Degree Title and Name:  Master of Arts in Physics

Program Name and Number: Physics – MA3331

Department/Unit:  Department of Physics and Astronomy

Delivery Mode:  Athens Campus

Terms of Entry:  Fall, Spring, Summer

Program Overview:  The M.A. in Physics is an option reserved for special cases and usually involves substantial work in a project. Candidates must follow a program approved by the Departmental Graduate Committee and submit a scholarly paper to be evaluated by at least two faculty members. A candidate is required to earn at least 30 graduate credits in physics, astronomy, and approved elective courses.

Program Learning Outcomes:

• Develop analytical skills and the ability to solve problems.
• Achieve a good understanding of physical laws and principles.
• Gain experience with measurement techniques and equipment.
• Develop the ability to assess uncertainties and assumptions.
• Demonstrate the ability to present the results of investigations orally (with thesis) and in writing (without thesis).
• Acquire facility in the use of mathematics to solve problems and test hypotheses.

Opportunities for Graduates:  Students achieving the M.A. in Physics and Astronomy can pursue further graduate studies in this area or seek employment in a variety of other fields. They can also obtain positions as professional scientists.

Link to Program: https://www.ohio.edu/cas/physastro/grad/ma-program/index.cfm

Graduation Requirements:  

1. Minimum of 30 semester hours.
2. Completion of a program approved by the Departmental Graduate Committee.
3. Submission of a scholarly paper that must be evaluated by at least two faculty members.

Culminating Experience:  Submission of scholarly paper.

Admission Requirements:  Students entering this program are normally expected to have successfully concluded undergraduate work in mechanics, electricity and magnetism, thermodynamics, statistical mechanics, and quantum mechanics. They should also possess a working knowledge of mathematics including calculus, ordinary differential equations, Fourier series, vector analysis, and basic elements of partial differential equations. The minimum grade point average (GPA) requirement is 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale). The Verbal and Quantitative GRE General Tests are recommended. The Physics GRE Subject Test is optional. All non-native English speakers must demonstrate English proficiency by submitting official test scores for either the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS academic). The minimum scores for TOEFL are 95 (iBT) or 590 (PBT); for the IELTS a minimum score of 7 across all bands is required. Deficiencies of undergraduate preparation should not deter a prospective student with an otherwise good record, as these may be made up during the first year of graduate study.

Application packages should be completed by January 15; offers are made by April 15. Usually students enter the Physics program in the fall. Entry during the spring or summer is possible although not generally encouraged. For all details concerning graduate programs, contact the Chair of the Graduate Admissions Committee (physicsgradapps@ohio.edu).

International Students:  This program permits full-time enrollment in residence at Ohio University, and an I-20 may be issued based on admission to this program.