physics phd how many years

• Doing a PhD in Physics
• Doing a PhD

What Is It Like to Do a PhD in Physics?

Physics is arguably the most fundamental scientific discipline and underpins much of our understanding of the universe. Physics is based on experiments and mathematical analysis which aims to investigate the physical laws which make up life as we know it.

Due to the large scope of physics, a PhD project may focus on any of the following subject areas:

• Thermodynamics
• Cosmology and Astrophysics
• Nuclear Physics
• Solid State Physics
• Condensed matter Physics
• Particle Physics
• Quantum mechanics
• Computational Physics
• Theoretical Physics
• Electromagnetism and photonics
• Molecular physics
• And many more

Compared to an undergraduate degree, PhD courses involve original research which, creates new knowledge in a chosen research area. Through this you will develop a detailed understanding of applicable techniques for research, become an expert in your research field, and contribute to extending the boundaries of knowledge.

During your postgraduate study you will be required to produce a dissertation which summarises your novel findings and explains their significance. Postgraduate research students also undertake an oral exam, known as the Viva, where you must defend your thesis to examiners.

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To get a better perspective of what life is really like doing a Physics PhD, read the interview profiles below, from those that have been there before, and are there now:

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Physics?

The typical full-time programme has a course length of 3 to 4 years . Most universities also offer part-time study . The typical part-time programme has a course length of 5 to 7 years.

The typical Physics PhD programme sees PhD students study on a probationary basis during their first year. Admission to the second year of study and enrolment onto the PhD programme is subject to a successful first year review. The format of this review varies across organisations but commonly involves a written report of progress made on your research project and an oral examination.

Additional Learning Modules:

Most Physics PhD programme have no formal requirement for students to attend core courses. There are, however, typically several research seminars, technical lectures, journal clubs and other courses held within the Physics department that students are expected to attend.

Research seminars are commonly arranged throughout your programme to support you with different aspects of your study, for example networking with other postgraduates, guidelines on working with your supervisor, how to avoid bias in independent research, tips for thesis writing, and time management skills.

Doctoral training and development workshops are commonly organised both within and outside of the department and aim to develop students’ transferrable skills (for example communication and team working). Information on opportunities for development that exist within the University and explored and your post doctorate career plans will be discussed.

Lectures run by department staff and visiting scholars on particular subject matters relevant to your research topic are sometimes held, and your supervisor (or supervisory committee) is likely to encourage you to attend.

Typical Entry Requirements:

A UK Physics PhD programme normally requires a minimum upper second-class (2:1) honours undergraduate or postgraduate degree (or overseas equivalent) in physics, or a closely related subject. Closely related subjects vary depending on projects, but mathematics and material sciences are common. Graduate students with relevant work experience may also be considered.

Funded PhD programmes (for examples those sponsored by Doctoral Training Partnerships or by the university school) are more competitive, and hence entry requirements tend to be more demanding.

English Language Requirements:

Universities typically expect international students to provide evidence of their English Language ability as part of their applications. This is usually benchmarked by an IELTS exam score of 6.5 (with a minimum score of 6 in each component), a TOEFL (iBT) exam score 92, a CAE and CPE exam score of 176 or another equivalent. The exact score requirements for the different English Language Qualifications may differ across different universities.

Tips to Improve Your Application:

If you are applying to a Physics PhD, you should have a thorough grasp of the fundamentals of physics, and also appreciate the concepts within the focus of your chosen research topic. Whilst you should be able to demonstrate this through either your Bachelors or Master’s degree, it is also beneficial to also be able to show this through extra-curricular engagement, for example attending seminars or conferences. This will also get across your passion for Physics – a valuable addition to your application as supervisors are looking for committed students.

It is advisable to make informal contact with the project supervisors for any positions you are interested in prior to applying formally. This is a good chance for you to understand more about the Physics department and project itself. Contacting the supervisor also allows you to build a rapport, demonstrate your interest, and see if the project and potential supervisor are a good fit for you. Some universities require you to provide additional evidence to support your application. These can include:

• University certificates and transcripts (translated to English if required)
• Academic CV
• Covering Letter
• English certificate – for international students

How Much Does a Physics PhD Degree Typically Cost?

Annual tuition fees for a PhD in Physics in the UK are approximately £4,000 to £5,000 per year for home (UK) students and are around £22,000 per year for overseas students. This, alongside the standard range in tuition fees that you can expect, is summarised below:

Note: The EU students are considered International from the start of the 2021/22 academic year.

Due to the experimental nature of Physics programmes, research students not funded by UK research councils may also be required to pay a bench fee . Bench fees are additional fees to your tuition, which covers the cost of travel, laboratory materials, computing equipment or resources associated with your research. For physics research students in particular this is likely to involve training in specialist software, laboratory administration, material and sample ordering, and computing upkeep.

What Specific Funding Opportunities Are There for A PhD in Physics?

As a PhD applicant, you may be eligible for a loan of up to £25,700. You can apply for a PhD loan if you’re ordinarily resident in the UK or EU, aged 60 or under when the course starts and are not in receipt of Research Council funding.

Research Councils provide funding for research in the UK through competitive schemes. These funding opportunities cover doctoral students’ tuition fees and sometimes include an additional annual maintenance grant. The Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) is a government agency that funds scientific research in the UK. Applications for EPSRC funding should be made directly to the EPSRC, but some Universities also advertise EPSRC funded PhD studentships on their website. The main funding body for Physics PhD studentships is EPSRC’s group on postgraduate support and careers, which has responsibility for postgraduate student support.

The Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) funds a large range of projects in Physics and Astronomy. To apply for funding students must locate the relevant project, contact the host institution for details of the postdoctoral researcher they wish to approach and then apply directly to them.

You can use DiscoverPhD’s database to search for a PhD studentship in Physics now.

What Specific Skills Will You Get from a PhD in Physics?

PhD doctorates possess highly marketable skills which make them strong candidates for analytical and strategic roles. The following skills in particular make them attractive prospects to employers in research, finance and consulting:

• Strong numerical skills
• Strong analytical skills
• Laboratory experience
• Application of theoretical concepts to real world problems

Aside from this, postgraduate students will also get transferable skills that can be applied to a much wider range of careers. These include:

• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Great attention to detail
• Collaboration and teamwork
• Independent thinking

What Jobs Can I Get with a PhD in Physics?

The wide range of specialties within Physics courses alone provides a number of job opportunities, from becoming a meteorologist to a material scientist. However, one of the advantages Physics doctorates have over other doctorates is their studies often provide a strong numerical and analytical foundation. This opens a number of career options outside of traditional research roles. Examples of common career paths Physics PostDocs take are listed below:

Academia – A PhD in Physics is a prerequisite for higher education teaching roles in Physics (e.g. University lecturer). Many doctorates opt to teach and supervise students to continue their contribution to research. This is popular among those who favour the scientific nature of their field and wish to pursue theoretical concepts.

PostDoc Researcher – Other postdoctoral researchers enter careers in research, either academic capacity i.e. researching with their University, or in industry i.e. with an independent organisation. Again, this is suited to those who wish to continue learning, enjoy collaboration and working in an interdisciplinary research group, and also offers travel opportunities for international conferences.

Astronomy – Astronomers study the universe and often work with mathematical formulas, computer modelling and theoretical concepts to predict behaviours. A PhD student in this field may work as astrobiologists, planetary geologists or government advisors.

Finance – As mentioned previously, analytical and numerical skills are the backbone of the scientific approach, and the typical postgraduate research programme in Physics is heavily reliant on numeracy. As such, many PostDocs are found to have financial careers. Financial roles typically offer lucrative salaries.

Consulting – Consulting firms often consider a doctoral student with a background in Physics for employment as ideal for consultancy, based on their critical thinking and strategic planning skills.

How Much Can You Earn with A PhD in Physics?

Data from the HESA is presented below which presents the salary band of UK domiciled leaver (2012/13) in full-time paid UK employment with postgraduate qualifications in Physical Studies:

With a doctoral physics degree, your earning potential will mostly depend on your chosen career path. Due to the wide range of options, it’s impossible to provide an arbitrary value for the typical salary you can expect. However, if you pursue one of the below paths or enter their respective industry, you can roughly expect to earn:

Academic Lecturer

• Approximately £30,000 – £35,000 starting salary
• Approximately £40,000 with a few years experience
• Approximately £45,000 – £55,000 with 10 years experience
• Approximately £60,000 and over with significant experience and a leadership role. Certain academic positions can earn over £80,000 depending on the management duties.

Actuary or Finance

• Approximately £35,000 starting salary
• Approximately £45,000 – £55,000 with a few years experience
• Approximately £70,000 and over with 10 years experience
• Approximately £180,000 and above with significant experience and a leadership role.

Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering

• Approximately £28,000 starting salary
• Approximately £35,000 – £40,000 with a few years experience
• Approximately £60,000 and over with 10 years experience

Data Analyst

• Approximately £45,000 – £50,000 with a few years experience
• Approximately £90,000 and above with significant experience and a leadership role.

Geophysicist

• Approximately £28,000 – £35,000 starting salary
• Approximately £40,000 – £65,000 with a few years’ experience
• Approximately £80,000 and over with significant experience and a leadership role

Medical Physicist

• Approximately £27,500 – £30,000 starting salary
• Approximately £30,000 – £45,000 with a few years’ experience
• Approximately £50,000 and over with significant experience and a leadership role

Meteorologist

• Approximately £20,000 – £25,000 starting salary
• Approximately £25,000 – £35,000 with a few years’ experience
• Approximately £45,000 and over with significant experience and a leadership role

Again, we stress that the above are indicative values only. Actual salaries will depend on the specific organisation and position and responsibilities of the individual.

UK Physics PhD Statistics

The Higher Education Statistics Agency has an abundance of useful statistics and data on higher education in the UK. We have looked at the data from the Destination of Leavers 2016/17 survey to provide information specific for Physics Doctorates:

The graph below shows the destination of 2016/17 leavers with research based postgraduate qualifications in physical sciences. This portrays a very promising picture for Physics doctorates, with 92% of leavers are in work or further study.

The table below presents the destination (sorted by standard industrial classification) of 1015 students entering employment in the UK with doctorates in Physical Studies, from 2012/13 to 2016/17. It can be seen that PhD postdocs have a wide range of career paths, though jobs in education, professional, scientific and technical activities, and manufacturing are common.

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PhD Program

**new** graduate student guide, expected progress of physics graduate student to ph.d..

This document describes the Physics Department's expectations for the progress of a typical graduate student from admission to award of a PhD.  Because students enter the program with different training and backgrounds and because thesis research by its very nature is unpredictable, the time-frame for individual students will vary. Nevertheless, failure to meet the goals set forth here without appropriate justification may indicate that the student is not making adequate progress towards the PhD, and will therefore prompt consideration by the Department and possibly by Graduate Division of the student’s progress, which might lead to probation and later dismissal.

Course Work

Graduate students are required to take a minimum of 38 units of approved upper division or graduate elective courses (excluding any upper division courses required for the undergraduate major).  The department requires that students take the following courses which total 19 units: Physics 209 (Classical Electromagnetism), Physics 211 (Equilibrium Statistical Physics) and Physics 221A-221B (Quantum Mechanics). Thus, the normative program includes an additional 19 units (five semester courses) of approved upper division or graduate elective courses.  At least 11 units must be in the 200 series courses. Some of the 19 elective units could include courses in mathematics, biophysics, astrophysics, or from other science and engineering departments.  Physics 290, 295, 299, 301, and 602 are excluded from the 19 elective units. Physics 209, 211 and 221A-221B must be completed for a letter grade (with a minimum average grade of B).  No more than one-third of the 19 elective units may be fulfilled by courses graded Satisfactory, and then only with the approval of the Department.  Entering students are required to enroll in Physics 209 and 221A in the fall semester of their first year and Physics 211 and 221B in the spring semester of their first year. Exceptions to this requirement are made for 1) students who do not have sufficient background to enroll in these courses and have a written recommendation from their faculty mentor and approval from the head graduate adviser to delay enrollment to take preparatory classes, 2) students who have taken the equivalent of these courses elsewhere and receive written approval from the Department to be exempted. 

If a student has taken courses equivalent to Physics 209, 211 or 221A-221B, then subject credit may be granted for each of these course requirements.  A faculty committee will review your course syllabi and transcript.  A waiver form can be obtained in 378 Physics North from the Student Affairs Officer detailing all required documents.  If the committee agrees that the student has satisfied the course requirement at another institution, the student must secure the Head Graduate Adviser's approval.  The student must also take and pass the associated section of the preliminary exam.  Please note that official course waiver approval will not be granted until after the preliminary exam results have been announced.  If course waivers are approved, units for the waived required courses do not have to be replaced for PhD course requirements.  If a student has satisfied all first year required graduate courses elsewhere, they are only required to take an additional 19 units to satisfy remaining PhD course requirements.  (Note that units for required courses must be replaced for MA degree course requirements even if the courses themselves are waived; for more information please see MA degree requirements).

In exceptional cases, students transferring from other graduate programs may request a partial waiver of the 19 elective unit requirement. Such requests must be made at the time of application for admission to the Department.

The majority of first year graduate students are Graduate Student Instructors (GSIs) with a 20 hour per week load (teaching, grading, and preparation).  A typical first year program for an entering graduate student who is teaching is:

First Semester

• Physics 209 Classical Electromagnetism (5)
• Physics 221A Quantum Mechanics (5)
• Physics 251 Introduction to Graduate Research (1)
• Physics 301 GSI Teaching Credit (2)
• Physics 375 GSI Training Seminar (for first time GSI's) (2)

Second Semester

• Physics 211 Equilibrium Statistical Physics (4)
• Physics 221B Quantum Mechanics (5)

Students who have fellowships and will not be teaching, or who have covered some of the material in the first year courses material as undergraduates may choose to take an additional course in one or both semesters of their first year.

Many students complete their course requirements by the end of the second year. In general, students are expected to complete their course requirements by the end of the third year. An exception to this expectation is that students who elect (with the approval of their mentor and the head graduate adviser) to fill gaps in their undergraduate background during their first year at Berkeley often need one or two additional semesters to complete their course work.

Faculty Mentors

Incoming graduate students are each assigned a faculty mentor. In general, mentors and students are matched according to the student's research interest.   If a student's research interests change, or if (s)he feels there is another faculty member who can better serve as a mentor, the student is free to request a change of assignment.

The role of the faculty mentor is to advise graduate students who have not yet identified research advisers on their academic program, on their progress in that program and on strategies for passing the preliminary exam and finding a research adviser.  Mentors also are a “friendly ear” and are ready to help students address other issues they may face coming to a new university and a new city.  Mentors are expected to meet with the students they advise individually a minimum of once per semester, but often meet with them more often.  Mentors should contact incoming students before the start of the semester, but students arriving in Berkeley should feel free to contact their mentors immediately.

Student-Mentor assignments continue until the student has identified a research adviser.  While many students continue to ask their mentors for advice later in their graduate career, the primary role of adviser is transferred to the research adviser once a student formally begins research towards his or her dissertation. The Department asks student and adviser to sign a “mentor-adviser” form to make this transfer official.  

Preliminary Exams

In order to most benefit from graduate work, incoming students need to have a solid foundation in undergraduate physics, including mechanics, electricity and magnetism, optics, special relativity, thermal and statistical physics and quantum mechanics, and to be able to make order-of-magnitude estimates and analyze physical situations by application of general principles. These are the topics typically included, and at the level usually taught, within a Bachelor's degree program in Physics at most universities. As a part of this foundation, the students should also have formed a well-integrated overall picture of the fields studied. The preliminary exam is meant to assess the students' background, so that any missing pieces can be made up as soon as possible. The exam is made up of 4 sections, as described in the  Preliminary Exam Policy *, on the Department’s website.  Each section is administered twice a year, at the start of each semester. 

Entering students are encouraged to take this exam as soon as possible, and they are required to attempt all prelims sections in the second semester. Students who have not passed all sections in the third semester will undergo a Departmental review of their performance. Departmental expectations are that all students should successfully pass all sections no later than spring semester of the second year (4th semester); the document entitled  Physics Department Preliminary Exam Policy * describes Departmental policy in more detail. An exception to this expectation is afforded to students who elect (with the recommendation of the faculty mentor and written approval of the head graduate adviser) to fill gaps in their undergraduate background during their first year at Berkeley and delay corresponding section(s) of the exam, and who therefore may need an additional semester to complete the exam; this exception is also further discussed in the  Preliminary Exam Policy * document.

* You must login with your Calnet ID to access Physics Department Preliminary Examination Policy.

Start of Research

Students are encouraged to begin research as soon as possible. Many students identify potential research advisers in their first year and most have identified their research adviser before the end of their second year.  When a research adviser is identified, the Department asks that both student and research adviser sign a form (available from the Student Affairs Office, 378 Physics North) indicating that the student has (provisionally) joined the adviser’s research group with the intent of working towards a PhD.  In many cases, the student will remain in that group for their thesis work, but sometimes the student or faculty adviser will decide that the match of individuals or research direction is not appropriate.  Starting research early gives students flexibility to change groups when appropriate without incurring significant delays in time to complete their degree.

Departmental expectations are that experimental research students begin work in a research group by the summer after the first year; this is not mandatory, but is strongly encouraged.  Students doing theoretical research are similarly encouraged to identify a research direction, but often need to complete a year of classes in their chosen specialty before it is possible for them to begin research.  Students intending to become theory students and have to take the required first year classes may not be able to start research until the summer after their second year.  Such students are encouraged to attend theory seminars and maintain contact with faculty in their chosen area of research even before they can begin a formal research program. 

If a student chooses dissertation research with a supervisor who is not in the department, he or she must find an appropriate Physics faculty member who agrees to serve as the departmental research supervisor of record and as co-adviser. This faculty member is expected to monitor the student's progress towards the degree and serve on the student's qualifying and dissertation committees. The student will enroll in Physics 299 (research) in the co-adviser's section.  The student must file the Outside Research Proposal for approval; petitions are available in the Student Affairs Office, 378 Physics North.   

Students who have not found a research adviser by the end of the second year will be asked to meet with their faculty mentor to develop a plan for identifying an adviser and research group.  Students who have not found a research adviser by Spring of the third year are not making adequate progress towards the PhD.  These students will be asked to provide written documentation to the department explaining their situation and their plans to begin research.  Based on their academic record and the documentation they provide, such students may be warned by the department that they are not making adequate progress, and will be formally asked to find an adviser.  The record of any student who has not identified an adviser by the end of Spring of the fourth year will be evaluated by a faculty committee and the student may be asked to leave the program. 

Qualifying Exam

Rules and requirements associated with the Qualifying Exam are set by the Graduate Division on behalf of the Graduate Council.  Approval of the committee membership and the conduct of the exam are therefore subject to Graduate Division approval.  The exam is oral and lasts 2-3 hours.  The Graduate Division specifies that the purpose of the Qualifying Exam is “to ascertain the breadth of the student's comprehension of fundamental facts and principles that apply to at least three subject areas related to the major field of study and whether the student has the ability to think incisively and critically about the theoretical and the practical aspects of these areas.”  It also states that “this oral examination of candidates for the doctorate serves a significant additional function. Not only teaching, but the formal interaction with students and colleagues at colloquia, annual meetings of professional societies and the like, require the ability to synthesize rapidly, organize clearly, and argue cogently in an oral setting.  It is necessary for the University to ensure that a proper examination is given incorporating these skills.”

Please see the  Department website for a description of the Qualifying Exam and its Committee .   Note: You must login with your Calnet ID to access QE information . Passing the Qualifying Exam, along with a few other requirements described on the department website, will lead to Advancement to Candidacy.  Qualifying exam scheduling forms can be picked up in the Student Affairs Office, 378 Physics North.   

The Department expects students to take the Qualifying Exam two or three semesters after they identify a research adviser. This is therefore expected to occur for most students in their third year, and no later than fourth year. A student is considered to have begun research when they first register for Physics 299 or fill out the department mentor-adviser form showing that a research adviser has accepted the student for PhD work or hired as a GSR (Graduate Student Researcher), at which time the research adviser becomes responsible for guidance and mentoring of the student.  (Note that this decision is not irreversible – the student or research adviser can decide that the match of individuals or research direction is not appropriate or a good match.)  Delays in this schedule cause concern that the student is not making adequate progress towards the PhD.  The student and adviser will be asked to provide written documentation to the department explaining the delay and clarifying the timeline for taking the Qualifying Exam.

Annual Progress Reports

Graduate Division requires that each student’s performance be annually assessed to provide students with timely information about the faculty’s evaluation of their progress towards PhD.  Annual Progress Reports are completed during the Spring Semester.  In these reports, the student is asked to discuss what progress he or she has made toward the degree in the preceding year, and to discuss plans for the following year and for PhD requirements that remain to be completed.  The mentor or research adviser or members of the Dissertation Committee (depending on the student’s stage of progress through the PhD program) comment on the student’s progress and objectives. In turn, the student has an opportunity to make final comments. 

Before passing the Qualifying Exam, the annual progress report (obtained from the Physics Student Affairs Office in 378 Physics North) is completed by the student and either his/her faculty mentor or his/her research adviser, depending on whether or not the student has yet begun research (see above).  This form includes a statement of intended timelines to take the Qualifying Exam, which is expected to be within 2-3 semesters of starting research.  

After passing the Qualifying Exam, the student and research adviser complete a similar form, but in addition to the research adviser, the student must also meet with at least one other and preferably both other members of their Dissertation Committee (this must include their co-adviser if the research adviser is not a member of the Physics Department) to discuss progress made in the past year, plans for the upcoming year, and overall progress towards the PhD.  This can be done either individually as one-on-one meetings of the graduate student with members of the Dissertation Committee, or as a group meeting with presentation. (The Graduate Council requires that all doctoral students who have been advanced to candidacy meet annually with at least two members of the Dissertation Committee. The annual review is part of the Graduate Council’s efforts to improve the doctoral completion rate and to shorten the time it takes students to obtain a doctorate.)

Advancement to Candidacy

After passing the Qualifying Examination, the next step in the student's career is to advance to candidacy as soon as possible.  Advancement to candidacy is the academic stage when a student has completed all requirements except completion of the dissertation.  Students are still required to enroll in 12 units per semester; these in general are expected to be seminars and research units.  Besides passing the Qualifying Exam, there are a few other requirements described in the Graduate Program Booklet. Doctoral candidacy application forms can be picked up in the Student Affairs Office, 378 Physics North.

Completion of Dissertation Work

The expected time for completion of the PhD program is six years.  While the Department recognizes that research time scales can be unpredictable, it strongly encourages students and advisers to develop dissertation proposals consistent with these expectations.  The Berkeley Physics Department does not have dissertation defense exams, but encourages students and their advisers to ensure that students learn the important skill of effective research presentations, including a presentation of their dissertation work to their peers and interested faculty and researchers.

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PhD Program

A PhD degree in Physics is awarded in recognition of significant and novel research contributions, extending the boundaries of our knowledge of the physical universe. Selected applicants are admitted to the PhD program of the UW Department of Physics, not to a specific research group, and are encouraged to explore research opportunities throughout the Department.

Degree Requirements

Typical timeline, advising and mentoring, satisfactory progress, financial support, more information.

Applicants to the doctoral program are expected to have a strong undergraduate preparation in physics, including courses in electromagnetism, classical and quantum mechanics, statistical physics, optics, and mathematical methods of physics. Further study in condensed matter, atomic, and particle and nuclear physics is desirable. Limited deficiencies in core areas may be permissible, but may delay degree completion by as much as a year and are are expected to remedied during the first year of graduate study.

The Graduate Admissions Committee reviews all submitted applications and takes a holistic approach considering all aspects presented in the application materials. Application materials include:

• Resume or curriculum vitae, describing your current position or activities, educational and professional experience, and any honors awarded, special skills, publications or research presentations.
• Statement of purpose, one page describing your academic purpose and goals.
• Personal history statement (optional, two pages max), describing how your personal experiences and background (including family, cultural, or economic aspects) have influenced your intellectual development and interests.
• Three letters of recommendation: submit email addresses for your recommenders at least one month ahead of deadline to allow them sufficient time to respond.
• Transcripts (unofficial), from all prior relevant undergraduate and graduate institutions attended. Admitted applicants must provide official transcripts.
• English language proficiency is required for graduate study at the University of Washington. Applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency. The various options are specified at: https://grad.uw.edu/policies/3-2-graduate-school-english-language-proficiency-requirements/ Official test scores must be sent by ETS directly to the University of Washington (institution code 4854) and be received within two years of the test date.

For additional information see the UW Graduate School Home Page , Understanding the Application Process , and Memo 15 regarding teaching assistant eligibility for non-native English speakers.

The GRE Subject Test in Physics (P-GRE) is optional in our admissions process, and typically plays a relatively minor role.  Our admissions system is holistic, as we use all available information to evaluate each application. If you have taken the P-GRE and feel that providing your score will help address specific gaps or otherwise materially strengthen your application, you are welcome to submit your scores. We emphasize that every application will be given full consideration, regardless of whether or not scores are submitted.

Applications are accepted annually for autumn quarter admissions (only), and must be submitted online. Admission deadline: DECEMBER 15, 2024.

Department standards

Course requirements.

Students must plan a program of study in consultation with their faculty advisor (either first year advisor or later research advisor). To establish adequate breadth and depth of knowledge in the field, PhD students are required to pass a set of core courses, take appropriate advanced courses and special topics offerings related to their research area, attend relevant research seminars as well as the weekly department colloquium, and take at least two additional courses in Physics outside their area of speciality. Seeking broad knowledge in areas of physics outside your own research area is encouraged.

The required core courses are:

In addition, all students holding a teaching assistantship (TA) must complete Phys 501 / 502 / 503 , Tutorials in Teaching Physics.

Regularly offered courses which may, depending on research area and with the approval of the graduate program coordinator, be used to satisfy breadth requirements, include:

• Phys 506 Numerical Methods
• Phys 555 Cosmology & Particle Astrophysics
• Phys 507 Group Theory
• Phys 557 High Energy Physics
• Phys 511 Topics in Contemporary Physics
• Phys 560 Nuclear Theory
• Phys 520 Quantum Information
• Phys 564 General Relativity
• Phys 550 Atomic Physics
• Phys 567 Condensed Matter Physics
• Phys 554 Nuclear Astrophysics
• Phys 570 Quantum Field Theory

Graduate exams

Master's Review:   In addition to passing all core courses, adequate mastery of core material must be demonstrated by passing the Master's Review. This is composed of four Master's Review Exams (MREs) which serve as the final exams in Phys 524 (SM), Phys 514 (EM), Phys 518 (QM), and Phys 505 (CM). The standard for passing each MRE is demonstrated understanding and ability to solve multi-step problems; this judgment is independent of the overall course grade. Acceptable performance on each MRE is expected, but substantial engagement in research allows modestly sub-par performance on one exam to be waived. Students who pass the Master's Review are eligible to receive a Master's degree, provided the Graduate School course credit and grade point average requirements have also been satisfied.

General Exam:   Adequate mastery of material in one's area of research, together with demonstrated progress in research and a viable plan to complete a PhD dissertation, is assessed in the General Exam. This is taken after completing all course requirements, passing the Master's Review, and becoming well established in research. The General Exam consists of an oral presentation followed by an in-depth question period with one's dissertation committee.

Final Oral Exam:   Adequate completion of a PhD dissertation is assessed in the Final Oral, which is a public exam on one's completed dissertation research. The requirement of surmounting a final public oral exam is an ancient tradition for successful completion of a PhD degree.

Graduate school requirements

Common requirements for all doctoral degrees are given in the Graduate School Degree Requirements and Doctoral Degree Policies and Procedures pages. A summary of the key items, accurate as of late 2020, is as follows:

• A minimum of 90 completed credits, of which at least 60 must be completed at the University of Washington. A Master's degree from the UW or another institution in physics, or approved related field of study, may substitute for 30 credits of enrollment.
• At least 18 credits of UW course work at the 500 level completed prior to the General Examination.
• At least 18 numerically graded UW credits of 500 level courses and approved 400 level courses, completed prior to the General Examination.
• At least 60 credits completed prior to scheduling the General Examination. A Master's degree from the UW or another institution may substitute for 30 of these credits.
• A minimum of 27 dissertation (or Physics 800) credits, spread out over a period of at least three quarters, must be completed. At least one of those three quarters must come after passing the General Exam. Except for summer quarters, students are limited to a maximum of 10 dissertation credits per quarter.
• A minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.00 must be maintained.
• The General Examination must be successfully completed.
• A thesis dissertation approved by the reading committee and submitted and accepted by the Graduate School.
• The Final Examination must be successfully completed. At least four members of the supervisory committee, including chair and graduate school representative, must be present.
• Registration as a full- or part-time graduate student at the University must be maintained, specifically including the quarter in which the examinations are completed and the quarter in which the degree is conferred. (Part-time means registered for at least 2 credits, but less than 10.)
• All work for the doctoral degree must be completed within ten years. This includes any time spend on leave, as well as time devoted to a Master's degree from the UW or elsewhere (if used to substitute for credits of enrollment).
• Pass the required core courses: Phys 513 , 517 , 524 & 528 autumn quarter, Phys 514 , 518 & 525 winter quarter, and Phys 515 , 519 & 505 spring quarter. When deemed appropriate, with approval of their faculty advisor and graduate program coordinator, students may elect to defer Phys 525 , 515 and/or 519 to the second year in order to take more credits of Phys 600 .
• Sign up for and complete one credit of Phys 600 with a faculty member of choice during winter and spring quarters.
• Pass the Master's Review by the end of spring quarter or, after demonstrating substantial research engagement, by the end of the summer.
• Work to identify one's research area and faculty research advisor. This begins with learning about diverse research areas in Phys 528 in the autumn, followed by Phys 600 independent study with selected faculty members during winter, spring, and summer.
• Pass the Master's Review (if not already done) by taking any deferred core courses or retaking MREs as needed. The Master's Review must be passed before the start of the third year.
• Settle in and become fully established with one's research group and advisor, possibly after doing independent study with multiple faculty members. Switching research areas during the first two years is not uncommon.
• Complete all required courses. Take breadth courses and more advanced graduate courses appropriate for one's area of research.
• Perform research.
• Establish a Supervisory Committee within one year after finding a compatible research advisor who agrees to supervise your dissertation work.
• Take breadth and special topics courses as appropriate.
• Take your General Exam in the third or fourth year of your graduate studies.
• Register for Phys 800 (Doctoral Thesis Research) instead of Phys 600 in the quarters during and after your general exam.
• Take special topics courses as appropriate.
• Perform research. When completion of a substantial body of research is is sight, and with concurrence of your faculty advisor, start writing a thesis dissertation.
• Establish a dissertation reading committee well in advance of scheduling the Final Examination.
• Schedule your Final Examination and submit your PhD dissertation draft to your reading committee at least several weeks before your Final Exam.
• Take your Final Oral Examination.
• After passing your Final Exam, submit your PhD dissertation, as approved by your reading committee, to the Graduate School, normally before the end of the same quarter.

This typical timeline for competing the PhD applies to students entering the program with a solid undergraduate preparation, as described above under Admissions. Variant scenarios are possible with approval of the Graduate Program coordinator. Two such scenarios are the following:

• Students entering with insufficient undergraduate preparation often require more time. It is important to identify this early, and not feel that this reflects on innate abilities or future success. Discussion with one's faculty advisor, during orientation or shortly thereafter, may lead to deferring one or more of the first year required courses and corresponding Master's Review Exams. It can also involve taking selected 300 or 400 level undergraduate physics courses before taking the first year graduate level courses. This must be approved by the Graduate Program coordinator, but should not delay efforts to find a suitable research advisor. The final Master's Review decision still takes place no later than the start of the 3rd year and research engagement is an important component in this decision.
• Entering PhD students with advanced standing, for example with a prior Master's degree in Physics or transferring from another institution after completing one or more years in a Physics PhD program, may often graduate after 3 or 4 years in our program. After discussion with your faculty advisor and with approval of the Graduate Program coordinator, selected required classes may be waived (but typically not the corresponding Master's Review Exams), and credit from other institutions transferred.
• Each entering PhD student is assigned a first year faculty advisor, with whom they meet regularly to discuss course selection, general progress, and advice on research opportunities. The role of a student's primary faculty advisor switches to their research advisor after they become well established in research. Once their doctoral supervisory committee is formed, the entire committee, including a designated faculty mentor (other than the research advisor) is available to provide advice and mentoring.
• The department also has a peer mentoring program, in which first-year students are paired with more senior students who have volunteered as mentors. Peer mentors maintain contact with their first-year mentees throughout the year and aim to ease the transition to graduate study by sharing their experiences and providing support and advice. Quarterly "teas" are held to which all peer mentors and mentees are invited.
• While academic advising is primarily concerned with activities and requirements necessary to make progress toward a degree, mentoring focuses on the human relationships, commitments, and resources that can help a student find success and fulfillment in academic and professional pursuits. While research advisors play an essential role in graduate study, the department considers it inportant for every student to also have available additional individuals who take on an explicit mentoring role.
• Students are expected to meet regularly, at a minimum quarterly, with their faculty advisors (either first year advisor or research advisor).
• Starting in the winter of their first year, students are expected to be enrolled in Phys 600 .
• Every spring all students, together with their advisors, are required to complete an annual activities report.
• The doctoral supervisory committee needs to be established at least by the end of the fourth year.
• The General Exam is expected to take place during the third or fourth year.
• Students and their advisors are expected to aim for not more than 6 years between entry into the Physics PhD program and completion of the PhD. In recent years the median time is close to 6 years.

Absence of satisfactory progress can lead to a hierarchy of actions, as detailed in the Graduate School Memo 16: Academic Performance and Progress , and may jeopardize funding as a teaching assistant.

The Department aims to provide financial support for all full-time PhD students making satisfactory progress, and has been successful in doing so for many years. Most students are supported via a mix teaching assistantships (TAs) and research assistantships (RAs), although there are also various scholarships, fellowships, and awards that provide financial support. Teaching and research assistanships provide a stipend, a tuition waiver, and health insurance benefits. TAs are employed by the University to assist faculty in their teaching activities. Students from non-English-speaking countries must pass English proficiency requirements . RAs are employed by the Department to assist faculty with specified research projects, and are funded through research grants held by faculty members.

Most first-year students are provided full TA support during their first academic year as part of their admission offer. Support beyond the second year is typically in the form of an RA or a TA/RA combination. It is the responsibility of the student to find a research advisor and secure RA support. Students accepting TA or RA positions are required to register as full-time graduate students (a minimum of 10 credits during the academic year, and 2 credits in summer quarter) and devote 20 hours per week to their assistantship duties. Both TAs and RAs are classified as Academic Student Employees (ASE) . These positions are governed by a contract between the UW and the International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW), and its Local Union 4121 (UAW).

Physics PhD students are paid at the "Assistant" level (Teaching Assistant or Research Assistant) upon entry to the program. Students receive a promotion to "Associate I" (Predoctoral Teaching Associate I or Predoctoral Research Associate I) after passing the Master's Review, and a further promotion to "Associate II" (Predoctoral Teaching Associate II or Predoctoral Research Associate II) after passing their General Examination. (Summer quarter courses, and summer quarter TA employment, runs one month shorter than during the academic year. To compendate, summer quarter TA salaries are increased proportionately.)

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Department of Physics

Graduate students, prospective students, find all the information you need, including application,  here ..

The Department of Physics offers the opportunity for students to pursue a Ph.D. in many areas of experimental and theoretical physics. Entering students typically have undergraduate degrees in physics or related fields, and are drawn from among the most talented students around the world. The department does not offer a terminal master's program.

The Graduate Recruitment Initiative Team (GRIT) began as a grassroots student organization and has grown to encompass 18 graduate programs in the Biological Sciences Division (BSD) and Physical Sciences Division (PSD) at the University of Chicago with over 50 members and a dedicated faculty counterpart in the form of the Diversity Council. GRIT is committed to enhancing diversity, inclusion, and equity across the BSD and PSD graduate programs. GRIT focuses on three central components:  recruitment ,  retention , and  sustainability  in order to increase the recruitment and retention of students from marginalized backgrounds.

Learn more about GRIT  here .

Incoming and Returning Students

If you wish to speak to someone about the Ph.D. program, or other issues pertaining to the graduate student experience, please contact either  Zosia Krusberg , the Director of Graduate Studies,  Stuart Gazes , the Undergraduate Program Chair, or  P eter Littlewood , the Department Chair.

Links to detailed information and resources for incoming and returning graduate students are found under the tabs below.

Incoming Student Information

• PSD Autumn 2023 New Student Information
• Prepare for  Graduate Diagnostic Examination
• Autumn 2023 Department of Physics Orientation

For international incoming students, please check out International Students Resource for more information.

Dean of Students (Physical Science Division)

The Dean of Students Office works with students, faculty, divisional staff, and campus partners to advance the academic, personal, and professional development of students in the Physical Sciences Division. Our central mission is to foster a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students as they pursue their education and thrive as members of the broader University of Chicago community. 

Our regular business hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM. You can reach the Dean of Students Office by emailing  [email protected] .

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A full list of resources can be found under Dean of Students Current Student Resources .

UChicagoGRAD

• UChicagoGRAD is a one-stop shop of integrated services to help graduate students and postdocs navigate their academic and professional careers. Download an overview of our office  here .
• Led by Jason Merchant, Vice Provost, UChicagoGRAD programs provide flexible training that complements support in academic units.
• UChicagoGRAD  staff  are committed to serving the graduate and postdoc community, focusing on recruitment; skills and experience; career development; and alumni engagement.

Contact [email protected] , and visit grad.uchicago.edu  to learn more.

Graduate Program Policies

Students with questions may contact Zosia Krusberg  (Director of Graduate Studies), Putri Kusumo (Assistant Director of Graduate Affairs), Bahareh Lampert  (Dean of Students in the Physical Sciences Division), or Amanda Young (Associate Director, Graduate Student Affairs) in UChicagoGRAD. 

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Graduate studies, commencement 2019.

The Harvard Department of Physics offers students innovative educational and research opportunities with renowned faculty in state-of-the-art facilities, exploring fundamental problems involving physics at all scales. Our primary areas of experimental and theoretical research are atomic and molecular physics, astrophysics and cosmology, biophysics, chemical physics, computational physics, condensed-matter physics, materials science, mathematical physics, particle physics, quantum optics, quantum field theory, quantum information, string theory, and relativity.

Our talented and hardworking students participate in exciting discoveries and cutting-edge inventions such as the ATLAS experiment, which discovered the Higgs boson; building the first 51-cubit quantum computer; measuring entanglement entropy; discovering new phases of matter; and peering into the ‘soft hair’ of black holes.

Our students come from all over the world and from varied educational backgrounds. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment and attracting the widest possible range of talents.

We have a flexible and highly responsive advising structure for our PhD students that shepherds them through every stage of their education, providing assistance and counseling along the way, helping resolve problems and academic impasses, and making sure that everyone has the most enriching experience possible.The graduate advising team also sponsors alumni talks, panels, and advice sessions to help students along their academic and career paths in physics and beyond, such as “Getting Started in Research,” “Applying to Fellowships,” “Preparing for Qualifying Exams,” “Securing a Post-Doc Position,” and other career events (both academic and industry-related).

We offer many resources, services, and on-site facilities to the physics community, including our electronic instrument design lab and our fabrication machine shop. Our historic Jefferson Laboratory, the first physics laboratory of its kind in the nation and the heart of the physics department, has been redesigned and renovated to facilitate study and collaboration among our students.

Members of the Harvard Physics community participate in initiatives that bring together scientists from institutions across the world and from different fields of inquiry. For example, the Harvard-MIT Center for Ultracold Atoms unites a community of scientists from both institutions to pursue research in the new fields opened up by the creation of ultracold atoms and quantum gases. The Center for Integrated Quantum Materials , a collaboration between Harvard University, Howard University, MIT, and the Museum of Science, Boston, is dedicated to the study of extraordinary new quantum materials that hold promise for transforming signal processing and computation. The Harvard Materials Science and Engineering Center is home to an interdisciplinary group of physicists, chemists, and researchers from the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences working on fundamental questions in materials science and applications such as soft robotics and 3D printing.  The Black Hole Initiative , the first center worldwide to focus on the study of black holes, is an interdisciplinary collaboration between principal investigators from the fields of astronomy, physics, mathematics, and philosophy. The quantitative biology initiative https://quantbio.harvard.edu/  aims to bring together physicists, biologists, engineers, and applied mathematicians to understand life itself. And, most recently, the new program in  Quantum Science and Engineering (QSE) , which lies at the interface of physics, chemistry, and engineering, will admit its first cohort of PhD students in Fall 2022.

We support and encourage interdisciplinary research and simultaneous applications to two departments is permissible. Prospective students may thus wish to apply to the following departments and programs in addition to Physics:

• Department of Astronomy
• Department of Chemistry
• Department of Mathematics
• John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS)
• Biophysics Program
• Molecules, Cells and Organisms Program (MCO)

If you are a prospective graduate student and have questions for us, or if you’re interested in visiting our department, please contact  [email protected] .

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PhD in Physics, Statistics, and Data Science

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Many PhD students in the MIT Physics Department incorporate probability, statistics, computation, and data analysis into their research. These techniques are becoming increasingly important for both experimental and theoretical Physics research, with ever-growing datasets, more sophisticated physics simulations, and the development of cutting-edge machine learning tools. The Interdisciplinary Doctoral Program in Statistics (IDPS)  is designed to provide students with the highest level of competency in 21st century statistics, enabling doctoral students across MIT to better integrate computation and data analysis into their PhD thesis research.

Admission to this program is restricted to students currently enrolled in the Physics doctoral program or another participating MIT doctoral program. In addition to satisfying all of the requirements of the Physics PhD, students take one subject each in probability, statistics, computation and statistics, and data analysis, as well as the Doctoral Seminar in Statistics, and they write a dissertation in Physics utilizing statistical methods. Graduates of the program will receive their doctoral degree in the field of “Physics, Statistics, and Data Science.”

Doctoral students in Physics may submit an Interdisciplinary PhD in Statistics Form between the end of their second semester and penultimate semester in their Physics program. The application must include an endorsement from the student’s advisor, an up-to-date CV, current transcript, and a 1-2 page statement of interest in Statistics and Data Science.

The statement of interest can be based on the student’s thesis proposal for the Physics Department, but it must demonstrate that statistical methods will be used in a substantial way in the proposed research. In their statement, applicants are encouraged to explain how specific statistical techniques would be applied in their research. Applicants should further highlight ways that their proposed research might advance the use of statistics and data science, both in their physics subfield and potentially in other disciplines. If the work is part of a larger collaborative effort, the applicant should focus on their personal contributions.

For access to the selection form or for further information, please contact the IDSS Academic Office at  [email protected] .

Required Courses

Courses in this list that satisfy the Physics PhD degree requirements can count for both programs. Other similar or more advanced courses can count towards the “Computation & Statistics” and “Data Analysis” requirements, with permission from the program co-chairs. The IDS.190 requirement may be satisfied instead by IDS.955 Practical Experience in Data, Systems, and Society, if that experience exposes the student to a diverse set of topics in statistics and data science. Making this substitution requires permission from the program co-chairs prior to doing the practical experience.

• IDS.190 – Doctoral Seminar in Statistics and Data Science ( may be substituted by IDS.955 Practical Experience in Data, Systems and Society )
• 6.7700[J] Fundamentals of Probability or
• 18.675 – Theory of Probability
• 18.655 – Mathematical Statistics or
• 18.6501 – Fundamentals of Statistics or
• IDS.160[J] – Mathematical Statistics: A Non-Asymptotic Approach
• 6.C01/6.C51 – Modeling with Machine Learning: From Algorithms to Applications or
• 6.7810 Algorithms for Inference or
• 6.8610 (6.864) Advanced Natural Language Processing or
• 6.7900 (6.867) Machine Learning or
• 6.8710 (6.874) Computational Systems Biology: Deep Learning in the Life Sciences or
• 9.520[J] – Statistical Learning Theory and Applications or
• 16.940 – Numerical Methods for Stochastic Modeling and Inference or
• 18.337 – Numerical Computing and Interactive Software
• 8.316 – Data Science in Physics or
• 6.8300 (6.869) Advances in Computer Vision or
• 8.334 – Statistical Mechanics II or
• 8.371[J] – Quantum Information Science or
• 8.591[J] – Systems Biology or
• 8.592[J] – Statistical Physics in Biology or
• 8.942 – Cosmology or
• 9.583 – Functional MRI: Data Acquisition and Analysis or
• 16.456[J] – Biomedical Signal and Image Processing or
• 18.367 – Waves and Imaging or
• IDS.131[J] – Statistics, Computation, and Applications

Grade Policy

C, D, F, and O grades are unacceptable. Students should not earn more B grades than A grades, reflected by a PhysSDS GPA of ≥ 4.5. Students may be required to retake subjects graded B or lower, although generally one B grade will be tolerated.

Unless approved by the PhysSDS co-chairs, a minimum grade of B+ is required in all 12 unit courses, except IDS.190 (3 units) which requires a P grade.

Though not required, it is strongly encouraged for a member of the MIT  Statistics and Data Science Center (SDSC)  to serve on a student’s doctoral committee. This could be an SDSC member from the Physics department or from another field relevant to the proposed thesis research.

Thesis Proposal

All students must submit a thesis proposal using the standard Physics format. Dissertation research must involve the utilization of statistical methods in a substantial way.

PhysSDS Committee

• Jesse Thaler (co-chair)
• Mike Williams (co-chair)
• Isaac Chuang
• Janet Conrad
• William Detmold
• Philip Harris
• Jacqueline Hewitt
• Kiyoshi Masui
• Leonid Mirny
• Christoph Paus
• Phiala Shanahan
• Marin Soljačić
• Washington Taylor
• Max Tegmark

Can I satisfy the requirements with courses taken at Harvard?

Harvard CompSci 181 will count as the equivalent of MIT’s 6.867.  For the status of other courses, please contact the program co-chairs.

Can a course count both for the Physics degree requirements and the PhysSDS requirements?

Yes, this is possible, as long as the courses are already on the approved list of requirements. E.g. 8.592 can count as a breadth requirement for a NUPAX student as well as a Data Analysis requirement for the PhysSDS degree.

If I have previous experience in Probability and/or Statistics, can I test out of these requirements?

These courses are required by all of the IDPS degrees. They are meant to ensure that all students obtaining an IDPS degree share the same solid grounding in these fundamentals, and to help build a community of IDPS students across the various disciplines. Only in exceptional cases might it be possible to substitute more advanced courses in these areas.

Can I substitute a similar or more advanced course for the PhysSDS requirements?

Yes, this is possible for the “computation and statistics” and “data analysis” requirements, with permission of program co-chairs. Substitutions for the “probability” and “statistics” requirements will only be granted in exceptional cases.

For Spring 2021, the following course has been approved as a substitution for the “computation and statistics” requirement:   18.408 (Theoretical Foundations for Deep Learning) .

The following course has been approved as a substitution for the “data analysis” requirement:   6.481 (Introduction to Statistical Data Analysis) .

Can I apply for the PhysSDS degree in my last semester at MIT?

No, you must apply no later than your penultimate semester.

What does it mean to use statistical methods in a “substantial way” in one’s thesis?

The ideal case is that one’s thesis advances statistics research independent of the Physics applications. Advancing the use of statistical methods in one’s subfield of Physics would also qualify. Applying well-established statistical methods in one’s thesis could qualify, if the application is central to the Physics result. In all cases, we expect the student to demonstrate mastery of statistics and data science.

DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS AND ASTRONOMY

• Doctoral Programs

Physics PhD Degree

Northwestern graduate Vesna Mitrovic, now a Full Professor at Brown University, works with a magnet capable of generating a 3.5-Tesla field.

Update (9/21/23): GRE score submission is optional for the master's and Physics PhD programs

Learn how to apply here

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

PhD students in Physics must pass the following core courses or demonstrate that they have passed equivalent courses elsewhere:

• One quarter of classical mechanics (Physics 411-0)
• Three quarters of quantum mechanics (Physics 412-1,2,3)
• Two quarters of classical electrodynamics (Physics 414-1,2)
• One quarter of statistical mechanics (Physics 416-0)

Can the core courses be waived?

Students who wish to have core courses waived must supply the Director of Graduate Studies with material from the relevant graduate coursework at a previous institution.

How many electives do students take?

Students must complete six elective courses in physics or astronomy. At least 4 of the 6 electives must be completed by the end of the Spring term of the student's second year. Descriptions of our graduate courses are available   here .

PHD QUALIFYING

Students must maintain a B (3.0) average in the core courses (see above for details) to qualify for candidacy.

An oral exam will be administered by the Graduate Curriculum Committee for any student who does not maintain a B (3.0) average in the core courses.

RESEARCH AND THE THESIS

When do students start doing research.

We encourage students to become engaged in research as early as possible in their studies. Incoming students on University Fellowship support are especially encouraged to begin part-time research in their first year. To acquaint themselves with the research opportunities in the department, most new students work with one of the faculty during the summer of their first year of graduate study. (However, there is no requirement to do so.)

When do students choose an advisor?

Students may choose a thesis advisor and/or topic at any point in their first two years.

When is the Candidacy Exam (Prospectus)?

A proposed thesis topic must be defended before a faculty committee no later than by the end of the student's fourth (4th) year at Northwestern.

How long does it take students to complete the degree?

The thesis must be defended by no later than the end of the student's ninth (9th) year at Northwestern.

The median number of years to completion is six (6) years.

Can students receive their Master's degree along the way?

Yes, students may apply to receive a Master's degree en route to their PhD degree. This may be helpful on applications for outside funding.

PROGRAM HANDBOOK

For more information on the program and what to expect, please see the   Program Handbook .

FURTHER QUESTIONS?

Contact the   Graduate Program Assistant .

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The PhD in Physics is a full-time period of research which introduces or builds upon, research skills and specialist knowledge. Students are assigned a research supervisor, a specialist in part or all of the student's chosen research field, and join a research group which might vary in size between a handful to many tens of individuals.

Although the supervisor is responsible for the progress of a student's research programme, the extent to which a postgraduate student is assisted by the supervisor or by other members of the group depends almost entirely on the structure and character of the group concerned. The research field is normally determined at entry, after consideration of the student's interests and the facilities available. The student, however, may work within a given field for a period of time before their personal topic is determined.

There is no requirement made by the University for postgraduate students to attend formal courses or lectures for the PhD. Postgraduate work is largely a matter of independent research and successful postgraduates require a high degree of self-motivation. Nevertheless, lectures and classes may be arranged, and students are expected to attend both seminars (delivered regularly by members of the University and by visiting scholars and industrialists) and external conferences. Postgraduate students are also expected to participate in the undergraduate teaching programme at some time whilst they are based at the Cavendish, in order to develop their teaching, demonstrating, outreach, organisational and person-management skills.

It is expected that postgraduate students will also take advantage of the multiple opportunities available for transferable skills training within the University during their period of research.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the research programme, students will have demonstrated:

• the creation and interpretation of new knowledge, through original research or other advanced scholarship, of a quality to satisfy peer review, extend the forefront of the discipline, and merit publication;
• a systematic acquisition and understanding of a substantial body of knowledge which is at the forefront of an academic discipline or area of professional practice;
• the general ability to conceptualise, design and implement a project for the generation of new knowledge, applications or understanding at the forefront of the discipline, and to adjust the project design in the light of unforeseen problems;
• a detailed understanding of applicable techniques for research and advanced academic enquiry; and
• the development of a PhD thesis for examination that they can defend in an oral examination and, if successful, graduate with a PhD.

The Postgraduate Virtual Open Day usually takes place at the end of October. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions to admissions staff and academics, explore the Colleges virtually, and to find out more about courses, the application process and funding opportunities. Visit the  Postgraduate Open Day  page for more details.

See further the  Postgraduate Admissions Events  pages for other events relating to Postgraduate study, including study fairs, visits and international events.

Key Information

3-4 years full-time, 4-7 years part-time, study mode : research, doctor of philosophy, department of physics, course - related enquiries, application - related enquiries, course on department website, dates and deadlines:, lent 2024 (closed).

Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.

Easter 2024 (Closed)

Michaelmas 2024, easter 2025, funding deadlines.

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas 2024, Lent 2025 and Easter 2025.

Similar Courses

• Physics MPhil
• Planetary Science and Life in the Universe MPhil
• Computational Methods for Materials Science CDT PhD
• Mathematics MPhil
• Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics PhD

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How to Get a Ph.D. in Physics

Last Updated: August 22, 2023 Approved

This article was co-authored by Sean Alexander, MS . Sean Alexander is an Academic Tutor specializing in teaching mathematics and physics. Sean is the Owner of Alexander Tutoring, an academic tutoring business that provides personalized studying sessions focused on mathematics and physics. With over 15 years of experience, Sean has worked as a physics and math instructor and tutor for Stanford University, San Francisco State University, and Stanbridge Academy. He holds a BS in Physics from the University of California, Santa Barbara and an MS in Theoretical Physics from San Francisco State University. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 100% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 148,370 times.

Physics can be an exciting field to go into! You can pursue a career in academics, in government research, or in the private sector. To start on the road to getting a PhD, develop your science and math skills. If you're still in high school and college, you have ample time to focus on your science education; if not, don't be deterred. Even without a science degree, you can find and apply to a PhD program of your choice. After that, all you need to do is complete your PhD program; it's not an easy task, but it's one you can achieve if you set your mind to it.

Developing Your Education in High School and College

• It can help to find a role model. If there are physicists in your community, try contacting them to see if they'll help you in your pursuit. Many may be willing to have you shadow them for a period of time.
• Don't forget to invest time in math classes, as well, as math is essential to physics.
• Make sure you are well-rounded, though. To do well on college entrance exams, it helps to be proficient in as many subjects as possible.

• To do well on these exams, you'll need to prep ahead of time. Your school may offer prep courses, but you can also purchase study guides that have practice tests. Taking practice tests gives you an idea of what the actual exam will be like, so you can go into the test with less anxiety. [3] X Research source

• Though not necessary, it can help to know whether you want to go into theoretical or experimental physics, though it's not a requirement. [4] X Research source

• Ask your professors about opportunities in your college and surrounding area.

Applying to a Graduate Program

• You do not need to be a genius to get a PhD. Graduate school is hard work, but success depends on your dedication more than on your ability.

• Like the SAT and ACT, you can find any number of prep courses and prep materials for the GRE. You can also find practice tests to take online.

• Keep in mind that in some cases, schools will collapse a master's program and PhD into one program. So when you choose a master's program, you may very well be choosing your PhD program, as well.
• 4 Try to meet and talk to physicists. Look into physics talks for the general public in your area or contact a physics department directly. Most places will be happy to give you information and point you to resources about graduate programs.

Determining Your Research Focus

• Take the time to gain some experience. Apply for lab positions so you can get a feel for what it's like to do research in a lab full time.

• Choosing a school with professors whose research you enjoy is a great way to focus your work. As your work gets more individual, you want to work with professors who have similar interests.

• Submit all the appropriate paperwork for your application, including your transcripts, academic references, and your basic application. [10] X Research source
• In many cases, you'll need to write a personal statement or research proposal, as well.

Working on Your PhD

• Try to focus classes on the area you want to write on.
• Outside of class, read as much as you can in your area.

• The best way to get started is to attend department functions so you can start getting to know your professors better, as well as their interests.
• It can also help to talk with older students informally, so you can get an idea of who will be a good fit for you.

• Part of managing your time well is learning to shift your schedule when you need to. If something is taking longer than it should, realize you'll need to cut something else from your day.

• You should also take advantage of courses teaching things like writing grant proposals, which is a great skill to have.

Researching and Writing Your Dissertation

• If you're still looking, consider taking classes with potential advisors. You can also ask to meet with them, though be sure to do your research ahead of time by reading articles the professor has published.
• "What are your expectations for a research student?"
• "How do you offer criticism?"
• "How often will we meet?"
• "How quickly will you get back to me with revisions?"
• Once you've narrowed down your choices, approach the professor and ask them to be your research advisor. If you have an interdisciplinary project, you may need more than one advisor.

• Start with the outline. You fill in the verbiage last, usually. Figure out what you need to say, and divide it into chapters. Work on the supporting figures next. You'll need plenty of figures and tables to support your conclusions. Additionally, reviewers on your committee may not read every word, but they usually look at all of the figures and read the captions to get the gist of what's going on.
• When you write, only write. Give yourself a time span where you allow yourself no option of doing anything else but writing. Sometimes it helps to write in the same office/coffee shop/etc. with another student working on their thesis, if you both can keep each other on task. You can take breaks together and take the heat off a bit.

• However, by the time you're doing your defense, your paper should have been reviewed multiple times by your advisor, which means you shouldn't have any trouble passing.

Expert Q&A

• Don't let money hold you back. Most physics departments will support their students through teaching assistantships or research assistantships. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Is your interest more focused on learning or on doing science?
• Would you enjoy actively doing research in physics? All programs require you to take classes or pass exams, but most of your work during a PhD program will be dedicated to doing research.
• What would you pursue once you get a PhD? If what you are after is a particular job or line of work, consider whether you need a PhD for it.
• Are you comfortable with spending a few additional years in a university? Most PhD programs in the United States will take 5-6 years on average.

You Might Also Like

• ↑ http://mkaku.org/home/articles/so-you-want-to-become-a-physicist/
• ↑ https://www.princetonreview.com/college/sat-act
• ↑ Sean Alexander, MS. Academic Tutor. Expert Interview. 14 May 2020.
• ↑ https://www.ets.org/gre/revised_general/about/?WT.ac=grehome_greabout_b_150213
• ↑ https://www.elsevier.com/connect/9-things-you-should-consider-before-embarking-on-a-phd
• ↑ http://www.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/directory/pcphpdphy/apply
• ↑ http://web.eecs.umich.edu/~imarkov/advisor.html
• ↑ https://www.forbes.com/sites/quora/2015/12/07/what-its-like-to-get-a-phd-in-experimental-physics/#43b503524fe0
• ↑ http://www.slate.com/articles/health_and_science/science/2012/08/what_is_the_value_of_a_science_phd_is_graduate_school_worth_the_effort_.html

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PhD studies in Physics

Start your research career in physics here. Our PhD students work on cutting-edge research at the frontier of physics. Join them!

Research projects for PhD and Masters by Research students

The University's Graduate Research Opportunity Tool is a directory of PhD and Masters by Research projects – search by course, field of research or location to find a research project that you're excited to join.

Explore research opportunities

What does a PhD involve?

Over 3 years (or longer if part time), you’ll complete a research project that adds key knowledge to your chosen field. You’ll write up your findings in an 80,000-word thesis.

Throughout your PhD you’ll be guided by a supervisor who’s an expert in their field.

Your research work will be supported by state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure at the School of Physics.

Be sure to read all the general information on the Doctor of Philosophy – Science , in addition to this page.

What can I study?

Some of the areas you can specialise in when you study a PhD with us are:

• Astrophysics
• Atomic, molecular and optical physics
• Complex systems
• Condensed matter physics
• Particle physics
• Physical bioscience
• Quantum information.

We are one of the largest and most successful physics departments in Australia. We have world-class research programs in all areas of modern physics, with our academic staff leading a variety of projects within several Australian Research Council Centres of Excellence.

Melbourne University is consistently one of highest ranked Australian Universities in the Times Higher Education World Rankings and in the Academic Ranking of World Universities.

Read more about research in the School of Physics

Where will this take me?

A PhD is an essential qualification for a research career in physics. It’s also a ticket to international research opportunities.

Our graduates have a strong track record of employment, both in academia and in the private sector. They find rewarding careers in:

• Research and teaching in universities
• Public research organisations such as the CSIRO
• Consulting and professional services firms
• Commercial sectors including the defence, banking, and energy industries.

Pathways to a PhD

Our PhD students come to us after undertaking research training either:

• In a graduate degree – for example the Master of Science (Physics)
• As part of an undergraduate degree – for example via an honours year in the Bachelor of Science (not available at the University of Melbourne).

We're looking for outstanding students, who have a passion for working on problems at the frontier of physics, and who have developed a strong foundation from advanced graduate-level courses in physics, typically in quantum mechanics, electrodynamics and statistical mechanics.

Read more about the PhD entry requirements

How do I find a supervisor?

To find potential supervisors, browse the research areas in the School of Physics or use Find an Expert to search for keywords.

Before submitting an application, you must have the written support of a supervisor. To obtain this you should contact the supervisor directly or email the School of Physics at [email protected] . In both cases, you should provide the following documents and information:

• Your curriculum vitae (CV)
• All higher education transcripts
• A brief summary of your intended area of research
• The names of at least two prospective supervisors that align with your intended area of research.

The School will consider your past academic performance and whether there is an academic available to supervise your study.

How to apply

All the details about how to apply can be found with the general information for the Doctor of Philosophy – Science .

We offer both the Doctor of Philosophy - Science (PhD) and the Master of Philosophy - Science , but most applicants apply directly for a PhD.

Scholarships and fees

Most domestic and international students who are offered a PhD place with us will also be offered a Graduate Research Scholarship .

Receiving this scholarship means you’ll pay no tuition fees. You’ll also receive a living allowance and relocation grant (if relocating to Melbourne).

When you apply for a PhD with us, you’ll be automatically considered for a Graduate Research Scholarship. There’s no need to apply separately.

A huge variety of other scholarships are also available. Search our scholarships to find the ones you’re eligible for.

Before getting in touch, please read this page carefully, plus all the information available for the Doctor of Philosophy (Science) .

If you still have questions, we’ll be happy to help.

Email us at [email protected]

• requirements

PhD Physics Requirements

We offer graduate study leading to the PhD in Physics.

Course Requirements

Must take all courses as a letter grade and receive a B or better.

• Physics 205: Classical Mechanics
• Physics 210A: Electromagnetic Theory
• Physics 210B: Electromagnetic Theory
• Physics 215A: Quantum Mechanics
• Physics 215B: Quantum Mechanics
• Physics 215C: Quantum Mechanics
• Physics 219: Statistical Mechanics
• Physics 237: Galactic Dynamics *

* Physics 237 may be substituted for Physics 205 provided the student has demonstrated competency in Lagrangian Mechanics to the Physics 205 instructor. If Physics 237 is used this way as a substitution, it cannot be used to satisfy the elective requirement.

Must take all electives as a letter grade and receive a B or better. Theoretical physics students must complete a minimum of five advanced graduate courses, and experimental physics students must complete a minimum of three advanced graduate courses with a grade of B or better. For theoretical physics students, at least one of these courses must be in an area clearly distinct from the student’s field of specialization – such a determination will be made by the graduate advisor.

These courses are taken the first year of graduate school.

• Physics 260A: Colloquium
• Physics 260G: Graduate Seminar
• Physics 500: Teaching Assistant Seminar (Fall only)

Course Descriptions can be viewed here .

The advancement exam is taken by the end of spring quarter in the student's third year. The exam begins with a short presentation in which the student assesses the overall situation in the field, and proposes a possible line of research, justifying its potential significance. The exam committee may then ask more general background questions. The scope and content of the exam are agreed upon beforehand. If the committee fails the student, the reasons will be given in writing, and the student must retake the exam by the end of summer quarter of the third year. After advancement, the Supervising Committee will be chaired by the student’s research advisor (or co-chaired by the advisor if they are not UCSB physics ladder faculty).

Jennifer Farrar

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• PhD Physics with an Astrophysics Emphasis (pdf)
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PhD Physics / Overview

Year of entry: 2024

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The standard academic entry requirement for this PhD is an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD (or international equivalent) OR any upper-second class (2:1) honours degree and a Master’s degree at merit in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD (or international equivalent).

Other combinations of qualifications and research or work experience may also be considered. Please contact the admissions team to check.

Full entry requirements

Apply online

In your application you’ll need to include:

• The name of this programme
• Your research project title (i.e. the advertised project name or proposed project name) or area of research
• Your proposed supervisor’s name
• If you already have funding or you wish to be considered for any of the available funding
• A supporting statement (see 'Advice to Applicants' for what to include)
• Details of your previous university level study
• Names and contact details of your two referees.

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Programme description.

The  Department of Physics and Astronomy at Manchester is one of the largest and most active physics departments in the UK. We have a long tradition of excellence in both teaching and research, and have interests in most areas of contemporary research.

The Department has a strong presence in a number of Manchester-based centres for multidisciplinary research: The National Graphene Institute, the Photon Science Institute, the Manchester Centre for Non-Linear Dynamics, and the Dalton Nuclear Institute. In addition, the Jodrell Bank Observatory in Cheshire is a part of the department.

Strong research activity exists in a broad range of physics topics funded by the Research Councils including EPSRC, STFC, BBSRC, the EU and industry. All the research groups offer well-equipped laboratories and computing facilities and are involved in a wide range of collaborative projects with industry and other academic departments in the UK and overseas. 

The postgraduate research environment is well funded and world-class as demonstrated by our ranking in REF2021.  Supervision is provided by academic staff, who are leaders in their fields, with independent pastoral back-up. Transferable skills training is available and there are some school teaching opportunities.

For more information about research themes within the department please visit our themes page or view available projects within the department on our Postgraduate Research projects page . 

To be announced.

The programme fee will vary depending on the cost of running the project. Fees quoted are fully inclusive and, therefore, you will not be required to pay any additional bench fees or administration costs.

All fees for entry will be subject to yearly review and incremental rises per annum are also likely over the duration of the course for Home students (fees are typically fixed for International students, for the course duration at the year of entry). For general fees information please visit the postgraduate fees page .

Always contact the Admissions team if you are unsure which fees apply to your project.

Scholarships/sponsorships

There are a range of scholarships, studentships and awards at university, faculty and department level to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers.

To be considered for many of our scholarships, you’ll need to be nominated by your proposed supervisor. Therefore, we’d highly recommend you discuss potential sources of funding with your supervisor first, so they can advise on your suitability and make sure you meet nomination deadlines.

For more information about our scholarships, visit our funding page or use our funding database to search for scholarships, studentships and awards you may be eligible for.

Contact details

Our internationally-renowned expertise across the School of Natural Sciences informs research led teaching with strong collaboration across disciplines, unlocking new and exciting fields and translating science into reality.  Our multidisciplinary learning and research activities advance the boundaries of science for the wider benefit of society, inspiring students to promote positive change through educating future leaders in the true fundamentals of science. Find out more about Science and Engineering at Manchester .

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You can find regulations and policies relating to student life at The University of Manchester, including our Degree Regulations and Complaints Procedure, on our regulations website .

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From working alongside experts in their field to having access to specialist facilities, we train and equip our graduates to do the best research in the world – come and join us to pursue your passion and fulfil your potential.

Each year, we welcome some 100 graduate students to our department to study for a 3 to 4-year DPhil research degree – which is equivalent to a PhD. Graduates can choose from a range of specialisms across our six sub-departments of astrophysics; atmospheric, oceanic and planetary physics; atomic and laser physics; condensed matter physics; particle physics; and theoretical physics.

Our DPhil degrees are research-based across an exceptionally broad range of topics and many of our groups are interdisciplinary. You will be part of a dynamic and world-leading research community and you will join an existing group that typically comprises at least one lead academic as well as postdoctoral research assistants or fellows and other research students.

Your research work begins on day one and will be underpinned by a taught graduate course in the first year that runs in parallel. You will also have the opportunity to follow courses taught at other departments across the Maths, Physics and Life Sciences division. Our department runs an active programme of seminars and colloquia giving students and academics the opportunity to regularly come together for specialist and interdisciplinary discussion.

Why Oxford?

As a graduate student at Oxford’s Department of Physics, you will work alongside world experts and have access to the department’s world-class facilities – from the ultra-low vibration and ultra-low temperature labs in the state-of-the-art Beecroft Building to our in-house specialist SRFs and mechanical and electronic workshops and technicians. Our students also get to benefit from the close relations we foster with other facilities in the UK and around the world: in the UK, these include the leading science and innovation campus at Harwell home to the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory and Diamond Light Source synchrotron among others; internationally, it extends to the Large Hadron Collider at CERN, T2K in Japan, DUNE in the USA and large telescopes around the world.

We want our graduates to be as diverse as the science they investigate. We are actively pursuing our equality, diversity and inclusion agenda and you can read more about it here: equality, diversity and inclusion

DPhil courses

Each of the six sub-departments within the Department of Physics offers a DPhil course for postgraduates and many of our research projects are inter-disciplinary. Prospective students apply to the sub-department of their choice however we welcome applications to multiple sub-departments if your interests span sub-departments or if you are undecided. Find out more about our six DPhils below.

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History the curious history of physics at princeton: albert einstein's legacy.

A university must not be confused with a college. A college teaches, a university learns. A college transmits knowledge, a university discovers new knowledge (or recaptures knowledge) which colleges presently will interpret and teach …. The real test of a great university lies in its additions to human knowledge.

At an international conference of scientists, Harald Bohr, of the famous family of Danish scientists, described Princeton as “the mathematical center of the universe.” According to the theory of the utility of history, coming events cast shadows before and therefore this particular preeminence, like a sort of scholarly stalagmite, must have been the product of slow but inevitable growth traceable through the lenses of the historian of science. Yet to this particular scholar of Princeton’s Scientific implosion, the accretion of a critical mass of theoretical physicists and physics-minded mathematicians, seems an ironic series of unpredictable incidents, fortuitous but fortunate for the national interest.

Stripped of the patina of alumni memory, 19th-century Princeton seems to have been “a poor place” in the words of one graduate, a kind of overgrown prep school. On the academic side, at least, the students hated it, and what is more surprising, so did the professors, who were largely recruited from superannuated ministers and pensioned-off missionaries. Classroom routine was based on bad theory and worse practice—the remorseless quizzing of undergraduates, endless recitations out of textbooks. It was from his own memories of undergraduate teaching that Woodrow Wilson set up his preceptorial system and selected personally his preceptors. He had attended a graduate school created in imitation of the German research model (Johns Hopkins) and hated it. Princeton then was a university in name only. Wilson thought the utility of graduate students would be to uplift the seriousness of undergraduates, and the dean of the so-called graduate school was only an honorary Ph.D. A French instructor was dismissed for attempting to teach literary values in addition to grammar, and Henry Norris Russell, later the dean of American astronomers, was almost punished for doing research in addition to teaching undergraduates.

If this was the scholarly situation at Old Nassau, more or less the same was true at all old-line universities. Henry Adams’ most vivid memory of his undergraduate days at Harvard was how the librarian kept his books under lock and key, so as not to disturb young minds. He himself was appointed professor of medieval history at his alma mater on the grounds that he knew nothing whatsoever of the subject. William Lyon Phelps, of later fame, remembered teaching freshman English at Yale, with the daily themes stacked everywhere over his bed and furniture. Yale had a theoretical physicist, Williard Gibbs, whose research papers were famous through Europe, yet for seven years the university refused to pay him a salary on the ground that his studies were “irrelevant.”

What was curious was that at exactly the time American science was in the doldrums—the late 19th and early 20th centuries—in Europe one of the great historical adventures in the mind of man was taking place, a dramatic revolution in the mind of man was taking place, a dramatic revolution in the understanding of the very nature of matter. The absolute world of classical Newtonian physics was breaking down and intellectual ferment was everywhere. The Michelson-Morley experiments, to demonstrate the “ether” which electricity and magnetism needed to operate in, proved it did not exist; atoms, it was show, were not solid but electrically charged packets with a measurable mass; and, most confusing, an element (uranium) had been found which gave off streams of radiation and matter —all of which made nonsense of classical physics. In 1895 X-rays were discovered; in 1896, radioactivity; in 1897, the electron; in 1898, radium.

Then in 1905 an unknown theoretician in the Berne patent office, Albert Einstein, published four epoch-making papers comparable to Newton’s instant leap into fame. The most significant was the so-called Special Theory of Relativity, which proposed that mass was simply congealed energy, energy liberated matter: space and time, previously thought to be absolute, were dependent on relative motion. Ten years later he formulated the General Theory of Relativity, proposing that gravity was a function of matter itself and affected light exactly as it affected material particles. Light, in other words, did not go “straight”; Newton’s laws were not the real universe but one seen through the unreal spectacles of gravity. Furthermore, he set forth a set of mathematical laws with which the universe could be described, structural laws and laws of motion. Light would be deflected by a gravitational field, and the shortest distance between two points in such a field would not be a “straight” line—like a ship steaming around the world on a “great circle” path from A to B.

Concomitant with this revolution was the “new” physics, the so-called “quantum” mechanics. Unfortunately, as Robert Oppenheimer wryly commented, there is no way that quantum theory can be explained to the mind of a layman. What it does is assume that light—that is matter, in the world of sub-atomic particles–is at times understood (or measured) if it is approached as a wave which by definition had neither boundaries nor substance. Yet at other times light can be measured if it is assumed it is a particle, like a grain of sand, with both boundaries and substance. To the Aristotelian “either-or” mind of science this is, of course, nonsense, but it worked and made the equations balance.

Percy Bridgman, the Harvard Nobel-laureate, called quantum mechanics “operational philosophy,” accepting the wave theory of light on Monday, Wednesday and Friday and the particle theory on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. In any case, quantum theory must be counted as one of the great triumphs of the human mind, the very basis of the “new physics.” The so-called “eagles of science”—the innovative imaginative European physicists—like Copernicus and Newton before them had created what Princeton historian Thomas B. Kuhn calls a new “paradigm”: a novel overreaching model called quantum mechanics under which the subsequent scientific era would conduct its normal day-to-day operations. Now even the “normal” scientists, narrow technicians though they may be, would work with a different set of assumptions. Yet American physics continued in a sort of theoretical void, suspended between two worlds–one dead, the other powerless to be born.

Princeton, and indeed the whole American academic community, stood outside this dramatically swift development in the first quarter of the 20th century. Nonetheless there were some interesting developments going on at Princeton, unnoticed and unplanned. Although Woodrow Wilson knew nothing of science, he recruited some outstanding scientists, even offering to put an extra story on Guyot Hall if the biologist E. J. Conklin would transfer.

Furthermore, his closest friend was the mathematician “Harry” Fine, who built his house across Library Place from Wilson’s in matching Tudor architecture. When Wilson was appointing his new preceptors, even though they were intended for discussion groups rather than in the sciences, Fine protested: How about a few in the natural sciences?, and Wilson genially agreed. Some men later to be distinguished came, as Luther Eisenhart recalled, because you could get anyone you wanted for $2,000 a year. Especially notable were some young mathematicians from the University of Chicago, which Rockefeller money had set up to raise the Midwest and American scholarship to the European level. This great adventure into the nature of matter itself, it was uneasily noted, was being carried out by a few great "research" professors in Europe and their graduate students-men with great prestige and no teaching duties, at a time when American physicists, with their practical bent, were measuring the electrical resistance of wire and teaching freshman laboratory sections. One American, doing his doctoral work at the University of Göttingen, noted that to save postage the library there used to subscribe to all twelve monthly issues of the American Physical Review in one package-there was never anything in it anyway.

American graduate instruction in physics was "very, very low," one returnee from Europe remembered. To learn the

"new" physics American graduate students were obliged to go abroad—as Princeton's famed (later) Henry

D. Smyth '18 went to Cambridge (where his roommate was the equally famous Russian Petr Kapitsa). Perhaps the most remarkable of this whole generation of foreign-trained physicists was the prodigy J. Robert Oppenheimer, who, after studying in Cambridge, Göttingen, Leyden and Zurich, came back to electrify whole lecture halls of graduate students at Harvard, propounding riddles in physics and snapping out the answer,

"Quantize it!"

One of the exciting facets of this youthful genius at Harvard was, according to his biographer, that he was "ob-viously Semitic." Which brings us to another problem associated with the eventual growth of American physics.

American academic institutions had been saddled with anti-Semitism. According to the stereotype, the legendary professor was a tweedy pipe-smoking Rhodes Scholar type, an "athletic Christian" elderly bachelor who gave "in-spiring" lectures and had mild scholarly interests. (Prince-ton had once fired an English instructor, the noted Horace Kallen, on the ground that he hadn't told the authorities he was Jewish; a Princeton professor today remembers being dismissed, as late as 1940, from an Eastern university because by his presence on the faculty he was holding out to Jewish graduate students a promise they did not in fact have.)

This practice, unfair and in fact, unscholarly, had been quietly breached in some of the research fields of the physical sciences. Now the University of California decided to establish a research program in physics and against precedent, made an offer to this "gorgeous new exotic" for reasons which remain unclear. Although he had already received bids from Princeton and Harvard, Oppenheimer decided in 1928 to go to Berkeley. "New York Jews flocked out here to him, and some were not as nice as he was," remembered the departmental chairman; "[Ernest] Lawrence and I were very concerned to have people here who were nice people as well as good students." Oppenheimer's lectures there proved so sensational that graduate students used to enroll year after year (with-out daring to accept a grade) in order to try to comprehend what quantum physics was all about. Henry J. Fine, curiously enough, occupied something of a similar niche at Princeton, although he was a totally different personality. After failing election for president as Wilson's successor in 1912, he became Dean of Science. He had taken his advanced work (in mathematics) in Ger-many, and although he was no research scholar, he had the odd faculty of being able to recognize that unusual ability in young scientists. Over the years he assembled what for Princeton was a peculiar congregation, known on campus as "Fine's research men"—in local terms called "queer ducks." And this constellation of talent was without honor in its own country: one undergraduate journalist somehow stumbled into a course in the higher mathematics and quickly departed, remarking on the "brilliant but unintelligible lecturers with foreign accents ... the Euro-pean, or demi-God, theory of instruction." (One of the later professors could not, in any effective sense, speak English.) Woodrow Wilson thought it was possible only by "a painful process of drill" to "insert" mathematics into "the natural, carnal man." Adlai Stevenson '22 remembered that "a page of mathematical equations still makes me shudder." F. Scott Fitzgerald '17 reflected bitterly that "conic sections" had flunked him out.

Now there was not one Princeton but two: the humanistic Princeton, symbolized by Dean of the Graduate School Andrew Fleming West, and the scientific Princeton, represented by Dean Fine. These two fine old Princetonians, who had been friends since undergraduate days, never spoke to each other after the feuds of the Wilson years. And regrettably, although Princeton's public reputation was as a teacher of the liberal arts to undergraduates, its real strength lay in the graduate training of scientists. It was a situation that would have amused the ironic mind of Henry Adams: like the University of Chicago, which publicly embraced neo-Thomism while secretly building an atomic pile under its football stadium, Princeton in search of the Virgin wound up with the Dynamo! This contrast was further reified when the alumni professors noted an odd but revealing sociological statistic: at that time the club system of social ranking was regarded as the supreme experience of undergraduate training, yet not a single member of the "prestige" eating clubs had chosen to major in the prestigious physics department. Which, of course, interested the research scientists not at all: when Albert Einstein landed in New York in 1921, he told reporters he wanted to lecture at Princeton because its faculty first gave his theories American support.

All these various currents in higher learning came together in the 1920's after a dramatic gesture by the Rockefeller Foundation. One of its leading executives, Wicklife Rose, although a former professor of philosophy, wrote these fateful words:

Science is the method of knowledge. It is the key to such do. minion as man may ever acquire over his physical environment. Appreciation of its spirit and technique, moreover, determines the mental attitude of a people, affects the entire system of education, and carries with it the shaping of a civilization. The nations that do not cultivate the sciences cannot hold their own.

In its attempt to lead and assist the course of American science, the Rockefeller people were thoroughly acquainted with the importance of the "new physics" and were accustomed to sending promising graduate students to Europe to learn its baffling theories. In fact, some 23 of the scientists who built the first atomic bomb had been Rockefeller Fellows. Now, in a striking vindication of the potentialities of private philanthropy, the foundation decided that instead of sending Mahomet to the Mountain, it would fetch the Mountain here. Instead of sending Americans to Europe to learn quantum physics, European scientists would somehow be imported to teach. And what's more, to finance such a mighty effort the Rockefeller Foundation would spend off not just income but $19 million of capital. Rose made a purposeful visit to the leading European centers, which then agreed to send teams of their scientists to tutor the American wilderness in mathematical physics. Because of the strength of their scientific faculties and their example in forwarding the cause of research, three American institutions were selected to receive the bulk of the Rockefeller largesse: the University of Chicago, the California Institute of Technology-and Princeton University. Aided by a fund-raising campaign among big donors of its own, Princeton in the 1920's got five research professorships "at advanced salaries" out of it plus a large scientific research fund. A further boon was born after Dean Fine died; as his memorial a pro-Wilson ex-trustee built a magnificent mathematics building symbolically joined to the physics laboratory. In the words of an undergraduate poet, Fine Hall was "a country club for math / where you can even take a bath." (It even had showers so the scientists could return to their research from the tennis courts nearby, as well as reading lights in the lavatories- in the rapidly advancing world of mathematics there was not a minute to lose!)

Although they were given half of each year off to go back to Berlin and rejuvenate themselves with the newest discoveries, apparently these two Hungarians were unhappy at first. Wigner remembers that Princeton lacked a "coffee-house," where one could discuss and further the latest speculations with one's colleagues and graduate students. In Europe there was a sort of travelling seminar, a sense of community, a feeling of shared adventure, everybody knew everybody else, simultaneous publication of new solutions; in America the graduate teaching of physics* was primitive, and theoretical physicists were few and geographically far between. He wondered if the Americans were importing Europeans as a sort of window-dressing, more or less like the pseudo-Gothic buildings. (One famous European chemist hired by Princeton flatly refused to enter Frick Chemical Laboratory, saying he could not do research in a laboratory with a portcullis; he was never seen in Princeton again.) Later Wigner found his suspicions unfounded, his graduate students "fabulous," including in years to come great figures in the scientific Establishment (such people as Frederick Seitz, Conyers Herring, and John Bardeen, who has two Nobel Prizes).

* It should be emphasized that the Rockefeller largesse was only for graduate teaching: one of Princeton’s new starts, later a Nobel Laureate, indignantly inquired if his duties were to include (as he had heard) a section of freshmen, and he was quietly reassured he was safe.

Another element in putting together the critical mass of theoretical physicists in Princeton came in 1930. The higher learning always has had strange roots, but never more than the Institute for Advanced Study. The Fuld family, owners of Bamberger's department store, decided to establish an academy devoted to pure scholarship, with no students at all, in the vicinity of Newark. Oswald Veblen, Professor of Mathematics at the university, perceived that the Institute would wither without the invigorating environment of a university town, persuaded them that Princeton was in reality a suburb of Newark. Soon dozens of Institute physicists, both permanent and visiting for a year or so, were added to the Princeton ambience. It was somehow fitting that Veblen should have been the nephew of the sardonic iconoclast Thorstein Veblen, who in his The Higher Learning in America maintained that the whole American apparatus of administration, publicity, degrees and undergraduate teaching was a sham, and thought that in contrast to the American strain of practicality the sole scholarship, idle of the truly inquiring mind should be irresponsible curiosity, and useless knowledge. The newspaper reporters were delighted to photograph on Nassau Street the Institute's first member-Albert Einstein, with his sweatshirt and flowing hair (in the spirit of Thoreau -"simplify!" —he had given up not only barbers but pajamas, socks, underwear and ties). The newspapers used to repeat the (incorrect) fact as the spirit of Princeton that Einstein’s theories (which served no practical purpose anyway) were understood by only seven men in the whole world.

A final grace note in the flowering of American science occurred when Hitler seized power in Germany: some 2,000 Jewish faculty members were summarily dismissed, and about 100 physicists came to the U.S., some permanently. The attention of world science irrevocably swung to America. One American departmental chairman remarked that "Hitler shakes the tree, and I gather the apples." Hitler called theoretical physics Judenphysik and shouted that, if necessary, the German people would do without science for a few years. In any case, the German scientific community was so fragmented and without morale it apparently never knew what was going on, at least in the realm of atomic fission. In 1939 the physicist Otto Hahn, at the Kaiser Friedrich Institute in Berlin, succeeded in splitting the uranium atom without realizing what he had accomplished. His assistant, Lise Meitner, was an Austrian Jew and therefore in danger; she was smuggled to Denmark, where she and her physicist nephew performed the mathematical calculations on how to construct an atomic bomb from these findings. The great Danish scientist, Niels Bohr, was half-Jewish and came to this country, where he transmitted the shattering news to the scientific community. Eugene Wigner and Leo Szilard composed a letter warning President Roosevelt of the possible consequences and got Einstein to sign it. The end result was the Manhattan Project, in which finally all these polyglot refugee scientists were herded together on a mountain in New Mexico-"the greatest collection of crackpots in history" was the weary comment of the general appointed to watch over them-and built the atomic bomb.

The rest of the story is familiar. J. Robert Oppenheimer, after directing the building of the bomb, became Director of the Institute for Advanced Study. Professor Henry D. Smyth wrote the famous "Smyth Report" and became Commissioner of the Atomic Energy Commission. In the debate over the building of the H-bomb the two factions were known as "Princeton vs. California," and Professor John A. Wheeler was instrumental in developing it. Professor Wigner, before retirement, won the Fermi Award and the Nobel Prize. Princeton, together with the ancillary resources of the Institute, is considered unrivalled in theoretical physics. More than 800 applications for graduate study in physics are received each year, of which 10 percent are accepted. Some 62 percent of Princeton Ph.D.'s have been elected Fellows of the American Physical Society, a far higher percentage than any other institution. A new Fine Hall looms high over the football stadium, and the symbolism is not lost on the spectators. This planet, it now appears, is running out of energy, but the whole crisis is expected to be solved by the so-called thermonuclear fusion process providing infinite energy. Princeton's "Stellarator" laboratory, directed by Professors Melvin Gottlieb and Edward Frieman, is funded by many millions of federal dollars.

So the unpredictable course of the history of science goes on. All of these events were ultimately dependent on the speculations of a group of quantum theorists a generation ago. But one dictum still holds-"The nations that do not cultivate the sciences cannot hold their own."

This was originally published in the October 2, 1973 issue of PAW.

RIT graduate pursues Ph.D. across time zones

Nastaran Nagshineh, center, defended her Ph.D. thesis at RIT in April. Faculty from RIT’s Rochester and Dubai campuses served on her thesis committee and include, from left to right, Kathleen Lamkin-Kennard, Steven Weinstein, Nathaniel Barlow, and David Kofke (a professor at the University at Buffalo). Mohamed Samaha participated remotely and appears on the video screen behind the group and alongside Nagshineh’s picture.

Nastaran Nagshineh is one of the first Ph.D. candidates to bridge RIT’s Rochester and Dubai campuses. Her accomplishment creates a path for future students at the university’s international campuses.

Nagshineh completed her Ph.D. in mathematical modeling while working full time as a mathematics lecturer at RIT Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, teaching as many as five classes a semester. She described her Ph.D. journey as “an exercise in perseverance” due to competing demands and long days. Rochester is eight hours behind Dubai, and the time difference meant many late-night classes and meetings.

“I saw this collaboration as an opportunity, rather than as a challenge, because my primary adviser, Dr. Steven Weinstein (RIT professor of chemical engineering), and my co-adviser, Dr. Mohamed Samaha (RIT Dubai associate professor of mechanical engineering), both have the same area of research interest,” she said. “They both worked toward my success.”

Nagshineh is one of 67 RIT Ph.D. students who defended their thesis this academic year and who will earn their doctorate. RIT awarded 63 Ph.D. degrees in 2023.

In 2020-2021, RIT’s Graduate School met and surpassed the university’s goal of conferring 50 Ph.D. degrees during an academic year. That number will continue to grow as students cycle through the seven new Ph.D. programs that RIT has added since 2017, said Diane Slusarski , dean of RIT’s Graduate School.

Meeting these goals puts RIT on a path toward achieving an “R1,” or research-intensive designation, from the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Learning. RIT is currently ranked as an R2 institution . Many factors go into changing a university’s status, including research investment and maintaining a three-year average of 70 Ph.D. degrees awarded per year, according to Slusarski.

“We have met the goals of the strategic plan, and now we look forward to contributing to the research innovation in the future,” Slusarski said. “We want to help the new programs thrive and win national research awards.”

RIT’s emphasis on high-level research is seen in Nagshineh’s Ph.D. work. She applies mathematical modeling to the field of fluid dynamics. Her research has been published in top-tier journals and has gained notice, said Weinstein, her thesis adviser.

Weinstein describes Nagshineh’s accomplishments as “a testament to a fantastic work ethic and commitment” and is inspirational to younger students at Rochester and Dubai.

“The collaboration between RIT Dubai/Rochester has continued,” he said. “Another paper was submitted a few weeks ago with Mohamed Samaha and Nate Barlow (RIT associate professor in the School of Mathematics and Statistics) as co-authors, as well as Cade Reinberger, a younger Ph.D. student in my research group.”

Mathematical modeling is one of RIT’s newer Ph.D. degree programs, and Nagshineh is among its earliest graduates. The program has doubled in size since it began accepting students in 2017, Slusarski said. This past fall, the mathematical modeling program had 35 students, with two graduating this year.

Altogether, RIT has 13 Ph.D. degree programs currently enrolling 438 students, with computing and information sciences accounting for the largest with 117 students. RIT’s other Ph.D. programs include astrophysical sciences and technology , biomedical and chemical engineering , business administration , color science , electrical and computer engineering, imaging science , mechanical and industrial engineering , microsystems engineering , and sustainability .

New programs in cognitive science and physics will launch in the fall.

The growth in RIT graduate education—with more than 3,000 master’s and doctoral students—reflects a demographic change in the student population, Slusarski said. “We have a higher percentage of women in the graduate programs than we have for RIT undergraduate programs.”

RIT’s graduate programs enroll 42 percent women, according to Christie Leone , assistant dean for the Graduate School.

Nagshineh, who also holds an MS in electrical engineering from RIT Dubai, welcomes her role as a mentor to other women students on both campuses.

“As a young woman in an Arabic country, the power of women is often underestimated and undervalued, and I hope to serve as a role model to female students, especially those that question their path,” Nagshineh said.

She plans to continue in her career as a professor and a researcher. “I would like to pursue a research program where I can advise my own students and teach them more deeply.”

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How many people have a PhD in physics?

The number of physics PhDs awarded in the U.S. has reached an all- time high with 1,762 doctorates earned in the class of 2012. There were 51,000 PhDs awarded in the U.S. in the academic year 2011-12, and physics represented about 3.5% of these.

Which country is best for PhD in physics?

USA. The USA is already way ahead as compared to other countries in the field of technology, educationeducationTeacher education or teacher training refers to the policies, procedures, and provision designed to equip (prospective) teachers with the knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, approaches, methodologies and skills they require to perform their tasks effectively in the classroom, school, and wider community.https://en.wikipedia.org › wiki › Teacher_educationTeacher education – Wikipedia & research. The country is home to the number #1 University in the world. Listed below are the top universities in the USA offering physics programs along with their QS World University Rankings 2022.

How many years is a PhD in physics?

PhD in Physics Graduation and Admission Requirements Those wishing to complete their PhD in Physics can expect it to take between four to five years and require two years of classroom study along with two to three more years of research and laboratory work for their dissertation.

Can you do a physics PhD in 3 years?

If 3 years really is the normal time for completing a PhD, then yes, it is possible to complete a PhD in 3 years.

How much does a physics PhD make?

PhD Physics has a job scope in the private sector as well. The salary after PhD Physics in India in the private sector is around INR 3.5 – 5 LPA [Source: Glassdoor].

What country has the best physicists?

1. United States of America. The physical sciences account for one-quarter of the United States’ research in the Nature Index, and the country has held its own as the world’s largest producer of high-quality articles in the field.

Can I do PhD after MSc physics?

The basic eligibility for PhD Physics course admission is Bachelor’s Degree, M. Phil. degree or MSc in Physics or Material Science with a minimum of 60% aggregate score. Apart from merit, the admissions process also includes various entrance exams like CSIR/UGC-JRF, CSIR/UGC, JEST/GATE for PhD Physics courses.

Does a PhD increase salary?

In these cases, the potential salary earnings for those with a Ph. D. can be $30,000 higher per year than those with just a master’s degree. This is largely due to the level of knowledge that is required to take on high-paying roles in these fields.

Can I do PhD in physics without maths?

to do physics for degree you will have to study maths in you 12th. there is no other option other than to opt for other subject.

Do you need a masters to get a PhD?

Yes, you can get a PhD without first obtaining a master’s degree. A number of universities offer direct entry to PhD programs from undergraduate or bachelor degree studies. In some cases, specific schools or programs may prefer that applicants hold a master’s degree.

What do I need to get a PhD in Physics?

Doctorate in Physics Degree Requirements The typical PhD in Physics schedule consists of two years of coursework, a research-based candidacy exam and research training followed by dissertation research. All PhD studentsPhD studentsDuring the studies that lead to the degree, the student is called a doctoral student or PhD student; a student who has completed all their coursework and comprehensive examinations and is working on their thesis/dissertation is sometimes known as a doctoral candidate or PhD candidate (see: all but dissertation).https://en.wikipedia.org › wiki › Doctor_of_PhilosophyDoctor of Philosophy – Wikipedia follow a common set of eight core courses during their first two years of study.

What is the highest paying job in physics?

• Lab manager.
• Test engineer.
• Nuclear engineer.
• Geophysicist.
• Aeronautical engineer.
• Research scientist.
• Astronomer.
• Optical engineer.

Where do PhD Students get paid the most?

• Norway. Average PhD stipend (per annum): US54,935 US dollars.
• Denmark. Average PhD stipend (per annum): US$54,636.
• Switzerland. Average PhD stipend (per annum): US$53,434.
• 4 highest paying degrees for int’l students in the US.
• 4 highest-paying computer science jobs.

Do physicists get paid well?

The median annual wage for physicists was $152,430 in May 2021. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $78,870, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $208,000.

What percentage of physics PhDs become professors?

That means roughly 8% of those that start a physics PhD and 13% of those that finish one will ever have the academic research professor job they ostensibly trained for (assuming the PhD / job creation rate ratio stays steady).

Where do most PhDs go?

Recall that most PhDs in potentially permanent positions work in the private sector. Many of them secured employment in the fields of computer software, engineering, and data science.

Do physicists need a PhD?

Physicists and astronomers typically need a Ph. D. for jobs in research and academia. However, physicist jobs in the federal government typically require a bachelor’s degree in physics.

Which university is best for physics research?

• Harvard University.
• University of California–Berkeley.
• California Institute of Technology.
• University of Chicago.
• University of Tokyo.
• Princeton University.
• Tsinghua University.
• Universite Paris Saclay.

Which country is number 1 in science?

In the Nature Index 2020 Annual Tables, the United States topped the rankings in the life, physical, and Earth and environmental sciences.

Is Germany good to study physics?

Yes, Germany is a good country to learn physics. After all, it’s the home of German engineering. You’ll find that there are a few very good schools there, and in different regions, so it’s a green light for you. Also, with a little digging around, you’ll find decent affordable housing, too.

Which country is good for MSC in physics?

What are the Best Countries to Pursue an MS in Physics? Some of the best countries to pursue an MS in Physics are US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Germany.

What are the career opportunities in studying physics?

With a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics or Engineering Physics, students can pursue careers in research and development, science, engineering, educationeducationTeacher education or teacher training refers to the policies, procedures, and provision designed to equip (prospective) teachers with the knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, approaches, methodologies and skills they require to perform their tasks effectively in the classroom, school, and wider community.https://en.wikipedia.org › wiki › Teacher_educationTeacher education – Wikipedia, medicine, law, business, and the military.

Is Russia a good place to study physics?

Russian universities are well-known for their excellent studies in areas like Physics, Engineering, Medicine, and Psychology.

Which course is best after MSc physics?

• Nuclear Power Plants.
• Aerospace Sector.
• Nuclear Energy Research Centres.
• Medical Research Labs.
• Nuclear Physics Labs.

How can I do PhD after BSC physics?

You can’t seek admission to Ph. D after B.Sc degree. Master’s degree in any of the subjects is necessary to apply for doctorate. Admission to the course is made on the basis of entrance exam conducted by the concerned University.

Privacy Overview

Major in Physics (until 2023-2024)

Formally, the Physics  major  requires 15 courses:

• MATH 110+115 & MATH 120+125 & MATH 212 (3 semesters of introductory Mathematics)
• PHYS 111 & PHYS 112 & PHYS 201 (3 semesters of introductory Physics)
• PHYS 202 & PHYS 220 or PHYS 230 (2 semesters of skill courses)
• PHYS 301 & PHYS 302 & PHYS 304 (3 semesters of advanced Physics)
• PHYS 3XX (1 semester of advanced Physics elective)

Information can also be found on the official course catalogue website for  Physics major and  Physics minor .

The two-semester Calculus Physics sequence PHYS-111 & PHYS-112 is necessary to major in Physics. It is best taken the first year, although one can still complete the major if the sequence is taken in the second year.

The two half-semester Calculus Mathematics courses MATH 110+120 must be taken at least concurrently with the Calculus Physics courses PHYS 111+112.

Those students considering graduate study in Physics should also take PHYS-350 (Quantum Mechanics), MATH-211 (Linear Algebra), and the two-semester, introductory Chemistry sequence CHEM-111 & CHEM-112, and as many advanced Physics courses as can be scheduled. Good choices for other Mathematics classes are MATH-221 (Differential Equations) and MATH-327 (Numerical Analysis).

Those students considering  astronomy or astrophysics  as a career should major in Physics and take PHYS-104 (Astronomy of the Solar System), PHYS-105 (Astronomy of Stars and Galaxy), and PHYS-320 (Astrophysics).

PHYS-103, PHYS-104, PHYS-105, PHYS-106, PHYS-107, and PHYS-108 do not count toward a Physics major (except by special permission of the department).

The laboratory and classroom components are closely integrated in Physics courses with a laboratory and must therefore be taken concurrently. The course grade and the laboratory grade will be identical and are based on performance in both components; the relative weight of the two components will be stated in each course syllabus.

Physics majors cannot use the pass/fail (S/NC) grading option for the required courses, and the department recommends that they not use it for any course in Physics, Mathematics, or Chemistry.

Only grades of C – or better are accepted for the major or minor.

Physics majors planning to get a  minor in mathematics  need to take an additional math course beyond the six otherwise required for the math minor. College-wide policy requires that at least four courses for the minor do not count toward any other major or minor . Because the half-semester courses MATH 110 + 115 + 120 + 125, and MATH 212 are required for the physics major, students need to take four additional math courses in order to minor in math.

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Graduate Profile: Ryan Conston, MDiv '24

How I've Changed  

My MDiv experience has honestly felt like earning several specialized degrees, particularly in ethical leadership, theology, ministry, and many more. In three years, I've gained amazing skills, experiences, and connections that will allow me to be the professional and person I see in me. I feel confident in my ability to inspire individuals and systems to make meaningful change through the art and practice of ministry. 

Memorable Moment 

Too many M&Ms to choose one flavor. One of my early moments that stands out was hosting the BRSCC conference on complementary healing modalities. Bringing together leaders in health research, complementary medicine, and epidemiology reminded me of the transformation that’s possible in the healthcare system when we keep the needs of those we serve close at heart. 

Favorite Class or Professor 

I'll just list some highlights. In my first year, IMS stands out. Classes like “Twins & Twinship” and “Book of Baldwin” made my ‘MTS year’ memorable. And in the third year, my MDiv seminar, “Administration & Leadership”, “Intro to Public Preaching,” and “Spirituality & Healing” rounded out my skillset for my future plans in business, ministry, and healthcare. 

Message of Thanks  

(1) God/Jesus for the guidance (2) Family and Siblings for their love (3) Faculty and Classmates for their attention and support (4) Kelsey & Life Together for the fun and laughter.  Special thanks to (1) Professor Giles for believing in me (2) Professor Gaston for challenging me (3) The White-Hammond family (individually & collectively) for their inspiration 

What I Hope to Be Remembered By 

Remember me for my kindness and compassion, for operating creatively, embracing warmly, and yearning for a better world. 

Future Plans 

I'm excited to be stepping into my calling in medicine, a ministry focused on health and healing. Starting this summer! 

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