Master of Science in Physics

Physics is considered the center of modern science, and it has long fascinated the finest minds of every age. It is a very broad and diverse field, and this diversity is reflected in the Physics Department at San Diego State University. Faculty members are carrying out research covering the very fundamental as well as the very applied. Both undergraduate and graduate students are actively involved in all of the research programs carried out by the faculty. At SDSU, students do not just hear about physics, they do physics. All undergraduate physics majors write a senior thesis under the supervision of a faculty member. Often these senior theses result in research publications for the students. Upper division courses, along with the senior thesis, provide students with an undergraduate education that is not available at most universities. In particular, undergraduate students enjoy the opportunity of conducting research with faculty members in a one-to-one situation. The rationale behind this requirement is that structured courses do not always reflect the difficulties commonly faced in advanced research. Since our students have carried out original and individual research projects, they are poised to assume positions of responsibility relatively quickly, after their graduation. The Master’s degree program is a rigorous curriculum requiring both course work and a thesis (M.S. only). A M.S. degree in Physics from SDSU is a highly respected degree, not just a “consolation prize” as is often the case at other institutions. Like our bachelors students, our Master’s degree graduates are highly regarded by both industry and academia.