PhD in Physics in Cambridge United States | Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Prospective PhD or Doctor of Science candidates should register for foundational graduate courses that equip them for the general examination, which must be completed by their seventh term following initial enrollment. Doctoral students must complete two courses within their research specialization (specialty requirement) and two courses outside their primary field (breadth requirement). First-year PhD candidates are also required to participate in two semesters of 8.398, a seminar designed exclusively for new students. Up to half of the breadth requirement can be fulfilled through an industry internship approved by the department. The doctoral dissertation must demonstrate significant original research conducted under the guidance of a faculty advisor.

The Physics Department faculty teach courses and conduct research across diverse areas of experimental and theoretical physics. This wide-ranging work is structured into departmental divisions outlined below. Graduate students are advised to reach out to faculty in their preferred division to explore research opportunities, beginning with Pre-Thesis Research as an introductory phase before undertaking independent doctoral research.