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To obtain a Ph.D. in the Physics and Astronomy Department at Rice, students complete certain course work, demonstrate their ability to engage in advanced research and demonstrate their knowledge of the discipline. Each student must complete at least eight approved graduate courses, an oral Ph.D. candidacy exam, write and defend a research proposal, and complete the teaching practicum. The degree is conferred upon successful public defense of a Ph.D. research thesis. Unlike many similar programs around the country, our graduate program offers a great deal of flexibility. Students may choose from a wide variety of research topics and take courses that are most suited to their interests, while still obtaining the fundamentals needed by any scientist in their chosen subdiscipline. Our graduate students become involved in research as soon as possible, always by the end of their first year in the program. There is no foreign language requirement, and no comprehensive written qualifying exam on coursework.

Upon completing the PhD degree in the field of Physics, students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate advanced knowledge in foundational areas of physics and astronomy, and a mastery of their selected subfield.
2. Have the skills necessary to conduct independent research in physics and astronomy and become leaders in their chosen careers.
3. Have the ability to identify, formulate, and solve challenging scientific and technical problems as encountered in physics and astronomy.
4. Be proficient in reading the scientific literature and in oral and written communication of scientific results.
5. Make an original and significant contribution to knowledge in their discipline.

Students pursuing the PhD degree in the field of Physics must complete:

• A minimum of 90 credit hours to satisfy degree requirements, including research and teaching, beyond the Bachelor's Degree.
• All coursework specified for their matriculating class and any additional courses required by the thesis advisor.
• A minimum residency enrollment of four fall and/or spring semesters of full-time graduate study at Rice University.
• A research project involving independent and original work. The work must be successfully completed, reported in an approved thesis, and defended in a public oral examination.