Ph.D. in Physics
Curriculum
Requirements
A total of 72 course credits including 33 credits of required core physics courses in an approved individualized program of study. 42 credits must be earned at URI with full-time residence for at least two semesters
Core Courses (Required for all students)
PHY510: Mathematical Methods of Physics I
PHY520: Classical Dynamics
PHY525: Statistical Physics I
PHY530: Electromagnetism I
PHY570: Quantum Mechanics I
PHY580: Condensed Matter Physics I
Physics track
In addition to the core courses, students in the Physics track will be required to take: PHY610: Mathematical Methods of Physics II
PHY630: Electromagnetism II
PHY670: Quantum Mechanics II
PHY680: Condensed Matter Physics II
PHY625: Statistical Physics II or PHY 626: Statistical Physics III
Applied Physics track
In addition to the core courses, students in the Applied Physics track will be required to take:
PHY540: Modern Biological Physics
PHY560: Experimental Methods
PHY625: Statistical Physics II or PHY 626: Statistical Physics III
PHY630: Electromagnetism II or PHY670: Quantum Mechanics II
PHY610: Mathematical Methods of Physics II or PHY680: Condensed Matter Physics II
Other Requirements
- Qualifying examination
- Comprehensive examination
- Doctoral dissertation
- Oral defense of dissertation
- Minimum grade of C for any course credit
- Minimum grade average of B
- These requirements must be completed within 7 years of entrance into the program
M.S. degree is not a prerequisite. The dissertation may be written in absentia.
A well-prepared student entering with a B.S. degree in Physics should be able to complete the Ph. D. degree program in five years or less.