Program Description

The Master of Science in Physical and Applied Sciences, offered in cooperation with the Departments of Chemistry and Geology, is intended to provide the opportunity for students with diverse qualifications to improve the depth and breadth of their knowledge in the Physical Sciences. The degree offered is a M.S. in Physical and Applied Sciences, with an Area of Emphasis in one of the following: Chemistry, Geobiophysical Modeling, Geology, Mathematics, or Physics for Teachers.

The area of emphasis in Geobiophysical Modeling is interdisciplinary, with core courses in Remote Sensing and GIS Modeling. Thereafter, students may choose from areas of concentration in Aquatic, Terrestrial or Biophysical Systems and Models.

The area of emphasis in Physics for Teachers is an online program, targeted towards practicing secondary school teachers who wish to become qualified to instruct advanced placement, dual enrollment, or early college courses, as well as towards students interested in becoming Physics teachers.

Admission Requirements

Applicants should follow the admissions process described in this catalog or at the Graduate Admissions website at www.marshall.edu/graduate/admissions/how-to-apply-for-admission.

In addition:

• The applicant must have an undergraduate Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale in their major;
• Applicants with a GPA between 2.5 and 3.0 in their major may be provisionally admitted to the program.

Program Requirements

A Plan of Study approved by the student’s advisor must be submitted for approval to the dean before the student registers for his or her 12th semester hour. The Plan of Study is a student’s “blueprint” for completing graduation requirements.

Programs will be designed to meet individual needs. Students must consult with their advisors for specific requirements. The writing of a thesis is optional in all areas of emphasis except Geology.

If the thesis option is chosen, a minimum of 32 hours is required, including not more than 6 hours for the thesis. Without the thesis, 36 hours are required.

Note: These are general guidelines. Individual departments may have their own requirements.

Course List

Code	Title	Credit Hours
Minimum Requirements		32-36
Area of Emphasis (Chemistry, Geobiophysical Modeling, Geology, Mathematics, Physics for Teachers)		12-18
Minor area (Chemistry, Geobiophysical Modeling, Geology, Mathematics, Physics for Teachers		6
Electives		12-18