Program Overview
Students can earn up to 6 credits for on-the-job work and tailor their studies with elective courses. Graduates are prepared for careers in research, engineering, data science, and teaching.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
This degree program combines elements of traditional physics programs with the application of physics to address critical societal issues. It offers various concentrations, allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals. The program is designed to be flexible, with many courses offered during late afternoon or evening hours to accommodate students with full-time employment. Students working in high-technology organizations can earn up to 6 credits (out of 30) for their on-the-job work under faculty guidance. This work can be incorporated into an optional 3-credit research project or a 6-credit master's thesis. Students not employed full-time can apply for financial aid or limited research assistantships.
Outline:
Program Structure:
The program requires a total of 30 credits and is divided into core courses and a chosen concentration. Students must meet with their academic advisor to develop a preliminary plan of study before their first semester and finalize it with the graduate coordinator at the start of their graduation semester.
Core Courses:
Students select one course from each of the five core course groupings:
- Group One: Computational Physics/Astrophysics: ASTR 601, PHYS 510, PHYS 534
- Group Two: Mechanics: PHYS 502, PHYS 620, PHYS 684
- Group Three: Electricity and Magnetism: PHYS 513, PHYS 685
- Group Four: Statistical and Thermal Mechanics: PHYS 690, PHYS 711
- Group Five: Methods in Physics: PHYS 591, PHYS 613, PHYS 683
Concentrations:
Students choose one concentration from the following:
- Standard Physics Concentration (STDP): This concentration is suitable for students interested in pursuing further graduate studies in physics or astrophysics or the Standard Physics concentration of the Physics PhD. It includes 3 credits of core courses, 3 credits of concentration electives from ASTR or PHYS, and 9 credits of general electives.
- Engineering Physics Concentration (ENGP): This concentration is designed for students seeking employment in engineering-related fields or pursuing the Engineering Physics concentration of the Physics PhD. It includes 3 credits of core courses, 3 credits of concentration electives from PHYS, MATH, BENG, CEIE, ECE, or ME, and 9 credits of general electives.
- Applied Physics Concentration (APLP): This concentration is for students aiming for careers in applied physics or engineering-related fields. It includes 3 credits of core courses, 3 credits of concentration electives from PHYS, BINF, CHEM, CLIM, MATH, CSI, or STAT, and 9 credits of general electives. It includes 3 credits of core courses, 3 credits of a focus area course (Software or Hardware), a 3-credit research project, and 9 credits of general electives.
Careers:
The program prepares students for a variety of career paths, including:
- Research Scientist: Conducting research in various fields, such as physics, astrophysics, engineering, and applied physics.
- Engineer: Applying physics principles to solve engineering problems in diverse industries.
- Data Scientist: Analyzing and interpreting data using physics-based methods.
- Teacher: Educating students in physics and related subjects.
Other:
Students can take up to 6 credits of PHYS 796 Directed Reading and Research and up to 6 credits of PHYS 798 Research Project as general electives. PHYS 798 Research Project can be based on internship work. Students can enroll in up to 18 credits of graduate coursework after completing 75 undergraduate credits, potentially allowing them to complete both degrees in five years.
Application Requirements:
Applicants must meet the general graduate admission standards and submit a letter to the undergraduate physics coordinator requesting admission, along with recommendation letters. They must have earned 60 undergraduate credits with an overall GPA of at least 3.00 and 45 credits in physics-major coursework with a GPA of at least 3.50.
Accelerated Option Requirements:
Students can take 3-12 credits of graduate coursework that apply to both degrees after completing 75 undergraduate credits. They must submit a bachelor's/accelerated master's transition form to the College of Science's Office of Academic and Student Affairs by the last day to add classes in their final undergraduate semester. They must enroll in master's program courses in the fall or spring semester following the conferral of their bachelor's degree, but can defer up to one semester. They must maintain a GPA of 3.00 or higher in all graduate coursework.
Reserve Graduate Credit:
Students can take up to 6 graduate credits as reserve graduate credits, which do not apply to the undergraduate degree but reduce the master's degree requirements. Students can take selected graduate courses after completing 75 undergraduate credits and use 3-12 graduate credits to partially fulfill undergraduate requirements. Upon completing the bachelor's degree and achieving a grade of 'B' or better in graduate courses, students receive advanced standing in the master's program and complete an additional 18-27 credits to earn the master's degree.
Application Requirements:
Applicants must meet the general graduate admission standards and have completed at least 60 credits toward their undergraduate degree with an overall GPA of at least 3.00. They must also have completed specific courses with a GPA of 3.00 or better, including CS 112, ME 212, ME 231, ME 313, ME 322, ME 323, and ME 351. Recommendation letters from research supervisors are also required.
Accelerated Option Requirements:
Students must submit a bachelor's/accelerated master's transition form to the College of Science's Office of Academic and Student Affairs at the beginning of their final undergraduate semester. They must begin their master's program in the semester immediately following the conferral of their bachelor's degree. They must maintain a GPA of 3.00 or higher in graduate coursework.
Reserve Graduate Credit:
Students can take up to 6 additional graduate credits as reserve graduate credit, which do not apply to the undergraduate degree but can be applied to the master's program.
Graduate Course Suggestions:
The program provides a list of suggested graduate courses that can be taken while in undergraduate status.
George Mason University
Overview:
George Mason University is a public research university located in Fairfax, Virginia. It is recognized as a top 50 public R1 research university, signifying its commitment to high-quality research and academic excellence.
Services Offered:
George Mason University offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic Advising:
Provides guidance and support to students in their academic journey.Student Involvement Office:
Facilitates student engagement through clubs, organizations, and activities.Housing:
Offers both on-campus and off-campus housing options for students.Health and Wellness:
Provides access to health services, counseling, and wellness programs.Recreation:
Offers various recreational facilities and activities for students.Library:
Provides access to a vast collection of resources and research support.Financial Aid:
Offers financial assistance to eligible students.Career Services:
Assists students in their career exploration and job search.Accessibility Resources:
Provides support and accommodations for students with disabilities.Student Life and Campus Experience:
George Mason University boasts a vibrant and diverse campus community. Students can expect:
Active Student Organizations:
A wide array of clubs and organizations cater to various interests.Social Events and Activities:
The university hosts numerous events and activities throughout the year.Recreational Opportunities:
Students can enjoy various recreational facilities and activities.Campus Dining:
A variety of dining options are available on campus.Housing Options:
Students can choose from various on-campus and off-campus housing options.Key Reasons to Study There:
Research Opportunities:
As an R1 research university, George Mason offers ample opportunities for students to engage in research.Diverse Academic Programs:
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines.Strong Faculty:
George Mason boasts a highly qualified and experienced faculty.Vibrant Campus Community:
The university fosters a diverse and inclusive campus environment.Location:
Situated near Washington, D.C., George Mason provides access to numerous internship and career opportunities.Academic Programs:
George Mason University offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Programs:
The university offers a variety of undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including the Honors College and undergraduate research opportunities.Graduate Programs:
George Mason offers a wide range of graduate programs, including master's and doctoral degrees.Colleges and Schools:
The university is comprised of several colleges and schools, each specializing in specific academic areas.Mason Online:
The university offers a variety of online programs for students seeking flexible learning options.Study Abroad:
George Mason provides opportunities for students to study abroad in various countries.Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation:
The university offers unique academic programs in conservation in partnership with the Smithsonian Institution.Entry Requirements:
- Academic Qualifications: Individuals holding a baccalaureate degree in physics or a related field from an institution of higher education accredited by a Mason-recognized U.S. institutional accrediting agency or international equivalent and who have earned a GPA of 3.00 (out of 4.00) are invited to apply for admission.
- Course Deficiencies: Applicants may be required to make up one or two course deficiencies, based on a graduate physics advisor's assessment, and be provisionally admitted into the program.
- Application Requirements: Prospective students should submit the George Mason University Admissions Application and its required supplemental documentation, and three letters of recommendation, preferably from former professors. The GRE general is optional.
