Main navigation
- Programs
- Subjects
- Universities
- Destinations
- Advice
The Applied Physics program merges fundamental physics education with specialized research across diverse scientific and engineering fields. Students can explore various research domains such as nanoscience, advanced materials, condensed matter physics, renewable energy, quantum computing, biophysics, astrophysics, and plasma physics. The Ph.D. program in Applied Physics offers a customizable, research-focused doctoral path aligned with each student's academic goals. This program blends core physics coursework with specialized research, typically in one of the mentioned disciplines. Participants frequently collaborate across fields, applying their physics expertise in interdisciplinary projects. Rather than a qualifying examination, students complete coursework in essential physics topics like quantum mechanics, electrodynamics, statistical mechanics, and advanced experimental methods.
The Applied Physics Ph.D. is a flexible, research-driven degree program designed around individual academic interests. It integrates foundational physics studies with specialized research, focusing either on physics applications in technical fields or interdisciplinary scientific interfaces. The program welcomes applicants with undergraduate degrees in physics, related physical sciences (such as chemistry), or engineering disciplines.
Cornell University maintains global leadership in planetary astronomy, infrared astronomy, theoretical astrophysics, and radio astronomy research. Plasma physics examines electrically conductive fluids and high-temperature ionized gases. While fusion energy research remains prominent, this field also explains solar phenomena, astrophysical processes, atmospheric effects, and various industrial plasma applications.