Physics

The Physics Bachelor's Degree Program at the University of Cincinnati offers a comprehensive curricula designed to provide students with a strong foundation in fundamental physics principles, experimental techniques, and theoretical understanding. This program aims to prepare graduates for diverse career paths including research, education, engineering, and technology development. Students will engage in rigorous coursework covering classical mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, and modern physics topics. In addition to core classes, students have opportunities to participate in laboratory experiments, which develop their practical skills and understanding of experimental physics. The program also emphasizes the development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and quantitative analysis abilities, equipping students to tackle complex scientific challenges.

Hands-on experiences are integrated through undergraduate research projects, internships, and collaborations with faculty on current scientific investigations, providing real-world exposure and potentially contributing to scientific publications. The Physics program at Cincinnati encourages interdisciplinary learning, allowing students to complement their physics education with courses in mathematics, computer science, and engineering. The university’s state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories support innovative research and learning experiences. Students are also encouraged to participate in seminars, physics clubs, and national conferences to broaden their perspectives and connect with the scientific community.

Dedicated faculty members are committed to mentoring students, guiding them through their academic journey, and supporting their professional development. The program offers various specialization tracks, including theoretical physics, applied physics, and computational physics, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals. Graduates of the Physics Bachelor's Degree Program are well-prepared for further study in graduate school or for immediate employment in scientific research, industry, or education sectors. The University of Cincinnati’s Physics program fosters an engaging, inclusive, and challenging environment that cultivates scientific curiosity and inspires students to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of physics and related fields.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS:

• CORE: The following courses are required for the PhD: 7001, 7002, 7005, 7006, 7010, 7011.
• SEMINAR: 8090 and 8091 are required every term.
• RESEARCH: 9071R; a total of 10 semester credits.
• SPECIALIZATION: A student must take 6 advanced (8000 or 9000 level) graduate level courses, of which two should be outside the student’s research field.

EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS:

• ORAL ENGLISH PROFIENCY TEST: Passing this exam is required of all non-native English speakers. We generally expect international students to pass the OEPT by the end of their first year at UC, and students who have not passed may not teach in the classroom.
• QUALIFYING EXAM: Students pursuing the PhD degree must pass this written exam at the PhD level by the spring semester of the second year.
• CANDIDACY (ORAL) EXAM: This exam tests whether a student has adequate preparation for doctoral research. Students are expected to pass this exam in their third year.
• DISSERTATION DEFENSE: A student must defend a dissertation before completing the doctoral degree.

COMPLETE APPLICATION: An applicant’s folder will not be evaluated until complete. A completed folder contains:

• Transcripts, which preferably arrive by mail;
• Three letters of recommendation, which the reviewers put into the university’s online system;
• A statement of purpose and a curriculum vitae, which the applicant uploads into the university’s online system;
• An application form, created from the applicant’s responses to the sections of the university’s online system.
• All foreign nationals must submit proof. The preference is to have TOEFL IBT scores sent directly by ETS to the Physics Department. The minimum acceptable score is 68. (The ETS institution code is 1833 for the University of Cincinnati. The department’s TOEFL code is 76.) Details for alternatives to the TOEFL IBT can be found here. If you did not request that TOEFL IBT scores be sent directly to the Department before submitting your application, you will be sent an email requesting proof of English proficiency, detailing alternatives and less costly reporting methods.
• GRE scores: The General GRE is required. The Physics GRE is recommended, especially for international applicants. The preference is to have ETS send the scores directly to the Department. (The ETS institution code is 1833 for the University of Cincinnati. The department’s GRE code is 0808.) Applicants without GRE subject scores must provide other evidence of outstanding achievement and promise.

Scholarships

The department may offer full tuition plus stipend support to our PhD program’s students. Generally, the stipend support is in the form of teaching assistantships for first-year students. Some fellowships are also available. By making the appropriate selections online, please indicate whether or not you are requesting financial assistance from the physics department.

The University of Cincinnati offers a comprehensive Physics program designed to provide students with a solid foundation in both theoretical and experimental physics. The undergraduate degree in Physics aims to develop students' analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills, preparing them for diverse careers in science, engineering, and technology. The curriculum includes core courses such as Classical Mechanics, Electromagnetism, Quantum Mechanics, Thermodynamics, and Modern Physics, alongside advanced electives that allow students to specialize in areas like condensed matter physics, astrophysics, or particle physics.

Students benefit from state-of-the-art laboratories equipped with modern instrumentation, enabling hands-on experience and practical skills vital for research and industry. The program emphasizes creating a strong conceptual understanding, complemented by problem-solving strategies and computational techniques, fostering critical thinking. The university provides opportunities for undergraduate research, often in collaboration with faculty members engaged in cutting-edge projects. Additionally, students have access to seminars, workshops, and conference participation, broadening their scientific perspective and professional network.

The Physics program at the University of Cincinnati also prepares students for graduate studies, offering a solid foundation required for pursuing Master's and Ph.D. degrees in physics or related disciplines. The university promotes an interdisciplinary approach, encouraging students to integrate knowledge from areas such as engineering, astronomy, and materials science. The department collaborates with local research institutions and industry partners, providing internship and employment opportunities post-graduation.

Furthermore, the program’s faculty are experts in various fields of physics, dedicated to mentoring and guiding students through their academic journey. Support services, including tutoring and academic advising, help ensure student success. Overall, this program combines rigorous coursework, research opportunities, and professional development activities to prepare graduates for successful careers in physics and related fields.