Masters in Physics Online

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Erika Lasrado

Erika has broad experience in counseling, psychology, and human resources. Although she has done a master’s in psychology, she is currently pursuing a master’s in educational psychology to change careers. Erika is a foodie and reader and loves to research and write about various topics when time permits.

Degrees

Master of Psychology, Master of Educational Psychology

Areas of Expertise & Credentials

None to disclose in particular; the basics are covered in the short bio.

Last Updated: February 10, 2023

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The branch of science which studies the property of energy and matter and the relationship between them is known as physics. The masters in physics online degree provides students with hands-on experience and skill set to master the current and fundamental applications in physics. In this program, students gain a broad understanding of physics where they will learn to apply their analytical skills and knowledge to create novel and effective solutions to practical problems as well as work and communicate effectively in collaborative environments. Read on to discover all about the masters in physics online degree, the various specialization options, career possibilities, coursework, and more.

Best Masters in Physics
Online Programs

Before beginning the application process for online physics masters programs, students must choose top-ranked institutions in terms of reputation, teaching, and quality. They should ensure that the program and the institution have the best ranking among various factors such as fees and funding, faculty, support services, university reputation, academic support, research opportunities, career services, and so on. Here are some of the best physics masters programs: *

Yale University (On Campus)

Columbia University in the City of New York (On Campus)

University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign (On Campus)

Stanford University

California Institute of Technology (On Campus)

Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.

What to Expect from Masters in
Physics Online Programs

Masters in physics online programs cover experimental and theoretical aspects of physics, including advanced application areas. It aims to develop a critical awareness of new insights and current research problems at the forefront of physics.

What is m/s in physics? The m/s in physics or Master of Science in Physics is a graduate-level degree that provides specialist skills, training, and hands-on experience in theoretical, experimental, and advanced physics application areas. Students also gain in-depth knowledge of emerging and current techniques, theories, and practices within the field of physics. This program offers a broad range of courses in physics along with several research opportunities. It is provided in both online and offline format and consists of 33-40 credit hours of graduate coursework, which students must complete. Within the program, there are typically two culminating experiences the students can choose when they meet their graduate degree requirements in physics:

Thesis: With the thesis option, students are required to write a thesis under the supervision of their faculty members. Once they complete and submit their research project, they will have to orally defend it as well. The thesis option is well suited for students interested in further research and pursuing their doctoral studies in physics.

Non-Thesis/Project: With the non-thesis or project option, students must do a project approved and supervised by the faculty. Those who do not wish to continue with a research project can opt for the non-thesis option.

The master in physics online program consists of core courses and electives that students must complete to earn their degrees. Some of the core courses in the physics master’s degree are:

Introduction to Quantum Mechanics

This course teaches about the survey of application and theory of quantum mechanics, including a short historical introduction. Some of the topics taught in this course include representation theory, state vector, the formalism of quantum mechanics, measurement, operators, quantum harmonic oscillator, bases, angular momentum and central potential, the uncertainty principle, and so on.

Mathematical Methods in Physics

Various types of mathematical methods such as complex analysis, series, multivariate calculus, Fourier analysis, and differential equations will be discussed in this course and applied to a variety of problems in physics. The focus is to solve problems in physics by using these methods and techniques.

Electricity and Magnetism

This course covers the theory of magnetism and electricity. It also covers various topics such as special relativity, electrostatics (electric potential, conductors, the electric field & boundary value problems), magnetostatics, as well as magnetic and electric fields in the matter. It provides a basic introduction to DC and AC circuits.

Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics

This course teaches the basics of thermodynamics and statistical mechanics. Students will understand the importance of quantities such as negative temperature, entropy, and the behavior of quantum gasses.

Although coursework largely depends on the physics specialization one selects, examples of courses one can expect from an online master’s degree in physics include but are not limited to:

Classical Mechanics
Quantum Field Theory
Statistical Methods
Introduction to Superconductors
Astronomical Technology
Biological Physics
Thermal Physics
Electrodynamics
Optics & Atomic & Molecular Physics
Electromagnetism & Electronics

Degree Types for Masters in
Physics Programs

Areas of Specializations in Masters in
Physics Programs

Candidates interested in a specific topic within physics can choose a specialization in the physics master’s program. By doing so, they will get an opportunity to increase their knowledge and become experts in that particular area. Specializations also help graduates improve their career prospects and earn better salaries. Here are some of the specializations available for master’s in physics students to consider:

Area of Specialization	Description	Career Options
Medical Physics Master’s Program	This degree provides skills, experience, and knowledge in medical physics, which includes a variety of topics such as ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, the use of lasers in medicine, and more.	Graduates of this program can work in specialized areas of medicine at hospitals, governments, medical research facilities, and various industries.
Masters In Astronomy Online / Astrophysics	This specialization program provides students with a comprehensive curriculum of astronomy and physics concepts, including space physics, complexity, astrophysics, and astronomy.	Graduates of this program can work as neutrino physicists, observational astronomers, astrophysicists, and theoretical astrophysicists
Health Physics Masters Programs	This program combines the essential skills and technical depth of management, communication, and leadership. Studies include the application of radiation protection principles, assessing radiation exposure and health risks, implementing radiation protection programs, and more.	Graduates of this degree can work in various sectors with job titles such as health and safety specialists, radiation safety officers, medical health physicists, environmental health physicists, etc.
Master of Science in Applied Physics	The MS Applied Physics investigates the type of physics in today’s nanotechnology, optics, semiconductor, laser, physics of fluid, soft matter, and so on.	Graduates of this program have a wide range of career opportunities, such as material scientists, medical physicists, and more.
Condensed Matter Physics/Materials Science	The physics group of condensed matter/material science synthesizes, characterizes, and investigates a wide range of materials in thin films, bulk crystals, and nanoscale structures.	Graduates of this specialization can work as material scientists, experimental physicists, research scientists, etc.
Nuclear Physics	Nuclear Physics provides an overall theoretical understanding of the structure and reactions of atomic nuclei at a fundamental level. It also predicts properties of light and medium-mass nuclei that are important in determining the origin, structure, and evolution of baryonic matter in the Universe.	Graduates of this specialization can work as nuclear physicists, astrophysicists, experimental physicists, research scientists, etc.
Biophysics	This program is designed for students who are interested in physics but also in medicine and biology. Computational and quantitative methods are used to teach students mathematics and physics. Because of the program’s interdisciplinary nature, they are equipped with the knowledge and skills to address a wide range of biological issues, from the molecular level to complex ecosystems.	Graduates of this specialization can take up careers in biotechnology, biomedical research, science education, private business consulting, science education, governmental regulatory agencies, and so on.
Engineering Physics	This specialization focuses on the fundamentals of mathematics and physics, both theoretical and experimental, which serve as the foundation for modern engineering and research. It focuses on the fundamental physics underlying most engineering developments, as well as the mathematical tools required by all scientists and engineers.	Graduates can pursue careers in advanced technology, engineering, and applied science.
Quantum Physics	Quantum physics, in a nutshell, is the branch of physics that explains how everything works. It investigates the properties of matter’s constituent particles as well as the strength of their interactions. It is the study of matter and energy at its fundamental level, illuminating processes such as how electrons flow through a microchip or how the sun remains a constant ball of fire.	Graduates can work in research, education, medicine, and engineering, among other fields.
Geophysics	Geophysics students will learn to use physical theories and measurements to learn more about the earth’s characteristics. Geophysics includes the subfields of seismology, geothermometry, hydrology, gravity, and geodesy (the study of the earth’s gravitational field).	Careers in geophysics are available in road and bridge building, earthquake research, urban planning, and archaeology.

Why should I enroll into Masters in
Physics Online Programs?

After completing their masters in physics online, graduates can work in a wide variety of fields such as astronomy, education, engineering, computer science, and more. They also can go on to pursue their doctoral studies in physics. Many people use physics as a stepping stone into other fields of study or careers because the fundamentals of physics can be applied to most other sciences.

Physics graduates are well-suited for various jobs requiring step-by-step problem-solving using math skills, observational and communication skills, mathematical reasoning, and organizing and interpreting scientific data. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for physicists was $151,580 in May 2021, making it a very lucrative field of study.

By pursuing the masters in physics online program, students gain a lot of knowledge and skills, which will benefit them in their careers. Some of the skills acquired from the physics master’s program are the ability for graduates to:

use analytical skills to solve problems;
demonstrate expertise in using equipment and measurement techniques;
show expertise in administration, dissemination, planning, and execution of research;
use and combine knowledge from several disciplines, such as mathematics and chemistry;
critically and independently evaluate and assess research results and methods;
understand the historical development of physics, its limitations, and its possibilities;
identify relationships between physical factors and solve quantitative problems;
interpret, obtain, organize and analyze scientific data;
develop theories and conduct experiments;
show computer programming, data analysis, and quantitative skills and understand the connection between scientific computing, physics engineering, and mathematics;
perform calculations and prepare technical reports;
use mathematical solutions and formulations to solve problems;
carry out experiments and computational simulations to describe new concepts & phenomena; and
understand the ethical aspects and their applications in the field of physics.

Free Courses for Masters in Physics
Online Students

Free courses are useful for writing assignments and going a little deeper into the subject. It is important to note that free courses are not accredited and do not lead to an online masters in physics. Here are some platforms offering free physics courses:

Course	Provided by	Careers
Various Topics Related to Physics	Coursera	Introduction to physics, introduction to mechanics, exploring quantum physics, and understanding modern mechanics are some of the free courses offered by Coursera.
Various Topics Related to Physics	MIT OpenCourseWare	MIT OpenCourseWare offers undergraduate and graduate courses on various topics in physics, such as magnetism, classical mechanics, vibration and waves, electricity and magnetism, relativity, and more.
Various Topics Related to Physics	EdX	A few free physics courses are offered by EdX, including quantum physics, plasma physics, and so on.

How to get into Masters in Physics
Online Programs?

Masters in Physics Online
No GRE Programs

Prospective students must give the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and submit their test scores when applying to a master’s program. Usually, this is a mandatory requirement, but a few universities skip it or make it optional. Some examples of masters in physics online no GRE programs include Stanford University’s MS in Applied Physics, Brown University’s M.Sc. in Physics, and San Francisco State University’s MS in Physics.

How Long does it take to complete the Masters
in Physics Online Programs

Accelerated Masters in Physics
Online Programs

Accreditations for Masters in Physics
Online Programs

How to Pay for Masters in Physics
Online Programs?

The tuition fee for a master’s in physics degree varies by institution and location. The cost of an online master’s is cheaper as students do not have to spend on housing, meals, and transportation. Nonetheless, they must pay for course materials, tuition, and distance learning fees. Fortunately, be it for a traditional or online program, students can look at various possibilities to fund their master’s degree, some of which include:

Scholarships

One of the popular choices of funding among students is scholarships. Scholarships are awarded to students based on their academic achievements. They can be awarded by education institutions, non-profit organizations, groups, or individuals.

Grants

Like scholarships, grants too are popular among grad students. Grants are ‘free money’ that does not need to be paid back and are given out based on the applicant’s financial need rather than academic merit.

Graduate Assistantships

Graduate assistantships are employment opportunities on campus for graduate students. Students either assist or teach undergraduate students or assist in a workshop or lab. They can also help their professors with research work by working as research assistants. For the work they do, students are provided a stipend.

Work-Study Programs

Students can work simultaneously while they pursue their degrees. Although the money they earn may not be enough to pay for their education, it can help reduce their overall cost by at least covering some basic expenses and a portion of their tuition fees.

Student Loans

The federal government, banks, and financial institutions give out loans for students to pursue their higher education. Loans attract interest, which must be paid back along with the borrowed sum, making it possible for students to land in debt if they do not make such payments on time. Fortunately, there are ways to get around this potential problem; the Donors for Student Loans & Grants for Student Loans guides contain more information.

FAFSA

Prospective students can determine whether they are eligible for financial aid from the federal government by filling out the FAFSA or Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

Read about Financial Aid and How to Pay for College for more information on funding.

Scholarships for Masters in Physics
Online Programs

Students looking to fund their education from external sources can apply for scholarships. Scholarships help students reduce their tuition fees to a significant extent. Several associations, universities, and external organizations offer scholarships to students based on their academic performance. Here are some examples of such scholarships for physics graduate students:

Scholarship	Description	Amount/Award	Deadline
SEG Scholarships	Society of Exploration of Geophysicists (SEG) offers scholarships to students interested in pursuing a career in geophysics or geosciences.	$500 to 10,000 per year	From November 01 to March 01, annually
SMART Scholarships	Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) offers scholarships to students pursuing their undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral studies in any of the 21 available Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines.	$25,000 to 38,000 annually based on the degree level	Opens August 01, 2023 \| Deadline: TBA
National Space Club & Foundation Keynote Scholarship	The National Space Club & Foundation (NSCF) offers scholarships to students who intend to pursue their careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields.	$15,000	November 15, 2023

FAQs Related to Masters in Physics
Online Programs

How to get a masters in physics?

Is the physics masters online?

Where to do a physics masters?

What concentrations are there in physics?

How long is a masters in physics?

What can you do with masters in physics?

Is a physics degree worth it?

Career Opportunities and Salaries after Masters in
Physics Online Programs

Graduates of master’s degree in physics can work in a diverse range of settings with various job titles. Education, healthcare, engineering, climate science, astronomy, and space are some areas in which a master’s degree physics graduate can work. Various job positions are available for physics graduates, some of which include:

Scientist
Patent Examiner
Medical Physicist
Project Physicist
Biophysicist
Researcher
Aerospace Engineer
Engineering Technical Manager

According to the U.S Bureau of Labor of Statistics (BLS), physicists and astronomers have a salary of $147,450 per year with a job growth of 8%, as fast as average, between 2020-2030. The following list highlights the statistical data of various job titles after obtaining a masters degree in physics:

Occupation	Job Description	Skills Required	Median Annual Salary	Job Growth (up to 2030)
Biochemists and Biophysicists	Biochemists and biophysicists are scientists who study the chemical and physical principles of living things as well as biological processes such as disease, cell development, growth, and heredity.	Interpersonal skills, communication skills, critical-thinking skills, analytical skills, math skills, time-management skills, problem-solving skills, perseverance,	$102,270	5% (slower than average)
Geoscientists	Geoscientists study the Earth’s physical properties, such as its structure, composition, and processes, to analyze and learn about its past, present & future.	Critical-thinking skills, problem-solving skills, outdoor skills, communication skills, physical stamina	$83,680	7% (as fast as average)
Physicists and Astronomers	Astronomers and physicists study the interactions of matter and energy. Theoretical physicists and astronomers may investigate the origin of the universe or the nature of time; some design and carry out experiments using cutting-edge technology.	Interpersonal skills, critical-thinking skills, analytical skills, communication skills, problem-solving skills, math skills, self-discipline	$147,450	8% (as fast as average)
Natural Sciences Managers	Managers of natural sciences oversee the work of scientists such as physicists, chemists, and biologists. They direct research and development activities and coordinate testing, quality control, and production.	Critical-thinking skills, problem-solving skills, time-management skills, communication skills, interpersonal skills, leadership skills, leadership skills	$137,900	6% (as fast as average)
Atmospheric Scientists, Including aMeteorologists	Math skills, analytical skills, critical-thinking skills, communication skills	Atmospheric scientists investigate how weather and climate affect human activity and the environment in general. They may create forecasts, collect & compile field data, assist in developing new data collection instruments, or advise clients on the risks and opportunities posed by weather events and climate change.	$94,570	8% (as fast as average)

Certifications and Licensing for Masters in
Physics Online Students

Additional Resources for Masters in Physics
Online Students

Even after completing a graduate program, it is crucial to stay current with all the latest changes and advances in the field. One can get their hands on additional resources by connecting with peers and attending seminars and workshops. Participating in a professional organization is another way of staying relevant in the field. Here are a few additional resources for physics graduates to explore:

American Institute of Physics (AIP)

The American Institute of Physics (AIP) is a federation that promotes the success of its ten Member Societies, as well as an institute that serves as a center of excellence for the physical sciences enterprise. AIP offers statistical research, student programs, publications, career resources, and more.

International Organization for Medical Physics (IOMP)

The International Organization for Medical Physics (IOMP) aims to advance the practice of medical physicists worldwide by promoting the highest quality medical services for patients, disseminating technical and scientific information, and fostering the educational and professional development of medical physicists.

American Physical Society (APS)

The American Physical Society (APS) is a non-profit membership organization dedicated to advancing and disseminating physics knowledge through its outstanding research journals, education, scientific meetings, advocacy, outreach, and international activities.

Association for Psychological Science (APS)

The Association for Psychological Science (APS) has a Student Caucus that offers publications, a convention, grants and awards, opportunities for community involvement, and a financing database. All of them are intended to help students grow in the field of psychology.

International Center for Theoretical Physics (ICTP)

The International Center for Theoretical Physics (ICTP) seeks to fulfill its mandate by providing developing-country scientists with the ongoing education and skills required to have long and productive careers. The organization provides education, research, and training in various areas such as condensed matter, high energy cosmology, earth system physics, and more.

International Medical Physics Certification Board (IMPCB)

The International Medical Physics Certification Board (IMPCB) issues and grants certificates to applicants who have been found qualified by the board in the field of medical physics. The organization aims to establish professional development and continuing education for certified medical physicists.

Author Bio:

Erika Lasrado

Erika has broad experience in counseling, psychology, and human resources. Although she has done a master’s in psychology, she is currently pursuing a master’s in educational psychology to change careers. Erika is a foodie and reader and loves to research and write about various topics when time permits.

Degrees

Master of Psychology, Master of Educational Psychology

Areas of Expertise & Credentials

None to disclose in particular; the basics are covered in the short bio.

Disclaimer:

The average tuition (based on degree type for in-state students), average graduation rates, and rankings are based on data from various sources, including the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), and are variable over time. All rankings and statistics are subject to change. The rankings are solely the opinion of Find Best Degrees (FBD) and are based on our proprietary methodology. They do not represent the views of the institutions or organizations mentioned, nor do they represent any official government census or survey. Furthermore, any views or opinions expressed on this page are of FBD’s researchers and teams. Unless otherwise specified, they do not represent the thoughts and opinions of the individuals, institutions, or organizations mentioned. This page’s content is provided solely for informational purposes, with data drawn from various sources, including IPEDS. FBD and its employees make no guarantees regarding the accuracy or completeness of any information found on this page or by following any link. FBD will not be held liable for any errors or omissions in this material nor any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the exposure or use of this information. Although the information on this page is/was correct at the time of publication, readers should exercise caution because some or all of the provided information may have changed over time, potentially resulting in inaccuracies. For more information, please read our Terms of Service. Trademarks and logos are the property of their registered owners. | Page last updated: Dec 2023.

Univ	Address	Tuition	Grad Rate
Yale University (On Campus)	Woodbridge Hall, New Haven, Connecticut 06520	$45,700	97%

Univ	Address	Tuition	Grad Rate
Columbia University in the City of New York (On Campus)	West 116 St and Broadway, New York, New York 10027	$50,496	97%

Univ	Address	Tuition	Grad Rate
University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign (On Campus)	601 E John Street, Champaign, Illinois 61820	$14,635	85%

Univ	Address	Tuition	Grad Rate
Stanford University	Stanford, California 94305	$54,315	96%

Univ	Address	Tuition	Grad Rate
California Institute of Technology (On Campus)	1200 E California Blvd, Pasadena, California 91125	$56,364	93%

Masters in Physics Online

By Erika Lasrado

Updated February 10, 2023

Degrees

Areas of Expertise & Credentials

On this page

Back to top

Best Masters in PhysicsOnline Programs

What to Expect from Masters inPhysics Online Programs

Introduction to Quantum Mechanics

Mathematical Methods in Physics

Electricity and Magnetism

Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics

Degree Types for Masters inPhysics Programs

Master of Arts in Physics

Master of Science in Physics

Areas of Specializations in Masters inPhysics Programs

Why should I enroll into Masters inPhysics Online Programs?

Free Courses for Masters in PhysicsOnline Students

How to get into Masters in PhysicsOnline Programs?

Online Application & Application Fee

Academic Transcripts

Undergraduate Degree + Grade Point Average

Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) Scores

Graduate Résumé or Curriculum Vitae

Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose

Letters of Recommendation

Proof of English Proficiency

Masters in Physics OnlineNo GRE Programs

How Long does it take to complete the Mastersin Physics Online Programs

Accelerated Masters in PhysicsOnline Programs

Accreditations for Masters in PhysicsOnline Programs

How to Pay for Masters in PhysicsOnline Programs?

Scholarships for Masters in PhysicsOnline Programs

FAQs Related to Masters in PhysicsOnline Programs

How to get a masters in physics?

Is the physics masters online?

Where to do a physics masters?

What concentrations are there in physics?

How long is a masters in physics?

What can you do with masters in physics?

Is a physics degree worth it?

Career Opportunities and Salaries after Masters inPhysics Online Programs

Certifications and Licensing for Masters inPhysics Online Students

Additional Resources for Masters in PhysicsOnline Students

Author Bio:

Degrees

Areas of Expertise & Credentials

Disclaimer:

Best Masters in Physics
Online Programs

What to Expect from Masters in
Physics Online Programs

Degree Types for Masters in
Physics Programs

Areas of Specializations in Masters in
Physics Programs

Why should I enroll into Masters in
Physics Online Programs?

Free Courses for Masters in Physics
Online Students

How to get into Masters in Physics
Online Programs?

Masters in Physics Online
No GRE Programs

How Long does it take to complete the Masters
in Physics Online Programs

Accelerated Masters in Physics
Online Programs

Accreditations for Masters in Physics
Online Programs

How to Pay for Masters in Physics
Online Programs?

Scholarships for Masters in Physics
Online Programs

FAQs Related to Masters in Physics
Online Programs

Career Opportunities and Salaries after Masters in
Physics Online Programs

Certifications and Licensing for Masters in
Physics Online Students

Additional Resources for Masters in Physics
Online Students