The following is intended to supplement information in the University catalog and to interpret the more important current Physics Department procedures dealing with graduate academic work.

Degree Programs

There are, at present, several degree programs for physics graduate students. The most typical program is the one leading to the Ph.D. degree. There are, in addition, two separate Master's degree programs.

M.A. Degree

The M.A. degree is a program which does not require a thesis. It is not recommended for students who plan a research career or who would benefit from a broad range of topics and laboratory techniques. The M.A. program may be completed within one year by those with a strong physics background, but normally two years' effort would be required. Twenty-four credits are required.

M.S. Degree

The M.S. degree program consists of the same rigorous academic training as the Ph.D. and the research thesis is original work. Some of our Ph.D. students obtain this degree before completing their Ph.D. degree. This program is considered an Honors Program, and its attainment represents high achievement. Thirty credits are required, of which six can be non-topical research.

Ph.D. Degree

This is the degree towards which most of our students work. Seventy-two credits are required, of which 18 can be non-topical research.

Academic Graduate Advisors

Each graduate student is assigned an academic graduate advisor upon entering the department. Students are expected to meet with their academic advisor each semester to aid in appropriate course selection. The following faculty member serves as Graduate Student Advisor:

Cass Sackett