Academics

Doctoral and Master's Programs

The Department of Applied Physics and Applied Mathematics offers graduate study leading to the degrees of Master of Science (M.S.), Doctor of Engineering Science (Eng.Sc.D.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D).

The following fields of research are available for doctoral study. Students apply to and can be admitted to any one of these three specialty programs.

Applied Physics Graduate Program

• Theoretical and experimental plasma physics (fusion and space plasmas)
  
• Solid state physics (semiconductor, surface, low-dimensional physics, molecular electronics)
  
• Optical and laser physics (laser interactions with matter)
• Nuclear science (medical applications)
  

Applied Mathematics Graduate Program

• Analysis of partial differential equations, large-scale scientific computing, nonlinear dynamics, inverse problems, medical imagine, geophysical/geological fluid dynamics, and biomathematics
• Earth science: atmosphere, ocean, and climate science and geophysics
  
  

Materials Science and Engineering Graduate Program

• Thin films
• Nanomaterials, electronic, optical, and magnetic materials
• Mechanical response of materials

Ph.D. and Eng.Sc.D.

Each program has its own coursework, qualifying exam, and research opportunities. Successful completion of 30 points (semester hours) or more of approved graduate course work beyond the master's degree is required for the doctoral degree. Most students admitted into a given program continue their doctoral studies in that area, but some decide to switch from one of the three areas to another, and they are free to do so. The confluence of these programs in one department promotes a uniquely interactive and exciting academic and research environment for graduate study.

All doctoral students are fully supported for the duration of their Ph.D. study, with full tuition and health insurance coverage, plus a teaching or research assistantship stipend.


M.S.

For the M.S. degree, candidates must successfully complete a minimum of 30 points of credit of approved graduate course work at Columbia.

A 36-point CAMPEP approved M.S. degree in medical physics is offered in collaboration with faculty members from the College of Physicians and Surgeons and the Mailman School of Public Health.  It prepares students for professional careers in medical physics and provides preparation for the ABR certification exam.

Admission

Applications should be completed online. If students have any questions about the admissions process or the programs, they are very welcome to contact our student coordinator at or at 212-854-4457.