Key information
Duration
Start dates & application deadlines
- Starting August 2027
- Apply before Jan 2027
Language
Delivered
On Campus
Campus Location
Disciplines
Overview
The Optical Sciences program from The University of Arizona prepares graduates to serve as scientists or engineers in leadership positions in academia, research and industry. Graduates may work with other OSC Ph.D. alumni who have published scholarly books, headed scientific organizations, advised United States presidents and government agencies, contributed to NASA's space program, devised lifesaving medical technology, directed national and international corporations, and founded successful…
companies.
Qualifying Examination
- A qualifying examination is required to demonstrate sufficient mastery to pursue the doctorate as well as to determine areas of study where further course work is necessary.
- All College of Optical Sciences Ph.D. students will be required to complete and pass a written qualifying examination that covers Optical Design, Electricity & Magnetism, Interferometry & Diffraction, and Quantum Mechanics & Optical Physics.
- The exam must be taken in the week before the beginning of the fall semester of the second year in the Ph.D. program.
Programme Structure
Courses include:
- Electromagnetic Waves
- Geometrical Optics
- Optical Design and Instrumentation
- Optical Physics and Lasers
- Quantum Optics
- Diffraction and Interferometry
- Physical Optics
Admission requirements
Academic requirements
English requirements
- Duolingo English Test: 110
- TOEFL iBT: 79
- PTE Academic: 60
- IELTS: 7
Other requirements
General requirements
- Bachelor's degree in optics, engineering, physics, mathematics, or a related field.
- Coursework must include four semesters of calculus including vector calculus and differential equations, and should include two or more semesters of calculus-based college physics including an electromagnetism course. A course in linear algebra is also recommended.
- 3.00 GPA
- International applicants: TOEFL 79, IELTS 7.0, or CESL Endorsement
Fees and funding
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees are shown in AUD and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.
- International (Non-residents): 33,011 AUD / year (≈ 23,400 USD / year)
- Out-of-State: 33,011 AUD / year (≈ 23,400 USD / year)
- Domestic In-State: 17,916 AUD / year (≈ 12,700 USD / year)
Living costs
Tucson, United States: 1,171-1,608 AUD / month
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
