Physics (MS)
Program Description
Physicists come in many forms. Some love tinkering and may be natural experimentalists, some are drawn to elegant theories, some delight in writing computer codes, some have a special talent for communicating science to others, etc. And physicists do many different things in their lives, from public education, to academic research, to industry and tech, to public service and beyond. The goal of the NYU Graduate Program in Physics is to provide outstanding training to a student body which reflects the diversity of backgrounds, talents and skills of the next generation of aspiring physicists, astrophysicists and biophysicists. We want every member of the Department to flourish and find their own path. Our graduate admissions process aims to bring in a capable and committed group of students who are well-positioned to benefit from the training we can provide. No single metric gives a valid and accurate gauge for every person. To that end, admissions decisions are based on the full scope of information in the application dockets, and any individual component is considered in relation to its relevance for the student’s aims.
The Department of Physics offers courses leading to the degrees of Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy. There are opportunities for study and research in both experimental and theoretical physics. Areas of specialization include astrophysics and cosmology, atomic and molecular physics, condensed matter physics, elementary particle physics, quantum field theory and string theory, quantum optics, and statistical physics. Through ongoing faculty recruitment efforts the department continues to develop existing active research efforts and expand into new areas. The Ph.D. program is aimed at enabling a student to prepare for and carry out research in physics at the frontier of knowledge. The department encourages entry into doctoral research under the supervision of a faculty member as soon as one has attained sufficient mastery of the fundamental principles and techniques of physics. Depth and breadth within the larger context of contemporary physics are promoted by a flexible set of course requirements.
Applications for admission to the Masters and Doctoral programs in Physics should be submitted to the Graduate School of Arts and Science. We encourage all applicants to review our Frequently Asked Questions page for answers to the most commonly asked questions, including how to qualify for an application fee waiver.
Admissions
All applicants to the Graduate School of Arts and Science (GSAS) are required to submit the general application requirements, which include:
- Academic Transcripts
- Test Scores (if required)
- Applicant Statements
- Résumé or Curriculum Vitae
- Letters of Recommendation, and
- A non-refundable application fee.
See Physics for admission requirements and instructions specific to this program.