UND Physics Student Learning with Professor

Ph.D. in Physics

Advance scientific knowledge and prepare for a dynamic career as a scholar and university-level professor.

The study of physics offers endless insights into how our world works. A Ph.D. in Physics from UND offers a deep dive into the workings of the universe.

Program type:
Doctoral Degree
Format:
On Campus
Est. time to complete:
4-6 years
Credit hours:
90

Why earn a Ph.D. in physics?

Application Deadlines
Fall:
April 15* | May 1
Spring:
Nov. 1
Summer:
May 1

If you're an international student, refer to the international application process for deadlines.

A Ph.D. in Physics from UND gives you the knowledge and skills you need to help unlock the deepest mysteries of the universe.

Our department features small classes, collaborative relationships and high-level research opportunities. Working with state-of-the-art scientific tools, you'll pursue your own investigations and contribute to existing knowledge in the field.

Through the Ph.D. program in Physics at UND, you'll gain:

  • Competency in graduate-level physics including mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, statistical physics and theoretical methods
  • The skills required to carry out programs of independent research at a research laboratory or as a university faculty member
  • Oral presentation skills
  • Experience in writing research papers
  • Analytical skills needed to work as a professional physicist

Ph.D. in Physics at UND

  • Contribute new knowledge to the field through research and the completion of a dissertation

  • Apply for a research or teaching assistantship

  • Participate in regularly scheduled Colloquia on select topics in physics and astronomy

What can I do with a Ph.D. in physics?

150k

Median annual salary for physicists and astronomers, 2023

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

5%

Projected job outlook for physicists and astronomers through 2032

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

The Ph.D. program prepares graduates to conduct research, teach in higher education and serve in leadership roles at every level of scientific organization.

UND graduates have gone on to illustrious research careers at places such as:

  • Stanford Institute for Materials and Energy Sciences
  • University of North Dakota
  • University of South Carolina School of Medicine

Ph.D. in Physics Courses

PHYS 520. Cosmology. 3 Credits.

Cosmology is the study of the origin, structure, and evolution of the Universe. This graduate-level course will provide an overview of recent developments in cosmology, including; the Big Bang model, inflation, the cosmic microwave background, baryogenesis, the expanding universe, Hubble's constant and the distance scale, and dark energy. On demand.

PHYS 543. Statistical Physics. 3 Credits.

The Maxwell-Boltzmann, Bose-Einstein, and Fermi-Dirac statistics, and their application to the description of physical systems.

PHYS 535. Solid State Physics. 3 Credits.

The crystal lattice, electron theory of metals and semiconductors, and transport phenomena in solids.

PHYS 542. Theory of Electricity and Magnetism. 3 Credits.

Special theory of relativity, scattering of charged particles, and radiation.

PHYS 545. Analytical Mechanics. 3 Credits.

Variational methods. Lagrange's equations, oscillations, Hamilton equations, and special relativity.

PHYS 540. Quantum Mechanics. 3 Credits.

Matrix methods, spin, and scattering phenomena.

Leaders in Physics

Explore physics through research, writing and analytics to make an impact in the field.

Explore More Options

Connect with the faculty you'll work with at UND or discover additional education opportunities.

Department Contact
Kanishka Marasinghe
Department Chair
P 701.777.3560
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