Physics
Master of Science
A universe of possibilities
In this physics program, you will delve deep into your exploration of the laws of the universe and gain valuable research experiences that will prepare you to make your own groundbreaking contributions to the field.
As a graduate student, you will have opportunities to work alongside faculty on leading research programs that center on condensed matter physics, theoretical nuclear physics, astronomy and planetary science and biological physics. You will spend significant time in the lab, where you will use sophisticated instrumentation to study mechanics, electronics, atomic and nuclear physics, quantum mechanics or other physics sub-areas that interest you.
Physics M.S. highlights include:
- Work with faculty internationally recognized for their outstanding educational, research and outreach efforts.
- Collaborate with researchers in other disciplines by engaging in sophisticated multidisciplinary projects.
- Learn cutting-edge research techniques in a sub-area of your choosing.
Overview
Related Topics
Unlocking limitless potential
Application information
Applicants for the master’s in physics program must meet the following degree-specific admission requirements:
- Education level: Bachelor's
- GPA: 3.0
- GRE: No
- TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo: 79/6.5/115 (for applicants whose education was completed in countries where English is not an official language)
- Number of references: Three
- Other requirements: No
Program availability
- Concentration: Thesis and non-thesis
- Semester intake: Fall, Spring
- Deadlines: General application deadlines
Visit Graduate Admissions to learn more and start your application.
Contact information
Physics contact: Zach Etienne; zetienne@uidaho.edu
Graduate Admissions contact: graduateadmissions@uidaho.edu, 208-885-4001
Costs, funding and research
To learn about various ways to fund your graduate degree, check out Graduate Funding.
For detailed information about the cost of attendance, visit Financial Aid.
Beginning Fall 2026, M.S. students appointed as Teaching Assistants will receive an annual support package that includes:
- Base stipend: $19,461.00 for the 9-month academic year
- In-state tuition: fully covered by the program
- Out-of-state tuition: waived for non-resident students
- Health insurance: Student Health Insurance Program premiums not covered
- Summer support: additional scholarship up to $8,000, depending on funding availability
Assistantship stipends are determined by the Idaho State Legislature.
Related clubs and organizations
Graduate students are encouraged to join one of the many professional organizations which have highly discounted student membership rates.
- American Physical Society
- Materials Research Society
Real-world experience
Laboratory work and research assistant opportunities with faculty and with local laboratories, agencies and businesses will allow you to apply your knowledge in and outside of the classroom. Some of the most significant research efforts are happening in the areas of:
- Condensed matter physics
- Nuclear physics
- Biological physics
- Astronomy and planetary science
Degree fit
This degree could be a good fit if you:
- Want a physics-related career in applied research, development, computer science, engineering or teaching.
- Possess sharp critical and analytical thinking skills.
- Enjoy solving complicated problems.
- Want to gain quality research experience in the lab.
- Have a strong background in a science-related field.
Career outcomes
Current job openings
1,361 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Natural Sciences Managers
$152,874 - Physicists
$134,292 - Postsecondary Physics Teachers • Postsecondary Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Science Teachers
$82,694 - Secondary School Teachers
$78,774 - Biochemists and Biophysicists
$100,944
* Career data provided by Lightcast.