University of Alabama At Birmingham

You're ready to take what you learned in undergrad and become a true expert in matter, energy, and how they relate to one another. With an MS in Physics, you'll have the background you need in statistical mechanics, electromagnetic theory, mathematical physics, and quantum mechanics to pursue a career in research, industry, or education.

To prepare you for these fields, we've developed a program that is advanced, fast-paced, and research-focused. In fact, your curriculum will allow you to explore the same research areas as our PhD students, because we want you to be well-equipped to pursue an advanced degree when you finish. In addition to your curriculum, we'll want you to choose between one of two plans. Plan I (thesis option) requires a thesis based on original research. You can research in an interdisciplinary area such as biophysics, chemical physics, geophysics, mathematical physics, neurophysics, optics, materials science, or engineering physics. Or, if you're still mulling over the decision of whether to pursue a PhD or MD, Plan II (non-thesis option) is built just for you. The thesis option is replaced here with more advanced coursework and an exit exam.

• An MS in Physics can open the door to careers in software development, engineering, research, banking, teaching, and more.