Available Emphasis Areas:
Applied Physics - Emphasis
Materials Science - Emphasis
The doctoral degree in Applied Physics and Materials Science enables students to engage in a research-intensive course of study. While many students may naturally gravitate toward research that is highly transdisciplinary in both physics and materials science (e.g. synthesis and characterization of quantum materials or nanomechanics of materials), some students will gravitate to more fundamental Applied Physics or Materials Science topics. For example, students more inclined toward Applied Physics may gravitate toward fundamental research related to technical applications of quantum mechanics, physical phenomena, biophysics, technology development, etc. Whereas students more inclined toward Materials Science may gravitate toward fundamental research related to control of materials synthesis, multi-scaled assembly, or meso-, nano-technology applications.
Our research degree program is strengthened by committed mentorship and professional development training, with students benefiting from a broad range of internal collaborations, including but not limited to: Center for Bioengineering Innovation; The Pathogen and Microbiome Institute; Mechanical Engineering; Chemistry; School of Informatics, Computing, and Cyber Systems; and the Center for Materials Interface Research and Applications. Further, students will be engaged in regional and national collaborations.
The Ph.D. Program in Applied Physics and Materials Science prepares graduates for meaningful and fulfilling careers in the application of physics or materials science to critical areas of national need.
Career opportunities that might be pursued:
With further education, one of these paths is possible:
September 2025
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff Campus,
FLAGSTAFF,
Arizona,
86011, United States
Applicants must have earned a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 out of a 4.0 scale for their bachelor鈥檚 degree to be considered for regular admission. Admitted students are expected to have undergraduate educational experiences, including general education studies, that are similar to those required for a baccalaureate at Northern Arizona University.
The minimum English proficiency scores for most programs are: 80 (TOEFL iBT) or 6.5 (IELTS). Scores must be sent directly to the Center for International Education from the Testing Institution.
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.
