Chemical Physics

Program Category: PhD Programs
Chair: Laura Kaufman
Website: chem.columbia.edu
Email address: [email protected]
Degree Programs: Full-Time: MA, MPhil, PhD

The PhD degree in Chemical Physics is conferred on qualified students whose interests lie in areas of research that overlap both chemistry and physics. 

The usual undergraduate preparation is a major in physics, chemistry, or chemical physics. It is desirable that the physics major have a broad knowledge of general chemistry and that the chemistry major have a broad knowledge of general physics. If such undergraduate training is lacking, it must be acquired early in the student’s graduate work.

Fellowships are awarded in recognition of academic achievement and in expectation of scholarly success. Teaching experience is considered an important aspect of the training of graduate students, so all graduate fellowships include some teaching apprenticeship.

An MD/PhD dual-degree program is available.

Special Admissions Requirements

Columbia does not offer a free-standing program in Chemical Physics leading to the MA only; therefore, the subcommittee will consider applications only from prospective graduate students who intend to pursue a PhD degree.

In addition to the requirements listed below, all students must submit one transcript showing courses and grades per school attended, a statement of academic purpose, a personal statement, and three letters of evaluation from academic sources.

We are not accepting GRE scores for the 2023-2024 admissions cycle. We understand that successful students come from widely varying backgrounds and our review process considers the context of each applicant’s record. No negative assumptions will be drawn if GRE scores are not included with applications.

International students may be required to submit evidence of English language proficiency. The English proficiency requirement can be fulfilled through the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or the Duolingo English Test. See the International Students page on the GSAS Admissions website for more information. Applicants with questions about Columbia’s English language proficiency requirement, can reach out directly to GSAS admissions staff at [email protected].

For more information, refer to our Admissions Information and Frequently Asked Questions pages.

*GSAS will accept up to four recommendations, regardless of the number required by your program of interest. However, to be eligible for admission at GSAS, at least TWO letters must be submitted by academic recommenders.