M.Sc Physics and Integrated M.Sc-Ph.D Physics are courses that can be pursued after a Bachelor’s programme in Physics. Both these courses have good scope in terms of higher studies and employment opportunities. The basic difference between the courses is the extent of opportunities for doing research in Physics.

Details of M.Sc Physics

Master of Science in Physics is a two year post graduate course. It is offered by a number of colleges. Candidates who have completed a Bachelor’s course in Physics from a recognized university are eligible to apply for M.Sc in Physics. Admission to the course in various universities/university departments and colleges will be based on an entrance examination. Many states follow the single window system for admission to the Master’s courses. Admission to some colleges will also be based on the centralized allotment process (CAP). The admission will be based on the marks secure in the qualifying examination. Candidates who opt for M.Sc Physics can choose to pursue higher studies in related areas or seek employment in various sectors.

Details of Integrated M.Sc-Ph.D Physics

Integrated M.Sc-Ph.D Physics course is offered by a limited number of colleges/institutions. Candidates who have completed a Bachelor’ programme in Physics are eligible to apply for the course. Admission will be based on an entrance examination conducted by the respective colleges/institutions offering the course. Candidates will be provided the chance of exiting the course laterally after completing M.Sc. Only those candidates who secure a minimum of 60% marks in the M.Sc examination will be allowed to work for the Ph.D. Students have the option of developing their M.Sc dissertation topic for their Ph.D or opt for a new area. The entire course  of the integrated Ph.D program is for duration of 6 years.

Difference between M.Sc Physics and Integrated M.Sc-Ph.D Physics

Candidates who opt for either of the two courses are required to study a common M.Sc Physics syllabus. The integrated course further increases the depth of study. Candidates can start the Ph.D directly after M.Sc. Integrated M.Sc-Ph.D Physics will be more suited to candidates with a research mind. There is much scope for candidates in the areas of teaching and research. Candidates who have opted for M.Sc Physics will have to apply for the Ph.Dprogramme separately. Admission to the Ph.D will depend on the marks secured in an entrance examination conducted by the respective university/institution. Candidates with UGC NET/JRF will be given preference. Only those with JRF will be paid fellowship. All the students pursuing an Integrated M.Sc-Ph.Dcourse in Physics will be paid a fellowship irrespective of the JRF qualification.