Mar 29, 2024  
2021-2022 Graduate Catalog 
    
2021-2022 Graduate Catalog This is not the most recent catalog version; be sure you are viewing the appropriate catalog year.

Physics Education [M.S.]


The M.S. in Physics Education is designed to approach traditional physics material from an educator’s perspective. The program will prepare students for modern teaching techniques and provide practical teaching experience. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for a career in physics education.

The program is designed to

  • Provide students with experience in a variety of teaching methods
  • Increase the proficiency of students in professional communication
  • Provide a solid base of appropriate experimental techniques
  • Improve the ability to conduct instructional laboratories safely

This is a designated STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) program.

Program Admission


Graduate School Application

After reviewing the admission requirements below, please select the appropriate application. The University is transitioning application platforms; pay close attention when selecting the application below.

The program you are applying to may not accept applicants every semester.

For additional information regarding the application process, please see Graduate Admissions or International Admissions.

Admission Requirements

Minimum Graduate School Requirements

A four-year baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or an equivalent degree from a non-U.S. institution. In addition, a minimum cumulative undergraduate grade point average of 2.7 on a 4.0 scale, or 3.0 in the last half of the undergraduate program, is required for full admission. Applicants who do not meet minimum admission requirements may be considered for conditional admission. See International Admissions for international applicant requirements.

Applicants must also meet the following program requirements:

  • Applicants must have at least the equivalent of an undergraduate major or minor in physics
  • A background in mathematics through multivariable calculus
  • A personal statement of 1-2 pages explaining your purpose for pursuing the MS degree at EMU
  • Two letters of recommendation

Admission is restricted to in-service teachers or those intending to enter the teaching profession in the United States.

Students who do not meet these requirements may be granted conditional admission requiring additional undergraduate coursework in physics and/or mathematics.

Department Information


Physics & Astronomy | Ernest Behringer, Ph.D., Department Head | 240C Strong Hall, 734.487.8799, ebehringe@emich.edu

Marshall Thomsen, Ph.D., Graduate Coordinator, 240K Strong Hall, 734.487.8794, jthomsen@emich.edu

Advisor Information


 

Ernie Behringer, Ph.D., 240C Strong Hall, 734.487.8799, ebehringe@emich.edu

Jonathan Skuza, Ph.D., 240B Strong Hall, 734.487.8797, jskuza@emich.edu

Degree Requirements: 30 hours


The M.S. in Physics Education requires the completion of 30 hours of course work to be distributed among required courses, elective courses and cognate courses as follows:

Required Courses: 5 hours


Elective Courses in Physics: 20-26 hours


Twenty to 26 hours selected in consultation with the graduate advisor.

Cognate Courses: 0-6 hours


Zero to six hours selected in consultation with the graduate advisor.