Program Overview

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Doctoral Program in Physics

The Doctoral Program in Physics is a research-based university degree that targets university graduates interested in conducting research in experimental, theoretical, or computer-based physics. Students are expected to conduct independent research within one of the faculty's research focus areas.

Program Structure

The program consists of a minimum of 6 semesters, during which students must complete 24 ECTS of coursework. Further information can be found in the curriculum.

Research Environment

Doctoral students at the Faculty of Physics are part of a dynamic research environment. They are invited to participate in various seminars, colloquia, and discussion events organized by the faculty and to exchange ideas with guest lecturers. The faculty also encourages students to present their research results at national and international conferences and to actively pursue their professional and personal development.

Application Process

Applications for doctoral projects at the Faculty of Physics are handled through the Vienna Doctoral School in Physics.

Program Timeline

• The application process for a doctoral project is conducted through the Vienna Doctoral School in Physics.
• The DLE Research Service and Career Development is responsible for admissions.
• An exposé providing an overview of the project and its planning must be submitted before the faculty's public presentation.
• The faculty's public presentation must be completed within one year of enrollment and is a prerequisite for theme approval.
• The next step after theme approval is the dissertation agreement.
• Research progress is documented through annual progress reports.
• After completing the dissertation project, the dissertation is written and submitted, and it is reviewed by external evaluators.
• The doctoral program concludes with the defense (Defensio).

General Information

General information about the doctoral program at the University of Vienna, including the promotion process and doctoral student supervision, can be found on the Doctoral Center's website.

International Doctoral Students

The University of Vienna welcomes doctoral students from around the world. International applicants can find information on the admission procedure and living in Vienna.

Downloads

• Forms are available for download on the Doctoral Center's website.
• The curriculum for doctoral studies in natural sciences and technical sciences can be found here.

Curriculum

The curriculum for the doctoral program includes:

• 24 ECTS of coursework
• Independent research within one of the faculty's research focus areas
• Annual progress reports
• A dissertation written and submitted after completing the research project
• A defense (Defensio) to conclude the program

Research Areas

Research areas include experimental, theoretical, and computer-based physics, with various research focus areas within the faculty.

Degree Requirements

The degree requirements include:

• Completion of 24 ECTS of coursework
• Successful defense of the dissertation
• Completion of the research project within the minimum duration of 6 semesters

Program Benefits

The program offers a dynamic research environment, opportunities for professional and personal development, and the chance to present research results at national and international conferences.