Introduction to the Graduate Academic Program in the Department of Physics and Astronomy

1
Introduction to the Graduate Academic Program in
the Department of Physics and Astronomy

• Collin Broholm
• Department of Physics and Astronomy, Johns
  Hopkins University

2
Graduate studies at JHU

• We stimulate a transition
• From predominantly passive learning from courses
  and books
• To active learning through your own
  inquisitiveness to produce new knowledge for the
  world
• We encourage exploration
• Colloquia, seminars, and study groups
• No firm choices needed in years 1-2
• An informed decision about your thesis
• subject is key to future success

3
Course requirements

• If you have taken a required course waive it
• There is a 2 year seminar course to broaden your
  knowledge and help you make winning presentations
• International Students take a seminar course on
  American Class room communication skills
• Two tracks. Students with an interest in
  Astronomy can follow either
• Physics track
• Theoretical Mechanics or Stat. Phys. (1 sem.)
• Electromagnetic Theory (2 sem.)
• Quantum Mechanics (2 sem.)
• Mathematical Methods (2 sem.)
• Laboratory Course (1 sem.)

4
Course Requirements

• Astronomy and Astrophysics
• Stellar structure and Evolution (1 sem.)
• Interstellar Medium and fluid dynamics (1 sem.)
• Radiative Astrophysics (2 sem.)
• Mathematical Methods (2 sem.)
• Galactic Structure and Stellar Dynamics (1 sem.)
• Extragalactic Astronomy (1 sem.)
• Two additional courses from
• Quantum mechanics
• Observational Astronomy
• Statistical Methods
• Plasma Physics
• Particle physics
• General Relativity

• Cosmology
• Active Galactic Nuclei
• Fourier Optics
• Compact Objects
• Planetary Atmospheres
• Planetary Fluid Dynamics
• Advanced Lab.

5
Boundary conditions..

• Written Exams
• To identify areas were better preparation is
  needed
• 1.5 years to complete the exams which are offered
  3 times each in that period
• Electromagnetism (September and May)
• Quantum Mechanics (September and May)
• Classical Mechanics (January and May)
• Statistical Physics and Thermodynamics (January
  and May)
• Preliminary Oral Exam Can you think on your
  feet?
• Graduate Board Oral Exam Starts with thesis
  proposal
• Thesis research begins as soon as possible
  typically 2nd year
• Thesis defense where you present your results to
  a broad committee.
• Total time to defense varies from 5-7 years.

6
Our goal is your success!

• First year mentor You have a faculty advisor in
  your field of interest
• First year academic advisor. Helps you navigate
  the requirements
• Thesis committee Three faculty members who
  review progress and help you move effectively
  through the program