PhD Physics at The Ohio State University

Programme overview

Ohio State Physics is ranked among the top 10 nationally in number of PhDs awarded, with 60+ faculty and a PhD completion rate of about 75 percent. The PhD is designed for strong foundational coursework and early research engagement.

Faculty: College of Arts and Sciences | Department: Department of Physics | Intake: Autumn 2027; Dec 15, 2026 (U.S.), Nov 30, 2026 (international) | Study mode: full-time | Location: Columbus, OH, United States

What you will study

Research areas include astrophysics and cosmology, AMO physics, biophysics, condensed matter, high energy and nuclear physics, and quantum information. Core courses: Classical and Statistical Physics I-II, Quantum Mechanics I-II, Analytical and Numeric Methods of Physics, and Electromagnetic Field Theory.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Graduate School minimum criteria apply to all applicants. Bachelor's or professional degree; minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA on a 4.0 scale in the most recent relevant degree; prerequisite preparation such as upper-level physics courses or lab/research experience. GRE General and Physics Subject tests optional. Three letters of recommendation, statement of purpose (up to two pages), CV, official transcripts. International applicants: minimum TOEFL iBT 79, no waiver. Fully admitted students are selected for fellowship or teaching associate positions for their first year; applying by December 1 gives automatic fellowship consideration.

Tuition is charged per credit, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

Intake: Autumn 2027; Dec 15, 2026 (U.S.), Nov 30, 2026 (international)

Apply through the official page: https://gpadmissions.osu.edu/

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