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Ph.D.
The Physics Ph.D. degree marks the transition from student of physics to independent physicist. The cadre of physics graduate
students represents the heart and soul of the research enterprise in any physics department. Our graduate program has over 100
Ph.D. students working with our 35 faculty members and numerous affiliated faculty members.
Our Ph.D. program reflects the modern and interdisciplinary face of physics. We aim to provide a flexible program customized to
the individual needs and goals of our students. New students participate in research groups right from the start, and take a newly
constructed core curriculum emphasizing the advanced understanding of the fundamental aspects of physics. We have replaced
the traditional written comprehensive (or qualifying) exam, with a written and oral comprehensive exam based on research
projects undertaken during the first year and first summer of the program.
We expect students to complete their Ph.D. studies in five years. A typical trajectory is as follows:
| Year 1: |
Student takes core courses in classical and
continuum mechanics, electrodynamics, statistical physics, and quantum mechanics.
Participation in two research
rotations in groups chosen by the student. |
| Year 2: |
Oral and written comprehensive exam based on
research rotations. Semi-elective and elective courses, chosen by the student to further knowledge in chosen research
area.
Student chooses research advisor. |
| Year 3: |
Full-time research.
Student presents
dissertation prospectus to thesis committee.
Student advances to candidacy. |
| Year 4: |
Full-time research. |
| Year 5: |
Full-time research.
Writing of
dissertation.
Student defends thesis and completes degree. |
It is normally expected that the student has written one or more refereed publications by the completion of their
studies.
Naturally, there are many possible paths to the completed degree, and it is not uncommon for students to switch research areas
early in the program, which typically adds an extra year to the duration of the degree.
M.S.
We also offer the Master of Science degree. This is typically a two year degree, with students taking courses for the first three
semesters, and completing a research project in their final semester. The student defends a master’s thesis at the end of
the two years. The structure of the M.S. degree is designed to be flexible enough to allow for a wide range of programs of
study.
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