Two Physics students use a sub-nanometer imaging device in the lab.

Master's in Physics

Overview

Illinois State University is one of only 50 institutions that offers a terminal M.S. degree in Physics. The program requires 30 hours of courses including a core curriculum of Quantum Mechanics, Electricity and Magnetism, Mathematical Methods, and Statistical Mechanics. Additional requirements include electives for specialization and research courses to prepare for writing a thesis. Graduates of the program will be well prepared for continuing in a PhD program or going to work in industry.

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The graduate program here at ISU has given me the chance to strengthen my research skills and better prepare me for my future in physics. The balance of research and new courses constantly keeps me involved with the department, and this has allowed me more opportunities to travel to conferences and learn about the ongoing research happening elsewhere. I feel so much more prepared and confident in my abilities to succeed within physics because of my experience in the Master's program."

Dany Yaacoub

Joining the Master's program at ISU has afforded me the opportunity to do so much more research and to develop as a scientist exponentially more. I can confidently say that I am much more equipped to enter a Ph.D. program now than I would have been otherwise. The professors and classes are great as well, and working with Dr. Matt Caplan on some very unique research has been a blast."

Andy Santarelli