MS in Physics

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of  6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
• PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.

Northeastern University in Boston offers a range of scholarship opportunities for international students to help alleviate the financial burden of studying in the United States. These scholarships are designed to support academically talented students from around the world, promoting diversity and fostering an inclusive campus environment.

Merit-Based Scholarships: Northeastern University provides merit-based scholarships to international students based on academic excellence and achievements. These scholarships are awarded during the admissions process and are highly competitive. The amount and criteria for these scholarships may vary, but they aim to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance, leadership potential, and a strong their chosen field of study.

Northeastern International Scholars Program: This prestigious program offers scholarships to outstanding international students who exhibit leadership, academic excellence, and a desire to contribute to the global community. The Northeastern International Scholars Program provides both financial support and opportunities for personal growth through networking events, leadership training, and involvement in community service initiatives.

Need-Based Financial Aid: Although Northeastern University does not offer need-based financial aid to international students, there are still many merit-based scholarships available that can significantly reduce tuition costs. However, international students are encouraged to seek external scholarships or funding from their home country to help cover the remaining costs.

External Scholarships and Funding: In addition to institutional scholarships, international students at Northeastern University can explore a variety of external scholarship opportunities from governments, foundations, and organizations in their home countries. Many international students receive funding from these sources to support their education at Northeastern.

The MS in Physics program at Northeastern University provides students with the advanced analytical, problem-solving, and research skills required to pursue diverse careers in academia, industry, and government. Graduates are well-equipped to tackle complex scientific challenges and contribute to various fields such as materials science, data science, engineering, and more.

Research Scientist – Graduates can pursue careers as research scientists, conducting advanced research in academic institutions, government laboratories, or private sector companies. They may specialize in fields like condensed matter physics, quantum mechanics, or particle physics, pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge.

Data Scientist/Analyst – With strong quantitative and computational skills, graduates can become data scientists, using physics-based models and statistical methods to analyze large datasets. This role is in high demand in sectors like finance, technology, healthcare, and social media, where data-driven decision-making is crucial.

Physicist in Industry – Graduates can work as physicists in various industries, including electronics, telecommunications, and energy. They apply principles of physics to design and optimize new technologies, such as semiconductors, lasers, and renewable energy systems. This work may involve experimental physics, instrumentation, or computational modeling.

Materials Scientist – A career as a materials scientist allows graduates to explore the properties and behaviors of different materials, with applications in fields such as nanotechnology, semiconductor development, and renewable energy. Materials scientists often work in R&D departments of technology companies or government labs.

Medical Physicist – Graduates interested in healthcare can work as medical physicists, applying their expertise in physics to improve medical imaging, radiation therapy, and other diagnostic techniques. They work in hospitals, clinics, and medical research institutions to ensure the safe and effective use of physics in medicine.

Engineering Physicist – Graduates can become engineering physicists, working at the intersection of physics and engineering. They design and develop advanced technological systems, such as lasers, sensors, and diagnostic equipment, often in collaboration with engineering teams to solve practical problems.

Software Developer – Graduates with programming and computational skills can pursue careers as software developers, building simulation software, algorithms, and models for a variety of applications. The demand for physics-trained software developers is high, particularly in sectors like aerospace, cybersecurity, and AI.

Aerospace Engineer – With a foundation in physics, graduates can work in aerospace engineering, designing aircraft, spacecraft, and related technologies. This role requires applying principles of physics to problems related to aerodynamics, propulsion, and materials used in high-performance applications.

Quantitative Analyst (Quant) – Graduates can apply their strong mathematical and analytical skills to become quantitative analysts, or "quants," in the finance sector. They develop mathematical models to assess risk, optimize investment strategies, and analyze market trends for hedge funds, investment banks, and financial consulting firms.

Climate Scientist – With a background in physics, graduates can work as climate scientists, studying the physical processes of the Earth's climate and contributing to the understanding of climate change. They may work for government agencies, environmental organizations, or research institutions focused on sustainability and environmental protection.

Education/Teaching – For graduates interested in academia, teaching at the high school or college level is a common career path. They can contribute to the education of future scientists and researchers by teaching physics, conducting research, and mentoring students in academic institutions.

Photonics Engineer – Graduates can specialize in photonics, the study and application of light, and work in industries focused on lasers, fiber optics, and telecommunications. Photonics engineers are involved in developing cutting-edge technologies in imaging, communications, and manufacturing.

Nuclear Physicist – Graduates interested in nuclear physics can work in government labs, research institutions, or private companies developing nuclear technologies for energy production, medicine, or research purposes. They may also be involved in ensuring the safety and security of nuclear materials.

Biophysicist – Graduates can work as biophysicists, applying principles of physics to understand biological systems. This may involve researching the physical processes in cells, tissues, and organs, which has applications in drug development, genetic engineering, and medical device design.

Patent Examiner/Intellectual Property Consultant – Graduates with an interest in law and technology can work as patent examiners or intellectual property consultants, helping companies protect innovations related to physics and engineering technologies. They evaluate patents and assist in the commercialization of new scientific discoveries.

Government Researcher/Advisor – Graduates can work in governmental roles, conducting research for agencies such as NASA, the Department of Energy (DOE), or the National Institutes of Standards and Technology (NIST). They may also serve as policy advisors or analysts on scientific issues that require a deep understanding of physics.