Physics, Space

College of Natural Science 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

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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 four of the following:
   PHYS F626--Fundamentals of Plasma Physics--3 credits
   PHYS F627--Advanced Plasma Physics--3 credits
   PHYS F629--Methods of Numerical Simulation in Fluids and Plasma--3 credits
   PHYS F672--Magnetospheric Physics--3 credits
   PHYS F673--Space Physics--3 credits
4. Complete the thesis or non-thesis requirements:
   Thesis
   1. Complete the following:
      PHYS F699--Thesis--6 - 12 credits
      Approved PHYS electives--12 credits
   2. Minimum credits required--30 - 33 credits
   
   Non-Thesis
   1. Complete the following:
      Approved PHYS electives--18 credits
      PHYS F698--Research--3 - 6 credits
   2. Minimum credits required--30 - 33 credits

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. Minimum credits required--18 credits

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

See Physics.