Graduate

The Department of Physics offers Ph.D. degrees through an increasingly strong, broad, and vibrant graduate program that prepares our students for a wide range of careers in academia, industry, and government/non-profit organizations. The Ohio State University Department of Physics is in the top 10 nationally in number of PhD degrees granted. This is made possible by the breadth of our faculty research programs, which span many different subfields of physics, as well as interdisciplinary efforts in quantum information science, chemical physics and astrophysics.

We emphasize strong mentorship, a collaborative environment, and a deep commitment to student success. Our holistic approach includes academic excellence through a course curriculum designed with evidence-based methods from our physics education research group. Students develop professionally not only through their research, but through internship, mentoring, and leadership opportunities. Student well-being is fostered through community events, responsive leadership, and shared governance. This holistic approach to student success results in a high PhD completion rate ~ 75%, of which we are very proud.
Our graduates go on to pursue impactful careers in academia, national laboratories, industry, and education. The Department and a large network of Buckeye alumni help foster this transition in the U.S. and globally.