Master of Science [M.S] [Physics and Astronomy] From Rutgers University - New Jersey

The doctoral program is designed to give students a broad understanding of classical and modern physics, with intensive training in one of the frontier areas of modern research. A thesis of original research is required to give the students experience in advancing themselves to the leading edge of an important area of physics. Students are encouraged to study several sub-disciplines of physics so that they will be prepared to apply their fundamental knowledge beyond the field of their thesis work. An astronomy option is available that allows students who intend to carry out their thesis work in astronomy to replace several upper-division course requirements with astrophysics courses. The average length of study is five to six years. A candidacy examination, including both a written and oral section, is ordinarily taken at the beginning of the second year. The Master of Science is not required for the Ph.D. degree and no foreign languages are required.

Graduates of the doctoral program have been successful in diverse careers at universities, in government research laboratories, and in industry. Although most of the department's graduate students are enrolled in the Ph.D. degree program, the master's programs provide attractive alternatives for students who wish to pursue a shorter advanced education program. Graduates of the M.S. degree program generally find careers in industrial laboratories. The program, requiring course work and either thesis research or a critical essay, is normally completed in two years. The M.S.T. degree program is primarily a subject-matter-oriented program for teachers. Courses are chosen in consultation with an adviser to fit individual needs.