All you need to know about MSc Physics

INTRODUCTION

The Master of Science (MSc) in Physics degree is a two-year post-graduate course in Physics. Physics is the branch of natural science which deals with the study of matter, energy, force and the interaction between them. The course is usually undertaken after a three-year BSc in Physics graduate degree program and prepares candidates for application and research-based careers. The course provides in-depth knowledge about Physics and covers and emphasizes on the theoretical and practical concepts and the fundamentals of Physics. It also involves basic concepts of Mathematics, Geometry and Computers. Important theories and laws are taught that involve the definition and applications of matter, motion, speed, velocity, space and time, energy, pressure and force. Candidates are trained to configure and determine numerical figures, precise measurements, diagrammatic illustrations and graphical representation to explain and demonstrate natural occurrences, simple machines, analysis of natural processes and working of everyday appliances.

The course enhances personal skills like communication, attention to detail, numerical ability, teamwork, logic, presentation and analysis; and professional skills like planning and execution, problem-solving, critical thinking, analytical thinking and reasoning.

SCOPE OF MSc PHYSICS

MSc Physics graduates have multiple opportunities in the fields of Research and Technology. Opportunities can be found in:

Students can contribute as scientists in national laboratories and organizations like:

• Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC)
• Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
• Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL)
• Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
• Space Application Centres (SAC)
• National Atmospheric Research Laboratory (NARL)
• Inter university accelerator centres (IUAC)
• Indira Gandhi Centre for atomic research (IGCAR)
• Raja Ramanna Centre for advanced Technology (RRCAT)
• Variable Energy Cyclotron Centre (VECC)
• Uranium Corporation of India Limited (UCIL)
• Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL)
• Heavy Water Board (HWB) o Atomic mineral Directorate (AMD)

Students can become Research Associates in research institutes like:

• Physical Research Laboratory (PRL)
• Institute for Plasma Research (IPR)
• Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA)
• Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics
• Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational-Sciences (ARIES)
• Indian Institute of Geomagnetism
• Centre for Liquid Crystal Research (CLCR)
• Consortium for Scientific Research (CSR)
• Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER)

Students can assist in laboratories and institutes of Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) like:

o National Physical Laboratory (NPL) o National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI) o Regional Research Laboratories o National Institute of Science (NIS) o Technology and Development Studies (NISTADS) o Institute of Materials and Mineral Technology (IMMT) o National Institute of Science Communication and Information Resources (NISCAIR)

Students can contribute in agricultural research services

Teaching positions in secondary and higher secondary schools, degree colleges, engineering colleges and universities.

Tutoring in Physics for reputed coaching institutes.

Professional certifications in specializations like:

• Nuclear Physics
• High Energy Physics
• Condensed Matter Physics
• Astrophysics
• Cosmology
• Medicine
• Mining
• Geophysics

ADMISSION AND ELIGIBILITY

Colleges and universities offer admission on the basis of two main modes of admission:

• Merit - colleges invite for Application Forms. Interested candidates can apply once the applications are open through entrance examination, group discussions and personal interview.
• Management - students can go for Direct Admission.

Important considerations for admission:

• Marks in Bachelor’s degree
• Qualification in competitive entrance examinations

Important points to consider for eligibility to do MSc Physics:

• Minimum 50% aggregate marks in Bachelor’s degree from any University in India or abroad recognised by UGC/AIU.
• Compulsory subjects – Physics and English.
• Candidates who are in the final year of their studies and writing their final year examination with 50% aggregate marks in all the semesters/years of Undergraduate Examinations.
• Ratio based on both entrance exam score (85%) and academic record (15%) is considered for admission.

COURSE CURRICULUM

The entire program of MSc Physics is divided into two years with each year split into two semesters. In the two-year duration, 16 Theory papers and 7 Practical papers are covered with additional skill-enhancing programs and workshops. The course consists of:

• The fundamental concepts, principles and applications of Physics
• Important subjects and topics included:
  • Astrophysics
  • Atomic Spectroscopy
  • Classical Electrodynamics
  • Classical Mechanics
  • Computer Applications in Physics
  • Electronics
  • Mathematical Methods
  • Molecular Spectroscopy
  • Nuclear Physics
  • Optics
  • Quantum Mechanics
  • Relativity and Cosmology
  • Solid State Physics
  • Statistical Mechanics
• Practical classes consist of:
  • Electrical Laboratory
  • Non-electrical Laboratory
• Electives are included for further specialization
• Guided Dissertations and Projects for practical exposure
• Certification and Foundation Courses for holistic development
• Study Tours to reputed national laboratories, research institutions and industries under the supervision of the department
• Seminars
• Lectures by experienced faculty and scientists
• Workshops
• Tutorials and Brainstorming Sessions.

QUALIFYING ENTRANCE EXAMINATIONS

In order to get admission through Merit into reputed colleges in India, qualification in entrance examinations is important. The examinations may be national, state and institution-specific. These examinations:

• Are NOT mandatory but may be required for certain colleges/universities to be considered for the Merit category
• Consist of objective type questions with MCQs
• Syllabus includes 4 main sections:
  • Electricity and Magnetism
  • Kinetic Theory and Thermodynamics
  • Oscillations, Waves and Optics
  • Mechanics and General Properties of Matter
  • Solid State Physics, Devices and Electronics
  • Mathematical Methods
  • Modern Physics
• A maximum of 4 options will be given to aspirants
• Negative marking may be present

FUTURE PROSPECTS

After successful completion of MSc Physics course, students have many opportunities:

• Research Associate in national and international research laboratories
• Teacher, Professor or Lecturer in schools, colleges or universities
• Research Scientist
• Public and Private companies and MNCs
• M.Phil. in Physics
• PhD in Physics
• Diploma in subjects like Radiology and Medical Physics

INTERNSHIPS AND PROJECTS

The course curriculum of MSc Physics includes opportunities for students to obtain practical exposure. Summer internships, dissertations and projects provide a strong foundation for a career in Research. Points to remember:

• Students are trained to write a clear scientific report that includes a theoretical background, experiment description, presentation of methodology, analysis of results, careful interpretation and evaluation of data and conclusion.
• The Research Project is an opportunity to get hands-on training and laboratory exposure. In the final evaluation, class assignments, end-semester exam results, internships and project reports are taken into account for a candidate to earn their MSc Physics degree.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Multiple career opportunities are available in public and private academic institutions, research laboratories, atomic and space organizations, meteorology departments, telecommunication organisations, manufacturing companies, corporates, MNCs and medical industries. Potential career roles:

• Research Scientist
• Lecturer/Professor
• Medical Physicist
• Radiation Physicist
• Medical Writer
• Statistician
• Research Analyst
• Consultant
• Radiologist
• Online Tutor
• Subject Matter Expert (SME)
• Physics Mentor
• Lab Assistant
• Training Manager
• Auditor
• Research Associate
• Junior Research Fellow
• Research Scientist

POPULAR RECRUITERS

Graduates can find employment in many public and private companies. Popular recruiters are:

• Schools
• Colleges
• Research Centers
• Maruti Udyog
• Tech Mahindra
• Infosys
• Wipro
• Cognizant Technology Services
• Capgemini
• Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC)
• Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC)
• Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL)
• National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC)
• Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO)
• National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER)
• Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT)

SALARY PACKAGE

Fresh graduates can easily get jobs in popular technology companies. Job positions start as Trainee and gradually proceed to Senior Associate/Scientist. With more career exposure, project experience, skills and certifications, a salary hike of about 20% to 25% is guaranteed together with additional benefits and bonuses. The average salary after MSc Physics ranges between 5 LPA to 10 LPA. The lowest salary expected (for a fresh graduate) is between 2 LPA to 3.5 LPA and with work experience increases to 20 LPA to 25 LPA.

CONCLUSION

MSc Physics is one of the most popular natural science courses in India. The two-year MSc Physics post-graduate course is designed to prepare students for a career in research. The curriculum consists of strong theoretical concepts, practical experiments and skill-building programs that create a balance between academics and practical exposure. This degree is available for students all over India and admission is subject to eligibility criteria. Multiple internship, project and career opportunities are available in various departments, business sectors and professional fields. Graduates are prepared for ANY type of job opportunity.