Engineering Physics: Master of Science Degree
Program Overview
Program Directors: Dr. Sid Clements and Dr. Chris Thaxton; clementsjs@appstate.edu and thaxtoncs@appstate.edu; 828-262-3090; Physics and Astronomy
http://www.physics.appstate.edu/graduateprogram.htm
The Engineering Physics Master's program offers concentrations in engineering physics, astronomical instrumentation, computer interfacing, and electronics. The curriculum includes a core of courses in analog and digital electronics, digital system design, IBM PC architecture and interfacing, robotics, design and implementation of microprocessor-based instrumentation, microcontrollers, and laboratory automation. All of the courses have a three-hour lab for related, hands-on, practical application of the course material. A research project is required in one of (or a combination of ) the concentration areas, and is conducted under the supervision of a member of the Department's graduate faculty.
Application for admission to the program is open to any graduate of an accredited college or university who holds a bachelor's degree in one of the sciences, engineering, computer science, electronics, or a related area.
Program Highlights
- Our program was recently selected by the AIP (American institute of Physics) as one of the strongest professional master's programs in the nation (in the top 13 out of 186).
- The program has both a THESIS and NON-THESIS option. Both options can be completed in two years.
- The THESIS option requires a minimum of 30 semester hours of graduate credit, which includes 6 hours for the thesis. The comprehensive exam is given over the thesis area only.
- The NON-THESIS option requires a minimum of 36 semester hours of graduate credit, which includes 6 hours of credit in directed research for the associated research project.
Application Essentials
Concentrations: Systems and Laboratory Automation; PSM in Instrumentation and Automation
Location of instruction: On campus
Required Entrance Exam: GRE (score must be no more than 5 years old)
Required Number of References to specify in the on-line form: 3
Supplemental Information: Resume (Required upload for application submission)
Deadlines for Application. A program not open for a particular term will be marked with an "x." If the program has early screening dates, those dates are listed in parentheses. Applications that are not complete by the early screening date risk denial of admission due to no seats available.
- Spring 2009: 11/1/2008 (10/1/2008)
- Summer Session 1 2009: 4/1/2009 (3/1/2009)
- Summer Session 2 2009: 4/1/2009 (3/1/2009)
- Fall 2008: 8/21 (4/1); Fall 2009: 7/1/2009 (4/1/2009)
Basic Criteria for Consideration: (UGPA x 400) + GREV + GREQ = 2000