UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, DAVIS · UNITED STATES
Physics, Ph.D. and M.A.
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
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Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 40+Faculty members
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)Degree offered
- Master of Arts (M.A.)Degree offered
- Extensive research opportunitiesResearch focus
- Financial support available for Ph.D. studentsFunding
- Diverse research areasSpecializations
The Physics program at UC Davis offers both a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) and a Master of Arts (M.A.) degree. With over 40 faculty members actively engaged in a broad spectrum of experimental and theoretical research, the department provides a vibrant and diverse environment for graduate study. Key research strengths include condensed matter physics, cosmology, and high energy/elementary particle physics, complemented by smaller groups focusing on biophysics, complexity, gravitation, nuclear physics, and physics education. Students often utilize national and international facilities for their doctoral research. The vast majority of Ph.D. students receive financial support through teaching or research assistantships, or external fellowships. Graduates typically pursue careers in industry, academia, or national laboratories.
Careers
Most graduates continue their careers in physics-related fields.
- Industry positions
- Academia
- National laboratories
Frequently asked questions
- What degrees are offered in Physics at UC Davis?
- UC Davis offers both a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) and a Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in Physics. The department has over 40 faculty members engaged in diverse experimental and theoretical research.
- What are the key research areas in the Physics program?
- Key research strengths include condensed matter physics, cosmology, and high energy/elementary particle physics. There are also smaller groups focusing on biophysics, complexity, gravitation, nuclear physics, and physics education.
- What financial support is available for Ph.D. students?
- The vast majority of Ph.D. students receive financial support. This is typically provided through teaching or research assistantships, or external fellowships.
- What are the typical career paths for graduates of the Physics program?
- Graduates typically pursue careers in industry positions, academia, or national laboratories. Most continue their careers in physics-related fields.
- When is the application deadline for the Physics program?
- The application portal opens in September each year, and the application deadline is December 1st for Fall Quarter admission.
- How can international students increase their chances of admission to the Ph.D. program?
- International applicants are strongly encouraged to secure fellowship support from their home countries. Admission is highly competitive for those without external funding.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeA B.S. or B.A. in a biological science is required for the Microbiology program. Coursework in biology, chemistry, and mathematics is necessary. Upper division courses in biochemistry, cell biology, microbiology, microbial physiology, genetics, or immunology are recommended.
GPAMinimum 3.0 GPA required by the University of California.
Research ExperienceDemonstrated aptitude and enthusiasm for research, including participation in an independent research project or post-baccalaureate research experience.
IELTSNot specified
TOEFLNot specified
The Microbiology Graduate Program (MGG) strongly emphasizes its Ph.D. program. Master's (M.S.) students are generally not admitted unless they have government-sponsored fellowships, their own funding, or a faculty mentor's commitment of financial support. International students are strongly advised to seek fellowship support from their home countries, as only exceptional international students without financial support may be considered competitive.
Fees
Tuition (international)Not specified for Physics program. Business Analytics MSBA program has estimated course fees of $65,560 for 44 units.
Tuition (home)Not specified for Physics program.
LivingNot specified.
The MSBA program has an estimated total course fee of $65,560 for 44 units for students entering in Summer 2025. Course fees are set at enrollment and remain fixed. Students take 6 units in summer, 12 units in fall, winter, and spring, and 2 units in the second summer quarter.
How to apply
1. Visit Graduate Studies Application PortalThe application portal opens in September each year. Access it via the Graduate Studies page: [Apply for Graduate Admission to UC Davis](https://grad.ucdavis.edu/apply).
2. Contact Potential Faculty MentorProspective Ph.D. students are encouraged to contact faculty members whose research aligns with their interests to inquire about lab availability and discuss potential mentorship.
3. Complete and Submit ApplicationEnsure all required sections of the electronic application are completed accurately.
4. Submit Supporting DocumentsUpload all necessary documents as specified in the application instructions.
Frequently asked questions
What degrees are offered in Physics at UC Davis?
+
UC Davis offers both a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) and a Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in Physics. The department has over 40 faculty members engaged in diverse experimental and theoretical research.
What are the key research areas in the Physics program?
+
Key research strengths include condensed matter physics, cosmology, and high energy/elementary particle physics. There are also smaller groups focusing on biophysics, complexity, gravitation, nuclear physics, and physics education.
What financial support is available for Ph.D. students?
+
The vast majority of Ph.D. students receive financial support. This is typically provided through teaching or research assistantships, or external fellowships.
What are the typical career paths for graduates of the Physics program?
+
Graduates typically pursue careers in industry positions, academia, or national laboratories. Most continue their careers in physics-related fields.
When is the application deadline for the Physics program?
+
The application portal opens in September each year, and the application deadline is December 1st for Fall Quarter admission.
How can international students increase their chances of admission to the Ph.D. program?
+
International applicants are strongly encouraged to secure fellowship support from their home countries. Admission is highly competitive for those without external funding.