PhD in Applied Physics - Astrophysics and Plasma Physics in Ithaca United States | Cornell University

Cornell University | Ithaca United States
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Qualification
Doctor of Philosophy
Languages
English
Delivery Mode
On-Campus
Tuition (2025)
USD 24,800
Attendance
Full-time
Full-time Duration
48 months

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.


Destination of Study

Subjects of Study

Language Requirements

English
IELTS 7.0

Qualification Requirements

Applicants should have undergraduate preparation in physics or another physical science or in an engineering field with a strong emphasis on mathematics and modern physics. The GRE general and subject exams are not used in our evaluation process and should not be submitted.
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Well-qualified individuals with master's degrees in these areas are also invited to apply. Competition for admission to Cornell's Applied Physics program is strong, and class size is limited by the number of students for which research support is expected to be available in subsequent years. Students are admitted on the basis of academic merit and ability to pursue an advanced degree program as demonstrated by scholastic record, letters of recommendation, GRE scores, and a statement of purpose. Students admitted to the program normally begin in the fall term.
Admission to the Ph.D. program is generally granted only on a full-time basis for pursuit of a doctoral degree. Students seeking a Master's level degree may wish to consider the one-year Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) Degree Program in Engineering Physics, or the two-year Master of Science (M.S.) Degree Program, both of which are offered by the School of Applied and Engineering Physics.
TOEFL iBT - 77 (Writing 20, Listening 15, Reading 20, Speaking 22)
IELTS - 7.0 or higher

Tuition USD 24,800
Ithaca, NY, United States
Type
Private
Degrees offered
Bachelor's Degree

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