Department of Physics
(Faculty of Science)
3302 Herzberg Bldg.
613-520-4320
physics.carleton.ca
This section presents the requirements for programs in:
- M.Sc. Physics - Particle Physics Thesis Pathway
- M.Sc. Physics - Medical Physics Thesis Pathway
- M.Sc. Physics - Medical Physics Non-Thesis Pathway
- M.Sc. Physics - Physics Non-Thesis Pathways
- M.Sc. Physics - Quantum Science and Technology
- M.Sc. Physics Medical Physics with Collaborative Specialization in Data Science
- M.Sc. Physics Particle Physics with Collaborative Specialization in Data Science
- Ph.D. Physics
- Ph.D. Physics Direct Entry
Program Requirements
M.Sc. Physics - Particle Physics Thesis Pathway (5.0 credits)
| Requirements - Particle Physics thesis pathway (5.0 credits): | ||
| 1. 2.0 credits in: | 2.0 | |
PHYS 5601 [0.5] | Experimental Techniques of Nuclear and Elementary Particle Physics | |
PHYS 5602 [0.5] | Physics of Elementary Particles | |
PHYS 5701 [0.5] | Intermediate Quantum Mechanics with Applications | |
PHYS 5702 [0.5] | Relativistic Quantum Mechanics | |
| 2. 0.5 credit in: | 0.5 | |
PHYS 5002 [0.5] | Statistical Data Analysis Techniques for Physics (or equivalent course in computing physics) | |
| 3. 2.5 credits in: | 2.5 | |
PHYS 5909 [2.5] | M.Sc. Thesis (defended at an oral examination) | |
| 4. Participation in the seminar series of the Ottawa-Carleton Institute of Physics | ||
| Total Credits | 5.0 | |
Notes:
- Of the 2.5 credits of course work, no more than 1.5 credits may be fulfilled by Selected Topics such as PHYS 5900 [1.0], PHYS 5901 [0.5].
M.Sc. Physics - Medical Physics Thesis Pathway (5.0 credits)
| Requirements - Medical Physics thesis pathway (5.0 credits): | ||
| 1. 0.5 credit in: | 0.5 | |
PHYS 5203 [0.5] | Medical Radiation Physics | |
| 2. 0.5 credit in: | 0.5 | |
PHYS 5002 [0.5] | Statistical Data Analysis Techniques for Physics (or equivalent course in computing physics) | |
| 3. 0.5 credit from: | 0.5 | |
PHYS 5204 [0.5] | Physics of Medical Imaging (for imaging) | |
PHYS 5206 [0.5] | Medical Radiotherapy Physics (for therapy) | |
PHYS 5207 [0.5] | Radiobiology (for biophysics) | |
| 4. 0.5 credit in PHYS 5208 or an appropriate physics course from an area of physics outside medical physics, chosen from PHYS or PHYJ. | 0.5 | |
| 5. 0.5 credit in PHYS or PHYJ. With approval of the graduate supervisor, an appropriate graduate-level course outside the department of physics can be used. | 0.5 | |
| 6. 2.5 credits in: | 2.5 | |
PHYS 5909 [2.5] | M.Sc. Thesis (defended at an oral examination) | |
| 7. Participation in the seminar series of the Ottawa-Carleton Institute for Physics | ||
| Total Credits | 5.0 | |
Notes:
- Of the 2.5 credits of course work, no more than 1.5 credits may be fulfilled by Selected Topics such as PHYS 5900 [1.0], PHYS 5901 [0.5].
M.Sc. Physics - Medical Physics Non-Thesis Pathway (4.0 credits)
| Requirements - Medical Physics project pathway (4.0 credits): | ||
| 1. 3.5 credits in: | 3.5 | |
PHYS 5203 [0.5] | Medical Radiation Physics | |
PHYS 5204 [0.5] | Physics of Medical Imaging | |
PHYS 5206 [0.5] | Medical Radiotherapy Physics | |
PHYS 5207 [0.5] | Radiobiology | |
PHYS 5208 [0.5] | Radiation Protection | |
PHYS 5209 [0.5] | Medical Physics Practical Measurements | |
PHYS 5211 [0.5] | Anatomy, Physiology and Ethics for Medical Physicists | |
| 2. 0.5 credit in: | 0.5 | |
PHYS 5910 [0.5] | M.Sc. Project | |
| Total Credits | 4.0 | |
M.Sc. Physics - Physics Non-Thesis Pathways (4.0 credits)
| Requirements - Physics project pathway (4.0 credits) | ||
| 1. 3.0 credits in: | 3.0 | |
3.0 credits in graduate courses in Physics | ||
| 2. 1.0 credit in: | 1.0 | |
PHYS 5911 [1.0] | M.Sc. Project | |
| Total Credits | 4.0 | |
| Requirements - Physics coursework pathway (4.0 credits): | ||
| 1. 4.0 credits in: | 4.0 | |
4.0 credits in graduate courses | ||
| Total Credits | 4.0 | |
M.Sc. Physics - Quantum Science and Technology (4.0 credits)
| Requirements: | ||
| 1. 1.0 credit in: | 1.0 | |
PHYS 5002 [0.5] | Statistical Data Analysis Techniques for Physics | |
PHYS 5705 [0.5] | Introduction to Quantum Phenomena | |
| 2. 2.0 credits from: | 2.0 | |
PHYS 5701 [0.5] | Intermediate Quantum Mechanics with Applications | |
PHYS 5702 [0.5] | Relativistic Quantum Mechanics | |
PHYS 5318 [0.5] | Modern Optics | |
PHYJ 5390 [0.5] | Seminar in Quantum Science and Technology | |
PHYJ 5391 [0.5] | Quantum Materials, Nanostructures and Devices | |
MATH 5609 [0.5] | Topics in Combinatorial Mathematics | |
MATH 5811 [0.5] | Fields and Coding Theory | |
MATH 5812 [0.5] | Sequences and Applications in Communications and Cryptography | |
MATH 5821 [0.5] | Quantum Computing | |
COMP 5114 [0.5] | Quantum Communications and Networking | |
COMP 5120 [0.5] | Cryptography | |
or MATH 5300 [0.5] | Mathematical Cryptography | |
| 3. 1.0 credit from: | 1.0 | |
PHYS 5905 [1.0] | Work Term | |
or 1.0 credit in PHYS, PHYJ, MATH, or COMP at the 5000-level or above | ||
| Total Credits | 4.0 | |
Notes:
- Students enrolled in Quantum Science and Technology can either complete the indicated 1.0 credit work term or 1.0 credit of additional courses. Although every effort is made to find a work term position for every student enrolled in Quantum Science and Technology, no guarantee of employment can be made. Students in Quantum Science and Technology who wish to consider pursuing a research degree should consult with the graduate supervisor.
- Some courses might not be offered every year and also some courses are delivered at the University of Ottawa. Please consult the Department of Physics for details.
M.Sc. Physics
Medical Physics with Collaborative Specialization in Data Science (5.0 credits)
| Requirements: | ||
| 1. 0.5 credit in: | 0.5 | |
DATA 5000 [0.5] | Introduction to Data Science | |
| 2. 0.5 credit in: | 0.5 | |
PHYS 5002 [0.5] | Statistical Data Analysis Techniques for Physics (or equivalent course in computing physics) | |
| 3. 0.5 credit in: | 0.5 | |
PHYS 5203 [0.5] | Medical Radiation Physics | |
| 4. 0.5 credits from: | 0.5 | |
PHYS 5204 [0.5] | Physics of Medical Imaging (for imaging) | |
PHYS 5206 [0.5] | Medical Radiotherapy Physics (for therapy) | |
PHYS 5207 [0.5] | Radiobiology (for biophysics) | |
| 5. 0.5 credit in PHYS or PHYJ. With approval of the graduate supervisor, an appropriate graduate-level course outside the department of physics can be used. | 0.5 | |
| 6. 2.5 credits in | 2.5 | |
PHYS 5909 [2.5] | M.Sc. Thesis (on a data science topic approved by the Data Science governance committee and defended at an oral examination) | |
| 7. Participation in the seminar series of the Ottawa-Carleton Institute for Physics | ||
| Total Credits | 5.0 | |
M.Sc. Physics
Particle Physics with Collaborative Specialization in Data Science (5.0 credits)
| Requirements: | ||
| 1. 0.5 credit in: | 0.5 | |
DATA 5000 [0.5] | Introduction to Data Science | |
| 2. 0.5 credit in: | 0.5 | |
PHYS 5002 [0.5] | Statistical Data Analysis Techniques for Physics (or equivalent course in computing physics) | |
| 3. 1.5 credit in: | 1.5 | |
PHYS 5602 [0.5] | Physics of Elementary Particles | |
PHYS 5701 [0.5] | Intermediate Quantum Mechanics with Applications | |
PHYS 5702 [0.5] | Relativistic Quantum Mechanics | |
| 4. 2.5 credits in: | 2.5 | |
PHYS 5909 [2.5] | M.Sc. Thesis (on a data science topic approved by the Data Science governance committee and defended at an oral examination) | |
| 5. Participation in the seminar series of the Ottawa-Carleton Institute of Physics | ||
| Total Credits | 5.0 | |
Ph.D. Physics (2.0 credits)
| Requirements: | ||
| 1. 2.0 credits in course work at the graduate level | 2.0 | |
| 2. Comprehensive examination designed to demonstrate overall ability in physics and in the candidate's research area, normally within the first year of study. This takes the form of a written examination followed, if necessary, by an oral examination | ||
| 3. Participation in the seminar series of the Ottawa-Carleton Institute for Physics | ||
| 4. 0.0 credits in: | 0.0 | |
PHYS 6909 [0.0] | Ph.D. Thesis (which will be defended at an oral examination. The examining board for all theses will include members of the Ottawa-Carleton Institute for Physics from both Departments of Physics. The external examiner of the thesis will be external to both Departments of Physics.) | |
| Total Credits | 2.0 | |
Notes
- Students in experimental or theoretical particle physics who lack any of the relevant courses recommended for the M.Sc. program must complete them (or the equivalents) by the end of their Ph.D. program. In addition they should complete PHYS 6601 and PHYS 6602
- Students in medical physics must have completed, either within this degree (as part of the minimum 2.0 course credits) or in prior graduate studies:
PHYS 5203 [0.5] Medical Radiation Physics (or equivalent) PHYS 5204 [0.5] Physics of Medical Imaging (or equivalent) PHYS 5206 [0.5] Medical Radiotherapy Physics (or equivalent) PHYS 5207 [0.5] Radiobiology (or equivalent) PHYS 5208 [0.5] Radiation Protection (or equivalent) PHYS 5209 [0.5] Medical Physics Practical Measurements (or equivalent) PHYS 5211 [0.5] Anatomy, Physiology and Ethics for Medical Physicists (or equivalent) - In addition it is also strongly recommended to have completed 0.5 credit in a computational physics course, such as PHYS 5002, within the minimum 2.0 credits of this degree or in prior graduate studies. - Irrespective of courses taken previously at another institution, students may be required to complete one or more of PHYS 5204, PHYS 5206, or PHYS 5207 as preparation for their thesis research.
Guidelines for Completion of Doctoral Degree
Full-time Ph.D. candidates admitted on the basis of an M.Sc. are expected to complete all requirements within an elapsed period of four to five years after the date of initial registration. Part-time Ph.D. candidates are expected to complete all requirements within an elapsed period of six years after the date of initial registration.
Residence Requirements
For the Ph.D. degree (from B.Sc.): at least three years of full-time study (or equivalent).
For the Ph.D. degree (from M.Sc.): at least two years of full-time study (or equivalent).
Ph.D. Physics Direct Entry (4.0 credits)
The Direct Entry Ph.D. Physics admits students with an honours bachelor's degree; please refer to the Admission section for further information. Students must specialize in either Medical Physics or Particle Physics.
| Requirements (Medical Physics): | ||
| 1. 4.0 credits in graduate courses, which must include: | 4.0 | |
PHYS 5002 [0.5] | Statistical Data Analysis Techniques for Physics | |
PHYS 5203 [0.5] | Medical Radiation Physics | |
PHYS 5204 [0.5] | Physics of Medical Imaging | |
PHYS 5206 [0.5] | Medical Radiotherapy Physics | |
PHYS 5207 [0.5] | Radiobiology | |
PHYS 5208 [0.5] | Radiation Protection | |
PHYS 5209 [0.5] | Medical Physics Practical Measurements | |
PHYS 5211 [0.5] | Anatomy, Physiology and Ethics for Medical Physicists | |
| 2. Comprehensive examination designed to demonstrate overall ability in physics and in the candidate's research area, normally within the first year of study. This takes the form of a written examination followed, if necessary, by an oral examination. | ||
| 3. Participation in the seminar series of the Ottawa-Carleton Institute for Physics. | ||
| 4. 0.0 credits in: | ||
PHYS 6909 [0.0] | Ph.D. Thesis | |
| Total Credits | 4.0 | |
| Requirements (Particle Physics): | ||
| 1. 4.0 credits in graduate courses, which must include: | 4.0 | |
PHYS 5002 [0.5] | Statistical Data Analysis Techniques for Physics | |
PHYS 5601 [0.5] | Experimental Techniques of Nuclear and Elementary Particle Physics | |
PHYS 5602 [0.5] | Physics of Elementary Particles | |
PHYS 5701 [0.5] | Intermediate Quantum Mechanics with Applications | |
PHYS 5702 [0.5] | Relativistic Quantum Mechanics | |
PHYS 6601 [0.5] | Particle Physics Phenomenology | |
PHYS 6602 [0.5] | Advanced Topics in Particle Physics | |
and an additional 0.5 credit in Physics at the graduate level | ||
| 2. Comprehensive examination designed to demonstrate overall ability in physics and in the candidate's research area, normally within the first year of study. This takes the form of a written examination followed, if necessary, by an oral examination. | ||
| 3. Participation in the seminar series of the Ottawa-Carleton Institute of Physics. | ||
| 4. 0.0 credits in: | ||
PHYS 6909 [0.0] | Ph.D. Thesis | |
| Total Credits | 4.0 | |
Notes
- Equivalent courses completed in a previous degree may be accepted towards the requirements in Item 1, at the discretion of the department.
- Students in Medical Physics may be required to complete one or more of PHYS 5204, PHYS 5206, or PHYS 5207 as preparation for their thesis research, irrespective of courses taken previously at another institution.
Physics (PHYS) Courses
With the exception of PHYS 5701 Intermediate Quantum Mechanics with Applications and PHYS 5302 Classical Electrodynamics, which may be offered at either Carleton or the University of Ottawa, all PHYS courses are offered only at Carleton, and all PHYJ courses are offered only at the University of Ottawa.
PHYS 5002 [0.5 credit] (PHY 5344)
Statistical Data Analysis Techniques for Physics
Computational methods used in analysis of experimental data. Introduction to probability and random variables. Monte Carlo methods for simulation of random processes. Statistical methods for parameter estimation and hypothesis tests. Confidence intervals. Multivariate data classification. Unfolding methods. Examples taken primarily from particle and medical physics.
Statistical Data Analysis Techniques for Physics
Computational methods used in analysis of experimental data. Introduction to probability and random variables. Monte Carlo methods for simulation of random processes. Statistical methods for parameter estimation and hypothesis tests. Confidence intervals. Multivariate data classification. Unfolding methods. Examples taken primarily from particle and medical physics.
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity
Prerequisite(s): an ability to program in Python, Java, C, or C++, and permission of the Department.
Also offered at the undergraduate level, with different requirements, as PHYS 4807, for which additional credit is precluded.
Prerequisite(s): an ability to program in Python, Java, C, or C++, and permission of the Department.
Also offered at the undergraduate level, with different requirements, as PHYS 4807, for which additional credit is precluded.
PHYS 5101 [0.5 credit] (PHY 8111)
Classical Mechanics and Theory of Fields
Hamilton's principle; conservation laws; canonical transformations; Hamilton-Jacobi theory; Lagrangian formulation of classical field theory.
Classical Mechanics and Theory of Fields
Hamilton's principle; conservation laws; canonical transformations; Hamilton-Jacobi theory; Lagrangian formulation of classical field theory.
Prerequisite(s): permission of the Department.
PHYS 5201 [0.5 credit]
Introduction to Medical Imaging Principles and Technology
Basic principles and technological implementation of x-ray, nuclear medicine, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and other imaging modalities used in medicine. Contrast, resolution, storage requirements for digital images. Applications outside of medicine, future trends.
Introduction to Medical Imaging Principles and Technology
Basic principles and technological implementation of x-ray, nuclear medicine, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and other imaging modalities used in medicine. Contrast, resolution, storage requirements for digital images. Applications outside of medicine, future trends.
PHYS 5202 [0.5 credit] (PHY 8122)
Special Topics in Molecular Spectroscopy
Topics may include: electronic spectra of diatomic and triatomic molecules and their interpretation using molecular orbital diagrams; Raman and resonance Raman spectroscopy; symmetry aspects of vibrational and electronic levels of ions and molecules in solids; the presence of weak and strong resonant laser radiation.
Special Topics in Molecular Spectroscopy
Topics may include: electronic spectra of diatomic and triatomic molecules and their interpretation using molecular orbital diagrams; Raman and resonance Raman spectroscopy; symmetry aspects of vibrational and electronic levels of ions and molecules in solids; the presence of weak and strong resonant laser radiation.
Prerequisite(s): permission of the Department.
PHYS 5203 [0.5 credit] (PHY 5161)
Medical Radiation Physics
Interaction of electromagnetic radiation with matter. Sources: X-ray, accelerators, radionuclide. Charged particle interaction mechanisms, stopping powers, kerma, dose. Introduction to dosimetry. Units, measurements, dosimetry devices.
Medical Radiation Physics
Interaction of electromagnetic radiation with matter. Sources: X-ray, accelerators, radionuclide. Charged particle interaction mechanisms, stopping powers, kerma, dose. Introduction to dosimetry. Units, measurements, dosimetry devices.
Prerequisite(s): permission of the Department.
PHYS 5204 [0.5 credit] (PHY 5112)
Physics of Medical Imaging
Physical foundation of and recent developments in transmission X-ray imaging, computerized tomography, nuclear medicine, magnetic resonance imaging, and ultrasound, for the specialist imaging physicist. Image quality, contrast, resolution, SNR, MTF, DQE. Introduction to image processing, system performance assessment.
Physics of Medical Imaging
Physical foundation of and recent developments in transmission X-ray imaging, computerized tomography, nuclear medicine, magnetic resonance imaging, and ultrasound, for the specialist imaging physicist. Image quality, contrast, resolution, SNR, MTF, DQE. Introduction to image processing, system performance assessment.
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 5203 and one of PHYS 4203 or PHYS 5313, or permission of the Department.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 5203 and one of PHYS 4203 or PHYS 5313, or permission of the Department.
PHYS 5206 [0.5 credit] (PHY 5164)
Medical Radiotherapy Physics
Radiation therapy process and physics. Ion chamber dosimetry, Monte Carlo techniques of radiation transport, cavity theories, external beam therapy, brachytherapy, dosimetry protocols, detectors used in radiation therapy. Treatment planning, monitor unit calculations, intensity-modulated radiation therapy. Novel and alternate techniques.
Medical Radiotherapy Physics
Radiation therapy process and physics. Ion chamber dosimetry, Monte Carlo techniques of radiation transport, cavity theories, external beam therapy, brachytherapy, dosimetry protocols, detectors used in radiation therapy. Treatment planning, monitor unit calculations, intensity-modulated radiation therapy. Novel and alternate techniques.
PHYS 5207 [0.5 credit] (PHY 5165)
Radiobiology
Physics and chemistry of radiation interactions. Cell biology, DNA damage and repair, survival curves and models, radiosensitivity, oxygen effect. Linear energy transfer, relative biological effectiveness. Whole body radiation effects, radioprotectors, radiosensitizers. Hyperthermia. Molecular techniques in radiobiology. Model tumour systems.
Radiobiology
Physics and chemistry of radiation interactions. Cell biology, DNA damage and repair, survival curves and models, radiosensitivity, oxygen effect. Linear energy transfer, relative biological effectiveness. Whole body radiation effects, radioprotectors, radiosensitizers. Hyperthermia. Molecular techniques in radiobiology. Model tumour systems.
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 5203 must have been taken, or be taken concurrently, or permission of the Department.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 5203 must have been taken, or be taken concurrently, or permission of the Department.
PHYS 5208 [0.5 credit] (PHY 5163)
Radiation Protection
Dose quantities, effects of radiation exposure, fetal risks, scientific basis for protection, dose limits. Background radiation, dose from internal radionuclides. Doses in radiology, incidents in radiation therapy. Shielding design, working with radioactive materials. Instruments and measurement. Radiation protection organizations.
Radiation Protection
Dose quantities, effects of radiation exposure, fetal risks, scientific basis for protection, dose limits. Background radiation, dose from internal radionuclides. Doses in radiology, incidents in radiation therapy. Shielding design, working with radioactive materials. Instruments and measurement. Radiation protection organizations.
PHYS 5209 [0.5 credit] (PHY 5166)
Medical Physics Practical Measurements
Experience with current clinical medical imaging and cancer therapy equipment, and dosimetry and biophysics instrumentation. The course requires completion of experimental projects on medical imaging, radiotherapy, dosimetry, and biophysics, conducted at local clinics and NRC laboratories.
Medical Physics Practical Measurements
Experience with current clinical medical imaging and cancer therapy equipment, and dosimetry and biophysics instrumentation. The course requires completion of experimental projects on medical imaging, radiotherapy, dosimetry, and biophysics, conducted at local clinics and NRC laboratories.
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 5203, and two of PHYS 5204, PHYS 5206, PHYS 5207, and enrollment in the medical physics graduate program, or permission of the Department.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 5203, and two of PHYS 5204, PHYS 5206, PHYS 5207, and enrollment in the medical physics graduate program, or permission of the Department.
PHYS 5210 [0.0 credit] (PHY 5168)
Anatomy and Physiology for Medical Physicists
An overview of human anatomy and physiology as background for the application of physics to cancer therapy and medical imaging. Anatomy as depicted by imaging technologies such as CT, mri, and radiography will be emphasized. Graded Sat/Uns.
Anatomy and Physiology for Medical Physicists
An overview of human anatomy and physiology as background for the application of physics to cancer therapy and medical imaging. Anatomy as depicted by imaging technologies such as CT, mri, and radiography will be emphasized. Graded Sat/Uns.
Prerequisite(s): enrollment in the graduate program in medical physics or permission of the Department.
PHYS 5211 [0.5 credit] (PHY 5169)
Anatomy, Physiology and Ethics for Medical Physicists
Human anatomy and physiology as background for the application of physics to cancer therapy and medical imaging. Emphasis on anatomy as depicted by imaging technologies such as CT, MRI, and radiograph. Topics on ethics and professionalism for medical physicists will also be covered.
Anatomy, Physiology and Ethics for Medical Physicists
Human anatomy and physiology as background for the application of physics to cancer therapy and medical imaging. Emphasis on anatomy as depicted by imaging technologies such as CT, MRI, and radiograph. Topics on ethics and professionalism for medical physicists will also be covered.
Precludes additional credit for PHYS 5210.
Prerequisite(s): enrollment in the graduate program in Medical Physics or permission of the Department.
Prerequisite(s): enrollment in the graduate program in Medical Physics or permission of the Department.
PHYS 5291 [0.5 credit] (PHY 5167)
Advanced Topics in Medical Physics
Topics may include medical imaging physics, cancer therapy physics, medical biophysics, or radiation protection and health physics.
Advanced Topics in Medical Physics
Topics may include medical imaging physics, cancer therapy physics, medical biophysics, or radiation protection and health physics.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 5203 plus, as appropriate to the particular advanced topic offered, at least one of PHYS 5204, PHYS 5206, PHYS 5207; or permission of the Department.
PHYS 5302 [0.5 credit] (PHY 8132)
Classical Electrodynamics
Covariant formulation of electrodynamics; Liénard-Wiechert potentials; radiation reaction; plasma physics; dispersion relations.
Classical Electrodynamics
Covariant formulation of electrodynamics; Liénard-Wiechert potentials; radiation reaction; plasma physics; dispersion relations.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 3308, PHYS 3802, and PHYS 3807, or equivalent courses, or permission of the Department.
PHYS 5313 [0.5 credit]
Physical Applications of Fourier Analysis
Fourier transform, convolution. Sampling theorem. Applications to imaging: descriptors of spatial resolution, filtering. Correlation, noise power. Discrete Fourier transform, FFT. Filtering of noisy signals. Image reconstruction in computed tomography and magnetic resonance. Laplace transform. Integral transforms, application to boundary value problems.
Physical Applications of Fourier Analysis
Fourier transform, convolution. Sampling theorem. Applications to imaging: descriptors of spatial resolution, filtering. Correlation, noise power. Discrete Fourier transform, FFT. Filtering of noisy signals. Image reconstruction in computed tomography and magnetic resonance. Laplace transform. Integral transforms, application to boundary value problems.
Also offered at the undergraduate level, with different requirements, as PHYS 4203, for which additional credit is precluded.
PHYS 5318 [0.5 credit] (PHY 5318)
Modern Optics
Electromagnetic wave propagation; reflection, refraction; Gaussian beams; guided waves. Laser theory: stimulated emission, cavity optics, gain and bandwidth, atomic and molecular lasers. Mode locking, Q switching. Diffraction theory, coherence, Fourier optics, holography, laser applications. Optical communication systems, nonlinear effects: devices, fibre sensors, integrated optics.
Modern Optics
Electromagnetic wave propagation; reflection, refraction; Gaussian beams; guided waves. Laser theory: stimulated emission, cavity optics, gain and bandwidth, atomic and molecular lasers. Mode locking, Q switching. Diffraction theory, coherence, Fourier optics, holography, laser applications. Optical communication systems, nonlinear effects: devices, fibre sensors, integrated optics.
Prerequisite(s): permission of the Department.
Also offered at the undergraduate level, with different requirements, as PHYS 4208, for which additional credit is precluded.
Also offered at the undergraduate level, with different requirements, as PHYS 4208, for which additional credit is precluded.
PHYS 5401 [0.5 credit]
Astrophysics
Stellar evolution, including stellar modeling, main sequence stars, red giants and the end states of stars such as neutron stars and black holes. Galactic structure and dynamics. Neutrino astrophysics.
Astrophysics
Stellar evolution, including stellar modeling, main sequence stars, red giants and the end states of stars such as neutron stars and black holes. Galactic structure and dynamics. Neutrino astrophysics.
Also offered at the undergraduate level, with different requirements, as PHYS 4201, for which additional credit is precluded.
PHYS 5402 [0.5 credit]
Cosmology
Observational evidence for the Big Bang. Cosmological space-time, expansion dynamics and contents of the universe. Physical processes in the expanding universe, inflation, nucleosynthesis, the cosmic microwave background, dark matter, and dark energy.
Cosmology
Observational evidence for the Big Bang. Cosmological space-time, expansion dynamics and contents of the universe. Physical processes in the expanding universe, inflation, nucleosynthesis, the cosmic microwave background, dark matter, and dark energy.
Also offered at the undergraduate level, with different requirements, as PHYS 4202, for which additional credit is precluded.
PHYS 5601 [0.5 credit] (PHY 5966)
Experimental Techniques of Nuclear and Elementary Particle Physics
The interaction of radiation and high energy particles with matter; experimental methods of detection and acceleration of particles; use of relativistic kinematics; counting statistics.
Experimental Techniques of Nuclear and Elementary Particle Physics
The interaction of radiation and high energy particles with matter; experimental methods of detection and acceleration of particles; use of relativistic kinematics; counting statistics.
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 3308 or equivalent, and PHYS 4707; or permission of the Department.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 3308 or equivalent, and PHYS 4707; or permission of the Department.
PHYS 5602 [0.5 credit] (PHY 5967)
Physics of Elementary Particles
Standard Model. Properties of leptons, quarks, hadrons. Fundamental interactions: photon, gluons, W/Z bosons. Higgs bosons. Conservation laws, invariance principles, quantum numbers. Decay rates and scattering cross-sections. Quantum electrodynamics and chromodynamics. Resonances. Weak interactions, CKM matrix, parity and CP violation. Neutrino masses and oscillations. Future directions.
Physics of Elementary Particles
Standard Model. Properties of leptons, quarks, hadrons. Fundamental interactions: photon, gluons, W/Z bosons. Higgs bosons. Conservation laws, invariance principles, quantum numbers. Decay rates and scattering cross-sections. Quantum electrodynamics and chromodynamics. Resonances. Weak interactions, CKM matrix, parity and CP violation. Neutrino masses and oscillations. Future directions.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 4707 or permission of the Department.
Also offered at the undergraduate level, with different requirements, as PHYS 4602, for which additional credit is precluded.
Also offered at the undergraduate level, with different requirements, as PHYS 4602, for which additional credit is precluded.
PHYS 5604 [0.5 credit] (PHY 8164)
Intermediate Nuclear Physics
Properties of the deuteron and the neutron-proton force. Nucleon-nucleon forces, isospin and charge independence. Nuclear models. Scattering theory. Interpretation of n-p and p-p scattering experiments. Interaction of nucleons with electrons. Interaction of nuclei with radiation.
Intermediate Nuclear Physics
Properties of the deuteron and the neutron-proton force. Nucleon-nucleon forces, isospin and charge independence. Nuclear models. Scattering theory. Interpretation of n-p and p-p scattering experiments. Interaction of nucleons with electrons. Interaction of nuclei with radiation.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 4608 or permission of the Department.
PHYS 5701 [0.5 credit] (PHY 5170)
Intermediate Quantum Mechanics with Applications
Angular momentum and rotation operations; Wigner and Racah coefficients; several and many electron problem in atoms; variational and Hartree-Fock formalism; introduction to second quantized field theory; scattering theory.
Intermediate Quantum Mechanics with Applications
Angular momentum and rotation operations; Wigner and Racah coefficients; several and many electron problem in atoms; variational and Hartree-Fock formalism; introduction to second quantized field theory; scattering theory.
PHYS 5702 [0.5 credit] (PHY 8172)
Relativistic Quantum Mechanics
Relativistic wave equations. Expansion of S matrix in Feynman perturbation series. Feynman rules. An introduction to quantum electro-dynamics with some second quantization. Gauge theories. May include introduction to Standard Model.
Relativistic Quantum Mechanics
Relativistic wave equations. Expansion of S matrix in Feynman perturbation series. Feynman rules. An introduction to quantum electro-dynamics with some second quantization. Gauge theories. May include introduction to Standard Model.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 5701 and permission of the Department.
PHYS 5705 [0.5 credit]
Introduction to Quantum Phenomena
Postulates of Quantum Mechanics, Quantum communication and cryptography, Entanglement, EPR paradox and Bell inequalities, Introduction to wave mechanics: Energy quantization and tunneling, Survey of quantum material: superconductor, topological insulators, semimetals. Survey of quantum sensing: NMR, trapped ions, superconducting qubit, atomic clocks.
Introduction to Quantum Phenomena
Postulates of Quantum Mechanics, Quantum communication and cryptography, Entanglement, EPR paradox and Bell inequalities, Introduction to wave mechanics: Energy quantization and tunneling, Survey of quantum material: superconductor, topological insulators, semimetals. Survey of quantum sensing: NMR, trapped ions, superconducting qubit, atomic clocks.
Also offered at the undergraduate level, with different requirements, as PHYS 4705, for which additional credit is precluded.
PHYS 5801 [0.5 credit] (PHY 5140)
Methods of Theoretical Physics I
This course and PHYS 5802 are designed for students who wish to acquire a wide background of mathematical techniques. Topics can include complex variables, evaluation of integrals, approximation techniques, dispersion relations, Pade approximants, boundary value problems, Green's functions, integral equations.
Methods of Theoretical Physics I
This course and PHYS 5802 are designed for students who wish to acquire a wide background of mathematical techniques. Topics can include complex variables, evaluation of integrals, approximation techniques, dispersion relations, Pade approximants, boundary value problems, Green's functions, integral equations.
PHYS 5802 [0.5 credit] (PHY 5141)
Methods of Theoretical Physics II
This course complements PHYS 5801.Topics include group theory, discussion of SU2, SU3, and other symmetry groups. Lorentz group.
Methods of Theoretical Physics II
This course complements PHYS 5801.Topics include group theory, discussion of SU2, SU3, and other symmetry groups. Lorentz group.
PHYS 5804 [0.5 credit]
Introduction to General Relativity
Special relativity using tensor analysis. Curved spacetime with physics applications that may include the solar system, stars, black holes, and gravitational waves. Introduction to differential geometry and Einstein’s field equations.
Introduction to General Relativity
Special relativity using tensor analysis. Curved spacetime with physics applications that may include the solar system, stars, black holes, and gravitational waves. Introduction to differential geometry and Einstein’s field equations.
Also offered at the undergraduate level, with different requirements, as PHYS 4804, for which additional credit is precluded.
PHYS 5900 [1.0 credit] (PHY 8290)
Selected Topics in Physics (M.Sc.)
A student may, with the permission of the Department, take more than one selected topic, in which case each full course is counted for credit.
Selected Topics in Physics (M.Sc.)
A student may, with the permission of the Department, take more than one selected topic, in which case each full course is counted for credit.
Prerequisite(s): permission of the Department.
PHYS 5901 [0.5 credit] (PHY 8191)
Selected Topics in Physics (M.Sc.)
Selected Topics in Physics (M.Sc.)
Prerequisite(s): permission of the Department.
PHYS 5905 [1.0 credit] (PHY 5495)
Work Term
Experience for students enrolled in the quantum science and technology stream. To receive course credit, students must receive satisfactory evaluations for their work term employment. Written and oral reports describing the work term project are required.
Work Term
Experience for students enrolled in the quantum science and technology stream. To receive course credit, students must receive satisfactory evaluations for their work term employment. Written and oral reports describing the work term project are required.
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity
Prerequisite(s): Registration in the quantum science and technology stream of the M.Sc. program and permission of the Department.
Prerequisite(s): Registration in the quantum science and technology stream of the M.Sc. program and permission of the Department.
PHYS 5909 [2.5 credits] (PHY 7999)
M.Sc. Thesis
M.Sc. Thesis
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity
Prerequisite(s): permission of the Department.
Prerequisite(s): permission of the Department.
PHYS 5910 [0.5 credit]
M.Sc. Project
Research project for MSc Medical Physics non-thesis option students only.
M.Sc. Project
Research project for MSc Medical Physics non-thesis option students only.
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity
Prerequisite(s): restricted to students in the MSc Medical Physics non-thesis program.
Prerequisite(s): restricted to students in the MSc Medical Physics non-thesis program.
PHYS 5911 [1.0 credit]
M.Sc. Project
Research project for MSc non-thesis option students only.
M.Sc. Project
Research project for MSc non-thesis option students only.
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity
Prerequisite(s): restricted to students in the MSc Physics non-thesis program.
Prerequisite(s): restricted to students in the MSc Physics non-thesis program.
PHYS 6601 [0.5 credit] (PHY 8165)
Particle Physics Phenomenology
This course covers much of the required knowledge for research in particle physics from both the experimental and theoretical points of view. Topics may include: standard model, parton model, quark model, hadron spectroscopy, and tests of QCD.
Particle Physics Phenomenology
This course covers much of the required knowledge for research in particle physics from both the experimental and theoretical points of view. Topics may include: standard model, parton model, quark model, hadron spectroscopy, and tests of QCD.
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 5602 and PHYS 5702 or permission of the Department.
Prerequisite(s): PHYS 5602 and PHYS 5702 or permission of the Department.
PHYS 6602 [0.5 credit] (PHY 8166)
Advanced Topics in Particle Physics
Phenomenology. This course will consist of a variety of seminars and short lecture courses, and will cover topics of immediate interest to the research program of the department.
Advanced Topics in Particle Physics
Phenomenology. This course will consist of a variety of seminars and short lecture courses, and will cover topics of immediate interest to the research program of the department.
PHYS 6701 [0.5 credit] (PHY 8173)
Quantum Field Theory
Relativistic quantum field theory; second quantization of Bose and Fermi fields; reduction and LSZ formalism; perturbation expansion and proof of renormalizability of quantum field theories; calculations of radiative corrections and applications.
Quantum Field Theory
Relativistic quantum field theory; second quantization of Bose and Fermi fields; reduction and LSZ formalism; perturbation expansion and proof of renormalizability of quantum field theories; calculations of radiative corrections and applications.
PHYS 6900 [0.5 credit] (PHY 8490)
Selected Topics in Physics (Ph.D.)
Selected Topics in Physics (Ph.D.)
Prerequisite(s): permission of the Department.
PHYS 6901 [0.5 credit] (PHY 8391)
Selected Topics in Physics (Ph.D.)
Selected Topics in Physics (Ph.D.)
Prerequisite(s): permission of the Department.
PHYS 6909 [0.0 credit] (PHY 9999)
Ph.D. Thesis
Ph.D. Thesis
Includes: Experiential Learning Activity
Prerequisite(s): permission of the Department.
Prerequisite(s): permission of the Department.
Note: Not all courses listed are offered in a given year. For an up-to-date statement of course offerings for the current session and to determine the term of offering, consult the class schedule at central.carleton.ca.
Summer session: some of the courses listed in this Calendar are offered during the summer. Hours and scheduling for summer session courses will differ significantly from those reported in the fall/winter Calendar. To determine the scheduling and hours for summer session classes, consult the class schedule at central.carleton.ca
Regulations
See the General Regulations section of this Calendar.
Doctoral Candidacy
For students in the Ph.D. Physics, participation in the Ottawa-Carleton Institute for Physics seminar series is not a pre-requisite for achieving doctoral candidacy as defined in Section 13.3 of the Graduate General Regulations.
Admission
An Honours B.Sc. in Physics or a closely related field at a standard acceptable to the two universities is normally required for admission to the M.Sc. program.
The admissions committee may require students to take an orientation examination during the first weeks of residence. The results of this examination may indicate the need for a student to register in undergraduate courses to fill gaps in his/her knowledge.
It is strongly recommended that all students have had at least one course in computing.
Candidates admitted to the M.Sc. program with more than the minimum course requirements may be permitted to credit towards the degree a maximum of 1.0 credit at the senior undergraduate level. This maximum does not apply to qualifying-year students.
For the M.Sc. Physics – Medical Physics, students with a medical/health physics background may have the selection of required courses adjusted to reflect their preparation and may receive advanced standing for equivalent courses.
Accelerated Pathway
The accelerated pathway in the Department of Physics is a flexible and individualized plan of graduate study. Students in their final year of a Carleton B.Sc. Honours degree in Physics with demonstrated excellent aptitude for research may qualify for this option.
Students in their third-year of study in the B.Sc. Honours degree in Physics should consult with both the Undergraduate Advisor and the Graduate Advisor to determine if the accelerated pathway is appropriate for them and to confirm their selection of courses and Honours project supervisor for their final year of undergraduate studies.
Particle physics accelerated pathway: students must complete PHYS 5002 Computational Physics and PHYS 5602 Physics of Elementary Particles with a grade of B+ or higher in each.
Medical physics accelerated pathway: students must complete PHYS 5002 Computational Physics and PHYS 5313 Physical Applications of Fourier Analysis with a grade of B+ or higher in each.
Students may receive advanced standing with transfer of credit of up to 1.0 credit which will reduce their time to completion.
Admission
An M.Sc. in Physics or a closely related field is normally required for admission into the Ph.D. program.
Students who have been admitted to the M.Sc. program may be permitted to transfer into the Ph.D. program if they demonstrate academic abilities for advanced research in their field.
Direct Entry from Bachelor's Degree
Exceptional undergraduate students holding an honours B.Sc. in Physics or a closely related field, with a minimum A- average and significant research experience, may be considered for the Direct Entry Ph.D. program.