Physics, M.S.

Physics faculty at Florida Tech are deeply engaged in high-impact research, from probing the behavior of fundamental particles at CERN to developing quantum annealing algorithms for high-energy physics.

Their expertise spans advanced detector design, dark matter searches, high-energy astrophysics and theoretical modeling of intelligent systems. Several are active members of major international collaborations, including CMS and RD51, giving the program strong connections to global physics research.

Graduate students earning a master’s in physics pursue faculty-led research topics that align with their career goals. Research opportunities may include work conducted on campus at one of our many labs or off-campus at various national and international facilities.

Research in physics at Florida Tech includes experimental high-energy physics, particle detector development, quantum computing applications, dark matter searches, high-energy astrophysics, atmospheric electricity and radiation, cosmic ray propagation and heliospheric physics.

Some of the organizations around the world that provide Florida Tech students with opportunities include:

• CERN in Switzerland
• L3Harris Technologies
• NASA-Kennedy Space Center
• Lockheed-Martin

The M.S. in physics offers valuable opportunities for career-changers with technical backgrounds and for professionals already working in aerospace, defense or engineering fields.

For those with degrees in engineering, mathematics or computer science, the program provides a strong foundation in physical modeling, advanced problem-solving and computational techniques, opening the door to specialized roles in areas like sensors, simulations, materials or space systems.

For professionals in industry, especially in regions like Florida’s Space Coast, the degree can support advancement into more research-intensive or system-level positions that demand a deeper understanding of fundamental physics. Whether you're looking to shift focus or move up, the M.S. equips you with skills that are both versatile and highly valued in today’s technology-driven workforce.

The M.S. in physics can be an excellent stepping stone for students planning to pursue a Ph.D. but looking to strengthen their academic foundation or clarify their research direction first.

Through advanced coursework and the opportunity for hands-on research, students can deepen their expertise, build strong faculty relationships and gain the experience needed to confidently take the next step in their academic journey.

Whether you're refining your focus or preparing for the demands of doctoral study, the program offers a solid platform to grow as a scholar and scientist.

You’ll have the option to complete a thesis as part of your master’s degree, but it’s not required.

All students—whether they choose the thesis or non-thesis track—complete a final oral examination before graduating. If you pursue a thesis, your exam will focus primarily on your research topic. If you choose the non-thesis path, the exam will cover broader topics from your graduate coursework.

Applicants should have an undergraduate degree in physics, a space science discipline (such as astronomy, astrophysics, geosciences, planetary science or astrobiology) or an engineering field.

A solid background in mathematics, through vector analysis, is expected to ensure success in graduate-level coursework.

To help you get the most out of the program, all incoming students take a general written exam during their first semester. This is designed to identify any gaps in undergraduate preparation so you can strengthen your foundation early on. If areas for improvement are found, you’ll have support and clear guidance for getting up to speed before completing your degree.

For more information, please see the university's graduate admission requirements.