Overview

The Philosophical Foundations of Physics at Columbia University provides an intensive academic framework for examining the conceptual underpinnings of modern physical theories. This master level programme bridges the gap between empirical scientific practice and rigorous philosophical inquiry, allowing students to engage with the fundamental nature of reality and scientific methodology.

Why Philosophical Foundations of Physics at Columbia University?

Columbia University offers a world-class environment where the departments of physics and philosophy collaborate to provide a unique interdisciplinary experience. Students benefit from access to distinguished faculty members who are leaders in their respective fields, fostering a high-level intellectual community. The institution’s historic reputation for excellence in both the sciences and humanities ensures a robust foundation for advanced research and critical analysis.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 36728 per semester
National fee: USD 36728 per semester
Local fee: USD 36728 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on the logical structure and metaphysical implications of physical laws. Modules may include:

Quantum Mechanics
Space, Time, and Cosmology
Statistical Mechanics
Philosophy of Science
Classical Mechanics
Electromagnetism
Logic and Methodology
Relativity

Careers with Philosophical Foundations of Physics

Graduates of this programme are well-equipped for diverse professional paths that require high-level analytical skills and complex problem-solving abilities. Many students continue their academic journeys by entering doctoral programmes in physics or philosophy at prestigious global institutions. Beyond academia, the rigorous training in logical reasoning and theoretical modelling prepares individuals for successful careers in data science, quantitative finance, and science communication.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

The Philosophy of Space and Time
Special and General Relativity
Early Universe
Cosmology and Particle Astrophysics
General Relativity and Black Holes
The Conceptual Foundations of Quantum Mechanics
Quantum Mechanics
Quantum Field Theory

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-09 00:00:00

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7.5

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Manhattan, United States

Disciplines

Physics Philosophy View 398 other Masters in Physics in United States

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Academic requirements

GRE^®

Required

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

In addition to the requirements listed below, all students must submit one transcript showing courses and grades per school attended

A statement of academic purpose, a writing sample of no more than 20 pages on physics, philosophy, or the philosophy of science (a course paper, term paper, etc.)
A personal statement, and three letters of evaluation from academic sources.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

73456 USD / year

≈ 73456 USD / year
Out-of-State

73456 USD / year

≈ 73456 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

73456 USD / year

≈ 73456 USD / year

Living costs

Manhattan

United States

2638 - 5751 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Philosophical Foundations of Physics.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Manhattan

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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