Physics is the science that studies the structure and properties of matter and transformations of energy. With math as the language and experimental verification as a guide, physical study has established the fundamental laws of nature that are the foundation of all natural science and technology. The study of physics includes learning the general principles and the phenomena that have been discovered and developing the skills that enable such knowledge to be advanced through research. Materials Science is an interdisciplinary field encompassing several disciplines of science and technology. Physics lies at the heart of materials science since it provides a rationale for understanding the mechanical, thermal, optical, and magnetic properties of matter. The emphasis area in materials science prepares students in areas of high demand for the 21st century workforce in the US. Materials scientists are employed by companies who make products ranging from metals, ceramics, and biomedical implants to integrated-circuit chips and superconducting materials. A major concentration of the program is on nanomaterials, which prepares students in areas of nanotechnology and energy-related issues.
Common Career Paths
You can do nearly anything with a Mizzou degree, but here are some common career paths taken by graduates of this major:
September 2025
College of Arts and Science
317 Lowry Hall,
COLUMBIA,
Missouri,
65211, United States
Students must complete High School Coursework with 13 units (one unit = one year in class) of the following core coursework: Mathematics - Four units (algebra or higher), Science - Three units, Social Studies - Three units, Languages - Two units, Fine Arts - One unit.
High School grades
Your core coursework grades must meet one of the following requirements:
If your high school does not use one of the scales listed above, your grades will be converted to a U.S. 4.0 scale. Scores are determined by the AACRAO International Education Services.
English Language Requirements:
Duolingo English Test (DET): minimum DET score of 110 on the test with 3 of the 4 section scores at or above a 100.
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): minimum TOEFL score of 79 on the online test with no section score below 17.
International English Language Testing System (IELTS): minimum IELTS score of 6.5 with no section score below a 6.
Cambridge English C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency: a minimum overall Cambridge English C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency score of 180.
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE): a minimum overall PTE score of 59.
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.