Applied Physics, PhD
Applied Physics PhD Degree
Are you a problem solver? If so, Applied Physics is the program for you. Applied Physicists are problem solvers by nature, spending their time exploring the phenomena that become the foundation of quantum and photonic devices and novel materials. Located at the intersection of physics and engineering, Applied Physics enables you to study the fundamentals of complex systems, including living organisms. You will work with faculty to research biomaterials, materials, photonics, quantum engineering, and soft matter.
Research in this area focuses on photonics, quantum science and engineering, quantum materials, quantitative biology, soft matter physics, biomaterials and biophysics, and novel materials. Applied Physics at Harvard provides an extraordinary opportunity to further your intellectual curiosity whether you are excited about experiments, developing new instrumentation, theoretical studies, or modeling.
Projects worked on by current and past students include developing millimeter-size flat lenses for virtual and augmented reality platforms, discovering materials for stable quantum computing, and building fundamental technologies for integrated photonics.
Applied Physics Degree
Harvard School of Engineering offers a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Applied Physics, conferred through the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. Doctoral students may earn the masters degree en route to the Ph.D. Prospective students apply through Harvard Griffin GSAS; in the online application, select “Engineering and Applied Sciences” as your program choice and select “PhD Applied Physics” in the Area of Study menu.
The Applied Physics program does not offer an independent Masters Degree.
Please note that admission to the AP Ph.D. program is independent from admission to the Physics Ph.D. at Harvard. While you can transfer between programs within SEAS after being admitted, transfer to a program outside SEAS requires reapplying to that program. Once admitted to the Applied Physics PhD program, you must find a Ph.D. advisor who holds an appointment within SEAS. (Faculty members listed as “Affiliates" can co-advise a Ph.D. student with another Applied Physics faculty member, but cannot serve as the primary research advisor.)
Applied Physics PhD Career Paths
Harvard SEAS PhD graduates in Applied Physics pursue a wide variety of career paths, including positions in academia, research, and industry. Many alumni hold faculty roles at top universities or conduct research in specialized fields such as quantum science, photonics, and bioengineering. Others have transitioned into roles at leading technology firms, major aerospace companies, leading semiconductor firms, and the energy and medical sectors, where they apply their expertise to solve complex technical challenges. The program prepares students for both research-intensive careers and practical applications in diverse industries by emphasizing interdisciplinary training and collaborative research experiences
Admissions & Academic Requirements
Please review the admissions requirements and other information before applying. in the online application, select “Engineering and Applied Sciences” as your program choice and select “PhD Applied Physics” in the Area of Study menu. Our website also provides admissions guidance, program-specific requirements, and a PhD program academic timeline.
Academic Background
Applicants typically have bachelor’s degrees in the natural sciences, mathematics, computer science, or engineering.
Standardized Tests
GRE General: Not Accepted
Applied Physics Faculty & Research Areas
View a list of our Applied Physics faculty and Applied Physics affiliated research areas, Please note that faculty members listed as “Affiliates" or "Lecturers" cannot serve as the primary research advisor.
Applied Physics Centers & Initiatives
The area features a highly-accomplished faculty and several world-class facilities and centers including the Harvard Quantum Initiative; the Center for Nanoscale Systems, one of the world's most advanced research facilities housing a shared cleanroom, facilities for materials synthesis, and a microscopy suite; the Materials Research Science and Engineering Center; and the Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering.
View a full list of the research centers & initiatives at SEAS and the Applied Physics faculty engagement with these entities.
Graduate Student Clubs
Graduate student clubs and organizations bring students together to share topics of mutual interest. These clubs often serve as an important adjunct to course work by sponsoring social events and lectures. Graduate student clubs are supported by the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin School of Arts and Sciences. Explore the list of active clubs and organizations.
Funding and Scholarship
Learn more about financial support for PhD students.
How to Apply
Learn more about how to apply or review frequently asked questions for prospective graduate students.