Physics Master of Science Degree
Overview for Physics MS
STEM-OPT Visa Eligible: The STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) program allows full-time, on-campus international students on an F-1 student visa to stay and work in the U.S. for up to three years after graduation.
Advance your knowledge in core areas of physics, including electrodynamics, quantum, classical mechanics, and statistical physics.
Gain research and technical skills while tailoring the program to your personal career interests.
Develop professional skills in leadership, managing research teams, promoting innovation or sustainable technologies, entrepreneurship and intellectual property, and more.
RIT’s Physics MS: Explore Advanced Physics Your Way
A physics master’s prepares you for a variety of professional opportunities. Whether your interests are in quantum mechanics or studying the entire universe with general relativity, you can gain the research and technical skills needed to achieve your career goals.
Students in RIT’s physics MS program are trained in the core areas of physics and can choose sub-areas of physics that align with their interests and career aspirations. Sub-areas may include: atomic, molecular, and optical physics; computational physics; lasers; modern and quantum optics; nanoscale physics; physics education research; radiation, scattering, and spectroscopy; relativity and gravitation; solid-state, materials, and device physics; and soft matter and biological physics.
At RIT you don’t just study these areas, you work directly with faculty conducting research. The School of Physics and Astronomy conducts millions of dollars in research annually in experimental, theoretical, applied, and computational physics. Gain hands-on experience and put your knowledge into practice with access to our labs and equipment and as part of our strategic research centers.
You will also develop professional skills in organization and leadership, managing research teams, promoting innovation or sustainable technologies, entrepreneurship and intellectual property, finance and accounting, data science, scientific visualization, electronics, STEM pedagogy and education research, public policy, and communication. The RIT physics master's program offers robust, advanced training in a flexible format that allows you to meet your personal career goals.
Research Centers
Students and faculty researchers collaborate in our strategic research centers:
- Center for Computational Relativity and Gravitation
- Center for Detectors
- Future Photon Initiative
- Laboratory for Multiwavelength Astrophysics
Labs and Equipment
Students in the physics MS have access to an extensive range of equipment and labs:
- Atomic-Scale Microscopy Laboratory
- Granular Materials Laboratory
- Iontronics and Nanoelectronics Laboratory
- Laboratory for Complex and Biological
- Fluid Studies
- Laboratory for Experimental Cosmology
- Laser Light Scattering Equipment
- Materials Laboratory
- Nanopower Research Laboratories
- Quantum Optics/Imaging Laboratory
- RIT Observatory
- Supercomputer Clusters
- X-Ray and Surface Science Laboratory
Careers in Physics
Nationally, graduates of the program are in demand across all economic sectors, spanning a wide variety of exciting opportunities within the private sector (especially in engineering and computer/information technology), in government labs and agencies, and in education at both the university and secondary levels.
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30% Tuition Scholarship for NY Residents and Graduates
Now is the perfect time to earn your Master’s degree. If you’re a New York state resident with a bachelor’s degree or have/will graduate from a college or university in New York state, you are eligible to receive a 30% tuition scholarship.
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Careers and Experiential Learning
Typical Job Titles
| Optical/Photonics Scientist | Instrumentation and Device Engineer | Quantum Research and Development Scientist |
| Radiation and Detector Physicist | Computational Physicist |
Cooperative Education
What makes an RIT science and math education exceptional? It’s the ability to complete science and math co-ops and gain real-world experience that sets you apart. Co-ops in the College of Science include cooperative education and internship experiences in industry and health care settings, as well as research in an academic, industry, or national lab. These are not only possible at RIT, but are passionately encouraged.
What makes an RIT education exceptional? It’s the ability to complete relevant, hands-on career experience. At the graduate level, and paired with an advanced degree, cooperative education and internships give you the unparalleled credentials that truly set you apart. Learn more about graduate co-op and how it provides you with the career experience employers look for in their next top hires.
National Labs Career Events and Recruiting
The Office of Career Services and Cooperative Education offers National Labs and federally-funded Research Centers from all research areas and sponsoring agencies a variety of options to connect with and recruit students. Students connect with employer partners to gather information on their laboratories and explore co-op, internship, research, and full-time opportunities. These national labs focus on scientific discovery, clean energy development, national security, technology advancements, and more. Recruiting events include our university-wide Fall Career Fair, on-campus and virtual interviews, information sessions, 1:1 networking with lab representatives, and a National Labs Resume Book available to all labs.
Featured Work and Profiles
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![Vijay at the Grand Canyon]()
RIT Physics MS: Exploring Different Interests for Ph.D. Research
The physics MS degree helped Vijay Sundaram ‘21 explore different fields of interest. Now he’s a Ph.D. student in the Microsystems Engineering program using Integrated Photonics for Quantum...
Read More about RIT Physics MS: Exploring Different Interests for Ph.D. Research -
![Aasim Jan standing in front of the Statue of Liberty]()
Physics MS Program: Research From Day One
The opportunity to research from day one was a deciding factor for Aasim Jan ‘21 to enroll in the physics MS program at RIT.
Read More about Physics MS Program: Research From Day One
Curriculum for 2024-2025 for Physics MS
Current Students: See Curriculum Requirements
Physics (research option), MS degree, typical course sequence
| Course | Sem. Cr. Hrs. | |
|---|---|---|
| First Year | ||
| PHYS-601 | Graduate Physics Seminar I This course is the first in a two-semester sequence intended to familiarize students with research activities, practices, and ethics in university, government, industry, and other professional research environments and to introduce students to research tools and skill sets important in various professional environments. As part of the course, students are expected to attend research seminars sponsored by the School of Physics and Astronomy and participate in regular journal club offerings. The course also provides training in scientific writing and presentation skills. Credits earned in this course apply to research requirements. Seminar 2 (Fall). |
1 |
| PHYS-602 | Graduate Physics Seminar II This course is the second in a two-semester sequence intended to familiarize students with research activities, practices, ethics in university, government, industry, and other professional research environments and to introduce students to research tools and skill sets important in various professional environments. The course is intended to help students develop a broad awareness of current professional and funding opportunities. As part of the course, students are expected to attend research seminars sponsored by the School of Physics and Astronomy, to participate in regular journal club offerings, to engage in outreach activities, and to participate in visits to regional laboratories and companies. The course provides training in proposal writing and presentation skills. Credits earned in this course apply to research requirements. Seminar 2 (Spring). |
1 |
| Choose two of the following: | 6 |
|
| PHYS-610 | Mathematical Methods for Physics This graduate-level course in mathematical physics covers partial differential equations, Bessel, Legendre and related functions, Fourier series and transforms. Lecture 3 (Fall). |
|
| PHYS-611 | Classical Electrodynamics I This course is a systematic treatment of electro- and magneto-statics, charges, currents, fields and potentials, dielectrics and magnetic materials, Maxwell's equations and electromagnetic waves. Field theory is treated in terms of scalar and vector potentials. Wave solutions of Maxwell's equations, the behavior of electromagnetic waves at interfaces, guided electromagnetic waves, and simple radiating systems will be covered. (Prerequisites: PHYS-412 or equivalent course or Graduate standing.) Lecture 3 (Fall). |
|
| PHYS-614 | Quantum Theory This course is a graduate level introduction to the modern formulation of quantum mechanics. Topics include Hilbert space, Dirac notation, quantum dynamics, Feynman’s formulation, representation theory, angular momentum, identical particles, approximation methods including time-independent and time-dependent perturbation theory. The course will emphasize the underlying algebraic structure of the theory with an emphasis on current applications. (Prerequisites: This course is restricted to students in the PHYS-MS, ASTP-MS and ASTP-PHD programs.) Lecture 3 (Fall). |
|
| Choose one of the following: | 3 |
|
| PHYS-630 | Classical Mechanics This course is a systematic presentation of advanced topics in Newtonian kinematics and dynamics. Topics include Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulations of dynamics, central force problems, rigid body kinematics and dynamics, theory of small oscillations, canonical transformations, and Hamilton-Jacobi theory. Lecture 3 (Spring). |
|
| PHYS-640 | Statistical Physics This course is a graduate-level study of the concepts and mathematical structure of statistical physics. Topics include the microcanonical, canonical, and grand-canonical ensembles and their relationships to thermodynamics, including classical, Fermi, and Bose-Einstein statistics. The course includes illustrations and applications from the theories of phase transitions, solids, liquids, gases, radiation, soft condensed matter, and chemical and electrochemical equilibria. The course also treats non-equilibrium topics including the kinetic theory of transport processes, the theory of Brownian motion, and the fluctuation-dissipation theorem. (This course is restricted to students with graduate standing in PHYS or ASTP programs.) Lecture 3 (Spring). |
|
| Choose one of the following: | 3 |
|
| PHYS-790 | Graduate Research & Thesis Graduate-level research by the candidate on an appropriate topic as arranged between the candidate and the research advisor. (This course requires permission of the Instructor to enroll.) Thesis (Fall, Spring, Summer). |
|
Physics (or closely related) Elective |
||
Physics (or closely related) Electives |
6 | |
| Second Year | ||
| Choose one of the following: | 3 |
|
| PHYS-610 | Mathematical Methods for Physics This graduate-level course in mathematical physics covers partial differential equations, Bessel, Legendre and related functions, Fourier series and transforms. Lecture 3 (Fall). |
|
| PHYS-611 | Classical Electrodynamics I This course is a systematic treatment of electro- and magneto-statics, charges, currents, fields and potentials, dielectrics and magnetic materials, Maxwell's equations and electromagnetic waves. Field theory is treated in terms of scalar and vector potentials. Wave solutions of Maxwell's equations, the behavior of electromagnetic waves at interfaces, guided electromagnetic waves, and simple radiating systems will be covered. (Prerequisites: PHYS-412 or equivalent course or Graduate standing.) Lecture 3 (Fall). |
|
| PHYS-614 | Quantum Theory This course is a graduate level introduction to the modern formulation of quantum mechanics. Topics include Hilbert space, Dirac notation, quantum dynamics, Feynman’s formulation, representation theory, angular momentum, identical particles, approximation methods including time-independent and time-dependent perturbation theory. The course will emphasize the underlying algebraic structure of the theory with an emphasis on current applications. (Prerequisites: This course is restricted to students in the PHYS-MS, ASTP-MS and ASTP-PHD programs.) Lecture 3 (Fall). |
|
| PHYS-790 | Graduate Research & Thesis Graduate-level research by the candidate on an appropriate topic as arranged between the candidate and the research advisor. (This course requires permission of the Instructor to enroll.) Thesis (Fall, Spring, Summer). |
7 |
| Total Semester Credit Hours | 30 |
|
Physics (professional option), MS degree, typical course sequence
| Course | Sem. Cr. Hrs. | |
|---|---|---|
| First Year | ||
| PHYS-601 | Graduate Physics Seminar I This course is the first in a two-semester sequence intended to familiarize students with research activities, practices, and ethics in university, government, industry, and other professional research environments and to introduce students to research tools and skill sets important in various professional environments. As part of the course, students are expected to attend research seminars sponsored by the School of Physics and Astronomy and participate in regular journal club offerings. The course also provides training in scientific writing and presentation skills. Credits earned in this course apply to research requirements. Seminar 2 (Fall). |
1 |
| PHYS-602 | Graduate Physics Seminar II This course is the second in a two-semester sequence intended to familiarize students with research activities, practices, ethics in university, government, industry, and other professional research environments and to introduce students to research tools and skill sets important in various professional environments. The course is intended to help students develop a broad awareness of current professional and funding opportunities. As part of the course, students are expected to attend research seminars sponsored by the School of Physics and Astronomy, to participate in regular journal club offerings, to engage in outreach activities, and to participate in visits to regional laboratories and companies. The course provides training in proposal writing and presentation skills. Credits earned in this course apply to research requirements. Seminar 2 (Spring). |
1 |
| Choose two of the following: | 6 |
|
| PHYS-610 | Mathematical Methods for Physics This graduate-level course in mathematical physics covers partial differential equations, Bessel, Legendre and related functions, Fourier series and transforms. Lecture 3 (Fall). |
|
| PHYS-611 | Classical Electrodynamics I This course is a systematic treatment of electro- and magneto-statics, charges, currents, fields and potentials, dielectrics and magnetic materials, Maxwell's equations and electromagnetic waves. Field theory is treated in terms of scalar and vector potentials. Wave solutions of Maxwell's equations, the behavior of electromagnetic waves at interfaces, guided electromagnetic waves, and simple radiating systems will be covered. (Prerequisites: PHYS-412 or equivalent course or Graduate standing.) Lecture 3 (Fall). |
|
| PHYS-614 | Quantum Theory This course is a graduate level introduction to the modern formulation of quantum mechanics. Topics include Hilbert space, Dirac notation, quantum dynamics, Feynman’s formulation, representation theory, angular momentum, identical particles, approximation methods including time-independent and time-dependent perturbation theory. The course will emphasize the underlying algebraic structure of the theory with an emphasis on current applications. (Prerequisites: This course is restricted to students in the PHYS-MS, ASTP-MS and ASTP-PHD programs.) Lecture 3 (Fall). |
|
| Choose one of the following: | 3 |
|
| PHYS-630 | Classical Mechanics This course is a systematic presentation of advanced topics in Newtonian kinematics and dynamics. Topics include Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulations of dynamics, central force problems, rigid body kinematics and dynamics, theory of small oscillations, canonical transformations, and Hamilton-Jacobi theory. Lecture 3 (Spring). |
|
| PHYS-640 | Statistical Physics This course is a graduate-level study of the concepts and mathematical structure of statistical physics. Topics include the microcanonical, canonical, and grand-canonical ensembles and their relationships to thermodynamics, including classical, Fermi, and Bose-Einstein statistics. The course includes illustrations and applications from the theories of phase transitions, solids, liquids, gases, radiation, soft condensed matter, and chemical and electrochemical equilibria. The course also treats non-equilibrium topics including the kinetic theory of transport processes, the theory of Brownian motion, and the fluctuation-dissipation theorem. (This course is restricted to students with graduate standing in PHYS or ASTP programs.) Lecture 3 (Spring). |
|
Physics (or closely related) Elective |
3 | |
Professional Electives or Physics (or closely related) Elective |
6 | |
| Second Year | ||
| PHYS-780 | Graduate Physics Project This course is a graduate capstone project for students enrolled in the Professional Master’s track of the MS Physics Program. (This course requires permission of the Instructor to enroll.) Lecture (Fall, Spring, Summer). |
4 |
Professional Elective or Physics (or closely related) Elective |
3 | |
Physics (or closely related) Elective |
3 | |
| Total Semester Credit Hours | 30 |
|
Electives
These lists are representative of the types of elective courses available to students in the physics program. Other RIT courses may be used as electives upon approval by the program director.
Physics (or closely related) electives
| Course | |
|---|---|
| ASTP-660 | Introduction to Relativity and Gravitation This course is the first in a two-course sequence that introduces Einstein’s theory of General Relativity as a tool in modern astrophysics. The course will cover various aspects of both Special and General Relativity, with applications to situations in which strong gravitational fields play a critical role, such as black holes and gravitational radiation. Topics include differential geometry, curved spacetime, gravitational waves, and the Schwarzschild black hole. The target audience is graduate students in the astrophysics, physics, and mathematical modeling (geometry and gravitation) programs. (This course is restricted to students in the ASTP-MS, ASTP-PHD, MATHML-PHD and PHYS-MS programs.) Lecture 3 (Fall). |
| ASTP-861 | Advanced Relativity and Gravitation This course is the second in a two-course sequence that introduces Einstein’s theory of General Relativity as a tool in modern astrophysics. The course will cover various aspects of General Relativity, with applications to situations in which strong gravitational fields play a critical role, such as black holes and gravitational radiation. Topics include advanced differential geometry, generic black holes, energy production in black-hole physics, black-hole dynamics, neutron stars, and methods for solving the Einstein equations. The target audience is graduate students in the astrophysics, physics, and mathematical modeling (geometry and gravitation) programs. (Prerequisite: ASTP-660 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Spring). |
| CLRS-601 | Principles of Color Science This course covers the principles of color science including theory, application, and hands-on experience incorporated into the lectures. Topics include color appearance (hue, lightness, brightness, chroma, saturation, colorfulness), colorimetry (spectral, XYZ, xyY, L*a*b*, L*C*abhab, ΔE*ab, ΔE00), the use of linear algebra in color science and color imaging, metamerism, chromatic adaptation, color inconstancy, color rendering, color appearance models (CIECAM02), and image appearance models (S-CIELAB, iCAM). (Prerequisites: Graduate standing in CLRS-MS, IMGS-MS, CLRS-PHD or IMGS-PHD.) Lecture 3 (Fall). |
| CLRS-602 | Color Physics and Applications This course explores the relationship between a material’s color and its constituent raw materials such as colorants, binding media, substrates, and overcoats. These can be determined using a variety of physical models based on absorption, scattering, luminescence, and interference phenomena. These models enable the production of paints, plastics, colored paper, printing, and others to have specific colors. Accompanying laboratories will implement and optimize these models using filters, artist opaque and translucent paints and varnishes including metallic and pearlescent colorants, and inkjet printing. Statistical techniques include principal component analysis and linear and nonlinear optimization. (Prerequisites: CLRS-601 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Spring). |
| EEEE-605 | Modern Optics for Engineers This course provides a broad overview of modern optics in preparation for more advanced courses in the rapidly developing fields of optical fiber communications, image processing, super-resolution imaging, optical properties of materials, and novel optical materials. Topics covered: geometrical optics, propagation of light, diffraction, interferometry, Fourier optics, optical properties of materials, polarization and liquid crystals, and fiber optics. In all topics, light will be viewed as signals that carry information (data) in the time or spatial domain. After taking this course, the students should have a firm foundation in classical optics. (Prerequisite: EEEE-374 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Spring). |
| EEEE-689 | Fundamentals of MEMS Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) are widely used in aerospace, automotive, biotechnology, instrumentation, robotics, manufacturing, and other applications. There is a critical need to synthesize and design high performance MEMS which satisfy the requirements and specifications imposed. Integrated approaches must be applied to design and optimized MEMS, which integrate microelectromechanical motion devices, ICs, and microsensors. This course covers synthesis, design, modeling, simulation, analysis, control and fabrication of MEMS. Synthesis, design and analysis of MEMS will be covered including CAD. (Prerequisites: This course is restricted to graduate students in the EEEE-MS, EEEE-BS/MS program.) Lecture 3 (Fall). |
| IMGS-616 | Fourier Methods for Imaging This course develops the mathematical methods required to describe continuous and discrete linear systems, with special emphasis on tasks required in the analysis or synthesis of imaging systems. The classification of systems as linear/nonlinear and shift variant/invariant, development and use of the convolution integral, Fourier methods as applied to the analysis of linear systems. The physical meaning and interpretation of transform methods are emphasized. (This class is restricted to graduate students in the IMGS-MS or IMGS-PHD programs.) Lecture 3 (Fall). |
| IMGS-619 | Radiometry This course is focused on the fundamentals of radiation propagation as it relates to making quantitative measurements with imaging systems. The course includes an introduction to common radiometric terms, detector figures of merit, and noise concepts. (This course is restricted to Graduate students.) Lecture 2 (Fall). |
| IMGS-628 | Design and Fabrication of Solid State Cameras The purpose of this course is to provide the student with hands-on experience in building a CCD camera. The course provides the basics of CCD operation including an overview, CCD clocking, analog output circuitry, cooling, and evaluation criteria. (This course is restricted to students with graduate standing in the College of Science or the Kate Gleason College of Engineering or Graduate Computing and Information Sciences.) Lab 6, Lecture 1 (Fall). |
| IMGS-633 | Optics for Imaging This course describes Fourier transform of continuous functions, followed by its application to describe optical imaging systems in the wave model, including the concepts of point spread function, optical transfer function, and image resolution. Analysis of optical imaging systems using the ray model for systems composed of one thick lens and two thin lenses are considered. (Prerequisites: IMGS-617 or equivalent course.) Lecture 2 (Spring). |
| IMGS-639 | Principles of Solid State Imaging Arrays This course covers the basics of solid state physics, electrical engineering, linear systems and imaging needed to understand modern focal plane array design and use. The course emphasizes knowledge of the working of CMOS and infrared arrays. (This course is restricted to students with graduate standing in the College of Science or the Kate Gleason College of Engineering or Graduate Computing and Information Sciences.) Lecture 3 (Fall). |
| IMGS-642 | Testing of Focal Plane Arrays This course is an introduction to the techniques used for the testing of solid state imaging detectors such as CCDs, CMOS and Infrared Arrays. Focal plane array users in industry, government and university need to ensure that key operating parameters for such devices either fall within an operating range or that the limitation to the performance is understood. This is a hands-on course where the students will measure the performance parameters of a particular camera in detail. (This course is restricted to students with graduate standing in the College of Science or the Kate Gleason College of Engineering or Graduate Computing and Information Sciences.) Lab 6, Lecture 1 (Spring). |
| MATH-602 | Numerical Analysis I This course covers numerical techniques for the solution of nonlinear equations, interpolation, differentiation, integration, and matrix algebra. (Prerequisites: MATH-411 or equivalent course and graduate standing.) Lecture 3 (Fall). |
| MATH-702 | Numerical Analysis II The course covers the solutions of linear systems by direct and iterative methods, numerical methods for computing eigenvalues, theoretical and numerical methods for unconstrained and constrained optimization, and Monte-Carlo simulation. (Prerequisite: MATH-602 or equivalent course and graduate standing.) Lecture 3 (Spring). |
| MATH-712 | Numerical Methods for Partial Differential Equations This is an advanced course in numerical methods that introduces students to computational techniques for solving partial differential equations, especially those arising in applications. Topics include: finite difference methods for hyperbolic, parabolic, and elliptic partial differential equations, consistency, stability and convergence of finite difference schemes. (Prerequisite: MATH-702 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall). |
| MATH-831 | Mathematical Fluid Dynamics The study of the dynamics of fluids is a central theme of modern applied mathematics. It is used to model a vast range of physical phenomena and plays a vital role in science and engineering. This course provides an introduction to the basic ideas of fluid dynamics, with an emphasis on rigorous treatment of fundamentals and the mathematical developments and issues. The course focuses on the background and motivation for recent mathematical and numerical work on the Euler and Navier-Stokes equations, and presents a mathematically intensive investigation of various models equations of fluid dynamics. (Prerequisite: MATH-741 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer). |
| MCEE-620 | Photovoltaic Science and Engineering This course focuses on the principle and engineering fundamentals of photovoltaic (PV) energy conversion. The course covers modern silicon PV devices, including the basic physics, ideal and non-ideal models, device parameters and design, and device fabrication. The course discusses crystalline, multi-crystalline, amorphous thin films solar cells and their manufacturing. Students will become familiar with basic semiconductor processes and how they are employed in solar cells manufacturing. The course further introduces third generation advanced photovoltaic concepts including compound semiconductors, spectral conversion, and organic and polymeric devices. PV applications, environmental, sustainability and economic issues will also be discussed. Evaluations include assignments and exams, a research/term paper on a current PV topic. (This course requires permission of the Instructor to enroll.) Lecture 3 (Spring). |
| MCEE-713 | Quantum and Solid-State Physics for Nanostructures This course describes the key elements of quantum mechanics and solid state physics that are necessary in understanding the modern semiconductor devices. Quantum mechanical topics include solution of Schrodinger equation solution for potential wells and barriers, subsequently applied to tunneling and carrier confinement. Solid state topics include electronic structure of atoms, crystal structures, direct and reciprocal lattices. Detailed discussion is devoted to energy band theory, effective mass theory, energy-momentum relations in direct and indirect band gap semiconductors, intrinsic and extrinsic semiconductors, statistical physics applied to carriers in semiconductors, scattering and generation and recombination processes. (Prerequisites: Graduate standing in the MCEE-MS or MCEMANU-ME program or permission of instructor.) Lecture 3 (Fall). |
| MCSE-702 | Introduction to Nanotechnology and Microsystems This course will introduce first year Microsystems Engineering students to microsystems and nanotechnology. Topics include, micro and nano systems; MEMS, bioMEMS, MOEMS, and NEMS; nanomaterials; nanopatterning; characterization and analytical techniques; self-assembly approaches; nanoelectronics and nanophotonics; nanomagnetics; organic electronics; and microfluidics. The course will be taught by faculty in the individual fields of nanotechnology and microsystems. (This course is restricted to students in the MCSE-PHD program or those with permission of instructor.) Lecture 3 (Fall). |
| MCSE-712 | Nonlinear Optics This course introduces nonlinear concepts applied to the field of optics. Students learn how materials respond to high intensity electric fields and how the materials response: enables the generation of other frequencies, can focus light to the point of breakdown or create waves that do not disperse in time or space solitons, and how atoms can be cooled to absolute zero using a(laser. Students will be exposed to many applications of nonlinear concepts and to some current research subjects, especially at the nanoscale. Students will also observe several nonlinear-optical experiments in a state-of-the-art photonics laboratory. (Prerequisites: EEEE-374 or equivalent course or graduate student standing in the MCSE-PHD program.) Lecture 3 (Spring). |
| MCSE-713 | Lasers This course introduces students to the design, operation and (applications of lasers (Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of (Radiation). Topics: Ray tracing, Gaussian beams, Optical cavities, (Atomic radiation, Laser oscillation and amplification, Mode locking and Q switching, and Applications of lasers. (Prerequisites: EEEE-374 or equivalent course or graduate student standing in the MCSE-PHD program.) Lecture 3 (Fall). |
| MCSE-731 | Integrated Optical Devices & Systems This course discusses basic goals, principles and techniques of integrated optical devices and systems, and explains how the various optoelectronic devices of an integrated optical system operate and how they are integrated into a system. Emphasis in this course will be on planar passive optical devices. Topics include optical waveguides, optical couplers, micro-optical resonators, surface plasmons, photonic crystals, modulators, design tools and fabrication techniques, and the applications of optical integrated circuits. Some of the current state-of-the-art devices and systems will be investigated by reference to journal articles. Lecture 3 (Fall). |
| MCSE-771 | Optoelectronics To provide an introduction to the operating principles of optoelectronic devices used in various current and future information processing and transmission systems. Emphasis in this course will be on the active optoelectronic devices used in optical fiber communication systems. Topics include pulse propagation in dispersive media, polarization devices, optical fiber, quantum states of light, fundamental of lasers, semiconductor optics, light-emitting diodes, laser diodes, semiconductor photon detectors, optical modulators, quantum wells, and optical fiber communication systems. (Prerequisite: This class is restricted to degree-seeking graduate students, 4th or 5th year status or those with permission from instructor.) Lecture 3 (Spring). |
| MCSE-889 | Special Topics Topics and subject areas that are not regularly offered are provided under this course. Such courses are offered in a normal format; that is, regularly scheduled class sessions with an instructor. (This course is restricted to students in the MCSE-PHD program or those with permission of instructor.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). |
| MTSE-601 | Materials Science This course provides an understanding of the relationship between structure and properties necessary for the development of new materials. Topics include atomic and crystal structure, crystalline defects, diffusion, theories, strengthening mechanisms, ferrous alloys, cast irons, structure of ceramics and polymeric materials and corrosion principles. Term paper on materials topic. (This class is restricted to degree-seeking graduate students or those with permission from instructor.) Lecture 3 (Fall). |
| MTSE-632 | Solid State Science This course is an introduction to the physics of the solid state including crystal structure, x-ray diffraction by crystals, crystal binding, elastic waves and lattice vibrations, thermal properties, the free electron model of solids, and band theory and its applications. (This course is restricted to MSENG-MS Major students.) Lecture 3 (Fall). |
| PHYS-612 | Classical Electrodynamics II This course is an advanced treatment of electrodynamics and radiation. Classical scattering theory including Mie scattering, Rayleigh scattering, and the Born approximation will be covered. Relativistic electrodynamics will be applied to charged particles in electromagnetic fields and magnetohydrodynamics. (Prerequisites: PHYS-611 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Spring). |
| PHYS-616 | Data Analysis for the Physical Sciences This course is an introductory graduate-level overview of techniques in and applications of data analysis in physics and related fields. Topics examined include noise and probability, model fitting and hypothesis testing, signal processing, Fourier methods, and advanced computation and simulation techniques. Applications are drawn from across the contemporary physical sciences, including soft matter, solid state, biophysics, and materials science. The subjects covered also have applications for students of astronomy, signal processing, scientific computation, and others. (Prerequisites: PHYS-316 or equivalent course or Graduate standing.) Lecture 3 (Biannual). |
| PHYS-667 | Quantum Optics This course explores the fundamental nature of electromagnetic radiation. This course will introduce the student to the second quantized description of light with special attention to its role in a modern understanding of and far reaching utility in emerging technologies. Starting with an appropriate formulation for the quantum mechanical electromagnetic radiation field, we will study quantum mechanical models for interactions with matter, and we will test these models through a series of experiments. (Prerequisites: PHYS-411 and PHYS-414 or equivalent course or Graduate standing.) Lab 3, Lecture 3 (Spring). |
| PHYS-670 | Teaching and Learning Physics This course covers the fundamentals of how students learn and understand key ideas in physics and how theory can inform effective pedagogical practice. Through examination of physics content, pedagogy and problems, through teaching, and through research in physics education, students will explore the meaning and means of teaching physics. Topics include: misconceptions, resources and phenomenological primitives, theoretical foundations for active-learning, constructivism, epistemological, affective, and social-cultural issues that affect learning, guided and unguided reflection strategies, design-oriented curricula, and effective uses of educational labs and technology. Useful for all students, especially for those in interested in physics, teaching and education research. (This class is restricted to degree-seeking graduate students or those with permission from instructor.) Lecture 3 (Spring). |
| PHYS-689 | Graduate Special Topics This is a graduate course on a topic that is not part of the formal curriculum. This course is structured as an ordinary course and has specific prerequisites, contact hours, and examination procedures. Lec/Lab 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer). |
| PHYS-715 | Advanced Quantum Theory This course is a graduate-level introduction to quantum mechanics that is a continuation of COS-PHYS-614. Topics include review and expansion of approximation methods, mixed states and density operators, identical particles, scattering theory, quantization of the nonrelativistic string, quantization of the electromagnetic field, interaction of radiation with matter, the Klein-Gordon and Dirac equations, and second quantization. (Prerequisite: PHYS-614 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Spring). |
| PHYS-720 | Computational Methods for Physics This hands-on course introduces students to the different ways that scientists use computers to address problems in physics. The course covers root finding, interpolation, numerical differentiation and integration, numerical linear algebra, the solution of ordinary and partial differential equations, fast Fourier transforms, numerical statistics, and optional topics drawn from areas of current physics research. In each of these areas, students will write their own codes in an appropriate language. Lecture 3 (Biannual). |
| PHYS-732 | Advanced Solid State Physics This is an advanced graduate course in the physics of the solid state. Topics include crystal structure and scattering, models involving non-interacting and interacting electrons, solid-state physics of electronic components, cohesion and elasticity of solids, theory of phonons, and magnetic properties of solids. Lecture 3 (Spring). |
| PHYS-751 | Soft Matter Physics This course is a graduate-level study of the physics of soft matter systems. Topics include the forces between molecules and surfaces, statistical models of soft matter solutions, self-assembly, elasticity, and viscoelasticity. The course includes illustrations and applications to polymers, colloids, surfactants, liquid crystals, and gels. Lecture 3 (Biannual). |
| PHYS-752 | Biological Physics This graduate-level course in biological physics provides an introductory survey of biological physics, followed by the topics of (i) forces between atoms, molecules, particles, and surfaces important for living systems; (ii) equilibrium statistical physics solution models relevant for biological systems; (iii) self-assembling systems in living cells and organisms; (iv) elasticity and viscoelasticity in cells and organisms; and (v) examples of active matter. Lecture 3 (Biannual). |
| PHYS-760 | Radiation Interactions & Scattering Probes of Matter This course is a graduate-level study of the radiation-matter interactions with a particular focus on scattering as a probe of materials and condensed-matter systems. Topics include a classical treatment of electromagnetic radiation and scattering, quantum aspects of electromagnetic interactions, a survey of various types of photon and neutron scattering experiments, the physical basis of double-differential scattering cross-sections, and
scattering as a probe of structure and dynamics. Lecture 3 (Biannual). |
| PHYS-767 | Optical Coherence and Light-Matter Interactions This graduate-level introduction to optics helps prepare students for research in cutting-edge optics laboratories and theoretical groups at RIT. Topics include diffraction, nature and propagation of temporal and spatial classical coherence, polarimetry, applications of second-order coherence, two-level systems, classical and semi-classical treatments of light-matter interaction, and selected topics from nonlinear optics. (This class is restricted to degree-seeking graduate students or those with permission from instructor.) Lecture 3 (Biannual). |
| PHYS-770 | Advanced Methods in Physics Education Research This course provides an understanding of advanced quantitative and qualitative methods in physics education research, including statistical analysis of quantitative data, developing and conducting surveys and interviews in various formats analysis approaches for qualitative data, needs assessments, and program evaluation. The course is designed to prepare researchers to conduct high quality physics education research using various approaches; including case study, ethnography, mixed methods, and outcome-based research. Attention will also be paid to developing a research question that matches one’s access to data and methodology, progressive hypothesis refinement, and crafting sound interpretations from rigorous data analysis. Students will also be introduced to institutional requirements, including Institutional Review Board (IRB) procedures and commonly used ethical trainings. (This class is restricted to degree-seeking graduate students or those with permission from instructor.) Lecture 3 (Biannual). |
| PHYS-799 | Independent Study This course is a faculty-directed tutorial of appropriate topics that are not part of the formal curriculum. The level of study is appropriate for a graduate-level student. Ind Study (Fall, Spring, Summer). |
Professional electives
| Course | |
|---|---|
| ACCT-603 | Accounting for Decision Makers A graduate-level introduction to the use of accounting information by decision makers. The focus of the course is on two subject areas: (1) financial reporting concepts/issues and the use of general-purpose financial statements by internal and external decision makers and (2) the development and use of special-purpose financial information intended to assist managers in planning and controlling an organization's activities. Generally accepted accounting principles and issues related to International Financial Reporting Standards are considered while studying the first subject area and ethical issues impacting accounting are considered throughout. (This class is restricted to degree-seeking graduate students or those with permission from instructor.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer). |
| ACCT-794 | Cost Management in Technical Organizations A first course in accounting for students in technical disciplines. Topics include the distinction between external and internal accounting, cost behavior, product costing, profitability analysis, performance evaluation, capital budgeting, and transfer pricing. Emphasis is on issues encountered in technology intensive manufacturing organizations. *Note: This course is not intended for Saunders College of Business students. (Enrollment in this course requires permission from the department offering the course.) Lecture 3 (Spring). |
| BLEG-612 | Legal and Accounting Issues for New Ventures An introduction to basic legal and accounting issues that managers and developers of new business ventures must understand at the outset. Topics include financial statements prepared using both the cash basis and GAAP, differences among basic legal forms of business organization and related income tax issues, budgeting and cash flow management, and product costing. The focus is on understanding the legal and accounting components of the business plan. Lecture 3 (Spring). |
| CSCI-603 | Computational Problem Solving This course focuses on the application of computational thinking using a problem-centered approach. Specific topics include: expression of algorithms in pseudo-code and a programming language; elementary data structures such as lists, trees and graphs; problem solving using recursion; and debugging and testing. Assignments (both in class and homework) requiring a pseudo-code solution and implementation in a programming language are an integral part of the course. Note: This course serves as a bridge course for graduate students and cannot be taken by undergraduate students without permission from the CS Undergraduate Program Coordinator. (This course is restricted to students in COMPSCI-MS.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). |
| CSCI-605 | Advanced Object-Oriented Programming Concepts This course focuses on identifying advanced object-oriented programming concepts and implementing them in the context of specific problems. This course covers advanced concepts such as event-driven programming, design patterns, distributed and concurrent programming, and the use, design and implementation of applications. Assignments (both in class and as homework) requiring a solution to a problem and an implementation in code are an integral part of the course. Note: This course serves as a bridge course for graduate students and cannot be taken by undergraduate students without permission from the CS Undergraduate Program Coordinator. (This course is restricted to students in COMPSCI-MS.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). |
| CSCI-610 | Foundations of Computer Graphics Foundations of Computer Graphics is a study of the hardware and software principles of interactive raster graphics. Topics include an introduction to the basic concepts, 2-D and 3-D modeling and transformations, viewing transformations, projections, rendering techniques, graphical software packages and graphics systems. The course will focus on rasterization techniques and emphasize the hardware rasterization pipeline including the use of hardware shaders. Students will use a standard computer graphics API to reinforce concepts and study fundamental computer graphics algorithms. Programming projects and a survey of the current graphics literature will be required. Note: students who complete CSCI-510 may not take CSCI-610 for credit. (Prerequisite: (CSCI-603 or CSCI-605 with a grade of B or better) or (CSCI-243 or SWEN-262). May not take and receive credit for CSCI-610 and CSCI-510. If earned credit for/or currently enrolled in CSCI-510 you will not be permitted to enroll in CSCI-610.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). |
| CSCI-620 | Introduction to Big Data This course provides a broad introduction to the exploration and management of large datasets being generated and used in the modern world. First, practical techniques used in exploratory data analysis and mining are introduced; topics include data preparation, visualization, statistics for understanding data, and grouping and prediction techniques. Second, approaches used to store, retrieve, and manage data in the real world are presented; topics include traditional database systems, query languages, and data integrity and quality. Case studies will examine issues in data capture, organization, storage, retrieval, visualization, and analysis in diverse settings such as urban crime, drug research, census data, social networking, and space exploration. Big data exploration and management projects, a term paper and a presentation are required. Sufficient background in database systems and statistics is recommended. (Prerequisite: CSCI-603 or CSCI-605 with a grade of B or better or (CSCI-320 or SWEN-344). May not take and receive credit for CSCI-620 and CSCI-420. If earned credit for/or currently enrolled in CSCI-420 you will not be permitted to enroll in CSCI-620.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer). |
| CSCI-714 | Scientific Visualization Visualizations of scientific data are helpful in order to understand complex, n-dimensional behavior of simulations. This course covers techniques that are needed to visualize n-dimensional data sets produced by real scientific simulations. Topics include: Visualization design, discrete visualization techniques, scalar and volume visualization techniques and perception of visualizations. Additionally topics such as distributed file systems, specialized file systems and distributed computing needed in order to create the visualizations will be covered. A team project and presentations are required. Course offered every other year. (Prerequisites: CSCI-610 or CSCI-510 or 4005-762 or 4003-572 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Spring). |
| CSCI-720 | Big Data Analytics This course provides a graduate-level introduction to the concepts and techniques used in data mining. Topics include the knowledge discovery process; prototype development and building data mining models; current issues and application domains for data mining; and legal and ethical issues involved in collecting and mining data. Both algorithmic and application issues are emphasized to permit students to gain the knowledge needed to conduct research in data mining and apply data mining techniques in practical applications. Data mining projects, a term paper, and presentations are required. (Prerequisites: CSCI-620 or (CSCI-420 and CSCI-320) or (4003-485 and 4003-487) or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). |
| DECS-744 | Project Management A study in the principles of project management and the application of various tools and techniques for project planning and control. This course focuses on the leadership role of the project manager, and the roles and responsibilities of the team members. Considerable emphasis is placed on statements of work and work breakdown structures. The course uses a combination of lecture/discussion, group exercises, and case studies. (This class is restricted to degree-seeking graduate students or those with permission from instructor.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). |
| EEEE-610 | Analog IC Design This is a foundation course in analog integrated circuit design and is a prerequisite for the graduate courses in RF & mixed-signal IC design (EEEE-726 and EEEE-730). The course covers the following topics: (1) Review of CMOS technology, MOSFET models and Frequency Response (2) Single-stage amplifiers (3) Current mirrors and biasing (4) Current and voltage references (5) Differential amplifiers (6) Cascoding (7) Feedback and Stability (8) OTAs (9) Matching and layout techniques (10) Multi-stage op-amps (11) Noise Analysis (12) Linearity in analog circuits (13) Switched-cap circuits. (Prerequisites: EEEE-480 or equivalent course or graduate standing in EEEE-MS.) Lab 2, Lecture 3 (Fall). |
| EEEE-620 | Design of Digital Systems The purpose of this course is to expose students to complete, custom design of a CMOS digital system. It emphasizes equally analytical and CAD based design methodologies, starting at the highest level of abstraction (RTL, front-end)), and down to the physical implementation level (back-end). In the lab students learn how to capture a design using both schematic and hardware description languages, how to synthesize a design, and how to custom layout a design. Testing, debugging, and verification strategies are formally introduced in the lecture, and practically applied in the lab projects. Students are further required to choose a research topic in the area of digital systems, perform bibliographic research, and write a research paper following a prescribed format. (Prerequisites: EEEE-420 and EEEE-480 or equivalent courses or graduate standing in EEEE-MS.) Lab 3, Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). |
| ESCB-705 | Economics and Decision Modeling The course focuses on the fundamental economic theories most useful for the management of a firm in a global environment. Microeconomic theories and current events are used to explain the performance of the market system and help managers formulate effective pricing and business decisions. Macroeconomic theories and current events are used to explain the direction of the domestic and global economy to help managers understand the implications, including foreign direct investment, for their companies. Students will learn to explain and predict changes in economic growth, inflation, interest rates, international trade and foreign exchange rates. (This class is restricted to degree-seeking graduate students or those with permission from instructor.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer). |
| FINC-605 | Financing New Ventures A focus on financial issues affecting an entrepreneur. The course emphasizes, identifies, and follows the wealth creation cycle. The wealth creation cycle begins with an idea for a good, product or service, progresses to an initial company startup, passes through successive stages of growth, considers alternative approaches to resource financing, and ends with harvesting the wealth created through an initial public offering, merger or sale. Identification and valuation of business opportunities, how and from whom entrepreneurs raise funds, how financial contracts are structured to both manage risk and align incentives, and alternative approaches by which entrepreneurs identify exit strategies are reviewed. Lecture 3 (Fall). |
| FINC-721 | Financial Analysis for Managers An examination of basic financial theories, techniques, and practices. Topics include: time value of money, valuation, capital asset pricing, risk and diversification, cost of capital, capital budgeting techniques and spreadsheet analysis. (Prerequisites: ACCT-603 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). |
| ISUS-704 | Industrial Ecology Industrial ecology is the study of the interaction between industrial and ecological systems. Students in this course learn to assess the impact and interrelations of production systems on the natural environment by mastering fundamental concepts of ecology as a metaphor for industrial systems and the resultant tools from industrial ecology, including life cycle assessment, material flow analysis, and energy and greenhouse gas accounting. This is a core course within the Sustainability Ph.D. program. (This class is restricted to students in the SUSTSY-MS and SUST-PHD programs.) Lecture 3 (Fall). |
| ISUS-705 | Technology, Policy, and Sustainability Public policy is a multidisciplinary field aimed at understanding how policy and
regulation can be used to achieve certain social goals. These goals may include the notion of sustainability, whereby society’s present needs are met without compromising the ability to meet society’s future needs. This course introduces students to public policy and its role in building a sustainable society. The course places particular emphasis on the policy process; the relationship among technology, policy, and the environment; and policy mechanisms for addressing market and government failures that threaten sustainability. Lecture 3 (Fall). |
| ITDS-611 | STEM Education: Concepts and Practice This course is an introduction to concepts and practices that support effective STEM education. The course will emphasize concrete applications: specific pedagogical techniques, how they support a wide range of learning objectives, and why they are effective. Specific pedagogical techniques include: flipped classrooms, small-group workshops, think-pair-share methodologies, elicit/confront/resolve approaches, and project-based curricula. Students will learn how to connect specific pedagogical approaches with sophisticated course objectives that support diverse student populations to achieve conceptual, epistemological, communication, critical thinking, problem solving, and affective goals. Students will read foundational papers that describe concepts of how people learn to provide a theoretical understanding of why particular approaches are more effective. Students will also be introduced to “action research” methods by which STEM educators can assess effectiveness in their own classrooms. Lecture 3 (Biannual). |
| ITDS-613 | STEM Education: Research Methods and Theory This course is an introduction to major research themes, methodology, theories of learning, and research ethics relevant to discipline-based education research (DBER) in biology, chemistry, and physics. Research methods related to studying learning and development of expertise in science will include: the design of quantitative studies (surveys, assessments, and statistical analysis methods) and the design of qualitative studies (interviews, observations, coding). Relevant theories of learning will include cognitivist, developmental, and social/cultural perspectives. The course will use case studies from current literature on biology, chemistry, and physics education research to introduce these topics. Students will apply their understanding to develop and execute a semester-long research project in STEM education research. As part of the research project, students will develop a research question, become familiar with procedures to satisfy RIT’s Institutional Review Board (IRB) and ethical requirements, and apply a quantitative, qualitative or mixed-methods approach. The project will include learning appropriate software, e.g. R (quantitative) or NVivo (qualitative). Lecture 3 (Biannual). |
| MGIS-650 | Introduction to Data Analytics and Business Intelligence This course serves as an introduction to data analysis including both descriptive and inferential statistical techniques. Contemporary data analytics and business intelligence tools will be explored through realistic problem assignments. Lecture 3 (Fall). |
| MGMT-735 | Management of Innovation This course addresses the management of innovation, sustainable technology, and the importance of technology-based innovation for the growth of the global products and services industries. The course integrates three major themes: (1) leading-edge concepts in innovation, (2) the role of technology in creating global competitive advance in both product-based and services-based industries, and (3) the responsibility of businesses related to sustainability. The importance of digital technology as an enabler of innovative services is covered throughout the course. (completion of four graduate business courses) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer). |
| MGMT-740 | Leading Teams in Organizations This course examines why people behave as they do in organizations and what managers can do to improve organizational performance by influencing people's behavior. Students will learn a number of frameworks for diagnosing and dealing with managerial challenges dynamics at the individual, group and organizational level. Topics include leadership, motivation, team building, conflict, organizational change, cultures, decision making, and ethical leadership. Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring, Summer). |
| MGMT-741 | Managing Organizational Change This course addresses the importance of organizational change in maintaining a flexible, dynamic, and responsive organization, by examining various theories and approaches currently used to assist organizations in achieving planned change. The role of the leader in achieving organizational change is emphasized. The features of successful change in organizations will be discussed, including the structural, motivational, interpersonal, and social aspects of organizational change. (Prerequisites: MGMT-740 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). |
| MGMT-755 | Negotiations This course is designed to teach the art and science of negotiation so that one can negotiate successfully in a variety of settings, within one's day-to-day experiences and, especially, within the broad spectrum of negotiation problems faced by managers and other professionals. Individual class sessions will explore the many ways that people think about and practice negotiation skills and strategies in a variety of contexts. Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). |
| PSYC-716 | Graduate Social Psychology This course explores topics related to understanding individuals in a social context. Topics may include, but are not limited to: Social Perception and Social Cognition; Attitudes; Social Identity; Prejudice and Discrimination; Interpersonal Attraction; Close Relationships; Social Influence; Prosocial Behavior; Aggression; Group Behavior; Artifacts and Methodological Issues in Social Psychology. Course format is seminar focused on reading assigned texts each week, writing reaction papers, and participating in discussion. Students will also conduct a study on the topic of their choice and present their findings both in an oral and written format. Seminar (Biannual). |
| PUBL-630 | Energy Policy This course provides an overview of energy resources, technologies, and policies designed to ensure clean, stable supplies of energy for the future. The course evaluates the impacts of fossil fuel, renewable energy, and hydrogen technologies on society and how public policies can be used to influence their development. The development of U.S. energy policy is of particular concern, although a global perspective will be integrated throughout the course. Lecture 3 (Spring). |
| PUBL-701 | Graduate Policy Analysis This course provides graduate students with necessary tools to help them become effective policy analysts. The course places particular emphasis on understanding the policy process, the different approaches to policy analysis, and the application of quantitative and qualitative methods for evaluating public policies. Students will apply these tools to contemporary public policy decision making at the local, state, federal, and international levels. Lecture 3 (Fall). |
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Admissions and Financial Aid
This program is available on-campus only.
| Offered | Admit Term(s) | Application Deadline | STEM Designated |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full‑time | Fall; Spring may be considered | Fall - February 15 priority deadline, rolling thereafter; Spring - rolling | Yes |
| Part‑time | Fall; Spring may be considered | Rolling | No |
Full-time study is 9+ semester credit hours. Part-time study is 1‑8 semester credit hours. International students requiring a visa to study at the RIT Rochester campus must study full‑time.
Application Details
To be considered for admission to the Physics MS program, candidates must fulfill the following requirements:
- Complete an online graduate application.
- Submit copies of official transcript(s) (in English) of all previously completed undergraduate and graduate course work, including any transfer credit earned.
- Hold a baccalaureate degree (or US equivalent) from an accredited university or college in physics, applied physics, or a closely-related discipline within the physical/mathematical sciences or engineering fields. A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (or equivalent) is recommended.
- Submit a current resume or curriculum vitae.
- Submit a personal statement of educational objectives.
- Submit two letters of recommendation.
- Entrance exam requirements: GRE optional but recommended
- Submit English language test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic), if required. Details are below.
English Language Test Scores
International applicants whose native language is not English must submit one of the following official English language test scores. Some international applicants may be considered for an English test requirement waiver.
| TOEFL | IELTS | PTE Academic |
|---|---|---|
| 100 | 7.0 | 70 |
International students below the minimum requirement may be considered for conditional admission. Each program requires balanced sub-scores when determining an applicant’s need for additional English language courses.
How to Apply Start or Manage Your Application
Cost and Financial Aid
An RIT graduate degree is an investment with lifelong returns. Graduate tuition varies by degree, the number of credits taken per semester, and delivery method. View the general cost of attendance or estimate the cost of your graduate degree.
A combination of sources can help fund your graduate degree. Learn how to fund your degree
Research
Exceptional Physics Research
The College of Science consistently receives research grant awards from organizations that include the National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health, and NASA, providing graduate students with unique opportunities to conduct cutting-edge research with RIT’s world-class faculty.
Faculty in the School of Physics and Astronomy conduct research on a broad variety of topics in experimental, theoretical, applied, and computational physics–all areas in which you may pursue research and thesis work. Learn more about our physics research or explore our physics faculty areas of research. You also may explore research opportunities in related programs such as our microsystems engineering Ph.D., imaging science MS, or imaging science Ph.D.
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August 8, 2024
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Students discover research opportunities on the path to graduation
Independent research projects can help cultivate critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. Whether it’s late nights spent in a RIT lab or a field study in the mountains, research experiences can be a cutting-edge way for students to prepare for the future.
Contact
Admissions Contact
- Lindsay Lewis
- Senior Assistant Director
- Office of Graduate and Part-Time Enrollment Services
- Enrollment Management
- 585‑475‑5532
- lslges@rit.edu
Program Contact
- George Thurston
- Director of Physics MS Program
- School of Physics and Astronomy
- College of Science
- 585‑475‑4549
- gmtsps@rit.edu
Offered within
the
School of Physics and Astronomy
School of Physics and Astronomy