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    Rice University

    Master of Science (MS) in Physics and Astronomy

    Last verified against the official program page on .

    Houston, USMSIn-person
    STEM-OPT
    $69,000.00
    Tuition
    27%
    Acceptance
    of applicants
    18
    Cohort
    students
    30
    Credits
    $85.00
    App fee

    Master of Science (MS) in Physics and Astronomy at Rice University is a 30-credit, in-person MS program based in Houston, US. Tuition is $69,000 and the program is STEM-OPT eligible for international students.

    About the program

    Requires 30 semester hours of advanced courses including research, at least four basic doctoral courses plus two others, engagement in an original research project certified by the adviser, and one full semester of full-time study. Degree name is Physics or Astrophysics as specified by the student.

    Focus: both
    US News #21 (tie)

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    Deadlines

    Fall 2027
    Dec 15, 2026

    Standardized tests

    TOEFL
    required
    Min Minimum required scores are 90/4.5 iBT, 250 CBT, or 600 on the paper based. For 2026 admission, TOEFL IBT Home: minimum 90 (before Jan 21 2026), minimum 4.5 (on/after Jan 21 2026).
    IELTS
    optional
    Min minimum score of 7

    After the program

    Post-study work rights

    36 months (12 months OPT + 24 months STEM extension)

    $20,530.00
    Annual living cost

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    Prerequisites

    Specific coursework this program expects you to have completed: calculus, linear algebra, programming, statistics, and subject-specific prerequisites where applicable.

    Recommendations

    Exact count of letters required, whether academic vs professional references are preferred, and any program-specific guidance on who to ask.

    Essays

    Number of essays required (statement of purpose, personal statement, diversity statement), prompts where the program publishes them, and whether supplemental essays are optional or mandatory.

    Contact

    Direct email and phone for the admissions office handling this program, plus a link to the program-specific inquiry page where available.

    Frequently asked questions

    How much does Master of Science (MS) in Physics and Astronomy at Rice University cost?
    The total estimated tuition for Master of Science (MS) in Physics and Astronomy at Rice University is $69,000 across 30 required credits.
    Is Master of Science (MS) in Physics and Astronomy at Rice University online or in-person?
    Master of Science (MS) in Physics and Astronomy at Rice University is offered in-person.
    How long does Master of Science (MS) in Physics and Astronomy at Rice University take to complete?
    Master of Science (MS) in Physics and Astronomy at Rice University is structured around 30 credits.
    Is Master of Science (MS) in Physics and Astronomy at Rice University STEM-OPT eligible?
    Yes - Master of Science (MS) in Physics and Astronomy at Rice University is STEM-OPT designated, allowing international graduates to extend their post-completion OPT for up to 36 months total.
    How competitive is Master of Science (MS) in Physics and Astronomy at Rice University?
    Master of Science (MS) in Physics and Astronomy at Rice University reports an acceptance rate of approximately 27%.