Applied Physics

Graduate Coordinator: Dr. Henk F. Arnoldus
Hilbun Hall 125
Box 5167
Mississippi State, MS 39762
Telephone: 662-325-2159
E-mail: hfa1@msstate.edu

An Interdisciplinary Program

An interdisciplinary program leading to the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering with a concentration in Applied Physics is available.  A specific program, depending on the research interest of the student, is established by consultation between the student and his/her advisor. 

Major areas of study include the following.

• Computational physics
• Theoretical and experimental optics
• Diagnostics using the techniques of conventional, imaging, and laser spectroscopy
• Experimental and theoretical nuclear structure physics
• Astrophysics
• Astrochemistry

Graduate research and teaching assistantships are available. For a complete listing of requirements and other pertinent information, please reference information provided in Physics and Astronomy, College of Arts and Science, located in this publication.

Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering, Applied Physics Concentration

Core Courses
PH 8213	Mechanics	3
PH 8233	Methods of Theoretical Physics I	3
PH 8243	Methods of Theoretical Physics II	3
PH 8313	Electromagnetic Theory	3
PH 8743	Quantum Mechanics I	3
PH 8753	Quantum Mechanics II	3
Other Requirements
Additional coursework in the area of specialization
PH 9000	Dissertation Research /Dissertation in Physics (at least 20 hours)	20
Total Hours		38

Ph.D. candidates must pass written preliminary examinations on the core courses and, if required by their graduate advisory committee or the Physics department head, on their Engineering or other applied courses. The written preliminary exam on Electromagnetic Theory also covers material from PH 6333 Electromagnetic Fields II.  

After passing the written preliminary exams, Ph.D. candidates must then pass an oral preliminary examination on the proposed dissertation topic.  A dissertation is required of all Ph.D. candidates.