Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy
The PhD program in physics, described in more detail in the referenced documents, aims to assure that graduates are well versed in the fundamentals of their fields, have a broad knowledge of contemporary developments, and are experts in the techniques and current state of the subject area of their research.
Students pursuing the PhD in Physics on the standard Physics track are required to complete core courses in statistical physics, electrodynamics, and quantum mechanics (PHYS 2541, PHYS 2555, PHYS 2565) within the first two years of their program. Students on the standard Physics track must also take at least one of Dynamical Systems (PHYS 2513) or Quantum Mechanics II (PHYS 2566) within the first two years of graduate study, though for most students we recommend both courses. Students that are already familiar with the material of one or several core courses may directly take the course exam(s) at the start of the term. Students entering with a Masters degree from another institution are encouraged to review Section 4.B of the Graduate Student Handbook, as they may be eligible to take an oral exam to earn exemption from the aforementioned required courses.
Students on the Astrophysics track must take four of the following seven courses within the first two years of residency in the program: Dynamical Systems (PHYS 2513), Computational Methods (PHYS 3724), Introduction to Astronomy (ASTRON 3101), Stellar Structure (ASTRON 3550), Galactic and Extragalactic Astronomy (ASTRON 3580), Data Science (ASTRON 3705), and Cosmology (ASTRON 3785).
At least four classes numbered above 3000 are also required for the degree. Teaching practice, presentation and attendance of seminars, and writing and an oral presentation of a dissertation give candidates broad experience in the effective communication of their work.
A minimum of 72 graduate credits are required for the PhD degree.
The PhD preliminary evaluation, which also serves as the comprehensive examination for the MS, is based on performance in the core graduate and/or advanced undergraduate courses. All students are required to pass the preliminary examination by the end of the first year.
PhD students are also required to complete the PhD comprehensive examination, which is similarly based on performance in the core graduate courses. This examination should be passed within the first two years of residency. Students who were exempted from a particular core course are deemed to have met the comprehensive examination requirement for that course.
The PhD dissertation research, which is the largest component of the PhD program, must contribute significantly to the advancement of knowledge in physics and/or astronomy. Students will be required to meet annually with their thesis committee and successfully defend their dissertation before this committee and the University community.
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