Current Students

Gradaute advising for current students is now being done via the Phys Grad Advising canvas course.

Prospective Students

The Department of Physics and Astronomy offers a M.S. degree in Physics. The M.S. degree is recommended for those who wish to advance their career in science or technology, those who wish to teach Physics at the high school or community college level or for those who want an introduction to graduate work before starting a Ph.D. program. Research experience is an integral part of the program, and we have groups of faculty with expertise in optics, condensed matter, astronomy and astrophysics, as well as physics education research. We provide partial financial support for students teaching assistants of lower division lab courses that includes a stipend and partial or full tuition waver depending on the number of credits being taught by the student.

It typically takes 2-3 year to obtain a masters degree (see an example plan of study), however it is possible to take up to 7 years if you have other life activities that you need to schedule around.

Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 to be considered. Letters of recommendation are not required, nor is the GRE required. For applicants without an undergraduate degree in physics we will typically require that you complete upper division classes in classical mechanics, electricity & magnetism, and quantum mechanics (at SJSU these classes are Phy 105, Phys 110 and Phys 163). These can be taken before applying, or can be taken after joining the program as a condition of advancement to candidacy.

See the university's graduate admissions Page for details on how to apply.