Physics - MA

The MA in physics is offered as a terminal degree, either separately or as part of the BA/MA program. The MA in physics may also, with the approval of the CUNY Graduate Center, form part of the degree work required for the CUNY PhD degree. Thesis research toward the CUNY PhD may also be carried out at Hunter College.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must meet Hunter’s general admission requirements ; however, the physics department no longer requires the Graduate Record Examination. In addition, the following departmental requirements must be met:

A minimum of 36 credits total in undergraduate physics and mathematics courses. These should include intermediate mechanics, electricity, modern physics, and differential equations. A B average is required for these courses.
Approval by the department’s Graduate Physics Committee. If deficiencies are noted in certain undergraduate courses, the applicant may be required to take these courses without graduate credit.

Degree Requirements

1. Program of courses

A program of courses designed in consultation with the graduate adviser and approved by the department’s Graduate Physics Committee.

2. Completion of 30 credits of graduate work including:

a. Not more than 6 credits earned at a graduate institution other than CUNY.

b. At least 15 credits earned at Hunter College.

c. The following courses or their equivalents:

d. No more than 6 credits in 600-level courses.

Note(s)

The courses listed in sections 2(c) and 2(d) are generally offered during the daytime hours.

3. Mathematics, Astronomy, Engineering, and Physical Chemistry

A maximum of 9 credits may be accepted in physics department approved graduate courses in mathematics, astronomy, engineering, and physical chemistry.

4. Comprehensive examination

The candidate will be required to pass a comprehensive examination based on the required courses listed in section 2(c) above or complete a thesis, under a faculty member’s supervision, that is approved by the department’s Graduate Physics Committee. The first PhD exam may be substituted for the comprehensive examination.

5. Residence of two semesters

A minimum residence of two semesters at Hunter College. Courses taken as a nonmatriculant may be counted toward the degree upon matriculation with the approval of the department’s Graduate Physics Committee.

6. There are no foreign language requirements.

Financial Aid

Financial aid is not generally available from the department for MA students.