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The Department of Physics equips graduate students to advance the discipline through research, teaching, or applied physics careers. Our program offers an innovative, cross-disciplinary framework for research and education.
For students entering with a bachelor's degree, the graduate curriculum spans roughly two years. Core courses are completed in the first year, while breadth requirements can be fulfilled anytime after, with most coursework typically finished by the second year.
In your initial year, you'll investigate potential research areas by engaging with faculty, attending research group meetings, and participating in seminars. By your first summer, you'll select a research advisor and join a research team.
A qualifying examination, evaluating preparedness for specialized research, must be completed by fall term of the fourth year. Multiple faculty committees provide guidance and monitor academic progress throughout the program. The PhD journey concludes with a written dissertation and oral thesis defense.