Applied Physical Science, MS-Professional Science Master’s Track – Online or Hybrid

Georgia Southern University
Degree Level Masters
Total Credit Hours 33

Program Description

The Master of Science in Physical Science degree will prepare students for careers in applied chemistry, applied physics, and engineering businesses and industries. In the Professional Science (PSM) track, emphasis is placed on blending core knowledge and applied skills in physics and chemistry with an understanding of business and an internship experience. Offering a Concentration in Chemical and Biochemical Science as well as a Concentration in Material and Coatings Science, this degree track is designed to meet criteria for certification as a Professional Science Master’s degree, which is a growing trend in the terminal Master’s field and as such has a national organization, the National Professional Science Master Association. This degree will give students interested in industrial and business careers an opportunity to become familiar with other possible careers available to them beyond the traditional careers for which they were trained as undergraduates.

Students in the Professional Science (PSM) option must complete 33 hours of coursework. These courses are organized as follows:

Required Science Core (9 credits) 

  • Professional Science Communication
  • Scientific Inquiry and Ethics
  • Statistical Analysis

Required Business Core (6 credits)

  • International Business
  • Leadership
  • Health Systems and Policy

Concentration Electives (15 credits)

Additional courses appropriate to the desired concentration as approved by the advisor and graduate committee. 

Internship or Industrial Project (3 credits)

A final project (usually conducted in the summer between year 1 and year 2 of the program) will be accomplished in a real working environment with timely goals and deliverables.  This project may be conducted on-campus, or off-campus with an industrial company.  After completion of the project, the student will present the results of this project that will be evaluated by members of the graduate committee.

Additional Program Notes

The program can be completed 100% online or hybrid.  The project may be conducted on campus or at a local company in a chemistry, biochemistry, or closely related industry (the project must be preapproved).

Admissions Information

The graduate program in physical sciences prefers a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on all undergraduate work, but students with a lower GPA may be admitted to the program at the discretion of the graduate committee. Students entering this program are expected to have broad training in the chemical and physical sciences and therefore, a bachelor’s degree in chemistry or physics is preferred, but students with a bachelor’s degree in any area of science may be considered.

For more detailed information on graduate admissions at Georgia Southern, visit the College of Graduate Studies website or download a university catalog.

For questions, please contact the Department of Biochemistry, Chemistry and Physics:

Dr. Michele Davis McGibony
Graduate Program Director
mdavis@georgiasouthern.edu

Dr. Will Lynch
Department Chair
wlynch@georgiasouthern.edu

Statesboro Office
2003 Chemistry & Nursing Building
912-478-5681
Armstrong Office
Science Center 2602

State Authorization and Professional Licensure Disclaimer

Not all programs are available to residents in all states. Please check the institution's State Authorization and Professional Licensure website(s) to ensure you reside in an authorized state.

Program Accreditation

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges