Space Sciences, Ph.D.

The space sciences at Florida Tech comprise an interdisciplinary field that includes astronomy, astrophysics, space physics, planetary and solar studies, and physics of lightning. By nature an interdisciplinary subject, graduate study in the space sciences can be narrowly focused within one of these specializations. Florida Tech’s doctoral degree in space sciences provides training with the breadth and depth consistent with the highest-level degree. Such training produces qualified professionals for teaching and research in academic institutions and for research and related work in government and industry.

Admission Requirements

General admission requirements and the process for applying are presented under Graduate Academic Information . GRE scores from both the general and subject test in physics are recommended but not required. Florida Tech students who wish to continue toward the doctoral degree after completing the master’s degree (or after completing 15 semester credit hours of graduate courses) must submit a full application to the department.

Degree Requirements

The doctoral degree in space sciences is granted after the successful completion of 72 semester credit hours beyond the bachelor’s degree. Students entering the doctoral degree program with a bachelor’s degree must follow the master of science degree requirements listed above for 30 semester credit hours. Students may take six semester credit hours of Research (SPS 6090 ) or six credit hours of subject courses in place of Thesis (SPS 5999 ). Students must also complete an additional 42 semester credit hours to satisfy the doctoral program requirements as stated below.

Students entering the doctoral degree program with a master’s degree, or a continuing doctoral student with 30 approved semester credit hours of coursework must take four formal on-site Florida Tech courses (equivalent to 12 semester credit hours) and 30 semester credit hours that may include courses listed for the master’s degree, individual study, research and dissertation. A course used for a master’s degree cannot be used to fulfill the doctoral degree requirements. Course substitutions must be approved by the department head and the Graduate Research and Academic Steering Panel (GRASP).

Doctoral degree requirements are stated under Graduate Academic Information  with one exception. Students must take a comprehensive written examination administered by GRASP (see the department’s graduate handbook for details). Students must take at least 15 semester credit hours of the dissertation after admission to candidacy. Students may take Florida Tech formal classroom courses outside of the department (PHY or SPS) only by approval of the department head and GRASP.