The physics doctoral degree program requires the completion of 81 credit hours encompassing the core physics classes (Classical Mechanics, Electrodynamics, Quantum Mechanics, and Statistical Mechanics), advanced physics electives, and research hours. Students must also pass qualifying exams and a dissertation defense.
Requirements for the Physics Doctoral Program
Course Requirements for Space Physics
Core Courses – 12 Hours Required
| Course Name | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| PHY 5103 Classical Mechanics I | 3 |
| PHY 5203 Electrodynamics I | 3 |
| PHY 5303 Statistical Mechanics | 3 |
| PHY 5403 Quantum Mechanics I | 3 |
Advanced Electives in Space Physics – 12 Hours Required
| Course Name | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| PHY 6123 Plasma Physics and Magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) | 3 |
| PHY 6403 Fundamentals of Space Physics | 3 |
| PHY 6623 Space Physics Laboratory | 3 |
| PHY 7703 Topics in Space Physics: Heliospheric Physics | 3 |
| PHY 7703 Topics in Space Physics: Magnetospheric Physics | 3 |
| PHY 7703 Topics in Space Physics: Planetary Science | 3 |
| PHY 7703 Topics in Space Physics: Ionospheric Physics | 3 |
Doctoral Research – 48 Hours Required
| Course Name | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| PHY 7003 Directed Research (x2) | 3 6 total |
| PHY 7013 Research Seminar | 3 |
| PHY 7103 Doctoral Research (x9) | 3 27 total |
| PHY 7113 Doctoral Dissertation (x4) | 3 12 total |