Program Overview

Applied Physics Program

The Applied Physics program at Mississippi State University is an interdisciplinary program leading to the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering with a concentration in Applied Physics.

Program Overview

A specific program, depending on the research interest of the student, is established by consultation between the student and his/her advisor. Major areas of study include:

• Astrochemistry
• Astrophysics
• Computational physics
• Condensed matter physics
• Experimental and theoretical nuclear physics
• Experimental and theoretical optics
• Experimental atomic, molecular, optical, and plasma physics
• Experimental nanomaterials and nanoelectronics

Graduate Coordinator

The Graduate Coordinator for the Applied Physics program is Dr. Henk F. Arnoldus.

Program Requirements

The program requires the following core courses:

• PH 8213: Mechanics (3 hours)
• PH 8233: Methods of Theoretical Physics I (3 hours)
• PH 8243: Methods of Theoretical Physics II (3 hours)
• PH 8313: Electromagnetic Theory (3 hours)
• PH 8743: Quantum Mechanics I (3 hours)
• PH 8753: Quantum Mechanics II (3 hours) Other requirements include:
• Additional coursework in the area of specialization
• PH 9000: Research in Physics (at least 20 hours) The total hours required for the program are 38.

Comprehensive Examination

All Ph.D. candidates are required to take a minimum of 20 credit hours of PH 9000 Research/Dissertation. The committee for an individual student may require additional courses depending on the research area and background of the student. Ph.D. candidates must pass a comprehensive examination on the proposed dissertation topic, which is comprised of a written document and an oral examination and must be attempted within the first 36 months of enrolling in the Ph.D. program.

Research Areas

Graduate research and teaching assistantships are available in the following areas:

• Astrochemistry
• Astrophysics
• Computational physics
• Condensed matter physics
• Experimental and theoretical nuclear physics
• Experimental and theoretical optics
• Experimental atomic, molecular, optical, and plasma physics
• Experimental nanomaterials and nanoelectronics

Additional Information

For a complete listing of requirements and other pertinent information, please reference the information provided in Physics and Astronomy, College of Arts and Science.