MA in Physics

Master of Arts (MA) in Physics

Students must obtain 30 credits to complete the Master of Arts in Physics.

This is an accelerated BA/MA program. 
Students wishing to continue on for a Doctoral Degree in Physics should complete the accelerated BA/MA program. In addition to the 26 credits required by the Physics BA Program, 30 Credits of masters-level courses plus a thesis are required for an MA degree.

Level One of Program:
Complete 26 credits of required BA Physics courses.

Level Two of Program:
These courses serve as a bridge between the corresponding 300 and 700 level courses. A maximum of 6 credits in this level can be used toward the MA degree.

• PHYS 625: Introduction to Quantum Theory [3 cr. ]
• PHYS 605: Theoretical Physics [3 cr.]
• PHYS 615: Electricity/Magnetism (Level II) [3 cr. ]

Level Three of Program:
(All 16 credits are required.)

• PHYS 701: Mathematical Physics (Graduate Level) [4 cr. ]
• PHYS 711: Analytical Dynamics (Graduate Level) [4 cr. ]
• PHYS 715: Electricity and Magnetism I (Graduate Level) [4 cr. ]
• PHYS 725: Quantum Mechanics I (Graduate Level) [4 cr. ]

Thesis Requirement
A Masters thesis is required to complete the BA/MA program. This research work is done under the supervision of a physics faculty advisor. It is recommended students begin work on thesis research as early as possible by discussing the various possible areas of research with members of the faculty. Instead of a thesis, a student may elect to take a comprehensive examination covering the material in the required 700 level courses. However, this is not recommended, as the research experience gained in the thesis work is important as a gauge of the student’s ability to do further research. Also, a completed MA thesis is a written work which is useful for employment purposes. It is possible to receive course credits for this research with faculty permission.

You must meet the following minimum requirements in order to be considered for admission.  Meeting these minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance to the program.

• A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution comparable in standard and content to a bachelor’s degree from Hunter College – College & University Transcripts
• Minimum undergraduate grade point average of 3.0.
• A minimum of 36 credits in undergraduate physics and mathematics courses. These should include intermediate mechanics, electricity, modern physics, and differential equations (A “B” average is required for these courses).
• Two letters of recommendation from appropriate academic or professional references.
• A statement of purpose of approximately 500 words describing your objectives in undertaking graduate study. In reviewing applications, considerable importance is placed on the applicant’s interest in and commitment to advanced study and professional development.

Data scientists apply physics principles to analyze complex datasets, extract insights, and solve problems in various industries.

Average Salary: $70,000 – $130,000

Engineering physicists contribute to the design, development, and improvement of technologies in engineering fields like aerospace, electronics, or materials.

Average Salary: $75,000 – $120,000

Quantitative financial analysts apply physics-related mathematical models to analyze financial markets and investment strategies.

Average Salary: $80,000 – $150,000

Medical physicists work in healthcare settings, applying physics principles to develop and maintain medical imaging equipment and radiation therapy procedures.

Average Salary: $90,000 – $150,000

Nuclear physicists study the properties and behavior of atomic nuclei, working in research, energy production, or nuclear technology development.

Average Salary: $70,000 – $130,000

Optical physicists focus on the behavior of light, developing technologies such as lasers, optical fibers, and sensors for various applications.

Average Salary: $70,000 – $120,000

Physics educators teach at various educational levels, from secondary schools to universities, imparting knowledge of physics principles and theories.

Average Salary: $50,000 – $100,000 (varies by institution and experience)

Research scientists conduct experiments, analyze data, and contribute to scientific discoveries in academia, government labs, or private research institutions.

Average Salary: $60,000 – $120,000

Scientific computing developers design software and algorithms for scientific simulations, data analysis, and modeling in physics-related fields.

Average Salary: $75,000 – $140,000

Space scientists and astronomers study celestial bodies, space phenomena, and cosmology, conducting research in observatories or space agencies.

Average Salary: $70,000 – $130,000