The Department offers both thesis and non-thesis options in its Master of Science program. However, virtually all physics graduate students are admitted directly to the Ph.D. program, and may, if they choose, obtain a Master's naturally in the course of their Ph.D. studies. A student interested instead in a terminal Master's degree should consult with the Physics Department. The Departmental requirements for the non-thesis option include: a total of 30 credits excluding research credits; four courses covering core graduate-level physics (this requirement may be waived based on a student’s performance on the Ph.D. qualifying exam); a paper as evidence of ability to organize and present a written scholarly report on contemporary research. The thesis option replaces the scholarly paper requirement with the writing of a thesis and the passing of an oral examination in defense of the thesis.
Pass an oral examination Complete a scholarly reportThis requirement may be waived based on a student’s performance on Ph.D. qualifying exam.
The Flagship Institution of the University System of Maryland
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