Graduate Bulletin
For detailed program information including curriculum and requirements, please view the academic bulletin, the university's official document of record concerning graduate-level academic programs and regulations.
Masters Degree
We award masters degrees to students who have demonstrated their ability to master material of the major fundamental branches of physics and their applications. In addition to completing the necessary coursework, you'll also complete a masters thesis and participate in research.
Ph.D. Degree
We award Ph.D. degrees awarded to students who have satisfied the faculty that their knowledge of physics and their research ability have prepared them for a scholarly career in physics with the potential for continued professional growth and achievement. The primary means of demonstrating this is a dissertation based on original research carried out by the student. M.S. degree students who have finished their M.S. degree at USC and want to continue with the USC Ph.D. program should apply to the Admissions Committee.
Graduate Assistantship Information
Application Checklist [pdf]
Graduate Student Handbook [pdf]