Graduate Physics Doctoral Program

Physics Department Graduate Catalog (.pdf)

School of Science and Engineering Graduate Catalog (.pdf)

Physics Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Program

The master's degree is not a requirement for the Ph.D. in physics. At least 48 credits of graduate courses, exclusive or research credit, must be successfully completed. All students are required to take Physics 601, 602, 706, 710, 717, 718, 723, 724 and six credits of an advanced specialty such as nuclear physics or solid state physics.

The departmental language requirement should be satisfied by a demonstrated proficiency in computer programming.

The preliminary examination consists of two elements, a core examination and a specialty examination. The core examination is composed of two written examinations, one covering classical physics and the other quantum mechanics and modern physics. The specialty examination is an oral examination over material in or related to the student's area of specialization. Students who have not passed the preliminary examination are required to attend the weekly department seminar.

The final requirement for the Ph.D. degree in physics is an acceptable dissertation based on significant research and its defense in an oral examination.