Physics
PhD
Physics has always remained and still is at the center of science and technology. The laws of physics that are reached through observations and careful experimentation find applications from the subatomic particles to the astronomic formations such as stars and galaxies. On the other hand, the design of advanced technology materials, fabrication of semiconductor devices, the development of optical communication systems have all evolved as applications of physics.
Our department has both theoretical and experimental research activities. Quantum information theory, gravitation, and condensed matter physics are among our theoretical research interests. On the experimental research side, we have three advanced laboratories where we focus on solid state lasers, optoelectronic and nano-photonic materials and devices.
Our Ph.D. Program aims at teaching fundamental physics at a high level and coupling this knowledge with a research experience in either theoretical or applied physics depending on the interests of the student.
Degree Requirements
Applicants can apply to our PhD programs with a BS or MS degree. PhD students admitted with a BS degree must be completed at least 14 courses and 42 credits, as well as the seminar course, by the end of the sixth semester and take the qualifying exam no later than the seventh semester. PhD students admitted with a MS degree must be completed at least 7 courses and 21 credits, as well as the seminar course, by the end of the fourth semester and take the qualifying exam no later than the fifth semester.
In addition to the credit courses, students must complete the non-credit courses; PHYS 695 - PhD Thesis, PHYS 590 Seminar, ETHR 500 - Scientific Research Methods and Research and Publication Ethics, ENGL 500 - Academic Writing, TEAC 500 - Teaching Experience, KOLT 500 -Teaching in Higher Education and LIBR 500 - Library Researcher Development.
Curriculum
Required core courses (3 credits each):
PHYS 501 CLASSICAL MECHANICS
PHYS 502 CLASSICAL ELECTRODYNAMICS
PHYS 503 ADVANCED QUANTUM MECHANICS I
PHYS 506 STATISTICAL MECHANICS I
Elective courses (3 credit each):
PHYS 504 ADVANCED QUANTUM MECHANICS II
PHYS 505 CLASSICAL ELECTRODYNAMICS II
PHYS 507 STATISTICAL MECHANICS II
PHYS 508 OPTICAL AND LASER SPECTROSCOPY
PHYS 509 CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS I
PHYS 510 CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS II
PHYS 513 APPLIED MATHEMATICS I
PHYS 514 ADVANCED SCIENTIFIC COMPUTATION
PHYS 515 CLASSICAL FIELD THEORIES
PHYS 516 GENERAL RELATIVITY AND ASTROPHYSICS
PHYS 517 QUANTIZED FIELD THEORIES I
PHYS 518 QUANTIZED FIELD THEORIES II
PHYS 519 GROUP THEORY AND ITS APPLICATIONS IN PHYSICS
PHYS 520 OPTICAL MICRO-CAVITIES
PHYS 521 PHOTONICS AND LASERS
PHYS 522 ATOM OPTICS
PHYS 523 INTRODUCTION TO QUANTUM COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION PHYSICS
PHYS 524 SINGLE-MOLECULE OPTICS
PHYS 525 PHOTONIC MATERIALS AND DEVICES
PHYS 526 FEMTOSECOND OPTICS AND LASERS
PHYS 527 COMPLEX DYNAMICAL SYSTEMS
PHYS 529 INTRODUCTION TO OPTICS
Application Requirements
At least 3 reference(s) must be provided.
A motivation letter must be added to your application.
Personal and Educational Background Information (CV)
TOEFL or YDS/e-YDS/YOKDIL Requirement (for those whose native language is not English)
– TOEFL Internet Based: Minimum Score 80 (Exams taken in Türkiye must be carried out at the State Universities.)
– YDS/e-YDS/YOKDIL: 80
- ALES/GRE score Official transcripts from all the universities attended.
One of the most important parts of your application is the motivation letter. Its goal is to introduce your background and support your application. In short, its goal is to answer the question:
“Why are you a suitable candidate?”
Write in a clear and logical manner: remember, the way you write and present yourself says a lot about you. Do not plagiarize as this will mean automatic disqualification from the evaluation process.
Some points that may help you answer this question:
Why have I chosen to apply to this programme? What do I expect to gain from my studies? Why does my academic and personal background make me a suitable candidate for this programme and for Koç University (potential for success, demonstrated qualities and skills)? Why is Koç University a good choice for me as an individual?
