Graduate Physics

The University of Virginia’s graduate program in Physics is designed to prepare Ph.D. students for careers in research and teaching, with strengths across disciplines such as high-energy particle physics, nuclear physics, quantum information, condensed matter and biophysics, cosmology, and medical physics. The program includes around 85 graduate students, supported by 40 standing faculty and a strong network of emeritus professors, postdocs, visiting scholars, and staff. Students admitted to the Ph.D. program receive financial support through assistantships or fellowships, and dissertation research may be conducted within the department or at national and international laboratories such as CERN, Fermilab, and Jefferson Lab.

From the start, students are encouraged to explore different research areas, participate in seminars, and engage in supervised research projects, with the expectation of devoting the summer after their first year to laboratory or faculty-guided research. This hands-on experience often provides a foundation for dissertation work. Annual reviews ensure student progress, and graduates go on to successful careers in academia, national labs, and industry, often maintaining professional collaborations with their advisors. The department emphasizes inclusivity, welcoming students from diverse backgrounds into its research and educational community.