Physics - Master of Science (MSc)

Science Buildings

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.

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 fields

  •     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 (only available through the coursework option)

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

Sophie Gagnon
gwp@uwaterloo.ca

Angela Hovdestad (Perimeter Scholars International inquiries)
ahovdestad@perimeterinstitute.ca

Grant Brassem

I’d get hands-on experience with the actual software platforms used to run modern laboratory equipment, while simultaneously gaining a strong theoretical background to do the work.

Grant Brassem, Master of Science (MSc) in Physics (Quantum Technology) student

Supervisors

Admission requirements

  • An honours bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in science with at least a 75% standing.

Degree requirements

Application materials

Tuition and fees