• PHYS 8640

    Modern Field Theory
     Rating

     Difficulty

     GPA

    3.71

    Last Taught

    Spring 2026

    Applies field theory techniques to quantum electrodynamics and to the renormalization-group description of phase transitions. Introduces the path integral description of field theory. Prerequisite: PHYS 8630.

  • PHYS 1660

    Practical Computing for the Physical Sciences
     Rating

    4.30

     Difficulty

    2.00

     GPA

    3.77

    Last Taught

    Spring 2026

    This course teaches how to use the computer to solve quantitative problems. This involves learning the skills to write computer programs dedicated to certain tasks, to visualize data graphically, to use scientific software, and to learn other practical skills that are important for a future career in the sciences.

  • PHYS 8610

    Condensed Matter Theory I
     Rating

     Difficulty

     GPA

    3.82

    Last Taught

    Spring 2026

    The description and basic theory of the electronic properties of solids including band structure, electrical conduction, optical properties, magnetism and super-conductivity. Prerequisite: PHYS 7620 or instructor permission.

  • PHYS 9020

    Introduction to Physics Research II
     Rating

     Difficulty

     GPA

    3.96

    Last Taught

    Spring 2026

    Workshops given by UVA Physics faculty describing their research.

  • PHYS 3993

    Independent Study
     Rating

     Difficulty

     GPA

    Last Taught

    Spring 2026

    Individual study of topics in physics not normally covered in formal classes. Study is carried out under the tutelage of a faculty member with whom the requirements are agreed upon prior to enrollment. (S-SS) Prerequisite: Instructor permission

  • PHYS 3995

    Research
     Rating

     Difficulty

     GPA

    Last Taught

    Spring 2026

    A research project on a topic in physics carried out under the supervision of a faculty member culminating in a written report. May be taken more than once. (S-SS) Prerequisite: Instructor permission.

  • PHYS 5000

    Physics Colloquium
     Rating

     Difficulty

     GPA

    Last Taught

    Spring 2026

    First and second year students enrolled in the Physics PhD program are required to take Physics Colloquium in their first and second years of study.

  • PHYS 5110

    Special Topics in Classical and Modern Physics
     Rating

     Difficulty

     GPA

    Last Taught

    Spring 2026

    Lectures on topics of current interest in physics research and pedagogy. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: Instructor permission.

  • PHYS 7995

    Independent Study
     Rating

     Difficulty

     GPA

    Last Taught

    Spring 2026

    Independent research or practical training supervised by a faculty member. May be repeated for credit.

  • PHYS 8999

    Master Thesis Non-Topical Research
     Rating

     Difficulty

     GPA

    Last Taught

    Spring 2026

    For master's thesis, taken under the supervision of a thesis director.