/physics-phd-hero-1800x540.jpeg?sfvrsn=ba6f739d_5)
/physics-phd-hero-1800x540.jpeg?sfvrsn=ba6f739d_5)
/physics-phd-hero-420x560.jpg?sfvrsn=5019f0b8_4)
Physics
Ph.D.
Overview of the Ph.D. in physics
Immerse yourself in research, and pursue advanced scientific training in physics and related disciplines like astronomy, quantum science, nuclear physics and theoretical and computational physics. Our Ph.D. in physics prepares you to conduct professional, independent, primary research.
AT A GLANCE
Earning a Ph.D. in physics
Our Ph.D. program opens the door to exciting research careers in academia, national laboratories or industry.
You’ll work closely with faculty experts to pursue in-depth research into a subject that interests you. You’ll present your work at professional conferences and publish in scholarly journals.
With access to cutting-edge tools such as laser spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, high-performance computing facilities, materials characterization laboratory and nuclear physics laboratories, you’ll build the skills you need to conduct research at the highest level.
The Ph.D. in physics program accepts applications from candidates who have both Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in physics or a related area of science.
Highlights of Ph.D. in physics program
As a Ph.D. student in physics at CMU, you will:
- Research with physics leaders: Conduct original research under the guidance of our expert faculty mentors.
- Demonstrate your knowledge: You'll have the opportunity to publish your work in scientific journals and participate in international conferences and workshops.
- Work with cutting-edge technology: Learn in high-tech facilities, including well-equipped laboratories and CMU’s own Brooks Astronomical Observatory.
Careers for a Ph.D. in physics
A Ph.D. in physics equips you to conduct research in roles such as a postdoctoral research fellow at a laboratory or as a faculty member at a university.
Career | Projected Salary |
---|---|
College Professor/Instructor | $84,380 |
Physicist | $155,680 |
Physical Scientist | $86,095 |

/brooks-physics-900x600.jpeg?sfvrsn=f3ae98a1_6)
Research for the stars
As a student earning a Ph.D. in physics, you'll have access to Brooks Astronomical Observatory, where you can help CMU researchers study the stars. It houses a modern 16-inch (40 cm) computer-controlled telescope that is equipped for CCD direct imaging, UBVRI photometry, medium-dispersion spectroscopy, as well as visual observing. From gathering observations to analyzing them and performing numerical simulations, you'll be on a path to contribute to the next wave of major discoveries in the study of our universe.
Request Information about CMU
By submitting this form, I agree to receive calls, emails and/or text messages from Central Michigan University to discuss furthering my education.