PhD Physics at Queen's University Belfast

Programme overview

The PhD in Physics is a research degree in which all academic staff belong to one of three research centres: the Astrophysics Research Centre, the Centre for Light-Matter Interactions and the Centre for Quantum Materials and Technologies. Students work with world-leading researchers using modern laboratories and extensive computing facilities, developing the capacity to make an original contribution to knowledge.

Faculty: Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences | Department: School of Mathematics and Physics | Duration: 3 years full-time (or part-time equivalent) | Intake: 2027/28 entry | Study mode: full-time / part-time | Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Research under a supervisory team appointed by the University, with the thesis submitted after three years of full-time registration. Training comes mainly through the supervisory team, plus School seminars and workshops and specialist training through the Graduate School.

Career pathways

Queen's physics graduates have secured employment at companies including Allstate, AquaQ Analytics, Citigroup, Deloitte, First Derivatives, PwC, Randox, Seagate, Teach First and UCAS.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Normally an Upper Second Class (2.1) honours degree from a UK or ROI higher education provider, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University. International applicants: IELTS 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component (taken within the last two years) or equivalent.

International applicants: GBP 28,900 a year (2027/28). International and EU Other rate; home (NI, ROI, GB) fees listed as TBC Source

Intake: October 2027

Duration: 3 years full-time (or part-time equivalent)

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