Overview
MSc in Physics at Kathmandu University School of Science
MSc in Physics is a two-year, four-semester graduate program offered by the Department of Physics under Kathmandu University School of Science (KUSOS) in Dhulikhel, Kavre, Nepal. The program was introduced in March 2019 and covers theoretical, experimental, and applied physics.
Its curriculum includes advanced coursework in mathematical physics, mechanics, quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, statistical mechanics, solid-state physics, optics, plasma physics, laboratories, research methodology, an elective, and a thesis.
Admission requires 16 years of schooling with undergraduate-level preparation in Physics, an eligible bachelor's degree with the stated minimum academic performance, and completion of the department's screening process.
Quick Highlights
| Course Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Course | MSc in Physics |
| Academic Level | Master's |
| University | Kathmandu University |
| Institution | Kathmandu University School of Science |
| Academic Unit | Department of Physics |
| Duration | 2 years |
| Academic Structure | 4 semesters |
| Curriculum | 60 credits |
| Research Component | 9-credit thesis |
| Location | Dhulikhel, Kavre, Nepal |
The four semesters carry 16, 16, 16, and 12 credits respectively, giving a 60-credit curriculum.
Program Overview
The MSc in Physics is offered by the Department of Physics at Kathmandu University School of Science, under Kathmandu University.
The program is designed around theoretical, experimental, and applied physics. Its academic purpose includes preparing graduates with a strong Physics background for teaching and research-oriented work. The department also maintains academic links with other units under the School of Science and School of Engineering, creating scope for interdisciplinary study and research within the university.
Duration and Structure
Duration: 2 years
Academic Structure: 4 semesters
The curriculum is structured for full-time students across two academic years. It combines theory courses, laboratory work, research methodology, elective study, and a thesis.
Eligibility
Eligibility: Applicants must meet the following academic requirements:
-
16 years of schooling with undergraduate-level study in Physics
-
A certified bachelor's degree in Physics or a relevant field from a recognized university
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Minimum 50% aggregate marks, CGPA 2.0, or equivalent
-
Intermediate-level or higher English proficiency
Applicants are also required to provide an updated CV and a cover letter requesting admission to the MSc in Physics program.
Admission Process
Admission considers the applicant's academic record, performance in the departmental screening process, and personal interview.
Candidates must pass the screening process conducted by the Department of Physics.
MSc in Physics Curriculum
Year I, Semester I
| Course Code | Course Title | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| PHYS 501 | Mathematical Physics I | 3 |
| PHYS 502 | Classical Mechanics and Relativity | 3 |
| PHYS 503 | Quantum Mechanics I | 3 |
| PHYS 504 | Electro-Magnetic Theory | 3 |
| PHYS 511 | Renewable Energy | 3 |
| PHYS 541 | General Physics Lab | 1 |
Semester Credits: 16
Year I, Semester II
| Course Code | Course Title | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| PHYS 505 | Mathematical Physics II | 3 |
| PHYS 506 | Statistical Mechanics | 3 |
| PHYS 507 | Quantum Mechanics II | 3 |
| PHYS 508 | Solid State Physics I | 3 |
| PHYS 512 | Biophysics | 3 |
| PHYS 542 | Electronics Lab | 1 |
Semester Credits: 16
Year II, Semester I
| Course Code | Course Title | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| PHYS 601 | Solid State Physics II | 3 |
| PHYS 602 | Atomic and Molecular Physics | 3 |
| PHYS 603 | Optics and Photonics | 3 |
| PHYS 611 | Plasma Physics | 3 |
| PHYS 612 | Research Methodology | 3 |
| PHYS 641 | Advanced Physics Lab | 1 |
Semester Credits: 16
Year II, Semester II
| Course Code | Course Title | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| PHYS 63* | Elective | 3 |
| PHYS 699 | Thesis | 9 |
Semester Credits: 12
The curriculum gives substantial weight to research in the final semester, where the thesis carries nine credits.
Elective Subjects
The elective options listed for PHYS 63* are:
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PHYS 631 Physics of Nanomaterials
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PHYS 632 Astrophysics / Particle Physics
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PHYS 633 Medical Physics
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PHYS 634 High Performance Computing
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PHYS 635 Physics of PV materials and System
-
PHYS 636 Instrumentation
-
PHYS 637 Computational Physics
Laboratory and Research Components
Practical study appears throughout the curriculum through General Physics Lab, Electronics Lab, and Advanced Physics Lab. Research Methodology is included in the third semester, followed by the nine-credit thesis in the final semester.
The Department of Physics also maintains general, advanced, and specialized laboratory facilities. Its specialized laboratory includes research facilities related to low-temperature non-thermal plasma.
Physics Study Pathway at KUSOS
The Department of Physics offers programs across undergraduate, graduate, MPhil, research, and doctoral levels:
| Academic Level | Program |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's | B.Sc. in Applied Physics |
| Master's | MSc in Physics |
| Research Master's | MS by Research in Physics |
| MPhil | MPhil in Physics |
| Doctoral | PhD in Physics |
Students interested in further research study can also review MPhil in Physics and PhD in Physics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is MSc in Physics at Kathmandu University?
MSc in Physics is a two-year graduate program offered by the Department of Physics under Kathmandu University School of Science.
How long is the MSc in Physics?
Duration: The program runs for two years and is divided into four semesters.
What is the eligibility for MSc in Physics?
Eligibility: Applicants need 16 years of schooling with undergraduate-level preparation in Physics and a bachelor's degree in Physics or a relevant field with at least 50% aggregate marks, CGPA 2.0, or equivalent.
Does admission include a screening process?
Yes. Applicants must pass a screening process conducted by the Department of Physics, and admission also considers academic records and a personal interview.
How many credits are in the MSc in Physics curriculum?
The four-semester curriculum totals 60 credits.
Does the program include laboratory courses?
Yes. The curriculum includes General Physics Lab, Electronics Lab, and Advanced Physics Lab.
Does MSc in Physics include a thesis?
Yes. PHYS 699 Thesis is a nine-credit component in the fourth semester.
What electives are available?
The listed electives include Physics of Nanomaterials, Astrophysics / Particle Physics, Medical Physics, High Performance Computing, Physics of PV materials and System, Instrumentation, and Computational Physics.
When was the MSc in Physics program introduced?
The Department of Physics introduced the MSc in Physics program effective from March 2019.
