NDSU

Master of Science (M.S.) Degree Requirements

Advising

 The Graduate Advisory Committee will assign to each incoming graduate student a temporary advisor, who will assist in the selection of courses to be taken. By the end of the second semester, the student must choose a permanent advisor, who will guide the student in research. Each student must choose to do research under the thesis option. The thesis option emphasizes original research.

Courses for Thesis Option

 Each student must earn at least 30 graduate credits, numbered 600-798, of which:
  1. 16 or more are credits numbered 600-689 and 700-789;
  2. 12 or more credits are physics courses numbered 700-789;
  3. between 6 and 10 credits are Physics 798 ("Master's Thesis");
  4. at most 4 credits are physics courses numbered 700-789;
  5. at most 6 credits are non-physics courses.

Seminars and Colloquia:

 Each student is strongly encouraged to present at least one departmental seminar as an M.S. student. The student should be enrolled in Physics 690 ("Graduate Seminar") during the semester in which that seminar is presented. Typically the seminar addresses the student's research project. Students are strongly encouraged to attend all colloquia.

Plan of Study and M.S. Supervisory Committee:

 Each student must fill out a plan of study soon after beginning M.S. research. The student and advisor must agree upon two additional members for the M.S. Committee (in addition to the advisor). One additional member will be appointed by the Graduate School. One person on the Committee must be outside of the Physics Department.

Disquisition and Final Examination:

 After the coursework and research are completed, the student will write a disquisition (thesis). Instructions from the Graduate School office on writing the disquisition should be obtained and followed carefully. Once written, an oral defense before the committee must be scheduled. At least two weeks in advance of the exam date, the Graduate School must be notified. At least one week in advance, notice of the examination must be posted and committee members must receive a copy of the disquisition.

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Published by North Dakota State University
Last Updated: 06 May 05