PhD in Physics in United States
There are 14 phd Physics programmes for international students across 11 universities in United States. Tuition ranges from free to €45k. Browse the full list below, compare entry requirements, and explore scholarships to fund your studies.
Applied Physical Sciences PhD
The Applied Physical Sciences PhD program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers an interdisciplinary doctoral training experience. It bridges the gap between science and engineering, fostering an environment where students combine scientific discovery with an engineering mindset, team-based research, and entrepreneurial thinking to tackle real-world challenges. The program emphasizes a collaborative and collegial atmosphere to support students in their research and career aspirations. Faculty research interests are diverse, spanning areas such as biomolecular sensors, point-of-care diagnostics, novel tools for clinical needs, advanced optical instrumentation for biology and medicine, and force technologies applied to cancer and lung disease research.
Astronomy PhD
The Astronomy PhD program at Northwestern University offers comprehensive training in astronomy, with a strong emphasis on enabling students to commence graduate research early in their studies. The program is designed to be flexible, allowing students to supplement their astronomy coursework with subjects from physics and other quantitative fields like applied mathematics, statistics, computer science, or engineering, tailored to their specific research interests. Students benefit from the dynamic research environment fostered by the Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Exploration in Astrophysics (CIERA).
Graduate Program in Biophysics
The Graduate Program in Biophysics (BPY) at Princeton University facilitates interdisciplinary graduate education at the intersection of physical and life sciences. It is a collaborative effort involving faculty from the Lewis-Sigler Institute and numerous science and engineering departments. The program covers a wide spectrum of biophysics research, from molecular to ecosystem levels, incorporating both experimental and theoretical approaches. This PhD program aims to train future leaders in biophysics, welcoming students with backgrounds in physical sciences, life sciences, or those with specific undergraduate experience in biophysical problems. All admitted students receive financial support covering tuition, health insurance, and a stipend for the duration of their studies.
Graduate Program in Physics
Carnegie Mellon University's Physics department offers a Ph.D. program designed to train students in advanced research and prepare them for careers in academia or industry. The program focuses on developing strong theoretical and experimental skills, with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research across various subfields of physics. Students will work closely with faculty mentors, participate in seminars, and contribute to the vibrant research community. The curriculum is rigorous, emphasizing deep understanding of fundamental principles and their application to complex problems. The department is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where students can thrive and achieve their academic and professional goals.
Graduate Program in Physics
The NYU Department of Physics offers graduate programs designed to provide outstanding training for aspiring physicists, astrophysicists, and biophysicists. The department aims to support a diverse student body, recognizing that physicists have varied backgrounds, talents, and career paths. The goal is to help each student flourish and discover their individual trajectory in fields ranging from academic research to industry and public service. The admissions process seeks capable and committed students who will benefit from the program's offerings. Decisions are made based on a comprehensive review of the application, considering each component's relevance to the applicant's goals and overall profile. The program emphasizes a holistic approach to admissions, acknowledging that no single metric can fully capture an applicant's potential.
Ph.D. in Astronomy and Astrophysics
Carnegie Mellon University offers a new Ph.D. program in Astronomy and Astrophysics, launching for Fall 2025 intake. This program is designed for students passionate about cosmic discovery, data science, and interdisciplinary research. With the field of astronomy entering a golden age of data from instruments like the James Webb Space Telescope, Vera C. Rubin Observatory, and the Euclid mission, this program equips students with advanced tools and technologies to explore the universe's mysteries. It aims to prepare future leaders in data-intensive astronomy.
Ph.D. in Physics
The Ph.D. in Physics program at Carnegie Mellon University offers advanced study and research opportunities for students seeking to become leaders in the field. The program is designed to provide a strong foundation in core physics principles while allowing students to specialize in areas of interest through research. Students will engage in coursework, research projects, and seminars, culminating in a doctoral thesis. The curriculum includes required core courses in quantum mechanics, electrodynamics, and statistical mechanics, alongside breadth courses in specialized physics areas. Students are also required to complete research projects and participate in oral examinations to demonstrate their readiness for independent research. The program emphasizes rigorous academic training and practical research experience to prepare graduates for careers in academia or industry.
PhD in Physics
The PhD program in Physics and Astronomy at Stony Brook University aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of physics and astronomy, coupled with the ability to conduct original research in a specialized area. Graduates are prepared for research positions in academia and national laboratories, as well as careers in industrial research, medical physics, data science, and finance. The program emphasizes developing independent thinking, critical reasoning skills, and the ability to effectively communicate research findings to a scientific audience. Beyond the general PhD in Physics, concentrations are available in Astronomy and Physical Biology, allowing students to tailor their studies to specific interests.
Physics
The Physics program at the University of Michigan offers a comprehensive doctoral education for students passionate about the field. This program delves into the fundamental principles of physics, preparing students for advanced research and academic careers. The curriculum is designed to provide a strong theoretical foundation coupled with practical research experience.
Physics and Astronomy, PhD
The University of Pennsylvania's Department of Physics and Astronomy offers a PhD program designed to train students in advanced research. The program combines a focused period of coursework with independent, original research, which typically forms the basis of the dissertation and initial academic publications. Students benefit from a robust schedule of seminars and colloquia featuring international scholars, supplementing classroom learning and research activities.
Physics Graduate Program
Dartmouth's Physics and Astronomy department offers a PhD program focused on cutting-edge research across various fields. Students engage in advanced theoretical and experimental work, contributing to new discoveries and a deeper understanding of the universe. The program fosters a collaborative environment with opportunities to work alongside renowned faculty on challenging scientific problems.
Physics PhD
The University of California, San Diego (UCSD) offers advanced doctoral studies in Physics. This program focuses on theoretical physics, with research interests spanning condensed matter theory, nanoelectronics, physical chemistry, and biophysics. Students engage in cutting-edge research, particularly in the theory of quantum transport in nanoscale and atomic systems, non-equilibrium statistical mechanics, and applications in unconventional computing and biophysics. The program encourages students to explore complex phenomena at the atomic and molecular level and contribute to the development of new technologies.
Physics PhD Program
The University of Michigan Physics PhD program offers rigorous academic training and is highly regarded for its graduates who excel as researchers, teachers, and industry professionals. The program emphasizes a collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment. Students benefit from a high program completion rate, full funding for up to five years, and a supportive atmosphere fostered by faculty, students, and staff.
Physics, Ph.D. and M.A.
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.
Frequently asked questions
How many Physics programmes are there in United States?
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14 across 11 universities, listed on this page.
Can international students apply?
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Yes — these programmes admit international students; check each programme's entry requirements and language of instruction.