Physics Master’s program at Rice University

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MS in Physics and Astronomy

pysical-science

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at Rice University offers a doctoral program that is primarily aimed at students interested in pursuing a PhD. The program does not typically admit students who are only seeking a master's degree; however, it acknowledges the importance of the master's credential to some students. As such, while a master's degree is not a prerequisite for the PhD, students in the doctoral program may request a non-thesis MS degree as they work towards their doctorate, provided they meet the necessary requirements.

To be awarded the MS degree, students must successfully complete 30 semester hours of approved advanced coursework, which includes engaging in original research. This coursework must be completed with acceptable grades, and students are expected to maintain an average grade of B or better in their graduate-level physics and astronomy courses, excluding research. Additionally, students must complete at least four of the basic courses required for the doctoral degree, along with two other approved courses.

An essential component of the MS degree is the student's involvement in a research project that requires independent and original work. The student's research adviser must certify the satisfaction of this requirement through a written statement that details the area of research.

Furthermore, the student must spend at least one full fall or spring semester engaged in full-time study within Rice University's graduate program. The specific type of degree—either Physics or Astrophysics—and the degree name will be determined through discussions between the student, their adviser, and the chair of the graduate program committee.

24 Months Duration
30 Credit hours
No GRE Required
Yes Scholarships Available

Composition of student population

7 Female Students
9 Internation Students
13 Graduate Students Enrolled

MS in Physics and Astronomy - No GRE

To apply for the MS in Physics and Astronomy program, students must follow these steps:

  • Complete the online application process, ensuring that all information is accurate and submitted by the deadline.
  • Submit official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended. For a faster review of applications, transcripts should be uploaded directly to the online application system.
  • Provide three letters of recommendation. These should ideally be from faculty members who are familiar with your academic work and can provide an informed assessment of your potential for success in graduate school.
  • Outline your own goals, aspirations, and special interests within the application to demonstrate your motivation and commitment to the field of Physics and Astronomy.
  • Include any previous research experience, as this will showcase your ability to engage with and contribute to the program.
  • The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is not required for this program. The department does not require the GRE subject test in physics or the general GRE exam, and the absence of GRE scores will not negatively impact your application.

How does the Physics Master’s degree program tuition at Rice University compared with other universities in Texas?

Tuition for Master’s in Physics program at Rice University

$47,913 In-state Tuition & Fees
$47,913 Out-of-state Tuition & Fees
UniversityIn state Tuition / Year
Physics Masters program at West Texas A & M University$7,149
Physics Masters program at University of Dallas$33,750
Physics Masters program at Texas Christian University$32,268
Physics Masters program at University of Houston$9,547

Which other public university offers Master’s program in Physics in Texas?

Here is the list of top 4 public universities offering Physics Master’s program.

Program NameTuition / Year
Physics at The University of Texas at Austin

In-state: $12,028

Out-state: $22,886

Physics at Texas A & M University-College Station

In-state: $10,470

Out-state: $22,743

Physics at The University of Texas at Dallas

In-state: $14,560

Out-state: $28,610

Physics at Texas State University

In-state: $8,859

Out-state: $17,040

Which other private university offers Master’s program in Physics in Texas?

Here is the list of top 4 private universities offering Physics Master’s program.

Program NameTuition / Year
Physics at Southern Methodist University$47,478
Physics at Baylor University$36,936
Physics at Texas Christian University$32,268
Physics at University of Dallas$33,750

Jobs, Salaries and Career after Masters in Physics

Employment of natural sciences managers is projected to grow 6 percent from 2020 to 2030, about as fast as the average for all occupations. About 6,000 openings for natural sciences managers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

The median annual wage for natural sciences managers was $137,940 in May 2020. Number of Jobs in 2020 was 79,000.

Universities with similar Graduate Program

Program NameTuition / Year
Physics Masters program at University of California-San Diego$13,529
Physics Masters program at University of Colorado Boulder$13,522
Physics Masters program at University of Alabama in Huntsville$11,588
Physics Masters program at University of Hawaii at Manoa$16,502

Are there Online Masters programs offered in Physics?

Here is the list of top-ranked universities offering online masters program in Physics

Program NameTuition
Physics Online Masters programs at Stanford University$55,011
Physics Online Masters programs at University of Wisconsin-Madison$12,197
Physics Online Masters programs at University at Buffalo$14,238
Physics Online Masters programs at Michigan Technological University$21,996