Physics, Space

College of Science, Engineering and Mathematics
Department of Physics
(907) 474-7339
www.uaf.edu/physics/

M.S., Ph.D. Degrees

Minimum Requirements for Degrees: M.S.: 30-33 credits;
Ph.D.: 18 thesis credits

Downloadable PDF (55K)

Space physics focuses on the physics of upper atmospheres, ionospheres, magnetospheres and the interplanetary medium. It includes core physics courses and specialty courses in space physics, aeronomy, magnetospheric and auroral physics, and advanced plasma physics. The specialty courses support graduate research with faculty members at UAF’s Geophysical Institute, and include areas such as numerical simulations and time-series analysis. Additional courses such as radiative transfer and physics of fluids provide added breadth.

Graduate Program—M.S. Degree

1. Complete the general university requirements.
2. Complete the master’s degree requirements.
3. Complete 4 of the following:
   
   PHYS 626—Fundamentals of Plasma Physics 3 credits
   
   PHYS 627—Advanced Plasma Physics 3 credits
   
   PHYS 629—Methods of Numerical Simulation in Fluids and Plasma 3 credits
   
   PHYS 672—Magnetospheric Physics 3 credits
   
   PHYS 673—Space Physics 3 credits
   
4. Complete the thesis or non-thesis requirements:
   
   Thesis
   a. Complete the following:
   
   PHYS 699—Thesis 6-12 credits
   
   Approved PHYS electives 12 credits
   
   b. Minimum credits required 30-33 credits
   
   Non-Thesis
   a. Complete the following:
   
   Approved PHYS electives 18 credits
   
   PHYS 698—Research 3-6 credits
   
   b. Minimum credits required 30-33

Graduate Program—Ph.D. Degree

1. Complete the general university requirements.
2. Complete the Ph.D. degree requirements.*
3. Complete and pass a written and oral comprehensive examination.
4. Demonstrate competency in a foreign language or a research tool.
5. Minimum credits required 18

* Complete in accordance with the physics department’s policies and procedures manual for graduate students.