Head of the Department of Chemistry: Gary B. Schuster
Head of the Department of Physics: David K. Campbell
Correspondence and Information: Students with undergraduate degrees in chemistry should direct inquiries and applications to the head, Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 108 Noyes Laboratory , 505 South Mathews Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801. Students with undergraduate degrees in physics should direct inquiries and applications to the Graduate Advising Office, Department of Physics, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 227 Loomis Laboratory of Physics , 1110 West Green Street, Urbana, IL 61801-3080.
GRADUATE PROGRAMS
A chemical physics program leading to the doctor of philosophy makes it
possible for students to gain the necessary background and perform original
research in this interdisciplinary field of science. Fundamental research on
many properties of molecular and solid-state systems is based on an
understanding of chemistry, physics, and mathematics that can best be obtained
by training in more than one department. Students may use the facilities in
both the School of Chemical Sciences and the Department of Physics.
ADMISSION
Graduate College admission requirements apply. To be considered for admission,
applicants should have an undergraduate degree in chemistry or physics with a
strong background in the major field of chemistry or physics and more than the
usual training in the other area. Those who received their degree in physics
should have the equivalent of one semester each of organic and inorganic
chemistry and one year of physical chemistry. Those who received their degree
in chemistry should have the equivalent of one semester each of intermediate
mechanics and intermediate electricity and magnetism. One year of mathematics
beyond calculus is recommended. Any deficiencies should be removed during the
first year of study.
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
In addition to taking a series of appropriate courses determined mainly by
their research interests, students must pass either the qualifying examination
in the Department of Physics or the set of cumulative examinations given in
physical chemistry. A knowledge of basic quantum mechanics and statistical
mechanics must also be demonstrated (for example, by passing the final
examination in appropriate courses). In addition, students must pass an oral
preliminary examination concerned with their preparation for doing research.
Research for the thesis is performed under the direction of faculty members who
are currently active in chemical physics. Many of these staff members are
affiliated with the Materials Research Laboratory (MRL). MRL is a
multidisciplinary facility shared by staff and students from the Departments of
Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science and Engineering, Electrical and Computer
Engineering, and other related departments that have common interests in
materials science.
FINANCIAL AID
Students may apply for fellowships and assistantships from either the
Department of Chemistry or the Department of Physics.
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