Main navigation
- Programs
- Subjects
- Universities
- Destinations
- Advice
The Department of Physics at UAH is dedicated to identifying exceptional students, providing them with comprehensive training and mentorship to help them achieve excellence as scientific professionals and emerging leaders in both scientific fields and broader society. Our alumni have pursued rewarding careers across diverse sectors, including academic institutions, government agencies, and private industry.
This doctoral program represents the highest academic achievement in physics, demonstrating mastery of core principles and the capability to conduct innovative research that expands understanding within specialized domains.
Our Physics PhD program prepares scholars to conduct autonomous research in physics, astronomy, or astrophysics through experimental, theoretical, computational, or combined approaches. Investigative specializations encompass optical physics, biophysical systems, nanophotonic materials, solar phenomena, and astrophysical studies ranging from galactic to cosmic scales. These research opportunities are enhanced through collaborations with NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center and an active regional network of private-sector research organizations.
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree, or equivalent, from an approved institution.
To qualify for unconditional admission, applicants must satisfy the following minimum criteria:
1. Have a minimum grade-point average of B (3.0) on the undergraduate record, and
2. Have a minimum total score of 300 on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and a minimum score of 3.0 on the analytical writing portion. For the English, Nursing, and Public Affairs programs, applicants must have a minimum total score of 410 on the MAT.
In order to be considered for admission to degree programs with no additional English language training required, applicants must meet the following minimums on the TOEFL or IELTS.
TOEFL (iBT): all sub-scores greater than or equal to 18 OR
IELTS: all sub-scores greater than or equal to 6.0