University of San Francisco

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework, original research and professional training. Early-stage study typically includes core graduate courses in physical chemistry, quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics and spectroscopy, together with electives in photonics, nonlinear optics, ultrafast spectroscopy, quantum chemistry methods, computational chemistry and materials for optoelectronics. Students then move into a sustained period of supervised research on a dissertation topic chosen in consultation with a faculty advisor.

• Core topics: quantum theory of atoms and molecules, molecular spectroscopy, statistical thermodynamics and advanced physical chemistry.
• Specialist topics: ultrafast and nonlinear optics, single-molecule spectroscopy, light–matter coupling, quantum dynamics, ab initio and density functional methods for excited states.
• Research training: experimental techniques (laser systems, detectors, sample preparation), computational modelling, data analysis and reproducible research practices.
• Professional development: scientific communication, teaching experience, grant writing and ethics in research.

Programme structure typically involves initial coursework and rotations or preliminary research projects, a qualifying or comprehensive examination to demonstrate readiness for independent research, a sustained dissertation research phase, and a final oral defence of the thesis.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant undergraduate or master’s degree in chemistry, physics, materials science or a closely related discipline, with a strong record in physical chemistry and mathematics. Successful candidates typically demonstrate substantial laboratory or computational research experience.

• Official academic transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
• A curriculum vitae or résumé detailing research experience and technical skills.
• Personal statement describing research interests, motivation for doctoral study and fit with faculty expertise.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can speak to research potential.
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English (such as TOEFL or IELTS), where required.

The programme evaluates applicants holistically; demonstrated research potential and alignment with faculty research interests are often decisive. Specific documentation or additional assessments may be requested by the department.

Career prospects

Graduates with a PhD emphasis in Optics and Quantum Chemistry pursue a range of careers that leverage deep expertise in light–matter interactions, quantum methods and advanced spectroscopy. Typical pathways include:

• Academic research and teaching positions in chemistry, physics or materials departments.
• Research and development roles in industry sectors such as photonics, semiconductor and optoelectronic devices, quantum information and sensing, telecommunications, and analytical instrumentation.
• Positions at national laboratories and government research institutes focused on quantum technologies, spectroscopy and materials science.
• Technical roles in startups and established companies in the Bay Area and beyond, including roles in device engineering, modelling and product development.
• Cross-disciplinary opportunities in computational science, data science, patent law (with additional training) and science policy.

Why study at University of San Francisco

The University of San Francisco offers a research-focused environment with access to faculty working across experimental and theoretical facets of optics and quantum chemistry. The department emphasises close mentorship, collaborative research groups and hands-on training with modern laser and spectroscopy equipment as well as computational infrastructure.

Located in the Bay Area, students benefit from proximity to a dense ecosystem of universities, national labs and technology companies active in photonics and quantum technologies, creating opportunities for collaborations, internships and technology transfer. The university’s small cohort sizes and emphasis on professional development foster strong mentorship, teaching experience and preparation for diverse career trajectories.

USF’s institutional commitment to ethical scholarship and community engagement complements technical training, preparing graduates to conduct responsible research and to contribute to scientific and broader societal challenges.