Ph.D. in Physics

PhD Entry Requirements

Application Fees: Waiver

Academic Qualifications: Prospective PhD applicants are expected to hold a taught Masters degree in a relevant subject area. The university typically requires a minimum of 83% or above as the standard for academic performance in the completed Masters program.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS Requirement: An overall IELTS score of 6.5 is required.
• TOEFL Requirement: A minimum overall score of 80 is often required.
• PTE Requirement: A minimum overall score of 58 is often required.
• DET Requirement: A DET score of 115 is required.

Students must provide:

• Academic marksheets & transcripts
• Letters of recommendation
• A personal statement - SOP
• Passport
• Other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some PhD courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

Missouri S&T is fostering global collaboration and academic excellence by providing scholarships tailored for international Ph.D. students. These scholarships aim to alleviate the financial burden of advanced education and encourage scholars from diverse backgrounds to contribute to cutting-edge research.

Global Excellence Scholarship: This scholarship recognizes outstanding academic achievements and is awarded to international Ph.D. students based on their academic records and potential for research excellence. It may cover full or partial tuition expenses.

STEM Research Fellowship: The STEM Research Fellowship is designed to support Ph.D. candidates in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields. Recipients receive financial support for their research projects, including funding for equipment, travel, and other research-related expenses.

Teaching and Research Assistantships: Missouri S&T offers teaching and research assistantships to qualified Ph.D. students. These assistantships not only provide financial support but also offer valuable teaching or research experience as part of the academic journey.

Graduates of the Ph.D. in Physics program at Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&T) are poised for diverse and influential career paths, equipped with advanced research skills and a profound understanding of the principles that govern the physical universe. The program's comprehensive curriculum and emphasis on hands-on research experiences prepare graduates for leadership roles in academia, research institutions, and various sectors requiring expertise in physics.

Academic Positions: Ph.D. holders in Physics often pursue fulfilling careers in academia. Graduates are well-suited for roles as professors, researchers, and academic administrators in universities and research institutions. They contribute to the advancement of physics knowledge through teaching, mentoring, and conducting groundbreaking research.

Research Scientist: Graduates can pursue careers as research scientists, working in laboratories, research institutions, or private companies. This role involves conducting cutting-edge research, developing new theories, and contributing to the scientific understanding of various phenomena.

Quantum Physicist: Specializing in quantum physics, graduates can explore careers focused on understanding and utilizing the principles of quantum mechanics. Opportunities may include working in quantum computing, quantum communication, and quantum information science.

Materials Scientist: With expertise in condensed matter physics, graduates can pursue careers as materials scientists. Roles involve researching and developing new materials with specific properties, contributing to advancements in technology, electronics, and materials engineering.

Data Scientist: Ph.D. holders can leverage their analytical skills to pursue careers in data science. This involves utilizing statistical methods and computational techniques to analyze large datasets, extract meaningful insights, and contribute to data-driven decision-making processes.

Biophysicist/Medical Physicist: Graduates interested in the intersection of physics and biology can explore roles as biophysicists or medical physicists. This may involve conducting research in biophysics, contributing to medical imaging technologies, or ensuring the safe and effective use of radiation in healthcare.

Astrophysicist/Cosmologist: Specializing in astrophysics or cosmology, graduates can pursue careers exploring the mysteries of the universe. Opportunities may include conducting research on celestial bodies, dark matter, and the fundamental nature of space and time.

Government Researcher: Ph.D. holders can contribute to government research initiatives, working for agencies such as NASA, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), or the Department of Energy (DOE). Roles may involve addressing scientific challenges with national or global significance.

Data Analyst in Technology Companies: With the rise of technology companies, graduates can explore roles as data analysts. This involves applying statistical methods to analyze and interpret data, contributing to the development of innovative technologies and products.

Entrepreneurship: Entrepreneurial opportunities abound for Ph.D. holders interested in entrepreneurship. Graduates can establish their own research firms, consulting companies, or technology startups, leveraging their expertise to address industry challenges or develop novel solutions.

International Collaborations: Given Missouri S&T's emphasis on a global perspective, Ph.D. graduates are well-prepared for international career opportunities. They may engage in collaborative research projects, work with international research institutions, and contribute their physics expertise to address global scientific challenges.