The program of graduate studies in physics emphasizes research work, but also includes teaching experience as an essential element. Research and thesis opportunities are at present available in the fields of astrophysics and cosmology, atmospheric, ocean and non-linear optics, biological physics and complexity, condensed matter physics, elementary particle theory, and quantum sensing. In addition to the general requirements for graduate degrees, the Physics Department makes the following specific requirements.
A. A minimum of 24 physics course credits at the –600-700 level are required for the PhD.
B. The following specific courses, or their equivalent, are required for the PhD degree: PHY 621, 640, 650, 651, 660, 661, 723, 752, and 770. Also required: four additional physics lecture courses at the 600 or 700 level.
C. Courses taken outside the department should be relevant to the student’s program and approved by the graduate advisor.
D. For the M.S. degree no more than three credits for reading courses may be counted, and no more than two credits of seminars. Up to six credits may be earned in thesis work for this degree.
E. The physics department offers a two-part comprehensive examination for doctoral students. The first part involves satisfactory completion of the six 600-level core courses. The second part involves an oral presentation and written paper. Completion of both parts is required before a student can be considered for candidacy for the doctoral degree.
F. Students are required to participate in research at the earliest opportunity. Specifically, upon completing the core courses and before the start of their 4th semester, the student is required to select a faculty member who consents to serve as their Ph.D. thesis advisor. Student and thesis advisor are to assemble a three faculty-member supervisory committee to review an oral presentation and expository paper of the student’s initial research activities and future plans, before the end of the 4th semester. Should a student need to select a new thesis advisor, this selection must be made without delay, and the review process must be repeated.
G. Renewal of financial support from the department is contingent, each semester, upon satisfactory performance of teaching, research activities and other service duties, active participation in Department’s events, and upon timely progress towards completion of all requirements for the Ph.D. degree.
