Astronomy Ph.D.

1. A Minimum

A minimum of 36 graduate level semester credits in astronomy or related fields (excluding doctoral dissertation and graduate seminar), which must include the following core courses:

• AST 713 - Astrophysics I
• AST 714 - Astrophysics II
• PHYS 702 - Classical Mechanics I

• or

• PHYS 721 - Quantum Theory I

• or

• PHYS 711 - Electromagnetic Theory I
• PHYS 700 - Mathematical Physics I
• AST 710 - Observational Astronomy Techniques
• AST 721 - Astrophysics of Gaseous Nebulae and Active Galactic Nuclei
• AST 725 - High Energy Astrophysics
• AST 727 - Cosmology
• AST 731 - Stellar Atmospheres: Theory, Observation, and Analysis
• AST 747 - Interstellar Medium
• PHYS 771 - Advanced Topics in Experimental and Theoretical Physics

•  

  Six of the 36 credits must be taken in the fourth or fifth year. Course work used to satisfy the requirements for a Master’s degree may be included. A minimum grade of B- is required in each course. An overall GPA of 3.00 or better is required in all course work which is part of the degree program. Course work taken outside the Department must have departmental approval.

2. Six Credits

• PHYS 796 - Graduate Seminar

• 
  including three acceptable presentations by the student.
   

3. A Minimum

• 
  18 semester credits of:

• PHYS 799 - Doctoral Dissertation

4. Satisfactory Performance

On an astronomy qualifying examination on graduate astronomy knowledge. This requirement must be fulfilled by the second year in the program.

5. A Dissertation

Of high quality consisting of significant original research.

6. Satisfactory Performance

On a final examination which will consist of an oral defense of the dissertation.