COURSE CURRICULUM

The MSc in Physics is a research-intensive graduate program centered on the completion of a thesis (PHYS 599), which is required for all students regardless of their chosen concentration. The program combines advanced coursework with independent research, ensuring that students develop both strong theoretical foundations and practical research skills. Core course requirements include PHYS500A (Quantum Mechanics) and PHYS502A (Classical Electrodynamics), which provide essential knowledge of modern physics principles. Students also participate in PHYS560 (Colloquium), fostering engagement with current research topics, and PHYS562 (MSc Student Seminar), where they develop presentation and communication skills by sharing their research progress. In addition to these core components, students must complete 3.0 units of additional coursework, with at least 1.5 units selected from graduate-level physics courses, allowing for some flexibility to align studies with research interests. The central component of the program is the MSc thesis, which involves conducting original research under faculty supervision and contributing new knowledge to the field of physics. Upon completion, students must successfully defend their thesis in a final oral examination, demonstrating their understanding of their research area and their ability to communicate scientific findings effectively. This structure prepares graduates for advanced research careers or doctoral studies.