Our Ph.D. program provides students with opportunities to perform research in some of the most current and dynamic areas of physics. In the first two years, students develop a solid and broad base of physics knowledge through the core curriculum, departmental colloquia, and research training. Armed with the core knowledge, doctoral students join a research group working in an area of particular interest. This research is performed in very close collaboration with one or more faculty whose interests span a wide range of physics fields.

PhD in Physics at Old Dominion University
Study Physics at Old Dominion University, a PhD degree offered at its main campus in Aberdeen, United States of America. This Full Time program is delivered on campus in English and takes approximately 4 years to complete. Students benefit from a structured learning experience designed to build both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. The next intake is scheduled for August 28, 2027.
About PhD in Physics
- The physics department has been selected by the University to achieve national prominence, taking advantage of Old Dominion's proximity (a half-hour drive) to the Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility (TJNAF), the world's premier nuclear physics research facility, and the NASA Langley Research Center.
- The addition of the new Physical Sciences Research Building we offer substantial additional opportunities for research to graduate and undergraduate students alike.
- The opportunity for intimate involvement in research with world-class faculty is here for any interested student.
Disciplines
Requirements and Admission Criteria for PhD in Physics at Old Dominion University
Entry Requirements
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Application and $50 fee
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Equivalent U.S. Bachelor's Degree
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All prior Secondary/High School or College/University transcripts along with Diploma or Leaving Certificate.
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Demonstrated English Language Proficiency
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Financial Documentation (seeking F/J visas only)
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Passport identification
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Requirements & deadlines vary by program
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Standardized Test Results (GRE, GMAT, MAT, MCAT, PRAXIS)
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Essay/Personal Statement/Resume
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Letters of Recommendation
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Send all materials & correspondence to
International Admissions
Old Dominion University
2101 Dragas Hall
Norfolk, VA 23529 USA
Required Credentials
As a service to applicants, the Office of International Admissions evaluates all foreign academic credentials. All documents submitted during the application process become the property of Old Dominion University and cannot be returned.
- Transcripts, translations and standardized tests must be official, sealed, stamped by the institution or testing agency and sent directly to the Office of International Admissions at Old Dominion University.
- Testing authorities may include the Registrar or the Principal/Controller of Examinations.
- When English is not the language of instruction, academic transcripts are required in both English and one's native language. Certified official translations by a licensed or professional translator must accompany academic documents not written in English. Translations of official documents completed by the student will not be accepted.
- Once submitted, no additional documents can be uploaded through the online application. If you wish to include additional credentials, attach and send them directly to [email protected]. Please be sure your name and date of birth are clearly indicated in the email subject line.
English Requirements
- PTEMin 53
- IELTSMin 6.5
- TOEFLMin 79
Career Opportunities after Completing PhD in Physics
Careers
Check out these ideas from ODU Career Development Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn–half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.
Physicists
Conduct research into physical phenomena, develop theories on the basis of observation and experiments, and devise methods to apply physical laws and theories.
Physics Teachers, Postsecondary
Teach courses pertaining to the laws of matter and energy. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
Tuition and Fee Information for PhD in Physics at Old Dominion University
How to Apply for PhD in Physics at Old Dominion University
Your Choice
The Common Application, which allows you to complete one application and designate it to be used for multiple institutions, OR the new Old Dominion University Application. The choice is yours.
Our Commitment
Whichever method you choose, the admissions staff at Old Dominion University is committed to processing your application in a timely manner. Questions concerning the admissions process may be directed to [email protected], 757-683-3685. Questions relative to The Common Application need to be directed to the Help Center found at commonapp.org
Old Dominion University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs and activities. Visit https://www.odu.edu/equity for more information.

United States of America, Aberdeen