M.S. in Physics

Entry requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 70

1. Academic Requirements:

• Applicants must have completed a recognized undergraduate degree from an accredited institution.
• A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or its equivalent) is required. This translates to approximately 60% or above in the grading system.

2. English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.0.
• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - Internet-Based Test): A minimum overall score of 80.
• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 53.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 105.

3. Standardized Tests:

• GRE: A minimum GRE score of 300 is required.

California State University, Fresno, is committed to supporting the academic aspirations of international students by offering various scholarships and financial aid opportunities. These scholarships help ease the financial burden of pursuing higher education in the United States. 

1. International Student Scholarship: Fresno State offers merit-based scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement and may cover a significant portion of tuition costs.

2. Dean's Graduate Medal: This scholarship is awarded to the top graduate student from each academic college at Fresno State. It recognizes outstanding academic achievement and contributions to the college.

3. President's Graduate Medal: The President's Graduate Medal is the highest honor for a graduate student at Fresno State. It is awarded to a graduate student who has demonstrated exceptional scholarship, leadership, and service.

4. Graduate Equity Fellowship: The Graduate Equity Fellowship is designed to support underrepresented and economically disadvantaged graduate students. It provides financial assistance and mentoring to help students succeed in their academic pursuits.

5. Athletic Scholarships: Fresno State offers athletic scholarships to talented student-athletes. These scholarships are typically awarded to individuals who excel in specific sports and contribute to the university's athletic programs.

6. External Scholarships: International students can also explore external scholarship opportunities, including those offered by government agencies, private organizations, and foundations in their home countries.

7. Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments at Fresno State may offer scholarships to graduate students in specific fields of study. These scholarships often have specific eligibility criteria and application processes.

8. Fulbright Scholarships: Fresno State participates in the Fulbright Program, which offers scholarships for international students to study, teach, or conduct research in the United States. Applicants can apply for Fulbright scholarships through the Fulbright Commission or U.S. Embassy in their home country.

9. Cultural and Exchange Program Scholarships: Fresno State may offer scholarships to international students participating in cultural exchange programs or partnership agreements with specific universities and organizations.

10. Research and Teaching Assistantships: Graduate students may have opportunities to work as research or teaching assistants, which often come with a stipend and/or tuition remission.

Tips for Scholarship Application:

• Applicants should pay close attention to scholarship application deadlines and ensure that all required documents are submitted on time.
• Strong academic performance, letters of recommendation, a well-written personal statement, and a demonstrated commitment to community involvement and leadership can enhance scholarship application chances.

Graduates of the M.S. in Physics program at California State University, Fresno, are well-prepared for a wide range of career opportunities in academia, research institutions, government agencies, and the private sector.  

1. Research Scientist: Graduates can pursue research scientist positions in universities, national laboratories, and research institutions, contributing to scientific advancements.

2. Physics Professor: For those interested in academia, the program provides a strong foundation for teaching and conducting research at the college or university level.

3. Data Scientist: With strong analytical skills, graduates may work as data scientists, applying their knowledge of physics to analyze complex data sets in various industries.

4. Astronomer/Astrophysicist: Those specializing in astrophysics can explore careers in observatories, space agencies, and research institutions.

5. Quantitative Analyst: Graduates can apply their analytical skills to financial and investment industries as quantitative analysts, often referred to as "quants."

6. Materials Scientist: Physics graduates may work in materials science, focusing on the development and analysis of materials for specific applications.

7. Government Scientist: Some graduates may choose to work for government agencies such as NASA, the Department of Energy, or the National Institutes of Health in research and development roles.

8. Medical Physicist: Specializing in medical physics, graduates can work in healthcare settings, ensuring the safe and effective use of radiation in medical treatments.

9. Technology Consultant: Physics knowledge is valuable in technology consulting roles, where graduates may advise companies on technological solutions and innovations.

10. Data Analyst: Graduates can become data analysts, using their analytical skills to derive insights from data in industries such as healthcare, energy, or technology.

11. Entrepreneur: Those with entrepreneurial aspirations can start their own companies, particularly in fields where physics innovations can be commercialized.

12. Patent Examiner: Graduates with a deep understanding of physics concepts may work as patent examiners, assessing patent applications related to physics inventions.