Report an accessibility problem

Nanoscience, PSM

Nanoscience, PSM

Academic programs / Graduate degrees / Nanoscience, PSM

MASTERS, NANOSCIENCE, Professional Science, approved for STEM-OPT extension, chemistry, physics, professional

This program is not currently accepting applications.


Pursue advanced training in nanoscale science, technology and engineering while simultaneously developing professional and business skills. You'll work directly with research faculty on real-world projects, learn specific technical skills necessary to solve practical problems, directly dialogue with industry leaders, and communicate to broad audiences.

Program description
Degree awarded: PSM  Nanoscience

The PSM in nanoscience is a cohesive program of transdisciplinary courses that provide the knowledge base required for research and innovation in nanoscience. The program incorporates courses in:

  • chemistry and biochemistry
  • electrical engineering
  • materials science
  • physics

Commercial innovation is a particular target goal of the degree, including applications in:

  • biochemistry and sensing technology
  • biophysics and biomedical technology
  • nanomaterials and nanoscale devices

The Professional Science Master's degree program in nanoscience is suitable for working professionals and for students who have obtained a traditional bachelor's degree or master's degree in related fields.

STEM-OPT for international students on F-1 visas

This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 36 months. This OPT work authorization term may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension at ASU's International Students and Scholars Center website.

The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing the degree through ASU Online.

At a glance
Degree requirements

32 credit hours including the required applied project course (NAN 593)

Required Core (5 credit hours)
NAN 505 Nanoscience and Society (2) or NAN 506 Innovation and IP Management (2)
NAN 571 Quantum Physics (3) or NAN 544 Introduction to Nanoscience (3)

Electives or Research (15 credit hours)

Other Requirements (6 credit hours)
NAN 591 Seminar (6)

Culminating Experience (6 credit hours)
NAN 593 Applied Project (6)

Additional Curriculum Information
Students must take either NAN 505 or NAN 506. Students may also take the other course as an elective.

Students with a physical science or engineering background should take NAN 571 Quantum Physics, and students with a biochemistry or life sciences background should take NAN 544 Introduction to Nanoscience.

The program includes a two-semester, student-centered professional seminar in which the central role of the program as a vehicle for innovation emerges. During the spring semester and summer session, students conduct an individual applied project in association with a research group. Throughout the program, students interact with research faculty and other students in a variety of disciplines related to nanoscience. Students also meet with visiting speakers and industrialists in the professional seminar and in other seminars.

If taken full time, the PSM in nanoscience program can be completed in 12 months (fall semester, spring semester and two eight-week summer sessions). Another option is the two-year part-time program, which allows prospective students and their employers flexibility in scheduling the program of study.

Students should see the academic unit for a complete list of approved electives. Many of the requisite elective courses are currently offered within the Department of Physics and the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. Most are cross-listed with other units.

Admission requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in physics, chemistry or a related field from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

  1. graduate admission application and application fee
  2. official transcripts
  3. personal statement
  4. resume
  5. two letters of recommendation
  6. proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency. TOEFL scores or equivalent are required for applicants whose native language is not English.

The personal statement should outline the applicant's research interests and why the applicant wants to enroll in the Professional Science Master's degree program.

Letters of recommendation should be from individuals familiar with the applicant's work or studies relevant to the program.

Tuition information
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Career opportunities

Nanoscale science and engineering are having an increasing impact on many aspects of daily life, and the opportunities for careers are rapidly expanding. In areas as diverse as designing medical diagnostic devices, building better batteries, creating cosmetics, enhancing energy efficient windows, auto and plane manufacturing, and researching the nature of matter itself, knowledge of nanoscale science and engineering will be increasingly important in the upcoming years and decades.

The highly technical field of nanotechnology and nanoscience is always looking for scientists, engineers and technicians. Career examples include:

  • applications engineer
  • biotechnologist
  • forensic scientist
  • instrument development engineer
  • manufacturing engineer
  • market development manager
  • materials scientist
  • mechanical or electrical engineer
  • medical engineer
  • microscopist
  • optical engineer
  • research scientist
  • technical program manager
Contact information
What are accelerated programs?
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

3 year programs

These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
What are concurrent programs?
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
What are joint programs?
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

What constitutes a new program?
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the “New Programs” option.
What are online programs?
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
What is WRGP (Western Regional Graduate Program)?
The Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP) provides a reduced tuition rate to non-resident graduate students who qualify. Visit the WRGP/WICHE webpage for more information: https://graduate.asu.edu/wiche.

click back to top