled; or
- taking the relevant preliminary examination given just before the start of the fall andspring terms.