Doctor of Philosophy Degree Program

Students pursuing a Ph.D. in Physics must meet the following requirements, in addition to those prescribed by the Graduate School. In their first few semesters, students must pass the graduate introductory program of studies consisting of 6 core courses. The typical sequence in the first year is to focus on core courses that cover basic physics at the advanced level: 601, 605, 614. In the second year, the student selects 615 and 602 during the first semester. Occasionally, this sequence can be adjusted on a case by case basis depending on previous preparation. (Note : A passing grade is considered to be B- or better.) Students are required to take threee research courses at the 700 and 800 level; one in the student's area of research, a second in a related area of research, and a third must be in a totally distinct subfield. Students making normal progress are expected to advance to candidacy (qualify), by the end of their fifth semester. Advancement to Candidacy consists of achieving core course grades above a minimal level, or passing the corresponding qualifying exam, and then passing an oral exam that consists of a research style presentation. After completing coursework (typically after two years), students should expect to devote their major efforts to research, taking the occasional course either of interest to them or of direct relevance to the research program. The department requires no foreign-language reading competency for the doctorate. A student must register for 18 credits in Physics under 899 Doctoral Dissertation.