Applied physics is the study of physics specifically as it pertains to developing and growing a wide range of practical uses in society through research and technology. Students may focus on a specific industry that uses this science, including aerospace, satellites, mobile telecommunications, lasers, microchips, fiber optics, semiconductors and information technology.

Requirements for the PhD program often involve the student having already obtained a Master’s degree. Additionally, a thesis or dissertation primarily consisting of original academic research must be submitted. In some countries, this work may even need to be defended in front of a panel.