Physics MS | Temple University

Master of Science in Physics

Gain a broad understanding of the foundational areas of physics, including analytical mechanics, electromagnetic theory and quantum mechanics, with the Master of Science in Physics from Temple’s College of Science and Technology.

Located in the state-of-the-art Science Education and Research Center (SERC) on Temple’s Main Campus, the Physics MS offers a wide variety of research opportunities to graduate students in the fields of atomic, molecular and optical physics; condensed matter physics; statistical mechanics and theoretical and experimental elementary particle physics. Encouraging students to develop a solid research practice is a major component of the curriculum, and all graduate students perform significant research work under the guidance of an experienced scientist. Learn more about faculty members in the Physics Department and their research interests.

In addition to further research and doctoral study, the broad foundation in physics students gain through the master’s program enables them to pursue a wide range of careers outside of academia, including high school science teachers, technical writers or members of a technical support staff.

A male physics student using an instrument to conduct research in a lab.

Classes & Curriculum

You may select either a thesis or a nonthesis (coursework) track within the MS program. Both options require 30 credits beyond the baccalaureate degree. Students can choose to complete the Physics MS on a part- or full-time basis.

Some courses are required, while master’s students should consult their graduate advisor to choose the remaining electives. Some courses included in the program are

Analytical Mechanics,
Electromagnetic Theory,
Many Electron Theory and
Teaching in Higher Education: Physics.

Students in the coursework track finish their master’s degree with a comprehensive exam covering undergraduate- and master’s-level physics. Students in the thesis track write a master’s thesis based on original research. They do not have to take a comprehensive exam.

Learn more about required and elective courses for the Physics MS.

Related Graduate Degrees

Related Graduate Certificates

Scientific Writing

Tuition & Fees

In keeping with Temple’s commitment to access and affordability, this Master of Science offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. These tuition costs apply to the 2024–2025 academic year.

Pennsylvania resident: $1,353.00 per credit
Out-of-state: $1,765.00 per credit

You can view the full Cost of Attendance breakdown on the Student Financial Services website.

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Student Clubs & Organizations

If you can find the time to participate while meeting the demands of your degree program, student clubs offer valuable opportunities to meet fellow graduate students, researchers, and professionals from science- and technology-related industries.

Clubs and organizations for students pursuing a Physics degree include

the Alliance for Minority Participation in STEM, which works to increase opportunities for students and help them complete their undergraduate and graduate degrees in STEM.
Leadership, Education and Development in Science, an organization that empowers Philadelphia middle school students to form an interest in STEM through science experiments and mentors.
the Society of Physics Students, which builds a growing community of students interested in physics through conversations with faculty and volunteer opportunities.

Explore the full list of College of Science and Technology student clubs and organizations.

Study Away

If the demands of your degree program allow it, consider spending a summer or semester overseas building international connections with researchers from other countries. Temple’s study abroad program offers College of Science and Technology students opportunities to spend a summer or semester studying in China, Germany, Italy, South Korea or Taiwan. Learn more about your study abroad options.

Accreditation

ST-PHYS-MS

Additional Program Information

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