We offer a broad-based academic program with the opportunity for specialized theoretical or experimental research. Students leaning toward a teaching career would normally select option one, while those tending toward industry would probably select number two, and students going on to a Ph.D. could select either option. Under the direction of the graduate coordinator, a coherent program, directed toward the student's goal in graduate study and designed within a specified framework, is prepared and submitted to the department. There is a standard core of classical mechanics, classical electrodynamics, and quantum mechanics, which is strongly recommended for students planning to pursue further graduate study and, at least in part, for all students. Other courses, both from within and from outside the department, can be used to complete the program.
Every student is required to complete an independent study project or a thesis.