Applied Physics

Applied Physics, PhD

Are You a Problem Solver?
Join Harvard’s Applied Physics Graduate Program

If you’re passionate about solving complex problems at the intersection of physics and engineering, the Harvard SEAS Applied Physics Graduate Program is the ideal path for you. Applied physicists are natural problem solvers, leveraging their understanding of physical principles to develop groundbreaking technologies and materials. Our program empowers students to explore fundamental phenomena that underpin quantum devices, photonics, advanced materials, and living systems.

Why Choose Harvard Applied Physics?

Situated at the crossroads of physics and engineering, Harvard’s Applied Physics graduate program offers a unique opportunity to study the fundamentals of complex systems, including emerging technologies and even biological systems. Students work closely with world-renowned faculty on interdisciplinary research projects in:

  • Quantum Science and Engineering
  • Photonics
  • Quantum Materials
  • Soft Matter and Soft Materials
  • Biomaterials and Biophysics
  • Climate and Sustainability Solutions

The program encourages hands-on research, whether through cutting-edge experiments, advanced instrumentation development, or the integration of experiments with theory and modeling.

Prepare for an Impactful Career in Applied Physics

Harvard’s Applied Physics program equips students with the skills and experience to excel in both academia and industry. Whether your goal is to lead groundbreaking research, develop new technologies, or pursue an academic career, you will be uniquely positioned to shape the future of quantum engineering, biotechnology, materials science, climate change solutions, and more.

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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.)  

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.