Overview

This Physics programme offered by University of Waterloo prepares researchers to advance scientific understanding through original investigation of the laws and processes that govern the universe. Students undertake independent research within a collaborative environment, working closely with academic supervisors to address complex scientific questions and contribute new knowledge. The programme combines advanced scholarship with hands-on inquiry, allowing candidates to develop specialist expertise while participating in a vibrant research community.

Key Facts

Research opportunities span a broad range of areas, from cosmic evolution and gravitational processes to matter, materials, imaging technologies, biological systems, and quantum technologies. Students may explore topics such as cosmological data analysis, advanced imaging methods, materials characterization, sub-cellular visualization, and emerging computational approaches. The programme culminates in the completion of a doctoral thesis and prepares graduates for careers in research, higher education, industry, and technology-focused sectors.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Astrophysics and Gravitation
Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics
Biophysics
Chemical Physics
Condensed Matter and Materials Physics
Industrial and Applied Physics
Quantum Computing
Subatomic Physics
Observational Cosmology

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-05-11 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-09-03 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-09 00:00:00
Starting 2028-01-05 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-01 00:00:00
Starting 2028-05-11 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-10-01 00:00:00

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

OR

90

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

63

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

7

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Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Waterloo, Canada

Disciplines

Physics View 39 other PhDs in Physics in Canada

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

OR

90

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

63

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

7

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Normally a Master's degree in Physics, with at least a 75% standing
Students with an undergraduate degree in Physics may apply for admission directly to the PhD program. Successful applicants will have an outstanding academic record, breadth of knowledge in physics, and strong letters of recommendation

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

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Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

14792 CAD / year

≈ 14792 CAD / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

4596 CAD / year

≈ 4596 CAD / year

Living costs

Waterloo

Canada

810 - 1447 CAD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find PhD's scholarship opportunities for Physics.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Key Facts

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic Applies to you

Living costs

Waterloo

Funding

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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