Program Description
Graduate studies in physics and astronomy may be pursued by well-prepared students in the physical and mathematical sciences or engineering. As the basic physical science, physics offers unique intellectual opportunities. Theoretical, experimental, or computer-simulated studies of the physical universe, ranging from cosmology to quantum physics, and from atmospheric phenomena to biomolecular interactions, are available.
Normally, students are directly accepted into the PhD program. The ultimate goal is to carry out and publish independent scientific work in a chosen research field. Coursework required for the PhD includes the graduate core curriculum consisting of PHYS 8110 , PHYS 8150 , PHYS 8210 , PHYS 8410 , PHYS 9510 , PHYS 9520 (or their equivalents at Clemson University or elsewhere as approved by the department faculty), and 12 credit hours of elective 8000-9000-level physics, astronomy or other graduate level courses (excluding PHYS 8910 /PHYS 9910 ), which must be approved by the student’s advisory committee. PHYS 8750 /ASTR 8750 courses may be used to satisfy this elective requirement with approval by the faculty. The purpose of these electives is to provide a well-rounded physics education and additional coursework necessary for the student’s research area.
Unless they receive a deferral from the department faculty, students must take the written PhD qualifying examination on topics from the core curriculum no later than their third semester. Students are offered two opportunities to pass the exam, which is typically offered twice annually. After passing the written PhD qualifying examination, students shall have selected a research area and faculty advisor and prepare for the oral PhD qualifying examination in which they present and defend their planned dissertation topic and research program. This oral examination must be completed within 12 months after passing the written examination. At least three weeks prior to the graduation at which the candidate expects to receive the PhD degree, a final oral examination on the dissertation must be successfully completed.
Students not passing the written PhD qualifying examination after two attempts may, with the approval of the department faculty, complete an MS degree. Such students, and those seeking an en-route MS degree, must satsify the minimum requirements for the MS degree.
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