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What are the requirements for a Ph.D. in physics?
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| All students must satisfy both the Basic and Advanced Requirements. The basic requirement consists of two written exams in Classical Physics and Quantum Mechanics. The advanced requirement consists of six quarters of advanced courses based on research interests plus Ph242ab. The student must then pass the oral candidacy exam which is a presentation of the proposed research to a committee consisting of the advisor and at least three other faculty. The PhD student may elect to apply for the Degree of Master of Science in physics after being admitted into PhD candidacy. The student must then defend the thesis in the same manner and turn in the completed final draft before the PhD can be granted. The Institute also requires that the student be in residency for nine academic terms (three academic years). For detailed information to help you get to Commencement, please see Department Guide to Program Completion | ||
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How long does it usually take to get a Ph.D. in physics?
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For most students, the number of years is typically between 5 and 6. Some well-prepared theorists might finish in substantially less time, but this is the exception. Most often students schedule their final oral Ph.D. defense in April or May for commencement in mid-June. However, students may also schedule the final exam at various times throughout the year to meet potential employer's needs. Matriculating into this program with a Master's degree does not necessarily speed up this process as the Physics Department advanced course requirements will still need to be satisfied.
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Is it possible to be admitted for a Master's Degree in physics? |
Although the physics department does not admit graduate students to work towards the Master of Science degree, one can be awarded upon request to physics students who have completed the written and oral candidacy examinations. Alternatively, the MS degree can be awarded to any Caltech graduate student in good standing upon satisfactory completion of a program approved by the option representative that fulfills the requirements as listed in the catalog of at least 135 units of coursework. Basically these requirements include 27 units of Ph125 abc or any quantum mechanics-based course; 81 units of physics electives; 27 units of other electives from physics or other options. All course substitutions must be approved by the option representative.
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Physics, Math & Astronomy |
Graduate Study & Research Physics Graduate Office October 2008 |