PhD in Physics

The Ph.D. in Physics lets students study physics broadly while concentrating on one or two specialties. The work combines coursework with an original research project that is written up and presented as a dissertation. Specializations include nuclear, high energy, condensed matter, atomic, mathematical, and applied physics, along with astrophysics, materials science, optics, and quantum field theory. The training applies to engineering, product development, consulting, and teaching. Students must satisfy both the graduate school rules and the physics program requirements. They must also pass qualifying exams, and the department keeps an archive of past exams for study use. Specific research interests guide the choice of emphasis, so applicants should consult the physics advisor about faculty expertise and about how coursework and dissertation research will be organized over time.