Applied Physics

Degree: Master of Science
https://www.towson.edu/fcsm/departments/physics/grad/applied/

Program Director: Dr. Rajeswari Kolagani
Phone: 410-704-3134
Email: [email protected]

Towson University's Master of Science in Applied Physics is designed to prepare its graduates for leadership positions in a wide range of science and technology careers in industry and academics. The program has components designed for students who intend to embark on a career immediately upon graduation, as well as for those who are seeking to enhance their prospects for admission to doctoral programs. The program has been certified by the Council of Graduate Schools as a Professional Science Master's program (PSM), a graduate degree that represents an innovation in response to the workforce needs in science and technology sectors. The program delivers a strong graduate education in applied physics, together with skills related to project management, team work, advanced communication and interdisciplinary problem solving. Additionally, thesis and non-thesis research courses are available for students who plan to pursue a doctoral program.

The physics content of the program aims to impart specialized knowledge in several areas of applied physics, while also emphasizing a broad set of skills which include laboratory techniques involving fabrication and characterization of advanced materials and devices, physical measurements employing advanced instrumentation, computational modeling and simulations, data analysis and laboratory automation. The program imparts knowledge and skills associated with teamwork, project management, communication and leadership through courses in project management and technical writing. In addition, there are internship and research components that allow students to acquire real-life problem-solving experience by working on site at technology enterprises or by participating in faculty-led research projects in applied physics.

Accelerated Bachelor's-Master's Program

Students may also earn an M.S. in Applied Physics through the Department of Physics accelerated bachelor's and master's program. Qualifying undergraduate students are screened into the accelerated BS-MS program in their junior or senior year. The accelerated program allows students to complete the master's degree in a shorter time frame by taking up to 9 units of graduate level courses as undergraduates, with these courses satisfying both the undergraduate and master's degree curriculum requirements. Prospective applicants should contact the program director for details.

Please see the Undergraduate Catalog for more information on the accelerated bachelor's-master's program.

1. Demonstrate content knowledge in areas of applied physics that are relevant to the current scientific and technology enterprises.
2. Demonstrate knowledge and skills for the measurement and control of physical variables as well as transduction of changes in these variables through physical phenomena.
3. Demonstrate knowledge of using and/or developing computer models and simulations of physical phenomena and processes; acquire and analyze data from experiments.
4. Acquire advanced skills related to scientific and technical communication and presentation in a variety of formats including seminars, project proposals, instruction documents etc. Design and deliver oral and written presentations employing scientific and professional formats such as technical seminars, project proposals and instructional documents using appropriate advanced technology and communication modes.