Southern’s M.S. in Applied Physics offers two cutting-edge tracks—Materials Science/Nanotechnology and Optics/Optical Instrumentation—designed to power Connecticut’s workforce in established industries and emerging tech sectors.

This program is ideal for physics professionals and career changers looking to deepen their technical expertise and lead innovation in science and industry.
Students gain advanced knowledge of physics and modern management practices while specializing in a high-demand field. Gain hands-on research in state-of-the-art labs includes biomedical imaging, nanomaterials synthesis, laser spectroscopy, interferometry, and particle physics.

Whether you're drawn to materials characterization or optical systems, you'll graduate prepared for roles such as Research Scientist, Optical or Nuclear Engineer, Data Analyst, or Materials Physicist across industries like aerospace, consulting, energy, and advanced manufacturing.

Career Outlook (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024)
•    Materials Scientists: Median salary of $106,160
•    Optical Engineers (categorized under “Engineers, All Other”): $100,500
•    Aerospace Engineers: $130,720
•    Mechanical Engineers: $99,510
•    Electronics Engineers: $127,590

Next Steps
     

     
Contact Us
     
PhysicsGrad@SouthernCT.edu

College of Arts and Sciences

Department of Physics

Application Requirements

Application Submission
Application Fee ($50)
Official Transcripts
Essay
Two Letters of Recommendation

Essay Prompt

Tell us your prior educational and/or work experience, why you choose our program to pursue an MS degree, your research interest in our program, your career plan, and what you would like to accomplish if admitted to our program. If you can, also include your financial need. No page limit.

Capstone Requirement (Choose One)

Thesis
Special Project

Cost of Program

Use our Paying for College Calculator to estimate the cost of your program.

Virtual Tour

Discover Your Future with Our Virtual Campus Tour!

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Join us and see firsthand why our institution is the perfect place to start your graduate journey. Whether you're interested in cutting-edge research or a supportive and inclusive community, our virtual tour has it all.