MS Physics at University of South Carolina

Programme overview

Take your passion for physics and astronomy to the next level with world-class mentors, whether you're studying subatomic particles or investigating the mysteries of distant galaxies. At USC, you’ll find state-of-the-art research facilities, such as the Center for Experimental Nanoscale Physics, as well as opportunities to collaborate with top research facilities around the world ― and beyond, with the help of space telescopes. The Master of Science in Physics will help you pursue careers in research and education.

Faculty: McCausland College of Arts and Sciences | Study mode: full-time | Location: Columbia, SC, United States

What you will study

Master the fundamental branches of physics and their applications. Comprehensive experimental research programs are available in high-energy physics, nuclear/intermediate energy physics, condensed matter physics/nanoscience and astrophysics. The program culminates in a thesis and oral examination.

Career pathways

Potential careers include Educator, Researcher, Physicist, College Instructor, Engineer.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Admissions (University of South Carolina Academic Bulletin): Adequate preparation for graduate study ordinarily presupposes a bachelor’s degree in physics or an allied field. Prior to admission to this department, entering graduate students are expected to have passed with a grade of C or better the following courses or their equivalent: modern physics, mechanics, electromagnetic theory, kinetic theory and statistical mechanics, nuclear physics, and solid state physics. Mathematics through advanced calculus, including ordinary and particle differential equations and vector analysis, should also have been completed in the undergraduate program. Students with deficiencies in these courses must make them up during their initial two years of graduate studies. Requests for further information should be addressed to: Director of Graduate Studies Department of Physics and Astronomy University of South Carolina Columbia, SC 29208 Programs Physics, M.S....

Tuition is charged per credit, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

Graduate applications are accepted for Fall, Spring and Summer terms; Fall applications open the prior September, Spring applications open in January and Summer applications open in May.

The graduate application fee is $50 per primary application, reinstated effective August 1, 2026. Deadlines are programme-specific. The Moore School of Business, the Arnold School of Public Health and the College of Nursing use their own applications; the Moore School charges an additional $50 application fee for graduate programmes.

Apply through the official page: https://www.sc.edu/admissions-at-sc/applications/index.php

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