Physics

Program Description

The graduate programs in Lehigh’s Department of Physics are designed to provide students with a rich education and train them to become leaders in the field of physics. At Lehigh, you will engage in cutting-edge research, have access to state-of-the-art instrumentation and research facilities, and work closely with professors who are recognized internationally for their expertise. Our faculty are dedicated to creating an experience that not only ensures success for the student, but also provides them the tools to excel far beyond graduation, towards careers in industry, research, or academia.

Our graduate students initially complete a series of courses in the M.S. program, and then go on to work with a research advisor to develop a research project, do world-class research, publish their new scientific discoveries, write a dissertation, and finally obtain the Ph.D degree.

We have possibilities for specialization in the following areas:

  • Astrophysics
  • Atomic, molecular and optical physics
  • Biophysics
  • Complex fluids
  • Computational physics
  • Condensed matter physics
  • High-energy theory and cosmology
  • Photonics and Nonlinear optics
  • Nuclear physics
  • Statistical physics
 
Ph.D. students generally complete 5 – 6 years of full-time study and research, working closely with faculty and peers to carry out cutting-edge science, advance their field, contribute to scientific literature, and develop skills to tackle complex challenges. Graduates go on to careers in education, industry and at national labs.
 

Research

Lehigh Physics is home to robust and innovative graduate programs that will prepare you for a successful career in either academia or industry. Our faculty, staff scientists, and students have access to state-of-the-art instrumentation and research facilities, enabling them to create and use the most ambitious and technologically advanced tools in their effort to explore different facets of science.

Application Requirements

M.S., Physics
  • Completed online application
  • 3 letters of recommendation 
  • GRE general test scores 
  • GRE subject test (physics) scores, recommended
  • If applicable, English language proficiency test scores - Review full policy here
    Ph.D., Physics
    • Completed online application
    • 3 letters of recommendation                                
    • GRE general test scores              
    • GRE subject test (physics) scores, recommended
    • If applicable, English language proficiency test scores - Review full policy here
       

      Financial Aid

      • Teaching Assistantships / Research Assistantships / Fellowships - includes stipend plus tuition
      • Scholarships - tuition remission
       

      Department Contacts

      Professor Ivan Biaggio, Director of Physics Graduate Admissions
      Phone: (610) 758-3931
       
      Marina Long, Business Manager
      Phone: 610-758-3931
       

      Department website