4+1 Master of Science in Physics
Offered as a M.S. in physics through the University of Massachusetts Lowell


Saint Anselm College and the University of Massachusetts Lowell (UML) offer a streamlined 4+1 pathway for Saint Anselm physics majors, enabling them to earn both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Physics in five years.

Through this partnership students take graduate courses at UML while completing their undergraduate studies at Saint Anselm, accelerating their academic journey. Eligible students can count up to six graduate credits towards both degrees, saving time and enhancing their career prospects. With a focus on seamless transitions and academic excellence, this program is designed to prepare students for advanced scientific careers. 

Program Options

  • M.S. in Physics
  • M.S. in Radiological Sciences and Protection
  • M.S. in Radiological Sciences and Protection, Medical Physics Option
     

To view degree requirements, click the "Academic Catalog" button, navigate to "Programs by Area: Majors and Minors," and select your program. 

We're really excited about the 4+1 Masters of Science Program with UMass Lowell. This fast-track option lets students earn both their bachelor’s and master’s degrees in just five years while specializing in physics, medical physics, optical science, or radiological science and protection. A Masters degree gives our grads a big edge in the job market, helping them gain the advanced skills that employers are looking for.

— Alexander R. H. Smith, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Physics

Benefits

  • Streamlined application process
  • Students may earn graduate credits for undergraduate courses
  • Ability to finish the master’s degree as quickly as one year after graduation
  • Advising and support from UML and Saint Anselm through the program
  • Enhanced career prospects

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for this direct-entry program, Saint Anselm students must meet the following academic criteria. 

  • Cumulative GPA: 3.0 or higher (with at least 3.2 GPA in STEM courses) after junior year.
  • Application process: Submit a letter of recommendation to the Saint Anselm Physics Department Chair and complete the UML graduate admissions application
  • Application Fee Waiver: No MS application fee
  • GRE scores will be waived for students who meet direct-entry criteria 

Students must also submit: 

  • Official transcripts
  • Two letters of recommendation (including one from a Saint Anselm Physics faculty member)
  • Online application
  • Statement of purpose 

Saint Anselm College students enrolled in courses at UMass Lowell during their senior year will be registered and billed as non-degree students at UML. However, for financial aid purposes, Saint Anselm will remain the students’ home institution. To access financial aid, students must initiate an agreement through Saint Anselm Financial Aid Office

Once enrolled into UML, Saint Anselm students will be eligible for the same scholarships and funding opportunities as all other UML students. This opens doors to various financial awards that can help students support their graduate studies. 

Visit Professor Smith's Bio

UMass Lowell Graduate Admissions

Email: Graduate_Admissions@uml.edu 

Phone: 800-656-4723

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