Physics PhD Degree
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Update (9/21/23): GRE score submission is optional for the master's and Physics PhD programs
Learn how to apply here
COURSE REQUIREMENTS
PhD students in Physics must pass the following core courses or demonstrate that they have passed equivalent courses elsewhere:
- One quarter of classical mechanics (Physics 411-0)
- Three quarters of quantum mechanics (Physics 412-1,2,3)
- Two quarters of classical electrodynamics (Physics 414-1,2)
- One quarter of statistical mechanics (Physics 416-0)
Can the core courses be waived?
Students who wish to have core courses waived must supply the Director of Graduate Studies with material from the relevant graduate coursework at a previous institution.
How many electives do students take?
Students must complete six elective courses in physics or astronomy. At least 4 of the 6 electives must be completed by the end of the Spring term of the student's second year. Descriptions of our graduate courses are available here.
PHD QUALIFYING
Students must maintain a B (3.0) average in the core courses (see above for details) to qualify for candidacy.
An oral exam will be administered by the Graduate Curriculum Committee for any student who does not maintain a B (3.0) average in the core courses.
RESEARCH AND THE THESIS
When do students start doing research?
We encourage students to become engaged in research as early as possible in their studies. Incoming students on University Fellowship support are especially encouraged to begin part-time research in their first year. To acquaint themselves with the research opportunities in the department, most new students work with one of the faculty during the summer of their first year of graduate study. (However, there is no requirement to do so.)
When do students choose an advisor?
Students may choose a thesis advisor and/or topic at any point in their first two years.
When is the Candidacy Exam (Prospectus)?
A proposed thesis topic must be defended before a faculty committee no later than by the end of the student's fourth (4th) year at Northwestern.
How long does it take students to complete the degree?
The thesis must be defended by no later than the end of the student's ninth (9th) year at Northwestern.
The median number of years to completion is six (6) years.
Can students receive their Master's degree along the way?
Yes, students may apply to receive a Master's degree en route to their PhD degree. This may be helpful on applications for outside funding.
PROGRAM HANDBOOK
For more information on the program and what to expect, please see the Program Handbook.
FURTHER QUESTIONS?
Contact the Graduate Program Assistant.
