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Gain Research Experience and Proficiency in Advanced Physics
The Physics, M.S. at Miami University is a flexible, research-focused program offering both thesis and non-thesis options, although the thesis option is strongly encouraged. As part of the Miami University Physics Graduate Program, students explore advanced topics in quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, and statistical mechanics while building skills for careers in research, education, or applied science.
This Master of Science in Physics prepares graduates for Ph.D. programs or roles in government, tech, or academia. A Miami University Physics master’s is a competitive choice for those seeking research experience and proficiency in advanced physics.
Curriculum and Courses
You are expected to show proficiency in the areas of quantum physics, classical mechanics, electromagnetic theory, statistical physics, and mathematical, computational, and laboratory techniques used in physics. Evidence of proficiency is successful completion of courses at 500- or 600-level or equivalent. Graduate course work is selected in consultation with the thesis director (for the thesis option) and the graduate program director. Your program of study must be approved in writing by the graduate program director.
Example list of courses:
- PHY 642 Advanced Kinetic Theory and Statistical Mechanics
- PHY 651 Quantum and Nonlinear Optics
- PHY 671 Electromagnetism
- PHY 691 Modern Quantum Physics
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Graduate credit is given for courses offered at the 500- and 600-level. Courses at the 500-level are designed for students requiring advanced undergraduate material that they have not covered, prior to entering 600-level course work. For all official information and course descriptions, please consult the Miami General Bulletin.
- PHY 521 – Molecular and Cellular Biophysics – Spring, (even years)
- PHY 537 – Thermodynamics & Statistical Physics – Fall (even years)
- PHY 551 – Classical Mechanics – Fall (odd years)
- PHY 561 – Electromagnetic Theory – Spring (even years)
- PHY 567 – Seismology, Irregular (cross-listed and taught by Geology)
- PHY 581 – Gravitation and Space Time – Spring (odd years)
- PHY 583 – Mathematical Methods in Physics – Fall
- PHY 591 – Intro to Quantum Mechanics – Spring (odd years)
- PHY 620 – Special Topics – Fall
- PHY 642 – Adv. Kinetic Theory & Statistical Mechanics – Spring (odd years)
- PHY 651 – Quantum and Nonlinear Optics – Spring (irregular, even years)
- PHY 671 – Electromagnetism – Fall (even years)
- PHY 691 – Modern Quantum Physics – Fall (odd years)
- PHY 692 – Modern Quantum Physics II – Spring (irregular, even years)
- PHY 700 – Research for the Master’s Thesis – Fall, Spring, Summer
NOTE: Occasionally, some courses may be offered in the alternate semester of the academic year. Check with your advisor to plan your schedule.
Degree Facts
- Thesis Option: 30 Credit Hours
- 2 years, Summers strongly advised
- Non-Thesis Option: 36 Credit Hours
- Feb. 1 Application Deadline
Program Overview
The low student-to-faculty ratio and the department’s dedication to excellence in teaching and research assure that graduate students are an integral part of the department and work closely with faculty in achieving their educational goals. Students interested in doing a Ph.D. are able to use our program as a gateway to top-quality programs in physics and engineering. Others gain entry into the industry or take up positions in national labs or instructor positions in universities and high schools.
Proficiency is expected in the areas of quantum physics, classical mechanics, electromagnetic theory, statistical physics, and mathematical techniques used in physics. Evidence of proficiency means successful completion of courses at the 500- or 600-level or equivalent. Graduate coursework is selected in consultation with the thesis director (thesis option) and the graduate program director and approved in writing by the graduate program director.
Thesis Option
A minimum of 30 semester hours of graduate coursework, research, and thesis credit is required. You must complete at least two 600-level courses in physics other than PHY 610, and a minimum of six hours of PHY 700. Before registering for PHY 700, you must write a thesis proposal and defend it before your thesis committee. Subsequent completion and defense of the thesis is required.
Non-Thesis Option
A minimum of 36 semester hours of graduate credit is required. Any credits earned in PHY 700 may not be counted toward the minimum of 36 hours. Completion of at least four 600-level courses in physics other than PHY 610 is required. The student must also pass a comprehensive examination for the non-thesis option.
Facts and Stats
80.5%
Continued Graduate Level Education
2020-2024
Pursuit of Doctoral Program after Graduation
Between 2020-2024, 80.5% of graduating master’s students reported admissions into graduate school, usually for doctoral programs in physics, materials science, engineering, and optics.
Additional Opportunities
Combined Program
Undergraduate students may also wish to enroll in the combined Bachelors and Masters program in Physics, which allows students to pursue a master’s degree in an accelerated manner while pursuing their bachelor’s degree.
I believe the graduate program at Miami really affords everyone the opportunity to get out of it what you put in to it. I was able to develop my problem solving skills and computer programming skills while doing really cool research in a subject I have great passion for! I am really grateful for the experience. Although my plans shifted during my time at Miami, I came out of the program with several awards, a few publications, a prestigious degree, and a fantastic job as a data scientist.
Matthew Walentosky
I would not be where I am today without the Miami University Physics M.S. program. It gave me the skills, knowledge and connections needed to find my dream job directly out of the program. The professors and staff are incredibly kind and helpful, and will go above and beyond to help you succeed.
Matt Gillette
Admission Information
- Applicants need a minimum GPA of 2.7 and an undergraduate degree in physics or a related field.
- The General GRE and the Physics GRE are strongly recommended, but not required.
- All application materials must be sent to the Graduate School by Feb. 1 for fall admission, although late applications will be accepted until all positions are filled. The application fee cannot be waived.
- A brief research statement-of-intent indicating your preference for one or more of the department’s research areas is required with your application.
Graduate Students
The Department of Physics is dedicated to teaching and scholarship, with an emphasis on achieving close student-faculty relationships. With three majors and interdisciplinary research, we provide students with solid preparation in the discipline for advanced study or employment.
Admission and Funding
This is Where Your Journey to Miami University Begins
Explore what it means to be a graduate student at Miami University, where students prepare to go anywhere and everywhere. We’ll be here to help every step of the way as you prepare for college admission, enrollment, and success.
Contact Us
Graduate Admission
513-529-GRAD (4723)
[email protected]
Department of Physics
Mahmud Khan, Ph.D.
Graduate Director for Physics
Kreger Hall, 104
Oxford, OH 45056
[email protected]
513-529-5625