Program Completion Options:
Hybrid, Online
student in optical lab

Applied Physics Graduate Programs Overview

Applied physics graduate program rankings consistently place the Engineering for Professionals program at the top—for good reason. As one of the few online applied physics programs in the nation, our students take courses that enrich their experience as an engineer and will prepare you for exciting careers in the research and development of cutting-edge technology. 

Career opportunities in applied physics are vast, including jobs in fiber optics, astrophysics, laser and quantum optics, nondestructive testing, and more. Taught by notable scientists from the Johns Hopkins Physics Lab, NASA, and the Naval Research Laboratory, you’ll focus on a wide range of topics, including optics, interstellar space, ocean science, solid-state physics, and more. 

In this program, you will

  • Master mathematical methods that are essential to the fields of applied physics and engineering, including integral transforms, ODEs, complex analysis, PDEs, and boundary value problems.
  • Solve practical problems using Maxwell’s Equations and classical electrodynamics, such that static and time-varying fields in free space and media, conservation laws, and gauge invariance can be investigated.
  • Establish a firm understanding of the mathematical foundation of quantum mechanics.
  • Select courses to tailor your degree and gain the knowledge that works best for you.

Master’s Degree Concentrations

A concentration can be selected but is not required. Concentrations appear on your transcript to indicate an area of extra focus as part of the degree. 

  • Materials and Condensed Matter: Combine concepts from the Applied Physics, Electrical and Computer Engineering, and Materials Science and Engineering programs for a well-rounded, holistic approach to applied physics. 
  • Photonics: Study applied physics, electrical and computer engineering and photonics concepts for a defined approach for the practical application of light.
Concentration Requirements

Programs

We offer two applied physics graduate programs; you can earn a Master of Science in Applied Physics or a post-master’s certificate.

Applied Physics Courses

Get details about course requirements, prerequisites, concentrations, and electives offered within the program. All applied physics courses are taught by subject-matter experts who are executing the technologies and techniques they teach. For exact dates, times, locations, fees, and instructors, please refer to the course schedule published each term.

Program Contacts

Tuition and Fees

Did you know that 78 percent of our enrolled students’ tuition is covered by employer contribution programs? Find out more about the cost of tuition for prerequisite and program courses and the Dean’s Fellowship.

I liked the ability to have online courses as well as in-class courses, a nice balance for me was taking one in-class and one online course. That felt like the right mix of challenging but not overwhelming.

Corey St. John '19 Applied Physics

As a whole, the teachers at JHU were among the best I have ever had in my academic career. I truly believe I have received a great education that has helped me in my professional career.

Daniel Degennaro '19 Applied Physics

Academic Calendar

Find out when registration opens, classes start, transcript deadlines and more. Applications are accepted year-round, so you can apply any time.