Physics (Computational Science), M.S.

Program Requirements

Proficiency in C, C++, or Fortran programming is required for students participating in this emphasis area. Proficiency requirement can be satisfied by testing out or by taking a course in one of the languages. Students lacking this background should complete a programming course early in their graduate program.

1. completion of graduate work with a 3.0 GPA (18 hours must be at the 600 level or higher). A 3.0 GPA is required to graduate.
2. completion of physics core courses
3. completion of Physics Seminar
4. satisfactory completion of computational techniques course
5. satisfactory completion of a master’s comprehensive examination

Option 1, thesis, additional requirements (for 31 hours total):

6. development and completion of an original research project, thesis, and oral defense
7. electives 2 hrs.
8. continuous enrollment

Option 2, project, additional requirements (for 30 hours total):

6. satisfactory completion of a project under the direction of a faculty member:
7. completion of elective courses 4 hrs.
8. continuous enrollment

Plan of Study. Students must submit their signed, official Plan of Study Form to the Graduate School by the end of the second semester they are enrolled. The Plan of Study Forms are available at www.usm.edu/graduateschool/planofstudy.php - click on the “Plans of Study” link.

Responsible Conduct of Research Training

All faculty holding Regular or Associate graduate faculty status, must complete RCR training modules required by the Graduate School and their departments. All graduate students must complete the RCR training modules required by the Graduate School and their departments the first semester there are enrolled in graduate school. The RCR policy and training information are found on the Graduate School web page – www.usm.edu/graduateschool. Contact the Dean of the Graduate School if you have any questions regarding the policy of training information.