2022-2023 Graduate Catalog 
    
    Mar 29, 2024  
2022-2023 Graduate Catalog [Archived Catalog]

Professional Science (M.S.)

Location(s): Brookings Main Campus


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Program Contact/Coordinator

Kerry McDowell, Graduate Program Coordinator
Graduate School
Morrill Hall 130, Box 2201
605-688-4181

Program Information

The Professional Science (M.S.) is a professional science master’s (PSM) that combines advanced training in STEM fields, while simultaneously developing workplace skills that are highly valued by employers to produce in-demand, working graduates. PSM programs prepare students for science careers in business, government, or nonprofit organizations, where workforce needs are increasing. Graduates also work with the federal government or for university technology transfer operations. The Professional Science program has been designed for students to select one emphasis option – Applied Physics, Biotechnology, Environmental Policy, Food Technology, Geographic Information Sciences, or Precision Agriculture – to combine with professional management coursework for the STEM workplace and align with their career goals. The M.S. in Professional Science is a collaboration between the College of Natural Sciences , College of Agriculture, Food & Environmental Sciences , and Ness School of Management & Economics .

Student Learning Outcomes

  • Use economic and management theories to design, analyze and evaluate management strategies.
  • Use financial and accounting concepts and theories in management decision making.
  • Apply economics and management theories and tools to a range of specialties.
  • Gain further knowledge, understanding, and proficiency from their STEM specialization and electives that will include foundational and transferable skills including:
    • Communication skills (oral and written)
    • Laboratory or Project management
    • Teamwork
    • Problem solving/Analytical and critical thinking
    • Data Science

Course Delivery Format

Courses are delivered through online and face-to-face instruction.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees


Master of Science Option D - Coursework Only (Professional) 30 Credit Hours

Core Requirements


  • Professional Management Coursework Credits: 12
  • Select one of the emphasis areas. Credits: 12
    • Applied Physics
    • Biotechnology
    • Environmental Policy
    • Food Technology
    • Geographic Information Sciences
    • Precision Agriculture
  • STEM courses approved by advisor. Credits: 6

Professional Management Coursework


Select from the following emphasis areas


Applied Physics Emphasis


Select one of the following two options

Materials (Condensed Matter) Physics Track

Total Required Credits: 30 (Option D)


Additional Admission Requirements


GRE: Not required
TOEFL: 71 Internet-based
TOEFL Essentials: 7.5
IELTS: 6.0
Duolingo: 100

Applicants must submit a personal statement identifying the emphasis area to be included on their plan of study. In the personal statement, the applicant should primarily identify the specific emphasis area they plan to pursue, as well as their interests, including how their skills and career goals align with the graduate program. The personal statement should be roughly 500 to 750 words long.

Accelerated Master’s Program


The accelerated Master’s program will be available to eligible SDSU students. Up to 12 credits applied to the undergraduate degree may be used to satisfy graduate credit. Students must follow SDSU Policy 2:22 Use of Graduate Credit for Undergraduate Degree Requirements.

General Requirements


Graduate students should consult with their advisor before registering for graduate coursework.

For additional information refer to the Master’s Degree Requirements .

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