Physics

The Physics undergraduate program at the University of Massachusetts Amherst offers a comprehensive and rigorous education in the fundamental principles governing the natural world. Designed for students passionate about understanding the universe, the program combines theoretical knowledge with practical laboratory experience, preparing graduates for diverse careers in research, industry, education, and further academic pursuit. Students will explore core areas such as classical mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, and modern physics, gaining a solid foundation in both the conceptual frameworks and mathematical tools essential to the discipline. The curriculum also emphasizes the development of critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and data analysis techniques, enabling students to approach complex scientific questions with confidence.

Throughout the program, students have opportunities to engage in research projects alongside renowned faculty members, utilizing state-of-the-art laboratories and equipment. The department encourages participation in internships, collaborations, and conferences, fostering a vibrant scientific community and professional development. Moreover, the program offers specialization options in areas like astrophysics, condensed matter physics, computational physics, and biophysics, allowing students to tailor their educational experience to their interests and career goals.

The faculty's commitment to innovative teaching methods and research excellence ensures that students receive personalized guidance and mentorship. Graduates of the Physics program are well-equipped to pursue advanced degrees or enter careers in areas such as scientific research, data science, engineering, technology development, and education. With a strong emphasis on analytical skills, experimental techniques, and scientific communication, the program prepares students to become leaders in advancing our understanding of the physical universe and applying this knowledge to real-world challenges.

The general requirements for the Ph.D. in Physics are those of the Graduate School in addition to Physics requirements. The latter are implemented along the following lines. Students are required to pass the graduate introductory program of studies consisting of 6 courses. The typical sequence in the first year is to focus on core courses that cover basic physics at the advanced level: 601, 605, 606, 614. In the second year, the student selects 615 and a research area course during the first semester before attempting the qualifying exam. Occasionally, this sequence can be adjusted on a case by case basis depending on previous preparation. (Note: A passing grade is considered to be B- or better.) Students are required to take three research courses at the 700 and 800 level; one in the student's area of research, a second in a related area of research, and a third must be in a totally distinct subfield. Students making normal progress are expected to pass the qualifying examination (written exams and oral presentation) during the second year, and then devote their major efforts to research, taking the occasional course either of interest to them or of direct relevance to the research program. The department requires no foreign-language reading competency for the doctorate. A student must register for 18 credits in physics under 899 Doctoral Dissertation.

Courses

• 530 Radiation Physics
• 531 Electronics for Scientists I
• 553 Optics
• 556 Nuclei and Elementary Particles
• 558 Solid State Physics
• 564 Introductory Advanced Quantum Mechanics
• 568 Cosmology and General Relativity
• 590K Biological Physics
• 601 Classical Mechanics
• 602 Statistical Physics
• 605 Methods of Mathematical Physics
• 606 Classical Electrodynamics I
• 614 Intermediate Quantum Mechanics I
• 615 Intermediate Quantum Mechanics II
• 696 Independent Study
• 699 Master’s Thesis
• 714 Introductory High Energy Physics
• 715 Introductory Solid State Physics
• 716 Introduction to Superfluidity and Superconductivity
• 724 Group Theory in Quantum Mechanics
• 811 Field Theory
• 813 High Energy Physics
• 817 Advanced Statistical Physics
• 821 General Relativity
• 850 Soft Condensed Matter
• 852 Special Topics in High Energy Physics
• 853 Special Topics in Solid State Physics
• 860 Seminar on Research Topics
• 890B The Gluckstern Lectures/BioPhysics
• 899 Doctoral Dissertation

• A completed Application Form.
• A $75 application fee. This fee cannot be waived or deferred.
• International Student Sponsor Statement is required of all international students.
• One official transcript from all colleges/universities attended, undergraduate and graduate, where (nine) 9 or more credits were taken are required. If they are not mailed directly from the college/university, they should be enclosed in sealed envelopes signed by the college/university.  If the official transcripts and/or degree certificate(s) are not in English, notarized English language translations in duplicate must accompany them. Do not list colleges/universities where (eight) 8 or fewer credits were taken.
• Letters of recommendation (academic references) from two (2) professors or instructors who have taught you in courses in the field you are applying to here. After submission of the electronic application, we will send an email to each referee giving them instructions on how to electronically deliver the recommendation to the Graduate School. All recommendations will be considered confidential unless the applicant doesn't waive his/her right of access.
• Scores from the following standard examinations:
  • GRE (Graduate Record Examination)-General Test required by nearly all graduate programs - (refer to Degrees and Programs Offered)
  • GRE SUBJECT TEST (not a universal requirement-refer to the Programspage for those programs requiring a Subject Test)
  • GMAT (Graduate Management Admissions Test)-for graduate applicants to Management, Hospitality & Tourism Management, and Sport Management


  • English Language Test: Either TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), or IELTS (International English Language Testing System)-only the academic version of test is accepted, or PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)

Scholarships

Most students admitted to the department receive financial aid in the form of either a teaching or a research assistantship, and normally continue to receive financial aid throughout their studies. A limited number of fellowships are also available; they are competitive within the University, and the department has averaged one per year. Research assistants receive stipends competitive with those offered by other major research universities. Teaching assistants are given nine-month appointments at a rate similar to that for research assistants. In many cases, teaching assistants can receive additional remuneration for teaching or research duties carried out in the summer.

Teaching assistants work about eighteen hours per week and their duties include grading of papers, classroom teaching, and laboratory instruction. Students who receive either teaching or research assistantships or fellowships are granted a waiver of all tuition and most fees, and a 95% reduction in the cost of their medical plan. All graduate students, regardless of their means of financial support, are expected to take advantage of numerous opportunities to gain a minimum of one year of teaching experience.

The Physics program at the University of Massachusetts Amherst offers a comprehensive education designed to prepare students for careers in research, industry, education, and other fields that require a solid understanding of fundamental and applied physics concepts. The curriculum provides both theoretical foundations and practical laboratory experience, enabling students to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills. Students can pursue a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree, with opportunities for specialization through electives and minors. The program emphasizes modern physics topics such as quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, statistical mechanics, and condensed matter physics, alongside classical mechanics and waves.

Research is a central component of the Physics program at UMass Amherst. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and facilities, working alongside renowned faculty on cutting-edge projects in areas like nanotechnology, materials science, astrophysics, particle physics, and biophysics. The university encourages undergraduate participation in research activities, fostering an environment where students can contribute to scientific discoveries and innovations. The department also offers seminars, workshops, and conferences to complement classroom learning and to expose students to current scientific developments.

In addition to its rigorous academic curriculum, the Physics department supports students through advising, tutoring, and career services. Graduates of the program are well-equipped for advanced study in graduate or professional schools or for employment in highly technical fields. The university maintains strong connections with national laboratories and industry partners, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world experience. The program also promotes interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing physics students to work with departments such as engineering, computer science, and environmental science. Overall, the Physics program at UMass Amherst prepares students to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving scientific landscape and to contribute meaningfully to technological and scientific progress.