Program Overview

The Master of Science degree in Physics is designed to prepare students for community college teaching, employment in industry, or further graduate study toward the doctorate in Physics. For special professional objectives, students may include graduate-level work in engineering, another science, or mathematics in any of the options with approval of an advisor. The Interdisciplinary Studies Master’s permits the combination of physics courses with courses in biology and chemistry in a program suited to interdisciplinary professional careers.

The program offers two options. 

• Research Option - emphasizes research and requires a thesis.
• Course Option - emphasizes advanced study, which may be taken in a variety of physics areas which may include directed study; such programs culminate in a comprehensive examination rather than a thesis.

Admission to the University

Applicants must meet University requirements for admission to graduate study.  The minimum requirements for admission are a Bachelor’s Degree with a grade point average of at least 2.5. Official transcripts must also be sent to the Admission & Recruitment Office before the application deadline. 

International applicants, please visit the International Applicants webpage for specific process.

Admission to the Program

In addition to submitting a University Admissions Application through Cal State Apply, applicants must also apply separately to the Department. All applicants must be received by the Department by the deadline stipulated on the Admission & Recruitment Office website. A completed application for program admission consists of  

• Program application form - available on the Physics and Astronomy Department’s website.
• Statement of purpose
• Two recommendation letters, and
• Unofficial transcripts

Prerequisites to the Program

Before undertaking required graduate courses, students must complete the equivalent of an undergraduate major in physics and must have specific competence in the subjects covered in PHYS 4251 , PHYS 4261 , and PHYS 4321 .

New graduate students must consult with the departmental graduate advisor before registration for assistance in planning their programs. Students should achieve classified graduates standing as early as practicable in their graduate study because it is a prerequisite to the completion of credit for any courses in the degree program.