At a glance
72 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- Focus on 5 core research areas: Astrophysical Sciences, Biophysics, Condensed Matter/Atomic, Molecular & Optical Physics, Particle Physics, and Geophysics.Research Areas
- Experimental work opportunities at international facilities like CERN, SNOLAB, ICECUBE, and TRIUMF.Research Facilities
- Minimum residence requirement of two academic years.Residency
- Thesis-based program with coursework and rigorous examinations.Program Structure
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Physics program is designed for graduates with a strong foundation in physics, engineering physics, or geophysics. This research-intensive program allows you to delve deep into specialized areas under the guidance of faculty experts. The program emphasizes theoretical, computational, and experimental components, preparing you for advanced research and academic careers. You will conduct original research, culminating in a thesis that contributes to the field of physics.
Curriculum
The PhD program requires a minimum of 6 units of coursework and completion of a thesis. Students entering with a BSc must complete MSc course requirements (12 units) in addition to PhD requirements. Course selection is made in consultation with your supervisor and committee.
- Year 1
- Advanced Quantum Mechanics IPHYS 511
- Classical ElectrodynamicsPHYS 524
- Statistical MechanicsPHYS 530
- Data Analysis in PhysicsPHYS 574
- Computational PhysicsPHYS 580
- Ethics and Academic CitizenshipINT D 710
- Year 2 onwards
- ThesisTHES 900
- Ethics and Academic CitizenshipINT D 720
Careers
A PhD in Physics prepares graduates for a variety of careers in academia, research institutions, and industry. The advanced analytical and problem-solving skills developed are highly valued in diverse fields.
- University Professor
- Research Scientist
- Postdoctoral Fellow
- Data Scientist
- Physicist in industry
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for the PhD in Physics program?
- Applicants need an undergraduate degree in Physics, Engineering Physics, Geophysics, or an equivalent field. A minimum admission GPA of 3.0 on the 4-point scale, calculated on the last 60 units of graded coursework, is required.
- How long does the PhD in Physics program take to complete?
- The program has a minimum residence requirement of two academic years. It is a thesis-based program that also includes coursework and rigorous examinations.
- What is the tuition fee for international students for the PhD in Physics program?
- Tuition fees for international students are available on the University of Alberta Tuition and Fees page. Graduate assistantships are available, and applicants are automatically considered for them upon acceptance.
- Are there any scholarships or financial aid opportunities available?
- Yes, graduate student scholarships, awards, and financial support totaling over $35 million are administered annually by the Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies. Applicants are also automatically considered for graduate assistantships upon acceptance.
- What documents are required to apply for the PhD in Physics program?
- To apply, you need an up-to-date CV, a Statement of Purpose, and three letters of recommendation. A Request for Financial Support should also be submitted if applicable.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeIn Physics, Engineering Physics, Geophysics, or equivalent.
GPAMinimum admission GPA of 3.0 on the 4-point scale (calculated on the last 60 units of graded coursework).
English Language RequirementPlease refer to GPS English Language Requirement
Applicants entering with a BSc must complete MSc coursework requirements in addition to PhD requirements. Students are expected to find a supervisor. Contact the Associate Chair for Graduate Studies for more information.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the University of Alberta Tuition and Fees page for current rates.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the University of Alberta Tuition and Fees page for current rates.
LivingPlease refer to the University of Alberta Tuition and Fees page for estimated living costs.
Graduate assistantships are available and applicants are automatically considered upon acceptance.
How to apply
1. Prepare Application DocumentsGather your CV, a Statement of Purpose, and arrange for three letters of recommendation.
2. Submit Request for Financial SupportIf required, submit a Request for Financial Support.
3. Apply OnlineComplete the online application through the University of Alberta's Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies portal.
4. Await Admission DecisionThe department will review your application. You will be notified of the admission decision.
Scholarships
Graduate student scholarships, awards, and financial supportOver $35 million administered annually by the Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies.
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for the PhD in Physics program?
+
Applicants need an undergraduate degree in Physics, Engineering Physics, Geophysics, or an equivalent field. A minimum admission GPA of 3.0 on the 4-point scale, calculated on the last 60 units of graded coursework, is required.
How long does the PhD in Physics program take to complete?
+
The program has a minimum residence requirement of two academic years. It is a thesis-based program that also includes coursework and rigorous examinations.
What is the tuition fee for international students for the PhD in Physics program?
+
Tuition fees for international students are available on the University of Alberta Tuition and Fees page. Graduate assistantships are available, and applicants are automatically considered for them upon acceptance.
Are there any scholarships or financial aid opportunities available?
+
Yes, graduate student scholarships, awards, and financial support totaling over $35 million are administered annually by the Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies. Applicants are also automatically considered for graduate assistantships upon acceptance.
What documents are required to apply for the PhD in Physics program?
+
To apply, you need an up-to-date CV, a Statement of Purpose, and three letters of recommendation. A Request for Financial Support should also be submitted if applicable.