The program offers a flexible MS degree that develops your professional skills either through a selection of core Physics courses and electives, or through an active participation in research in one of our focus areas. In addition to our long-standing strengths in high-energy physics, astrophysics, astronomy, and material science, we also welcome students who are interested in Physics Education, as well as in highly interdisciplinary applications of Physics in aquatic sciences, hydrodynamics, and Earth and planetary sciences, including experimental, field-based, computational, and theoretical aspects. Several faculty members of the department are associated with the UMD Large Lakes Observatory, which is the only institution in the US dedicated to the study of large lakes worldwide. We created our professional Master's degree as a tool for motivated students to enhance their credentials for a career in industry, prepare themselves for entering a PhD program, or explore their interests in physics, astronomy, or interdisciplinary applications, while gaining practical hands-on experience.

The Department of Physics and Astronomy offers a number of recruitment and support fellowships. Most admitted students are provided with a full finanical support in the form of teaching or research assistantships. They are sufficient to cover the typical living expenses and include a tuition waiver.  

Situated at the western tip of Lake Superior, Duluth offers a wealth of outdoor activities, arts, and culture just minutes away from campus and is consistently ranked as an attractive place to live.