Interdisciplinary Studies with a Concentration in Physics (MSIS)

CIP Code

30.9999.01

Overview

The Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Physics is a 30-hour program designed for STEM teachers and/or STEM majors interested in interdisciplinary training and research. Depending on the intended career path, students will choose 18 hours of physics courses and 6-12 hours each in areas which include Education, Chemistry, Computer Science, and Mathematics. Thesis and non-thesis options are available in the MSIS program. These options provide opportunities for students to enhance their scientific knowledge as well as develop skills necessary in conducting interdisciplinary scientific research. Graduates of the program will have training in physics, mathematics, chemistry, instructional technology, computer science, and STEM teaching and research preparing them to be more competitive in the rapidly changing work environment.

Admission Requirements

To be admitted to the graduate program in physics education, prospective candidates must first meet all requirements for graduate admission to UT Rio Grande Valley, as well as the other requirements listed below:

Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution in the United States or a recognized international equivalent in a similar or related field.
Undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 in the last 60 semester credit hours.
GRE General test. GRE test scores are valid for 5 years.
Personal statement detailing professional goals and reasons for pursuing the graduate degree.
Resume
Two letters of recommendation from referees conversant with the candidate’s academic background.

Application for admission must be submitted prior to the published deadline. The application is available at www.utrgv.edu/gradapply.

Graduation Requirements

Graduation requirements include successful completion of 30 semester hours of approved graduate credit and the successful completion of a thesis or written comprehensive examination (non-thesis). Non-thesis students are expected to take the written comprehensive exam after completing their graduate physics core courses. Students should contact the program director to schedule the comprehensive exam.

Program Requirements

Required Courses - 18 Hours

Choose any six from PHYS 5000, 6000, and 7000 level courses.

Non-Thesis Option

Prescribed Electives – 12 Hours

Choose four courses from the following categories:

Education Course

Any EDFR 5000, 6000, 7000 level course

Any EDCI 5000, 6000, 7000 level course

Chemistry

Any CHEM 5000, 6000, 7000 level course

Computer Science

Any CSCI 5000, 6000, 7000 level course

Any CYBI 5000, 6000, 7000 level course

Mathematics

Any MATH 5000, 6000, 7000 level course

Any STAT 5000, 6000, 7000 level course

Modeling of Dynamical Systems for STEM Professionals

PSCI 5301	Dynamics for STEM Professionals	3
PSCI 5302	Mathematical Methods for STEM Professionals	3
PSCI 5303	Electricity and Magnetism for STEM Professionals	3
PSCI 5304	Quantum Ideas for STEM Professionals	3

Thesis Option

Prescribed Electives – 6 Hours

Choose two courses from the following categories: