The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree requires a thorough understanding of the foundations of physics and mathematical methods as evidenced by performance on the Preliminary Exam and a Qualifying Exam (oral exam), as well as submission of a dissertation which must include an original contribution to fundamental physics. Ph.D. students must complete the graduate core courses in classical physics, statistical physics, quantum mechanics, and mathematical methods. The normal required courses are Physics 200ABC, Physics 204AB, Physics 215ABC, and Physics 219A; students going into high energy physics normally take Physics 230A instead of 215C. The required curriculum can be tailored to fit the individual student's preparation and needs. Each graduate student selects a course of study in consultation with a graduate adviser. A student with weaknesses in preparation may be advised to audit or take for credit specific advanced undergraduate courses. There is no foreign language requirement for the Ph.D. degree.

Beginning in their second or third quarter, students are encouraged to spend a portion of their time on research. Research may take the form of 1 or more units of research under the direction of a faculty member. This does not commit students to a given field of research but is often helpful in making such a choice later on. Quite often, this research has led to a thesis and has greatly accelerated its completion.

The Preliminary Exam is given every year in the fall before the start of classes. Normally students are expected to take the Preliminary Exam at the beginning of their second year. The exam covers senior undergraduate and first year graduate level physics. A syllabus outlining the material to be covered and copies of past exams are provided to first-year graduate students. Students entering with deficiencies in their undergraduate preparation may receive a one year deferment of the exam. Students whose first time performance on the exam is unsatisfactory can retake the exam the next year.

After passing the Preliminary Exam at the Ph.D. level at the beginning of their second year, students begin their research and then take the Oral Qualifying Examination, typically at the end of their second or beginning of their third year. This examination is required. It may emphasize, but is not restricted to, the candidate's broad field of specialization. After the student has passed the Ph.D. oral exam, a committee will be established to advise and pass on the acceptability of the student's thesis.

It is impossible to predict the length of time needed to complete the requirements for the Ph.D. degree as it varies from student to student. Experience has shown that for students with an adequate preparation a typical time for completion is about six years.

Ph.D Courses