Rice University's Professional Master's Program in Natural Sciences prepares students to effectively bridge the connections between technology and business. Graduates obtain intense scientific training that greatly exceeds that taught at the bachelor's level as well as gain the management exposure that fulfills industry needs.The three degrees currently offered are:
M.S. in Nanoscale Physics
M.S. in Environmental Analysis and Decision Making
M.S. in Subsurface Geoscience
The Professional M.S. in Nanoscale Physics combines a strong component in quantum theory with the study of practical nano- and mesoscale devices. It focuses on interdisciplinary studies in many areas of nanoscale science, including carbon nanotubes, nanoshells, and nanobiology. Courses include Nanostructures and Nanotechnology, Nano-optics and Nanophotonics, and Characterization and Fabrication at the Nanoscale.
The 21-month professional master's program begins with two semesters of coursework at Rice followed by a six-month internship. After the internship, students return to Rice for a final semester of coursework. In addition to technical courses, the program consists of the following:
Management and team training in cooperation with the Jesse H. Jones Graduate School of Management.
Exposure to entrepreneurial development and the business investment communities via the Rice Alliance for Technology and Entrepreneurship.
Writing and presentation coaching by the Cain Project in Engineering and Professional Communication.
Policy and ethics discussions with members of the James A. Baker III Institute for Public Policy.
Exposure to careers and disciplines in each focus area via a weekly seminar program.
