Doctor of Philosophy with a major in Applied Physics

Applied research connects the Naval Postgraduate School's graduate education with practical defense needs. Warfare studies and wargaming form a central area of work, alongside research in artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, digitally crewed vessels, and space-related imaging systems. Centers, institutes, and academic groups provide interdisciplinary expertise across the institution's education and research programs.

Based in Monterey, California, NPS offers graduate study through academic departments and provides programs both on campus and through distance learning. NPS Online extends defense-focused education through tailored graduate-level distance learning and on-location opportunities. The school also supports research and education linked to operational challenges, with faculty expertise spanning a broad range of critical disciplines.

International applicants should understand that NPS is designed primarily for eligible U.S. and allied military personnel, Department of Defense civilians, and a limited number of defense contractors. The school also works with international partners. Its degrees are master's and PhD programs focused on defense-related study, and its academic model expects students to connect professional operational experience with graduate education and applied research.

The Department of Physics at the Naval Postgraduate School offers a Doctor of Philosophy with a major in Applied Physics. This program involves coursework, written and oral examinations, and research. Students are expected to complete a scholarly investigation leading to an original contribution to knowledge, requiring at least two peer-reviewed journal publications.

The program requires a minimum of 40 credit hours of physics coursework (3000/4000 level, grade 'B' or better), including specific core courses, with remaining credits approved by the department. Dissertation research is also a required component.

A student must present evidence of suitable undergraduate preparation in physics and of having excelled in previous academic endeavors. All coursework transferred must have been successfully completed with a minimum grade of 'B' within the three years prior to admission into the graduate program at NPS.

Full-time graduate study is expected, typically requiring a minimum of three years.