Program Overview
Doctor of Philosophy in Physics
Lead Transformative Research to Gain Insight into the Mysteries of Our Universe and Solve Societal Problems
The doctoral program in physics at the University at Albany prepares students with the skills and technical acumen to be an authority in the field. Students acquire advanced proficiency in theoretical, experimental, and computational physics, exploring creative solutions to challenges facing the modern physical world.
Program of Study
The core curriculum solidifies students' understanding of physics, while elective courses and research areas allow for customization of their education. A minimum of 60 credits with an average grade of B or higher on both overall and core courses is required.
Core Courses (24 credits)
- Statistical Mechanics
- Classical Mechanics
- Electrodynamics 1
- Electrodynamics 2
- Quantum Mechanics 1
- Quantum Mechanics 2
- Computational Methods
- Solid State Physics 1
Electives (12-33 credits)
At least four letter-graded graduate courses with an average grade of B or higher in physics, or in other fields as approved by the physics graduate studies committee. Sample courses:
- Introduction to General Relativity
- X-Ray optics, Analysis and Imaging
- Quantum Field Theory
- Particle Physics
- Introduction to Cosmology
Research (3-24 credits)
Research as approved by the advisor.
Transfer or Advanced Standing Credit
Up to 30 credits of core and elective courses may be transferred from another institution as approved by the physics Graduate Studies Committee (GSC).
Dissertation
The dissertation represents a significant and original contribution to physics. The dissertation research must be publicly presented and approved by the research committee, the department, and the university.
Research
Students study with faculty who are highly active in research in areas such as information and computational physics, biophysics, quantum mechanics, particles, robotics, and medical imaging. They can examine autonomous robots that explore space or the structure of electronic spectra.
Career Outcomes
A PhD in Physics qualifies students for employment in the highest levels of academia and industry. Potential job titles include:
- Professor
- Astronomer
- Research scientist
- Lecturer
- Developer
- Data scientist
UAlbany graduates have gone on to secure a number of varied careers in physics, including jobs at:
- Lockheed Martin
- NASA Jet Propulsion Lab
- Stanford University Cancer Center
- U.S. Army Research Laboratory
- Higher education departments across the world
- Global Foundries
- IBM
- Intel
Admissions Requirements
Deadlines
- Departmental Assistantship Consideration:
- Fall: January 15
- Spring: Not Available
- Summer: Not Available
- No Departmental Assistantship Consideration:
- Fall: July 15
- Spring: December 1
- Summer: Not Available
Required Application Materials
- Transcripts from all schools attended
- Three Letters of Recommendation
- Statement of goals
The statement is generally one to two pages discussing what the applicant has to offer the program and what they wish to get out of the program. It should include a brief description of the applicant's field of interest, related background, desired area of study, and research emphasis or career goals.
Student Learning Objectives
- Students will master advanced classical mechanics (Lagrangian and Hamiltonian Mechanics).
- Students will master advanced electrostatics (Maxwell’s equations in statics, quasistatic approximations in matter).
- Students will master advanced quantum mechanics (Schrödinger and Heisenberg formalisms, bound states, quantum harmonic oscillator).
- Students will demonstrate the ability to conduct independent research.
- Students will master advanced statistical mechanics (classical and quantum statistics, particle ensembles, the Boltzmann equation).
- Students will demonstrate mastery of advanced electrodynamics (waves, dispersion, diffraction, special relativity).
- Students will demonstrate mastery of advanced techniques in quantum mechanics (perturbation theory, variational and WKB approaches, semiclassical methods).
- Students will demonstrate the ability to review and present relevant background literature.
- Students will demonstrate the ability to conduct and communicate the results of independent research via a written report.
- Students will demonstrate the ability to orally present the results of independent research.
Program Outline
The University at Albany's Doctor of Philosophy in Physics prepares students for a career as an authority in the field.
The program allows students to conduct research in areas such as quantum theory, astro-particle physics, cyber physics, optics, and medical imaging, furthering their understanding across various disciplines. The program equips students with the skills and knowledge to:
- Acquire proficiency in theoretical, experimental, and computational physics: This includes mastering concepts from string theory and particle physics to computational optical modeling and imaging.
- Explore creative solutions to modern physical world challenges: Students will apply their knowledge to solve real-world problems and strengthen their expertise through fieldwork.
- Prepare for careers as astrophysicists, data scientists, and research physicists: The program equips graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in these demanding fields.
Outline:
The program is comprised of core courses, electives, and research components.
Core Courses (24 credits):
- Statistical Mechanics
- Classical Mechanics
- Electrodynamics 1
- Electrodynamics 2
- Quantum Mechanics 1
- Quantum Mechanics 2
- Computational Methods
- Solid State Physics 1
Electives (12-33 credits):
- At least four letter-graded graduate courses from physics or other approved fields. Examples of available courses include:
- Introduction to General Relativity
- X-Ray optics, Analysis and Imaging
- Quantum Field Theory
- Particle Physics
- Introduction to Cosmology
Research (3-24 credits):
- Students will conduct research under the guidance of their advisor.
- Up to 30 credits of core and elective courses may be transferred from another institution with approval from the Physics Graduate Studies Committee.
- Dissertation: Students are required to complete a dissertation making a significant and original contribution to the field of physics. The research must be publicly presented and approved by the research committee, department, and university.
Assessment:
The program utilizes various assessment methods to evaluate student learning and progress. These include:
- Exams and quizzes: Assess students' understanding of key concepts covered in the coursework.
- Assignments and projects: Evaluate students' ability to apply their knowledge to solve problems and conduct research.
- Presentations: Assess students' communication and presentation skills.
- Dissertation defense: Evaluates the quality and originality of the student's research and ability to present their findings effectively.
Teaching:
The program boasts a distinguished faculty actively involved in research across various areas of physics. Students benefit from:
- Personalized instruction: Small class sizes allow for close interaction with faculty and individualized attention.
- Hands-on learning: Students participate in research projects and gain practical experience through fieldwork and laboratory work.
Careers:
A PhD in Physics from the University at Albany opens doors to diverse career paths:
- Academia: Graduates can pursue careers as professors, researchers, and lecturers at universities and research institutions.
- Government: Graduates can secure positions as research scientists and analysts at government agencies like the U.S. Army Research Laboratory.
- Data Science: The program equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to work as data scientists in various industries.
Other:
- International Students: The program is designated as a STEM program, allowing international students to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) and STEM OPT extension upon graduation.
- Financial Aid: The program offers various financial aid options, including assistantships, fellowships, and scholarships.