M.A. in Early Christian Studies
The M.A. in Early Christian Studies at The Catholic University of America is an interdi...
M.S. in Applied Physics and Nanotechnology
Washington, D.C
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.S. in Applied Physics and Nanotechnology at CUA is a 30-credit-hour degree program. It emphasizes the application of leading-edge physical principles and concepts, particularly focusing on the relationship between the atomic-scale structure of materials and their macroscopic properties. This foundation is crucial for developing new materials and devices with tailored properties. The program is open to students from diverse backgrounds in sciences, mathematics, and engineering, and can often be completed in approximately two years of full-time study. It aims to equip students with practical skills in experimental techniques, nanofabrication, microfabrication, and characterization methods, ensuring a smooth transition from academia to industry.
STEM Designated: Yes, the M.S. in Applied Physics and Nanotechnology program at The Catholic University of America is STEM-designated. This classification offers significant benefits to international students, making them eligible for the STEM OPT (Optional Practical Training) extension, which allows for an additional 24 months of work authorization in the U.S. beyond the initial 12-month OPT period, for a total of 36 months of post-graduation work experience.
Curriculum: The curriculum is built around a hands-on, experimentally-focused approach. It includes core courses that provide a fundamental understanding of applied physics and nanotechnology, such as Nanoscale Devices, Materials Science, and Micro/Nano-mechanics. The coursework is designed to accommodate students from varied backgrounds, providing necessary conceptual prerequisites. Students have the option to pursue a thesis, which involves significant independent research, or a non-thesis option, which requires more extensive coursework. The program focuses on providing ample opportunity to learn practical aspects of cutting-edge experimental, nanofabrication, microfabrication, and characterization methods.
Research Focus: As an R2: Doctoral University – High Research Activity institution, CUA's Department of Physics maintains a robust research environment with a strong emphasis on nanotechnology and materials physics. Faculty members are active scientists and researchers, and students are encouraged to make full use of state-of-the-art facilities. Research areas in the department include nanophysics, materials science, condensed matter physics, and the physics of amorphous and noncrystalline materials. The program also facilitates cooperative research projects with nearby governmental laboratories such as NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), providing students with direct involvement in cutting-edge research.
Industry Engagement: The program's design is heavily influenced by the needs of various industries, aiming to provide students with a skill-set that allows them to transition effectively from academia to industry. CUA's location in Washington, D.C., is a significant asset, providing unparalleled access to state-of-the-art federal research labs and numerous industries. The department has strong connections and considerable external funding from agencies like NSF, DOE, NASA, and DOD, as well as from several industries. These connections often translate into opportunities for research assistantships, collaborative projects, and direct exposure to industrial problems, preparing graduates for professional research careers.
Global Perspective: The M.S. in Applied Physics and Nanotechnology inherently offers a global perspective due to the universal principles of physics and the international nature of scientific research and technological development. The program attracts a diverse student body, fostering cross-cultural collaboration and exchange of ideas. While specific study abroad opportunities might not be a standard component, the global relevance of nanotechnology and applied physics, combined with potential research collaborations with international institutions (even if indirectly through D.C.-based federal labs), ensures that graduates are prepared to contribute to and lead innovations in a globalized scientific and industrial landscape.
Location
Washington, D.C
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 52190
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 58 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
The Catholic University of America (CUA) offers a variety of scholarship opportunities to support international students in their pursuit of higher education. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need, making CUA an attractive destination for talented students from around the world.
Merit-Based Scholarships: CUA provides merit scholarships to international students based on their academic achievements and overall profile. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are often renewable each year, provided students maintain satisfactory academic performance. Scholarships are awarded automatically during the admission process or through a separate application depending on the program.
Need-Based Financial Aid: While need-based financial aid for international students is limited due to federal regulations, CUA offers institutional grants and assistance based on demonstrated financial need. International students are encouraged to provide comprehensive financial documentation to be considered for these awards.
Program-Specific Scholarships: Certain departments and colleges within CUA offer specialized scholarships for international students pursuing specific fields such as theology, law, engineering, or music. These awards often recognize outstanding talent or the discipline and may include research stipends or assistantships.
Graduate Assistantships and Fellowships: Graduate international students have access to assistantships and fellowships that provide tuition waivers and stipends in exchange for teaching, research, or administrative support. These opportunities not only help finance education but also provide valuable professional experience.
External Scholarships and Resources: CUA encourages international students to seek scholarships from external organizations, foundations, and government programs in their home countries. The university’s financial aid office provides guidance on identifying and applying for such opportunities.
The Master of Science (M.S.) in Applied Physics and Nanotechnology from The Catholic University of America prepares graduates for cutting-edge roles in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. With a strong emphasis on hands-on experimental skills and a deep understanding of materials at the nanoscale, graduates are highly sought after in research, development, and engineering across various industries. The STEM designation further enhances their career prospects, particularly for international students.
Nanomaterials Engineer: Develops, designs, and synthesizes new materials at the nanoscale for applications in electronics, energy storage, biomedical devices, or consumer products.
Process Engineer (Semiconductor/Microfabrication): Works in semiconductor manufacturing or microelectronics industries, optimizing fabrication processes for integrated circuits, micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS), and other nanoscale devices.
Research Scientist (Government/Industry Labs): Conducts experimental or theoretical research in fields such as condensed matter physics, materials science, quantum computing, or biophysics at national laboratories (e.g., NIST, NRL, NASA) or corporate R&D divisions.
Device Engineer: Designs, develops, and tests new electronic, optical, or mechanical devices at the micro and nanoscale, improving performance and miniaturization for various applications.
Quality Control/Assurance Engineer: Ensures the quality and reliability of products and processes in industries utilizing advanced materials and nanotechnology, performing testing, analysis, and process improvement.
Optics/Photonics Engineer: Applies principles of light and optics to design and develop optical components, laser systems, or photonic devices, often for telecommunications, medical imaging, or sensing applications.
Applications Engineer: Provides technical support and expertise to customers using nanotechnology-based products or advanced physics instruments, assisting with product integration, troubleshooting, and training.
Materials Scientist: Investigates the properties and behavior of advanced materials, often at the atomic or molecular level, to understand their performance and develop new functionalities for various industrial sectors.
Biomedical Device Engineer: Designs and develops innovative medical devices and diagnostic tools leveraging nanotechnology, such as biosensors, drug delivery systems, or advanced imaging probes, in the healthcare industry.
Technical Consultant: Provides specialized expertise in applied physics, nanotechnology, and materials science to businesses, startups, or government agencies seeking solutions to complex technical challenges, product development, or intellectual property issues.
