The MS degree in Applied Physics is directed toward students with interests in the engineering of physical systems for which acquisition and interpretation of information requires an understanding of underlying physical models, measurement techniques, and disruptive factors such as noise, turbulence, and spurious signals. Examples include RF electromagnetic or acoustic detection of objects or resources, photonic sources and detection, and design and modeling of aeronautical, mechanical, and biomedical components and systems.
Career opportunities for those who have completed the Master of Science in Applied Physics include aerospace, photonics, remote chemical and environmental sensing, and electromagnetic and mechanical systems engineering.
International Students: This program is eligible for the OPT STEM extension.
- This program requires completion of 28 units of coursework
- Thesis option and Directed Research (research without thesis) may be requested after completing first semester. Thesis option is not guaranteed
- USC Catalogue
- USC Schedule of Classes
APPLICATION DEADLINES
| SEMESTER | DEADLINE |
| Fall | December 15 (Scholarship consideration)
January 15 (Final deadline) |
Visit our Ready to Apply page for more information
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Applicants to the master's of science programs in Applied Physics are required to have a bachelor’s degree or be in the process of completing a bachelor's degree. Degrees in any engineering or engineering-related disciplines are frequently represented among our program applicants, including but not limited to the following:
- Aerospace Science
- Electrical Engineering
- Math
- Mechanical Engineering
- Physics
Applicants without a Bachelor’s degree in the preferred majors listed above will only be considered with coursework and demonstrated proficiency in the acceptable courses listed below (or equivalent).
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Calculus 1-3
Differential Equations |
Applications are reviewed holistically; simply taking these courses does not guarantee admission.
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
The following materials are required to be included with your online application:
- Transcripts
- Resume/CV
- Personal Statement
- Letter of Recommendation (Optional)
NOTE: The GRE is not required for 2026 applications.
The following link will take you to an overview of the tuition & fees for graduate engineering students, including payment information. Both on-campus and DEN@Viterbi students pay the same tuition
TUITION AND FEES OVERVIEW
Use the link below to download the Cost of Attendance to see a summary of tuition and fees by semester. The document is a typical example and the number of courses, and time to complete the program, will vary by student.
Estimated Cost of Attendance - 28 Unit Program
This is a new program. No employment data is available yet.
This program is not available through DEN. For a full list of the 40+ engineering graduate programs available online, please visit Online DEN@Viterbi Offerings.
Please complete the following form for more information.
