PhD in Physics

Qualification
- PhD
Duration
4 years
Study mode
Full-time, Part-time
Delivered by
- Department of Physics
Location
- South Kensington

Entry requirements

Upper second class (2:1) or equivalent degree, typically in Physics although degrees in other physical sciences or engineering disciplines would be considered.

Course overview

We have a vibrant and internationally leading research programme that provides a broad-based coverage of fundamental and applied physics, strongly supporting multidisciplinary collaborations and actively fostering the development of new fields.

The Department of Physics uniquely covers the most comprehensive range of important experimental and theoretical research fields.

We are committed to providing a positive environment that supports everyone in reaching their potential.

Structure

Months 0-12

Milestones for the first year of study include:

Within 3 months of starting:

Submit a short research plan, summarising the problem you have been set, and your proposed plan to work on it.

Within 12 months of starting (24 months for part-time):

Submit a report summarising the first year’s work, including courses taken. There is a short oral examination to assess this.

Months 12-24

Within 24 months of starting (48 months for part-time):

Submit a report describing progress so far, and a work plan for completing the thesis. Assessed with a short oral examination.

Final year

Within 24-36 months of starting:

Progress Review (at 36 months). It is decided whether you should move to writing up stage or have your active registration extended.

Supervisors

You can look for a supervisor within the department whose research interests aligns with your intented research topic.

Entry requirements

Academic requirements

To be eligible for a Research Council studentship, you should have at least an upper second class honours (2:1) or equivalent degree, typically in Physics although degrees in other physical sciences or engineering disciplines would be considered. We broadly apply this requirement to all PhD applicants including self-funded students. In exceptional cases, if you have an MSc or similar qualification, or if you can demonstrate several years’ relevant work experience and provide strong references, then we may consider applications from candidates who have not achieved a 2:1 degree.

Please check the 51�Թ�� College entry requirements Entry requirements to ensure you meet the minimum entry criteria for research.

English requirements

International qualifications

For guidance see our accepted qualifications, though please note that the standards listed are the minimum for entry to the College, and not specifically this Department.

If you have any questions about admissions and the standard required for the qualification you hold or are currently studying then please contact the relevant admissions team.

How to apply

Apply online

A PhD can start at any time of year although the majority of PhD students begin in October at the start of the academic year.

Fees and funding

Scholarships and funding

We have some funded projects within the department.

We also have a range of grants and scholarships which you don't need to pay back.

For further information about possible sources of funding please visit our Scholarships page.

Home fee

2023 entry

£4,712 per year

Please note that fees are charged by year of entry to the College and not year of study.

Tuition fees are set for the academic year which runs from 1 September to 31 August. You will pay the fees for the full 12 months of the academic year that your start date falls in.

Please refer to our tuition fees pages for more details of fees are charged and billed.

Overseas fee

2023 entry

£29,300 per year

Please note that fees are charged by year of entry to the College and not year of study.

Tuition fees are set for the academic year which runs from 1 September to 31 August. You will pay the fees for the full 12 months of the academic year that your start date falls in.

Please refer to our tuition fees pages for more details of fees are charged and billed.