Physics (Ph.D.)
Offered by: Physics (Faculty of Science)
Degree: Doctor of Philosophy
Program Description
The Ph.D. in Physics focuses on conducting research in a broad range of fields at the cutting edge of physics, which include but are not limited to astronomy, high energy physics, condensed matter physics, materials science and biophysics. The thesis must focus on research in an area related to one of the Department's research groups, and must produce original contributions to scholarship.
Note: For information about Fall 2025 and Winter 2026 course offerings, please check back on May 8, 2025. Until then, the "Terms offered" field will appear blank for most courses while the class schedule is being finalized.
Thesis
A thesis for the doctoral degree must constitute original scholarship and must be a distinct contribution to knowledge. It must show familiarity with previous work in the field and must demonstrate ability to plan and carry out research, organize results, and defend the approach and conclusions in a scholarly manner. The research presented must meet current standards of the discipline; as well, the thesis must clearly demonstrate how the research advances knowledge in the field. Finally, the thesis must be written in compliance with norms for academic and scholarly expression and for publication in the public domain.
Required Course
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| PHYS 700 | Preliminary Ph.D. Examination. | 0 |
Preliminary Ph.D. Examination. Terms offered: this course is not currently offered. An examination that must be passed by all doctoral candidates in order to continue in the doctoral program. | ||
Complementary Courses (6-9 credits)
0-3 credits from:
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| PHYS 601 | Introduction to Graduate Studies in Physics 1. 1 | 1.5 |
Introduction to Graduate Studies in Physics 1. Terms offered: this course is not currently offered. Foundational skills in research and communication, including graduate student orientation, research integrityand ethics, proposal writing, science communication both oral and written for a general audience, outreach and equity, diversity, and inclusion, best practices in teaching assistantship. | ||
| PHYS 602 | Introduction to Graduate Studies in Physics 2. 1 | 1.5 |
Introduction to Graduate Studies in Physics 2. Terms offered: this course is not currently offered. Core skills in reading, writing, critical thinking and career opportunities. Preparation for the comprehensive oral exams, paper reviews, writing and responding to referee reports, conference presentations, scientific programming, and data management and visualization. | ||
- 1
Students who completed PHYS 601 and PHYS 602 as part of the McGill M.Sc. in Physics program are exempt from these courses.
6 credits at the 600 level or higher, with at least 3 credits in the candidate's area of specialization. Students who completed two or more courses at the 600-level as part of the McGill M.Sc. in Physics program may contact the department to request a 3-credits exemption.