Why Physics and Physical Oceanography @ Memorial?

The Department of Physics and Physical Oceanography at Memorial University of Newfoundland has a well-established graduate studies program backed by a strong tradition of research. The Department has offered MSc programs since the inception of graduate studies at Memorial in 1960 and its first PhD program was created in 1969. In the present day, our students are supervised by faculty with international experience, connections, and recognition. Our research programs receive generous funding from NSERC, the CFI, and other organisations. Our labs and computer facilities are equipped to offer students world-class research opportunities.

Research opportunities in physical oceanography include theoretical, computational, experimental and observational studies of planetary fluid dynamics, glacial ice sheet dynamics, acoustic observation methods, instrument development, and global climate modeling. Research in experimental and theoretical/computational condensed matter physics falls into three broad categories: hard condensed matter, involving solids with high melting points, ultra-low temperatures, and quantum mechanical effects; soft condensed matter, involving liquids, colloids and polymers, proteins, lipids, viruses and cells; and applied physics, involving sensors and photonics.

Other research interests in physics include particle physics and black hole physics.

Description of programs

• MSc – The MSc is offered in Physics or Physical Oceanography. The program involves four courses and a thesis and can be completed in two years of full-time study.

• PhD – The PhD is offered in Physics or Physical Oceanography. The program involves three courses, a comprehensive exam and a thesis, and can be completed in four years of full-time study.

Contact a faculty supervisor

Graduate applicants interested in research-based programs are strongly encouraged to connect with a faculty supervisor at the time of application. Visit the Department of Physics and Physical Oceanography website for areas for a list of faculty members, their research interests, and contact information. You may also use the Yaffle search application to find a supervisor you may wish to work with.

The School of Graduate Studies offers advice on how to search for and contact potential supervisors. Need more help? Try attending one of our webinars and information sessions for prospective graduate students.

Minimum admission requirements

• MSc – Bachelor's degree (minimum second class) in Physics or equivalent

• PhD – Master’s degree in Physics or equivalent

Potential career options and outcomes

Scientist in academia, government and industry college or university teacher, consultant for government and industry, entrepreneur or inventor, financial analyst, data analyst specialized programmer or software developer, weather forecaster

Graduate student and alumni profiles

Our graduate students come from all parts of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, and the world. View the student profile below to learn more about what they do and why they chose Memorial.

Note: All figures are in Canadian dollars and subject to change. Fees are approved by the University’s Board of Regents. In the event of a discrepancy between the fees approved by the Board and those published on this website, the fees approved by the Board will prevail. Financial policies are enforced through the Department of Financial and Administrative Services. For the complete and official list of all fees and charges, visit www.mun.ca/finance/fees/.