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Science Teaching Complex (STC) and Quantum-Nano Centre (QNC) Buildings Located on Waterloo's Campus.
Be at the cutting edge of discovery in one of the largest physics and astronomy graduate programs in Canada with Master of Science in Physics program.
The department’s tradition of collaboration and innovations offers a rich and varied graduate experience that’s unparalleled.
Choose from three study options to fit your needs and interests:
- The thesis option is research-based where you’ll work closely with a supervisor to conduct original research in an area of physics, culminating in a thesis. You’ll be provided with funding to cover tuition and some living expenses.
- The master’s research paper option is primarily coursework-based with a minor research component. You’ll work with a supervisor to plan your degree and complete your research paper. Funding is not provided.
- The coursework-based option is a specialization in quantum technology offered in partnership with the Institute for Quantum Computing and the Transformative Quantum Technologies Program. Designed to be completed in 12 months, it features coursework combined with hands-on learning on quantum platforms including superconducting electronics, atomic, molecular and optical systems, and solid state devices. You’ll be prepared to join the growing quantum industry to pursue research at the PhD level. Limited full scholarships are available for this option.
Research areas and degree options
- Astrophysics and Gravitation
- Atomic Molecular and Optical Physics
- Biophysics
- Chemical Physics
- Condensed Matter and Materials Physics
- Industrial and Applied Physics
- Quantum Computing
- Subatomic Physics
Research specialization(s)
- Quantum Technology
Program overview
Department/School: Physics and Astronomy
Faculty: Faculty of Science
Admit term(s): Fall (September - December), Winter (January - April), Spring (May - August)
Delivery mode: On-campus
Program type: Joint, Master's, Research
Length of program: 24 months (full-time)
Registration option(s): Full-time, Part-time
Study option(s): Thesis, Master's Research Paper, Coursework
Application deadlines
- January 9 (for admission in September)
- June 1 (for admission in January of the following year)
- October 1 (for admission in May of the following year)
Key contacts
Supervisors
- Review the finding a supervisor resources
Admission requirements
- An Honours Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in Science with at least a 75% standing.
Degree requirements
- Review the degree requirements in the Graduate Studies Academic Calendar, including the courses that you can anticipate taking as part of completing the degree.
Application materials
- Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Physics Subject test scores for all students who have completed their post-secondary education outside of Canada
- Note: This application document is currently not required due to COVID-19
- Supplementary information form (SIF)
- The SIF contains questions specific to your program, typically about why you want to enrol and your experience in that field. Review the application documents web page for more information about this requirement
- If a statement or letter is required by your program, review the writing your personal statement resources for helpful tips and tricks on completion
- Transcript(s)
- References
- Three academic references are required
- Proof of English language proficiency, if applicable
- TOEFL 90 (writing 25, speaking 25), IELTS 7.0 (writing 6.5, speaking 6.5)
Tuition and fees
- Visit the graduate program tuition page on the Finance website to determine the tuition and incidental fees per term for your program
- Review the Living costs and housing.
- Review the funding graduate school resources for graduate students