Student Research
Break through scientific barriers
Explore tips, tools and opportunities to help you start and advance your research.
Advance technology and explore the physical world with collaborative and interactive experiences.
Enhance your future through research
At the undergraduate or graduate level, you have research options.
You can conduct research to:
- Complete requirements for your degree.
- Prepare for graduate school or advanced study.
- Highlight your skills to potential employeres.
- Get published and receive recognition for your work.
A well-designed research experience includes the opportunity to present your work to others, both verbally and in writing. Get guidance from faculty on available research opportunities.
Undergraduate research
Ready to make big discoveries?
You'll complete a two-semester research project alongside a physics or astronomy professor.
Research for class credit
The physics, astronomy and materials science department offers two research courses for undergraduate students each semester by demand.
- PHY 386: Undergraduate Research I
- PHY 486: Undergraduate Research II
These courses are available for 1-2 credit hours per semester.
Submit these forms
Before enrolling in these courses, please download and fill out the following forms:
- PHY 386/486 Agreement and Policies (.pdf)
- PHY 386 Project Evaluation (.pdf)
- PHY 486 Project Evaluation (.pdf)
Email your completed forms to Physics@MissouriState.edu.
You will Adobe Acrobat Reader to access these documents.

Graduate research
To complete a master's degree in materials science, you must conduct research on a topic of your choice.
You won't be on your own – a faculty advisor will help you map out the project from start to finish.
Research for class credit
The physics, astronomy and materials science department offers two research courses for graduate students by demand.
- PHY 799: Research in Natural and Applied Sciences
- MAT 799: Research in Materials Science
These course are available for 1-6 credit hours per semester.
Get a hands-on learning experience

Events and opportunities
Showcase your knowledge, learn from professionals and explore educational activities.