A total of 45 graduate credits must be completed, including 32 in graded physics courses. Courses other than physics or approved mathematics courses must be in related fields approved by the director of graduate studies. Candidates must either pass a master's final examination, or submit a written thesis, or take a program of specified courses. The master's degree program can be completed in three terms. A substantial number of Oregon's graduate students intend to become college teachers.
Most students acquire some teaching experience in the first year or two as teaching assistants.
Students who want more experience may arrange a program of practice teaching, supervised by physics faculty members, by registering for credit in supervised tutoring practicum. The master's final examination constitutes part of the Ph.D. qualifying examination. After rectifying any deficiencies in undergraduate background, students typically prepare for the qualifying examination by taking 600-level courses in the core areas. Students are encouraged to take the examination as early as possible. The examination may be taken several times but normally must be passed by the beginning of the fourth year of graduate study.