Department of Physics
MSc in Physics
Nazarbayev University’s Master of Science in physics program is a two-year program.
The objective of the graduate program is turning enrolled candidates into physicists prepared to pursue postgraduate education or better yet, careers in research and development companies or in the public sector.
Due to the student-centered approach for an optimal learning experience, classes are kept small so that students can benefit from the positive academic relationship with their professors and receive tutoring personalized to their academic needs. Professors are also actively involved in the coursework of students both in the laboratory and their individual research projects.
A career in physics is exciting because physicists are trained to be natural problem solvers and creative thinkers. Economy is undergoing a transformation that reflects worldwide trends – the know-hows and technical innovations become the most important asset. In order to develop the necessary underlying technologies to support this transformation, highly skilled physicists and engineers are required.
The students will gain profound systematic knowledge in physics and develop the ability to identify and use theoretical knowledge in the context of real-life phenomena and engineering applications in technology innovation and entrepreneurship. The graduates are expected to acquire advanced analytical, mathematical, computational and experimental skills corresponding to the subjects of their Master projects.
Students are expected to become exposed to the international research environment. Besides pursuing doctoral degrees, graduates with an M.Sc. in physics from Nazarbayev University are individuals with honed research skills able to continuously make worthwhile contributions both at home and abroad in technology.
The objective of the graduate program is turning enrolled candidates into physicists prepared to pursue postgraduate education or better yet, careers in research and development companies or in the public sector.
Due to the student-centered approach for an optimal learning experience, classes are kept small so that students can benefit from the positive academic relationship with their professors and receive tutoring personalized to their academic needs. Professors are also actively involved in the coursework of students both in the laboratory and their individual research projects.
A career in physics is exciting because physicists are trained to be natural problem solvers and creative thinkers. Economy is undergoing a transformation that reflects worldwide trends – the know-hows and technical innovations become the most important asset. In order to develop the necessary underlying technologies to support this transformation, highly skilled physicists and engineers are required.
The students will gain profound systematic knowledge in physics and develop the ability to identify and use theoretical knowledge in the context of real-life phenomena and engineering applications in technology innovation and entrepreneurship. The graduates are expected to acquire advanced analytical, mathematical, computational and experimental skills corresponding to the subjects of their Master projects.
Students are expected to become exposed to the international research environment. Besides pursuing doctoral degrees, graduates with an M.Sc. in physics from Nazarbayev University are individuals with honed research skills able to continuously make worthwhile contributions both at home and abroad in technology.
MSc Required Courses:
1) WCS 501 Science Communication (8 ECTS)
2) PHYS 505 Classical Mechanics (8 ECTS)
3) PHYS 510 Quantum Mechanics (8 ECTS)
4) PHYS 515 Classical Electrodynamics (8 ECTS)
5) PHYS 520 Statistical Physics (8 ECTS)
6) PHYS 591 Research Methods (8 ECTS)
7) PHYS 692 Thesis (32 ECTS)
8) PHYS 600 Thesis Research (0 ECTS)
WCS 501 Science Communication (8 ECTS) This graduate level course combines the application of rhetorical analysis to stylistic conventions of writing in the sciences and math with a focus on clarity, conciseness, and coherence. Students will write in their area of expertise in accordance with ethical and professional standards, prepare coherent reports of research findings, develop skills to author research publications, and present posters and/or oral presentations in conferences. They will learn to skillfully communicate scientific concepts and research findings using various modalities of communication with expert and lay audiences. This course trains students to deliver effective and appealing professional and scientific presentations with attention to best practices in the use of technical English and oral communication.
PHYS 505 Classical Mechanics (8 ECTS) The course covers Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulations of classical mechanics, rigid body motion and classical scattering theory.
PHYS 510 Quantum Mechanics (8 ECTS) The course covers nonrelativistic quantum mechanics and introduces elements of relativistic quantum theory. The focus of the course is on the applications of quantum mechanics to experimentally relevant physical settings.
PHYS 515 Classical Electrodynamics (8 ECTS) The course systematically covers electromagnetic fields in vacuum and matter in non-relativistic and relativistic limits.
PHYS 520 Statistical Physics (8 ECTS) The course covers grad-level topics of statistical physics. Possible choices may include fluctuations, susceptibilities and transport in the linear-response regime near thermodynamic equilibrium, Landau theory of second-order phase transitions, critical phenomena, Boltzmann kinetic equation and its applications to nonequilibrium phenomena.
PHYS 591 Research Methods (8 ECTS) This course deals with the methodology in research
PHYS 692 Thesis (32 ECTS) Students will conduct research work under the direction of a supervisor on a novel research problem in a designated area of research. At the end of the semester, the student will prepare and defend the thesis. PHYS 600 Thesis Research (0 ECTS) This course is designed to monitor progress and develop understandings, skills, and outlooks to conduct original, independent research at the MS level. The student will develop (with the advisor’s guidance) a research plan at the beginning of the semester that will state a research problem/question/hypothesis, its background, outline a research strategy and experimental approach, method of data collection, interpretation and validation, and method of communication of the project results to others. The research plan is used as the basis for assessment of the student’s research progress.
MSc Elective Courses:
1) PHYS 565 Advanced Physics Laboratory (8 ECTS)
2) PHYS 550 Analytical Methods in Science (8 ECTS)
3) PHYS 590 Directed Study of Advanced Topics in Modern Physics (8 ECTS)
4) PHYS 562 Field Theories (8 ECTS)
5) PHYS 563 General Relativity (8 ECTS)
6) PHYS 570 Introduction to Optoelectronics (8 ECTS)
7) PHYS 521 Parallel Programing for Scientific Computing (8 ECTS)
8) PHYS 511 Scientific Computing and Data Analysis (8 ECTS)
9) PHYS 530 Solid State Physics (8 ECTS)
PHYS 565 Advanced Physics Laboratory (8 ECTS) This is an advanced laboratory course in the real research laboratory setting. Students will gain experience in setting up and conducting experiments and analyzing acquired data in various areas of physics including but not limited to condensed matter physics, nanotechnology, thermodynamics, laser optics, accelerator physics, semiconductor devices, photovoltaics
PHYS 550 Analytical Methods in Science (8 ECTS) This course introduces students to mathematical methods for solving practical challenges across science and engineering disciplines. Among the topics covered, students will study Fourier analysis — critical for signal processing, telecommunications, and medical imaging — and differential equations, which play a fundamental role in modeling phenomena in biology, physics, and economics. Students will enhance their problem-solving skills through practical assignments using computational software, allowing them to define and analyze complex real-world systems effectively. This course provides analytical tools highly sought by students pursuing careers in diverse scientific and technical fields.
PHYS 590 Directed Study of Advanced Topics in Modern Physics (8 ECTS) An independent study course on an advanced physics topic, chosen in consultation with a faculty supervisor. The student engages in self-directed learning through reading and regular discussions. A final report summarizes the material studied and key insights. The supervisor provides a brief evaluation and grade recommendation.
PHYS 562 Field Theories (8 ECTS) The course deals with field theories in physics as obtained via a Lagrangian approach through the variation of the action. The main focus is on Newtonian gravity, thermodynamics, Maxwell’s electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, scalar fields and relativity.
PHYS 563 General Relativity (8 ECTS) The course deals with Einstein’s theory of gravity. From differential geometry and the formulation of the theory to the most important solutions and their interpretation.
PHYS 570 Introduction to Optoelectronics (8 ECTS) This course aims to teach basics of semiconductor physics and optoelectronic devices based on semiconductors.
PHYS 521 Parallel Programing for Scientific Computing (8 ECTS) This course introduces parallel programming techniques with a focus on applications in computational science and large-scale numerical simulations. Topics include the architecture of parallel computing systems, parallel programming models (shared memory, distributed memory, and GPU-based computing), performance optimization, load balancing, and scalability. Emphasis is placed on practical implementation using industry-standard parallel computing frameworks, including OpenMP (multithreading), MPI (message passing), and CUDA/OpenCL (GPU computing). Students will gain hands-on experience running and optimizing parallel code on high-performance computing systems, with applications relevant to computational sciences.
PHYS 511 Scientific Computing and Data Analysis (8 ECTS) In this course, students will develop advanced computational and data analysis skills for solving complex scientific and engineering problems. Topics include numerical methods for root-finding, interpolation, differentiation, integration, and simulations of systems governed by differential equations. Emphasis will be placed on algorithm efficiency, stability, and accuracy. Additionally, students will explore advanced techniques in data handling, visualization, statistical modeling, signal processing, and machine learning, with applications to real-world scientific and engineering datasets.
PHYS 530 Solid State Physics (8 ECTS) This course covers the fundamentals of solid-state physics spanning structural, binding, mechanical, vibrational, thermal, electrical, magnetic and optical properties of crystalline, defected and non-crystalline solids (metals, semiconductors and insulators). The properties and phenomena in solids are studied as a result of their interaction with external radiation, fields and particles. Take all the fundamentals of physics, including classical and quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics and statistical physics, and put them all together to study a piece of matter. Critical applications in material science, nanotechnology, solid-state devices, thermal and electrical energy transport & conversion, and materials characterization techniques will also be addressed. A grasp of fundamental and advanced principles and techniques in solid-state physics is very important in much of modern applied physical sciences, high-technology as well as fundamental research.
1) WCS 501 Science Communication (8 ECTS)
2) PHYS 505 Classical Mechanics (8 ECTS)
3) PHYS 510 Quantum Mechanics (8 ECTS)
4) PHYS 515 Classical Electrodynamics (8 ECTS)
5) PHYS 520 Statistical Physics (8 ECTS)
6) PHYS 591 Research Methods (8 ECTS)
7) PHYS 692 Thesis (32 ECTS)
8) PHYS 600 Thesis Research (0 ECTS)
WCS 501 Science Communication (8 ECTS) This graduate level course combines the application of rhetorical analysis to stylistic conventions of writing in the sciences and math with a focus on clarity, conciseness, and coherence. Students will write in their area of expertise in accordance with ethical and professional standards, prepare coherent reports of research findings, develop skills to author research publications, and present posters and/or oral presentations in conferences. They will learn to skillfully communicate scientific concepts and research findings using various modalities of communication with expert and lay audiences. This course trains students to deliver effective and appealing professional and scientific presentations with attention to best practices in the use of technical English and oral communication.
PHYS 505 Classical Mechanics (8 ECTS) The course covers Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulations of classical mechanics, rigid body motion and classical scattering theory.
PHYS 510 Quantum Mechanics (8 ECTS) The course covers nonrelativistic quantum mechanics and introduces elements of relativistic quantum theory. The focus of the course is on the applications of quantum mechanics to experimentally relevant physical settings.
PHYS 515 Classical Electrodynamics (8 ECTS) The course systematically covers electromagnetic fields in vacuum and matter in non-relativistic and relativistic limits.
PHYS 520 Statistical Physics (8 ECTS) The course covers grad-level topics of statistical physics. Possible choices may include fluctuations, susceptibilities and transport in the linear-response regime near thermodynamic equilibrium, Landau theory of second-order phase transitions, critical phenomena, Boltzmann kinetic equation and its applications to nonequilibrium phenomena.
PHYS 591 Research Methods (8 ECTS) This course deals with the methodology in research
PHYS 692 Thesis (32 ECTS) Students will conduct research work under the direction of a supervisor on a novel research problem in a designated area of research. At the end of the semester, the student will prepare and defend the thesis. PHYS 600 Thesis Research (0 ECTS) This course is designed to monitor progress and develop understandings, skills, and outlooks to conduct original, independent research at the MS level. The student will develop (with the advisor’s guidance) a research plan at the beginning of the semester that will state a research problem/question/hypothesis, its background, outline a research strategy and experimental approach, method of data collection, interpretation and validation, and method of communication of the project results to others. The research plan is used as the basis for assessment of the student’s research progress.
MSc Elective Courses:
1) PHYS 565 Advanced Physics Laboratory (8 ECTS)
2) PHYS 550 Analytical Methods in Science (8 ECTS)
3) PHYS 590 Directed Study of Advanced Topics in Modern Physics (8 ECTS)
4) PHYS 562 Field Theories (8 ECTS)
5) PHYS 563 General Relativity (8 ECTS)
6) PHYS 570 Introduction to Optoelectronics (8 ECTS)
7) PHYS 521 Parallel Programing for Scientific Computing (8 ECTS)
8) PHYS 511 Scientific Computing and Data Analysis (8 ECTS)
9) PHYS 530 Solid State Physics (8 ECTS)
PHYS 565 Advanced Physics Laboratory (8 ECTS) This is an advanced laboratory course in the real research laboratory setting. Students will gain experience in setting up and conducting experiments and analyzing acquired data in various areas of physics including but not limited to condensed matter physics, nanotechnology, thermodynamics, laser optics, accelerator physics, semiconductor devices, photovoltaics
PHYS 550 Analytical Methods in Science (8 ECTS) This course introduces students to mathematical methods for solving practical challenges across science and engineering disciplines. Among the topics covered, students will study Fourier analysis — critical for signal processing, telecommunications, and medical imaging — and differential equations, which play a fundamental role in modeling phenomena in biology, physics, and economics. Students will enhance their problem-solving skills through practical assignments using computational software, allowing them to define and analyze complex real-world systems effectively. This course provides analytical tools highly sought by students pursuing careers in diverse scientific and technical fields.
PHYS 590 Directed Study of Advanced Topics in Modern Physics (8 ECTS) An independent study course on an advanced physics topic, chosen in consultation with a faculty supervisor. The student engages in self-directed learning through reading and regular discussions. A final report summarizes the material studied and key insights. The supervisor provides a brief evaluation and grade recommendation.
PHYS 562 Field Theories (8 ECTS) The course deals with field theories in physics as obtained via a Lagrangian approach through the variation of the action. The main focus is on Newtonian gravity, thermodynamics, Maxwell’s electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, scalar fields and relativity.
PHYS 563 General Relativity (8 ECTS) The course deals with Einstein’s theory of gravity. From differential geometry and the formulation of the theory to the most important solutions and their interpretation.
PHYS 570 Introduction to Optoelectronics (8 ECTS) This course aims to teach basics of semiconductor physics and optoelectronic devices based on semiconductors.
PHYS 521 Parallel Programing for Scientific Computing (8 ECTS) This course introduces parallel programming techniques with a focus on applications in computational science and large-scale numerical simulations. Topics include the architecture of parallel computing systems, parallel programming models (shared memory, distributed memory, and GPU-based computing), performance optimization, load balancing, and scalability. Emphasis is placed on practical implementation using industry-standard parallel computing frameworks, including OpenMP (multithreading), MPI (message passing), and CUDA/OpenCL (GPU computing). Students will gain hands-on experience running and optimizing parallel code on high-performance computing systems, with applications relevant to computational sciences.
PHYS 511 Scientific Computing and Data Analysis (8 ECTS) In this course, students will develop advanced computational and data analysis skills for solving complex scientific and engineering problems. Topics include numerical methods for root-finding, interpolation, differentiation, integration, and simulations of systems governed by differential equations. Emphasis will be placed on algorithm efficiency, stability, and accuracy. Additionally, students will explore advanced techniques in data handling, visualization, statistical modeling, signal processing, and machine learning, with applications to real-world scientific and engineering datasets.
PHYS 530 Solid State Physics (8 ECTS) This course covers the fundamentals of solid-state physics spanning structural, binding, mechanical, vibrational, thermal, electrical, magnetic and optical properties of crystalline, defected and non-crystalline solids (metals, semiconductors and insulators). The properties and phenomena in solids are studied as a result of their interaction with external radiation, fields and particles. Take all the fundamentals of physics, including classical and quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics and statistical physics, and put them all together to study a piece of matter. Critical applications in material science, nanotechnology, solid-state devices, thermal and electrical energy transport & conversion, and materials characterization techniques will also be addressed. A grasp of fundamental and advanced principles and techniques in solid-state physics is very important in much of modern applied physical sciences, high-technology as well as fundamental research.
The three elective tracks focus students’ experience in the highly-demanded areas of modern physics, from computational and theoretical physics to materials science. Students completing the following set of 3 elective courses will satisfy the focused qualification in respective elective tracks.
Track 1: Applied Scientific Computing and Data Analysis:
PHYS 511 Scientific Computing and Data Analysis (Spring)
PHYS 521 Parallel Programing for Scientific Computing (Fall)
PHYS 550 Applied Mathematical Methods (Fall)
Track 2: Theoretical and Mathematical Physics:
PHYS 550 Applied Mathematical Methods (Fall)
PHYS 563 General Relativity (Fall)
PHYS 562 Field Theories in Physics (Spring)
Track 3: Experimental Materials Science:
PHYS 565 Advanced Physics Laboratory (Fall or Spring)
PHYS 530 Solid State Physics (Fall)
PHYS 470 Introduction to Optoelectronics (Spring)
Track 1: Applied Scientific Computing and Data Analysis:
PHYS 511 Scientific Computing and Data Analysis (Spring)
PHYS 521 Parallel Programing for Scientific Computing (Fall)
PHYS 550 Applied Mathematical Methods (Fall)
Track 2: Theoretical and Mathematical Physics:
PHYS 550 Applied Mathematical Methods (Fall)
PHYS 563 General Relativity (Fall)
PHYS 562 Field Theories in Physics (Spring)
Track 3: Experimental Materials Science:
PHYS 565 Advanced Physics Laboratory (Fall or Spring)
PHYS 530 Solid State Physics (Fall)
PHYS 470 Introduction to Optoelectronics (Spring)
This micro-credential equips students with essential computational and analytical skills to address complex scientific and engineering challenges. It consists of three graduate-level courses
PHYS 511 Scientific Computing and Data Analysis (Spring)
PHYS 521 Parallel Programing for Scientific Computing (Fall)
PHYS 550 Applied Mathematical Methods (Fall)
and draws on the Physics Department’s strengths in high-performance computing and big data analytics. It is well suited for students and working professionals seeking advanced computational skills applicable to physics, engineering, finance, and related fields. In addition, the program provides STEM educators with valuable professional development, enabling them to integrate computational and data analysis techniques into their curricula and better prepare students for data-driven careers. The courses also support existing and proposed data science programs by delivering foundational tools for machine learning, computational modeling, and data-driven research.
PHYS 511 Scientific Computing and Data Analysis (Spring)
PHYS 521 Parallel Programing for Scientific Computing (Fall)
PHYS 550 Applied Mathematical Methods (Fall)
and draws on the Physics Department’s strengths in high-performance computing and big data analytics. It is well suited for students and working professionals seeking advanced computational skills applicable to physics, engineering, finance, and related fields. In addition, the program provides STEM educators with valuable professional development, enabling them to integrate computational and data analysis techniques into their curricula and better prepare students for data-driven careers. The courses also support existing and proposed data science programs by delivering foundational tools for machine learning, computational modeling, and data-driven research.
Powered by cutting-edge physics and data-driven insight, graduates of the MSc in Physics program become fearless problem solvers at the forefront of discovery and innovation. With a strong research foundation and highly transferable skills, they are prepared to thrive across science, technology, entrepreneurship, and emerging industries. Whether shaping breakthroughs in Kazakhstan or driving innovation on the global stage, our graduates are equipped to make lasting, high-impact contributions in today’s rapidly evolving technological world. The MSc in Physics program opens doors to career paths and opportunities such as:
- Research and development in natural sciences and engineering
- Nuclear Science and Technology
- Astronomy and Space Science
- Hazardous waste management
- Finance and Banking
- Telecommunications
- Big data
- High-performance computing
PhD in Physics
The Ph.D. program in Physics in the School of Sciences and Humanities at Nazarbayev University (NU SSH) is designed to provide advanced skills and knowledge base at an expert level for individuals planning a career in academia, industry, and research settings in Kazakhstan and abroad. The program focuses on the enhancement of knowledge through advanced courses and the development of research skills at a high level.
The Ph.D. program in Physics especially focuses on priority areas for Kazakhstan, serving as a foundation for future high-tech industries and a knowledge-based economy. By the completion of the PhD program, students will be capable of designing and conducting independent, innovative, original and high quality research on a variety of topics in Physics as well as interdisciplinary topics.
In addition, program graduates will be prepared for working in industrial and academic environments including positions of university faculty members, senior researchers, high-tech entrepreneurs, engineers, product developers and science & technology policy makers.
The Ph.D. program in Physics especially focuses on priority areas for Kazakhstan, serving as a foundation for future high-tech industries and a knowledge-based economy. By the completion of the PhD program, students will be capable of designing and conducting independent, innovative, original and high quality research on a variety of topics in Physics as well as interdisciplinary topics.
In addition, program graduates will be prepared for working in industrial and academic environments including positions of university faculty members, senior researchers, high-tech entrepreneurs, engineers, product developers and science & technology policy makers.
Ph.D. in Physics Program outline: download
Thesis Research (PHYS 700)
This course is designed to monitor progress and develop understandings, skills, and outlooks to conduct original, independent research at the PhD level. The student will develop (with the advisor’s guidance) a research plan at the beginning of the semester that will state a research problem/question/hypothesis, its background, outline a research strategy and experimental approach, method of data collection, interpretation and validation, and method of communication of the project results to others. The research plan is used as the basis for assessment of the student’s research progress.
Classical Mechanics (PHYS 705)
Classical mechanics can be seen as a fundamental course in mathematical physics. In this course, students will learn to apply the laws of classical mechanics to the situations requiring an advanced level of mathematical treatment developing the theoretical foundations for ideas such as symmetries and conservation laws. The methods and concepts developed are of direct relevance to advanced studies and research in many areas of modern Physics such as Quantum Mechanics, Statistical Mechanics, Continuum Solid and Fluid Dynamics, Solid State Physics, General Relativity, etc. The relevant mathematical background is to be introduced in the course when required. The course covers Newton’s Laws, Oscillations, Central Motion, Calculus of Variations, Lagrangian and Hamiltonian Dynamics, Canonical transformations, Poisson brackets, Symplectic structure.
Computational Modeling and Simulation (PHYS 711)
In this course, students learn advanced techniques for computational modeling and simulations. The course encompasses general methods for performing scientific computer simulations as well as in-depth analysis and validation of the simulation data. In addition, students will learn to write reports in a scientific style. Throughout the semester, students will be asked to perform several assignments and projects, in which they are required to conduct detailed analysis of numerical methods for solving common mathematical problems that appear in many areas of science and engineering.
Statistical Mechanics (PHYS 720)
Statistical mechanics studies classical and quantum microscopic description of macroscopic thermodynamics phenomena using probability theory and statistical methods. This course covers advanced statistical foundations of thermodynamics, including micro-canonical, canonical, and grand canonical ensembles, classical and quantum statistics, phase transitions, transport phenomena, noise and fluctuations, probability and stochastic processes, Brownian motion & fluctuation-dissipation, critical phenomena and order parameters, molecular dynamics, non-equilibrium thermodynamics. Learning fundamental theoretical concepts, problem solving, research project report writing and presentation will be involved to master the subject. Critical applications of statistical mechanics to a broad range of disciplines spanning from thermal physics and engineering, condensed matter physics and spectroscopy, molecular hydrodynamics, chemistry and biophysics to astrophysics will also be addressed. A grasp of fundamental and advanced principles and techniques in statistical mechanics is very important in much of modern applied physical sciences, high-technology as well as cutting-edge fundamental research.
Solid State Physics (PHYS 730)
This course covers the fundamentals of solid-state physics spanning structural, binding, mechanical, vibrational, thermal, electrical, magnetic and optical properties of crystalline, defected and non-crystalline solids (metals, semiconductors and insulators). The properties and phenomena in solids are explored as a result of their interrogation by external radiation, fields and particles. Take all the fundamentals of physics, including classical and quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics and statistical physics, and put them all together to study a piece of matter. Learning fundamental theoretical concepts, problem solving, laboratory practicum, research project report writing and presentation will be involved to master the subject. Critical applications in material science, nanotechnology, solid-state energy transport & conversion, and innovative materials characterization techniques will also be addressed. A grasp of fundamental and advanced principles and techniques in solid-state physics is very important in much of modern applied physical sciences, high-technology as well as cutting-edge fundamental research.
Mathematical Methods of Physics (PHYS 750)
Mathematical Methods of Physics is a one-semester long course at NU. This course will be a treatment of the mathematical methods in physics providing a comprehensive survey of analytic techniques, including series, complex numbers, linear algebra, partial differentiation, integration, vector analysis, Fourier transforms, ordinary differential equations, variation calculus, special functions, and others. We will use the text by Mary Boas, Mathematical Methods in the Physical Sciences, 3rd Edition, John-Wiley & Sons, 2006.
Pre-requisites: BS level standing
Co-requisites:none
General Relativity (PHYS763)
This course deals with the foundations of Einstein’s theory of gravity. Part of the course will be devoted to learning advanced differential geometry and how the theory of General Relativity is built from it. This will be followed by the study of the structure and meaning of Einstein’s field equations, their symmetries and physical properties. Another part of the course will focus on the derivation, properties and interpretation of some of the most important solutions of Einstein's equations, such as static and rotating black holes, gravitational collapse, compact objects and cosmological models. Finally part of the course will be devoted to the connection between General Relativity and Quantum mechanics through the study of black hole thermodynamics and Hawking radiation.
Introduction to Optoelectronics (PHYS 770)
This course elaborates with advanced multidisciplinary fundamental and research topics in optoelectronics including the physics of semiconductors, devices physics and engineering, in particular, band structures of semiconductor materials; statistics of electrons and holes in intrinsic and doped semiconductors; galvanomagnetic and thermoelectric processes, charge photo-generation and recombination processes, charge transport; optical properties of semiconductors; photoresistive sensors, p-n junctions; metal-semiconductor junctions, photodiodes, phototransistors, photovoltaic devices (solar cells) and light emitting devices (LEDs).
Doctoral Thesis (PHYS 800)
This course is designed to facilitate before the end of the prescribed program period or approved degree deferral period the writing and submission of the doctoral thesis for review by the thesis examiners. The thesis must be completed according to the Format and Style Guidelines of the Physics Department.
Thesis Research (PHYS 700)
This course is designed to monitor progress and develop understandings, skills, and outlooks to conduct original, independent research at the PhD level. The student will develop (with the advisor’s guidance) a research plan at the beginning of the semester that will state a research problem/question/hypothesis, its background, outline a research strategy and experimental approach, method of data collection, interpretation and validation, and method of communication of the project results to others. The research plan is used as the basis for assessment of the student’s research progress.
Classical Mechanics (PHYS 705)
Classical mechanics can be seen as a fundamental course in mathematical physics. In this course, students will learn to apply the laws of classical mechanics to the situations requiring an advanced level of mathematical treatment developing the theoretical foundations for ideas such as symmetries and conservation laws. The methods and concepts developed are of direct relevance to advanced studies and research in many areas of modern Physics such as Quantum Mechanics, Statistical Mechanics, Continuum Solid and Fluid Dynamics, Solid State Physics, General Relativity, etc. The relevant mathematical background is to be introduced in the course when required. The course covers Newton’s Laws, Oscillations, Central Motion, Calculus of Variations, Lagrangian and Hamiltonian Dynamics, Canonical transformations, Poisson brackets, Symplectic structure.
Computational Modeling and Simulation (PHYS 711)
In this course, students learn advanced techniques for computational modeling and simulations. The course encompasses general methods for performing scientific computer simulations as well as in-depth analysis and validation of the simulation data. In addition, students will learn to write reports in a scientific style. Throughout the semester, students will be asked to perform several assignments and projects, in which they are required to conduct detailed analysis of numerical methods for solving common mathematical problems that appear in many areas of science and engineering.
Statistical Mechanics (PHYS 720)
Statistical mechanics studies classical and quantum microscopic description of macroscopic thermodynamics phenomena using probability theory and statistical methods. This course covers advanced statistical foundations of thermodynamics, including micro-canonical, canonical, and grand canonical ensembles, classical and quantum statistics, phase transitions, transport phenomena, noise and fluctuations, probability and stochastic processes, Brownian motion & fluctuation-dissipation, critical phenomena and order parameters, molecular dynamics, non-equilibrium thermodynamics. Learning fundamental theoretical concepts, problem solving, research project report writing and presentation will be involved to master the subject. Critical applications of statistical mechanics to a broad range of disciplines spanning from thermal physics and engineering, condensed matter physics and spectroscopy, molecular hydrodynamics, chemistry and biophysics to astrophysics will also be addressed. A grasp of fundamental and advanced principles and techniques in statistical mechanics is very important in much of modern applied physical sciences, high-technology as well as cutting-edge fundamental research.
Solid State Physics (PHYS 730)
This course covers the fundamentals of solid-state physics spanning structural, binding, mechanical, vibrational, thermal, electrical, magnetic and optical properties of crystalline, defected and non-crystalline solids (metals, semiconductors and insulators). The properties and phenomena in solids are explored as a result of their interrogation by external radiation, fields and particles. Take all the fundamentals of physics, including classical and quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics and statistical physics, and put them all together to study a piece of matter. Learning fundamental theoretical concepts, problem solving, laboratory practicum, research project report writing and presentation will be involved to master the subject. Critical applications in material science, nanotechnology, solid-state energy transport & conversion, and innovative materials characterization techniques will also be addressed. A grasp of fundamental and advanced principles and techniques in solid-state physics is very important in much of modern applied physical sciences, high-technology as well as cutting-edge fundamental research.
Mathematical Methods of Physics (PHYS 750)
Mathematical Methods of Physics is a one-semester long course at NU. This course will be a treatment of the mathematical methods in physics providing a comprehensive survey of analytic techniques, including series, complex numbers, linear algebra, partial differentiation, integration, vector analysis, Fourier transforms, ordinary differential equations, variation calculus, special functions, and others. We will use the text by Mary Boas, Mathematical Methods in the Physical Sciences, 3rd Edition, John-Wiley & Sons, 2006.
Pre-requisites: BS level standing
Co-requisites:none
General Relativity (PHYS763)
This course deals with the foundations of Einstein’s theory of gravity. Part of the course will be devoted to learning advanced differential geometry and how the theory of General Relativity is built from it. This will be followed by the study of the structure and meaning of Einstein’s field equations, their symmetries and physical properties. Another part of the course will focus on the derivation, properties and interpretation of some of the most important solutions of Einstein's equations, such as static and rotating black holes, gravitational collapse, compact objects and cosmological models. Finally part of the course will be devoted to the connection between General Relativity and Quantum mechanics through the study of black hole thermodynamics and Hawking radiation.
Introduction to Optoelectronics (PHYS 770)
This course elaborates with advanced multidisciplinary fundamental and research topics in optoelectronics including the physics of semiconductors, devices physics and engineering, in particular, band structures of semiconductor materials; statistics of electrons and holes in intrinsic and doped semiconductors; galvanomagnetic and thermoelectric processes, charge photo-generation and recombination processes, charge transport; optical properties of semiconductors; photoresistive sensors, p-n junctions; metal-semiconductor junctions, photodiodes, phototransistors, photovoltaic devices (solar cells) and light emitting devices (LEDs).
Doctoral Thesis (PHYS 800)
This course is designed to facilitate before the end of the prescribed program period or approved degree deferral period the writing and submission of the doctoral thesis for review by the thesis examiners. The thesis must be completed according to the Format and Style Guidelines of the Physics Department.
The Ph.D. program in Physics especially focuses on priority areas for Kazakhstan, serving as a foundation for future high-tech industries and a knowledge-based economy. By the completion of the PhD program, students will be capable of designing and conducting independent, innovative, original and high quality research on a variety of topics in Physics as well as interdisciplinary topics.
In addition, program graduates will be prepared for working in industrial and academic environments including positions of university faculty members, senior researchers, high-tech entrepreneurs, engineers, product developers and science & technology policy makers.
In addition, program graduates will be prepared for working in industrial and academic environments including positions of university faculty members, senior researchers, high-tech entrepreneurs, engineers, product developers and science & technology policy makers.