Show your physics mastery and make your theories known with a Doctoral Degree in Applied Physics. On the Ph.D. track, you will build upon what you've learned through the master's program and hone your original research to solve real-world problems.
With a Ph.D. in Applied Physics at PSU, you will have the time, faculty access, and research support to experiment and explore applications for your theories. You will also benefit from access to incredible support resources for professional development, including support for developing skills in classroom instruction and grant writing.

Portland State University offers the PhD of Applied Physics as a full-time degree delivered on campus at its main campus in Aberdeen, United States of America. Taught in English and completed over 4 years, the program equips students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for applied physics and related professional fields. The next available intake begins on September 26, 2026.
About PhD in Applied Physics
Disciplines
Requirements and Admission Criteria for PhD in Applied Physics at Portland State University
Entry Requirements
- Copies of official degree certificate/diploma
- Certified translation of transcripts
- Financial documentation demonstrating adequate financial support for at least the first year of study
English Requirements
- PTEMin 60
- IELTSMin 6.5
- TOEFLMin 80
Career Opportunities after Completing PhD in Applied Physics
Physicists are employed by almost all industries, and a Ph.D. in Applied Physics from Portland State will provide you with the knowledge, skills, and experience you need to succeed no matter where your career takes you. Unlike traditional physics programs, studies in applied physics concentrate on the actual application of research to develop new technology and solve engineering problems in industry.
Many of our students who graduate with a Ph.D. in Applied Physics go on to work in technical industries, holding positions such as systems software engineer, applications developer, senior research scientist, and product design engineer. Recent graduates have been hired at Hitachi, Intel, Mantis-Sigma, Nike, Apple, ESI, Nanometrics, Molecular Vista, Greatbatch Medical.
A number of our Ph.D. graduates are also instructors or faculty at local schools, including Portland Community College, Portland State University, Clackamas Community College, and the University of Portland.
Fee Information
How to Apply
- Complete the graduate application
- Send the Graduate School’s Admissions office your official academic transcripts
- Submit evidence of English language proficiency
- Provide financial documentation demonstrating adequate financial support for at least the first year of study
- Depending on the individual graduate program that you are applying for, additional department requirements may include:
- Personal essay or statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
- Standardized test scores, e.g., GRE (not required by all programs)
- Resume
- Writing samples
- Portfolio
United States of America, Aberdeen