Physics, Ph.D.

About the Physics Doctoral Program

The core courses for the Ph.D. in Physics degree are the same as those for the M.S. degree, plus PHYS 5302  and PHYS 6306 . Further selections of advanced courses should be made in consultation with the graduate and research advisor.

Students seeking the Ph.D. degree must pass a preliminary examination and a qualifying examination as described in the departmental Graduate Booklet and in accordance with Graduate School requirements. Examination topics are drawn from general undergraduate physics and graduate core courses. The program requires a Ph.D. dissertation based on original research.

Students are encouraged to get involved in research early by taking PHYS 7000 , which may count toward the degree. The 12 hours of PHYS 8000 , required for the Ph.D., should be taken as early as possible after passing the qualifying examination. Doctoral students must maintain a B average in the six core courses in addition to the overall B average required by the Graduate School.