UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS AMHERST · UNITED STATES
Ph.D. in Physics
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
72 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 6 core graduate courses requiredCore Curriculum
- 3 research area courses requiredResearch Focus
- Minimum two consecutive semesters in residenceResidency Requirement
- Teaching Assistantship requiredTeaching Experience
- Dissertation prospectus and defenseCulminating Research
- 18+ dissertation credits neededCredit Requirement
The Ph.D. program in Physics at UMass Amherst is designed to provide advanced training and research experience for students aiming for careers in academia or industry. The program requires a strong foundation in core physics concepts, demonstrated through coursework and qualifying exams. Students will engage in in-depth research, culminating in a dissertation that contributes original work to the field. The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical research skills, preparing graduates for impactful roles in scientific innovation.
Curriculum
The Ph.D. curriculum includes foundational graduate courses, specialized research area courses, and dissertation research. Core courses are typically taken in the first two years, with opportunities to waive courses based on prior academic work. Students must also complete three research area courses, with at least one outside their primary research specialization.
- Year 1, Semester 1
- Methods of Mathematical PhysicsP605
- Classical MechanicsP601
- Year 1, Semester 2
- Classical ElectrodynamicsP606
- Quantum Mechanics IP614
- Year 2, Semester 1
- Statistical MechanicsP602
- Quantum Mechanics IIP615
- Year 2, Semester 2 onwards
- Research Area Course 1
- Research Area Course 2
- Research Area Course 3
Careers
A Ph.D. in Physics from UMass Amherst prepares graduates for diverse career paths in research, academia, and various scientific and technological industries. Alumni are equipped with advanced analytical, problem-solving, and research skills.
- University Professor
- Postdoctoral Researcher
- Research Scientist
- Data Scientist
- Physicist in Industry
- National Lab Researcher
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic qualifications needed to apply for the Ph.D. in Physics program?
- A Bachelor's degree in Physics is required for entry into the Ph.D. program. Students are expected to complete all Ph.D. requirements within six years.
- What English language proficiency tests are accepted and what are the minimum scores?
- The program accepts IELTS (6.5 overall, 6.0 in each sub-score), TOEFL iBT (80 overall, 20 in each sub-score, MyBest Scores not accepted), or Duolingo English Test (115 minimum). Official scores must be sent directly from the testing agency.
- How can I fund my Ph.D. studies at UMass Amherst?
- Funding is provided through Assistantships, which can be Teaching Assistantships (TA) or Research Assistantships. All degree candidates are required to undertake a Teaching Assistantship as part of their degree program.
- What is the duration of the Ph.D. program in Physics?
- Students are expected to complete all Ph.D. requirements within six years.
- What are the typical career paths for graduates of the Ph.D. in Physics program?
- Graduates are prepared for careers as University Professors, Postdoctoral Researchers, Research Scientists, Data Scientists, Physicists in Industry, and National Lab Researchers.
- How do I apply for the Ph.D. in Physics program?
- To apply, complete the online graduate application, submit official academic transcripts, English proficiency test scores, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation, and pay the application fee.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's degree in PhysicsRequired for entry. Students are expected to complete all Ph.D. requirements within six years.
IELTS6.5 or higher overall, with no sub-score lower than 6.0
TOEFL iBT80 or better overall, with no sub-score lower than 20. MyBest Scores are not accepted.
Duolingo English Test115 minimum
English Education
English proficiency score reports must be less than two years old. Official scores must be sent directly from the testing agency. Waiver possible with completion of two non-ESL English composition courses and several humanities/social science courses with B grades or better at a U.S. college or university.
Fees
Tuition (international)Not specified
Tuition (home)Not specified
LivingNot specified
Tuition and fee information can be found on the University+ Tuition and Fees page. Financial aid and scholarship information is also available.
How to apply
1. Complete the Online ApplicationSubmit the graduate application form through the UMass Amherst Graduate Admissions portal.
2. Provide Academic TranscriptsSubmit official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended.
3. Submit English Proficiency Test ScoresEnsure official IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo scores are sent directly from the testing agency. Scores must meet the minimum requirements.
4. Upload Statement of PurposeWrite a clear and concise statement outlining your research interests, academic background, and career goals.
5. Request Letters of RecommendationSecure strong letters of recommendation from professors or individuals familiar with your academic and research capabilities.
6. Pay Application FeeSubmit the required application fee.
Scholarships
AssistantshipsFunding provided
Accreditation
Not specified
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic qualifications needed to apply for the Ph.D. in Physics program?
+
A Bachelor's degree in Physics is required for entry into the Ph.D. program. Students are expected to complete all Ph.D. requirements within six years.
What English language proficiency tests are accepted and what are the minimum scores?
+
The program accepts IELTS (6.5 overall, 6.0 in each sub-score), TOEFL iBT (80 overall, 20 in each sub-score, MyBest Scores not accepted), or Duolingo English Test (115 minimum). Official scores must be sent directly from the testing agency.
How can I fund my Ph.D. studies at UMass Amherst?
+
Funding is provided through Assistantships, which can be Teaching Assistantships (TA) or Research Assistantships. All degree candidates are required to undertake a Teaching Assistantship as part of their degree program.
What is the duration of the Ph.D. program in Physics?
+
Students are expected to complete all Ph.D. requirements within six years.
What are the typical career paths for graduates of the Ph.D. in Physics program?
+
Graduates are prepared for careers as University Professors, Postdoctoral Researchers, Research Scientists, Data Scientists, Physicists in Industry, and National Lab Researchers.
How do I apply for the Ph.D. in Physics program?
+
To apply, complete the online graduate application, submit official academic transcripts, English proficiency test scores, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation, and pay the application fee.