PhD in Physics in Mississippi State United States | Mississippi State University

PhD candidates are highly recommended to simultaneously pursue the MS program, earning a non-thesis Master's in Physics during their studies. The Graduate Committee consists of at least four Physics faculty members, chaired by the student's primary advisor. For the Physics PhD program, an external faculty member from the College of Arts and Sciences must participate, while the Engineering PhD program requires a faculty representative from the Bagley College of Engineering.
Doctoral students must take the Comprehensive Research-based Examination (CRE) within three years of entering Mississippi State University's Physics PhD program. This oral exam, supported by a brief 4-10 page written document, assesses the student's research potential for completing their PhD. Successful candidates meeting GPA requirements qualify for the non-thesis MS degree and PhD continuation. Those who fail the CRE twice may transition to the thesis-based MS program, pending their advisor's approval.