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. The program offers two options. For special professional objectives, students may include graduate-level work in engineering, another science, or mathematics in any of the options with the 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.

- 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. 

For 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