Interdepartmental Program
No
Research in the Department of Physics and Astronomy is thriving at Iowa State. We have major research efforts in condensed matter physics, the physics of biological systems, high energy particle physics, nuclear physics, particle astrophysics, and astronomy, with excellent opportunities for both graduate and undergraduate students.
Our condensed matter and biophysics research efforts are greatly enhanced by the presence of the Department of Energy's Ames Laboratory on the Iowa State University campus (literally next door to the Department of Physics and Astronomy). Many of our faculty hold cross-appointments with Ames Lab, and DOE staff scientists often work with our graduate students.
Degrees Offered:
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
- Master of Science (M.S.)
How long does it take to earn a degree?
- Median time to earn the doctorate: 7.3 years (Methods)
- Median time to earn the master’s: No data
Learning Goals
- Conduct original research. Our graduate students will conduct high-quality, original research in a specific field of physics/astronomy. This includes developing the ability to understand scholarly literature, to articulate research objectives, and to interpret research results appropriately.
- Attain knowledge of physics/astronomy. Our graduate students will obtain a sound foundation in advanced physics/astronomy and in the advanced experimental, observational, and computational techniques required for their research. They will also obtain a broad understanding of other fields of physics/astronomy beyond their research specialty.
- Develop professionalism. Our graduate students will conduct scholarship and teaching, in teams or independently, in ways that consistently demonstrate ethical practice and integrity. They will develop proficiency in written and verbal communication of complex scientific topics at the level required for presenting results in refereed journals and at scientific conferences.
515-294-4936
Charles Kerton or Valerie Arnold
physastro@iastate.edu
Department of Physics and Astronomy, Graduate Admissions
12 Physics Building
2323 Osborn Drive
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011-1026
Program Homepage
Program Handbook
Application Requirements
Application Deadlines:
January 15th for fall admission.
Application Details:
This program is open to domestic and international students.
Application Instructions
Admission Requirements
Graduate College Requirements:
- 4 year Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
- Academic Records/Transcripts
- Minimum 3.0 GPA (Program may alter requirement.)
- Proof of English Proficiency.
Program Specific Requirements:
- GRE General and Subject Tests are optional
- Statement of Goals/Interests (if not submitted electronically)
- All program required supplemental materials are to be uploaded as PDF documents into the online application system. If for some reason you are unable to upload, you may email documents to varnold@iastate.edu or postal mail to the address below.
- A limited number of admission fee waivers will be available. See department website for details.
- Program Requires GRE: No
- Program Requires GMAT: No
- Program Will Review Without TOEFL or IELTS: No
International Requirements:
- Financial Statement: Application
- English Proficiency Minimum:
| TOEFL Paper (PBT) |
550 |
| TOEFL Internet (iBT) |
79 |
| IELTS |
6.5 |
| PTE |
53 |
| Duolingo (approved through spring 2026) |
115 |
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
kerton@iastate.edu
