The present PhD program in physical sciences (PSCI) allows students to pursue a PhD in physics by following the physics or astronomy concentrations, but many potential students may look at the name of the degree and not realize this, thinking that it requires a completely interdisciplinary program. Thus, we suspect the new program should prove more attractive to more students. (top)

How likely is it that the program will be approved, and when will we know?

The Department of Physics & Astronomy is cautiously optimistic that approval will be granted, based on feedback within GMU, but the decision is made by the State Council on Higher Education. It is likely that a decision will be taken by December, 2007. (top)

How can I increase the likelihood that the program will be approved?

The best way would be to write a letter in support of the program addressed to the Department chair, Bob Ehrlich. Letters written on company letterhead would be particularly effective, especially if they address the issue of employment prospects for graduates. (top)

When would the program start if approved?

Probably Fall 2008. (top)

How can I find out details about the program?

See this web site: http://mason.gmu.edu/~rehrlich/proposal_in_SCHEV_format.htm (top)

I am not now enrolled in a PhD program. Should I wait for the new program to start or enter the physical sciences (PSCI) PhD now?

If you want to start taking courses in Fall 2007, then you probably should apply to the PSCI program. If you intend to applying after the Fall 2007 semester starts, it might make sense to wait. (top)

I have an MS in physics--how many credits can I transfer into the PhD program?

Up to 30. (top)

I completed most of my courses for the PSCI program--which of these can transfer into the physics PhD?

Check the exact requirements in the proposal, and speak with Dr. Paul So (paso@gmu.edu), the graduate advisor if you are unsure. (top)

I completed the qualifiers for the PSCI program--do I need to take qualifiers for the new physics PhD if I transfer into it?

If you have a physics/astronomy concentration in your contract, then you don't need to take any additional qualifiers. (top)

I have taken some of the qualifiers for the PSCI program--should I take the rest, or instead take the qualifiers for the new physics PhD once it begins?

This is tricky–-it depends largely on how many you have taken. If you have, for example, taken all but one, it obviously would be preferable to take that last one in the PSCI program. You may wish to get advice on this from Dr. Paul So (paso@gmu.edu), the graduate advisor. (top)

What is the plan for the PSCI program in the future?

It is expected that nearly all physics or astronomy students will transfer out of the PSCI program. One year after the physics PhD is approved, the PSCI program will be retitled PhD in Chemistry. (top)

What would happen if I remain in the PSCI program after the physics PhD program begins?

You would be subject to the old program requirements. Your degree title would be “PhD in Chemistry” if your degree is awarded after the PSCI program is retitled, one year after the physics PhD is approved. (top)