The department offers a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Physics. There is considerable flexibility in the selection of courses, including those from related disciplines, which permits highly individualized programs of study. Thesis research can be carried out in any area in which a student and a faculty member find a common interest, though the bulk of present research efforts at the doctoral level is centered in the broad area of condensed matter physics.

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: PHY510, PHY520, PHY525, PHY530, PHY570, PHY580 are required for all students
• Physics track: in addition to the core courses, students in the Physics track will be required to take: PHY610, PHY630, PHY670, PHY680, and either one of (PHY625, PHY 626).
• Applied Physics track: in addition to the core courses, students in the Applied Physics track will be required to take: PHY540, PHY560, one of (PHY625, PHY 626), one of (PHY630, PHY670), and one of (PHY610, PHY680).
• Qualifying examination
• Comprehensive examination
• Doctoral dissertation
• Oral defense of the 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.

For more information, please contact one of the Graduate Program Directors:
Dr. Leonard Kahn