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The University of Waikato
The University of Waikato logo

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Physics

This course is available

On-Campus

Level of Study

Doctoral Degree

Duration

3 years

Next start date

Expected Aug 2024

Campus

Hamilton Campus

Summary

The degree of Doctor of Philosophy is awarded by the University for research carried out under the supervision of at least two staff members. A PhD can also be presented as a PhD with Publication or a PhD with a Creative Practice Component.

Why study a PhD?

The research, which must be the candidate's own work, is written up as a thesis, and may include papers published or intended to be published. The thesis is required to present the case for the research, outline the research undertaken and the findings and conclusions of that research. There is no course work for this degree.

Why study Physics?

In the School of Science, Physics is taught at a postgraduate level. By studying with us you will develop a thorough understanding of theoretical physics and gain advanced knowledge in areas such as quantum theory and biophysics. Many famous scientists, such as Einstein and Newton were physicists. Physicists are versed in mathematics, computer programming, experimental science and the design of complex instruments. They are among the most versatile scientists, able to easily cross boundaries into other disciplines such as chemistry, biology, medicine, Earth and planetary sciences. There are biophysicists, geophysicists, astrophysicists and neurophysicists. At the University of Waikato our academic staff are leading the way in biophysics. both experimental and theoretical, including measuring and modelling the electrical activity in the brain for applications such as anaesthesia and transcranial magnetic stimulation.

Career Opportunities

Applications Engineer

Avionics Engineer

Electronics engineer

Medical Physicist

Meteorologist

Satellite Information Processor

Entry criteria

To qualify to enrol for the PhD, an applicant must

  • have qualified for the award of a New Zealand bachelors degree with honours or master's degree,1 in a field relevant to the proposed research with at least second class honours (first division) or distinction, or for a qualification considered by the Academic Board to be equivalent, or
  • have qualified for the degree of Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in a field relevant to the proposed research, or
  • have enrolled for the degree of Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in a field relevant to the proposed research and demonstrated that they are able to transfer to the PhD, or
  • have passed qualifying papers at a satisfactory level in a field relevant to the proposed research, and
  • have demonstrated research ability, normally at least 30 points of research in an honours or master's degree, or significant professional research experience, or equivalent, or
  • in exceptional circumstances have produced other evidence to the satisfaction of the Postgraduate Research Committee that they have adequate skills and knowledge to proceed with the proposed research.

English Language Requirements

  • an Academic IELTS Overall score of at least 6.5 (with no less than 6.0 in any band), or
  • a TOEFL iBT (Internet Based TOEFL) score of 90 with a Writing score of 21, or
  • a TOEFL iBT Home Edition overall score of 90 with a Writing score of 21, or
  • a PTE Academic overall score of 56 with no band less than 46, or
  • a B2 First (formally known as Cambridge English: First (FCE)) with an overall score of 176 and no bands below 169, or
  • a C2 Proficiency (formally known as Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)) with an overall score of 176 and no bands below 169, or

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