Master's:
Approved sequence of eight graduate courses. Of the eight required courses, four will be selected from the six core courses (PHYS2010, 2030, 2040, 2050, 2060, and 2140). Four additional credits at the 2000 level are required, selected with guidance based on a student's goals and interests. One or two of the four additional credits may be Research in Physics (PHYS2980, 2981). A master's thesis is highly recommended, as it forms an important pillar of the professional training.

Doctorate:
Approved sequence of ten semester courses comprised of all six core courses (PHYS2010, 2030, 2040, 2050, 2060, 2140) and four advanced courses.
Qualifying exam taken at start of second year in program. Preliminary exam completed by end of third year, marking advancement to candidacy.

Other degrees:
Thesis:
The Ph.D. written dissertation and oral defense are required. Preparation of a master’s thesis is highly recommended for those enrolled in the ScM program.

Brown Physics' internationally renowned faculty conduct forefront research with their graduate students in areas ranging from the most fundamental to the applied. The department is a strong community with many events throughout the year, including weekly colloquia and seminars, a monthly faculty seminar, a weekly graduate student coffee hour, an annual poster session and an annual department picnic. There are plentiful opportunities for student/faculty interaction and a friendly rapport between faculty, staff and students. There is a strong student-led mentoring program. First-year Ph.D. students are paired with both community and TA peer mentors to assist them in transitioning to grad student life and to teaching at Brown. New Ph.D. students are assigned faculty advisers who meet with them frequently the first year and advise them until they affiliate with a research adviser. New ScM students are advised by the ScM Program Director, who will meet with them throughout their graduate career. The department holds a three-day orientation for new graduate students, which includes social events, training, tours, advising sessions, etc.