Program Overview
Florida A&M University's Master of Science in Physics program offers a comprehensive foundation in physics, preparing students for doctoral studies or the workforce. The program features core requirements in classical dynamics, electrodynamics, quantum mechanics, and mathematical methods. Non-thesis and thesis options are available, with the latter requiring a research project and thesis submission. Graduates are equipped for careers in industry, research, or academia.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Department of Physics in the College of Science and Technology at Florida A&M University offers a Master of Science in Physics degree program with two options: thesis and non-thesis. This program provides a solid foundation in physics beyond the baccalaureate level and prepares students for doctoral studies or the workforce. Students gain essential research skills and a thorough understanding of core physics concepts.
Outline:
The M.S. in Physics program has three components: core requirements, non-thesis requirements (for non-thesis option), and thesis requirements (for thesis option).
Core Requirements (24 semester hours):
- PHY 6246: Classical Dynamics I
- PHY 6247: Classical Dynamics II
- PHY 6346: Electrodynamics I
- PHY 6347: Electrodynamics II
- PHY 6524: Quantum Stat Mechanics
- PHY 6645: Quantum Mechanics I
- PHY 6646: Quantum Mechanics II
- PHZ 6115: Math Meth For Physics
Non-Thesis Requirements (12 semester hours):
- 12 semester hours from Physics courses numbered 5000 and above, with at least 9 taken on a letter grade basis.
Thesis Requirements (9 semester hours):
- 9 semester hours from physics courses numbered 5000 and above, with at least 6 semester hours taken on a letter grade basis.
- Submission of an accepted thesis
- At least 3 semester hours of thesis credit (PHY 5971r)
Assessment:
Students must maintain a 3.0 GPA in the core curriculum. They must also pass a departmental proficiency examination by the end of their second year. Additionally, all students must pass an oral examination on graduate-level physics core course work, which may also cover additional coursework for non-thesis students.
Teaching:
The program utilizes a combination of lectures, discussions, research, and laboratory work to deliver its curriculum. The department has 15 faculty members actively involved in research in various areas of physics.
Careers:
Graduates of the M.S. in Physics program are prepared for careers in industry, research, or academia. Potential career paths include physicist, research scientist, science writer, teacher, and data analyst.
