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Master of Science in Physics

SIU Physics Students

Our Physics master’s program is designed to span two years and offers a thesis and a non-thesis option. Renowned for its uniqueness, it offers abundant research opportunities within the department, allowing students to select from a diverse range of study areas. With a low student-to-faculty ratio, students benefit from close collaboration with faculty members throughout their academic journey.

SIU Physics looking through Telescope

Thesis Option

The M.S. in Physics degree, Thesis Option, requires students to complete at least 30 credits hours of graduate-level physics coursework, pass an oral examination, and write a thesis based on original research done under the supervision of a physics faculty member. The thesis option is designed for students who want to advance to a Ph.D. program after graduation, and for individuals who plan to work in academic, industry, or government jobs in which research and/or development may be a component of the position.




Non-Thesis Option

The M.S. in Physics degree, Non-Thesis Option, requires students to complete at least 30 credits hours of graduate-level physics coursework, pass an oral examination, and write a research paper. The non-thesis option is designed for students who are already working in a career and wish to gain additional credentials in order to have advancement opportunities.

Admissions

Admission to the M.S. in Physics program requires a bachelor's degree in Physics or equivalent, with a GPA of 2.70 or higher on the last 60 undergraduate credit hours. Applicants are encouraged to submit GRE scores. 

Careers

A master’s degree in physics opens doors to diverse and rewarding career opportunities. From technical engineering positions to roles in research and education, graduates can pursue challenging and fulfilling careers, including: medical physicist, materials physicist, computational physicist, theoretical physicist, optical physicist, engineer, and so much more.

Financial Aid

Financial assistance may be available in the form of Teaching Assistantships or Research Assistantships.

SIU Physics Student working on formula.

Contact Information

Saikat Talapatra
Director

Neckers 474
1245 Lincoln Dr
Carbondale, IL 62901
618-453-2270
saikat@siu.edu

Poopalasingam Sivakumar
Graduate Program Director

Neckers 462
1245 Lincoln Dr
Carbondale, IL 62901
618-453-2272
psivakumar@siu.edu