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Our Physics Graduate Programs equip students for diverse career paths in research, academia, or industry. The curriculum begins with building a robust foundation in core theoretical concepts including quantum mechanics, statistical physics, electrodynamics, and classical mechanics.
The department excels in cross-disciplinary research, featuring collaborative faculty spanning materials science, chemistry, and electrical engineering. Cutting-edge theoretical investigations leverage our on-campus parallel supercomputers and resources at the National Center for Supercomputing Applications in Champaign, Illinois. We maintain active partnerships with leading institutions including Argonne National Laboratory, Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, and observational facilities nationwide.
Physics encompasses an extraordinary breadth, from exploring cosmic origins to advancing electronic memory technology.
We welcome emerging scholars globally to establish fundamental physics knowledge while pursuing specialized interests at Northwestern. The master's program caters to talented individuals seeking physics expertise without committing to lengthy doctoral studies. Designed for completion within four quarters, the program progresses from core coursework in classical mechanics, electrodynamics, quantum mechanics, and statistical physics to specialized electives across Northwestern's academic departments.
Admitted students must hold a U.S. bachelor’s degree or a comparable non-U.S. degree from a regionally accredited institution.
General GRE is required and the Physics GRE is highly recommended.
TOEFL or IELTS test scores are required of most international applicants.