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This program is designed to provide students passionate about acoustics with a comprehensive curriculum that combines scientific principles with practical engineering applications.
Penn State's Graduate Program in Acoustics stands out as an interdisciplinary initiative, delivering a versatile educational foundation suitable for diverse scientific and technological disciplines while fostering long-term career adaptability. Customize your learning journey by choosing from an extensive selection of courses including fundamental acoustics, physical acoustics, underwater sound studies, digital signal analysis, optical acoustics, medical ultrasound applications, aircraft noise research, vibration analysis, wave dynamics, speech science, hearing mechanisms, sound perception, and thermal acoustics. Students in the acoustics program benefit from cutting-edge laboratories equipped with advanced tools and software to support their academic and research pursuits. Most participants conduct the bulk of their work in the Applied Science Building, which houses the program, and Research Building West.
Entering students should hold a bachelor's degree in physics, engineering, mathematics, or a closely related field that would provide substantial preparation in mathematics (a minimum of two semesters of calculus-based physics and mathematics to include complex variables and differential equations). In addition, an undergraduate knowledge of statics and dynamics, linear algebra, and electronic circuit analysis, and the ability to use mathematical analysis software is expected. Students with a 3.00 junior/senior average (on a 4.00 scale), appropriate course backgrounds, and a B+ or better average in mathematics, physical science, and engineering courses will be considered for admission.
English Proficiency: TOEFL Internet-based test (iBT) - a total score of 80 with a 19 on the speaking section for the internet-based test (iBT); TOEFL Paper-based test - the minimum acceptable score is 550; IELTS - The minimum acceptable composite score for the IELTS Academic Test is 6.5.