The M.S. with thesis degree requires 24 credit hours of graded PHYS courses, including at most three credits of research (PHYS 868). Graded courses are those receiving a letter grade (A through F). Among 24 required credits, at least six credits must be at the PHYS 800 level. In addition, six credits of thesis work (PHYS 869) are required.
The purpose of the M.S. thesis is to demonstrate that the student can conduct research under supervision and communicate the results clearly in English. The thesis is defended in an oral examination administered by a committee of three members of the department. The M.S. without a thesis degree requires 30 credit hours of graded PHYS courses, including at most three credits of research.