IV. Faculty Advisor

This is a research department- all graduate students are expected to contribute to research as early in their careers as is feasible.  To this end, the faculty advisor is an essential component in a student’s development. Every graduate student is assigned an initial faculty advisor when they enter the program. Students may request a change in their advisor at any time. Once a student begins research, their research advisor usually becomes the official advisor. If a graduate student in Physics has a faculty advisor outside of the Department then they are also required to have an internal advisor.  This internal advisor is expected to facilitate departmental norms and policies, serve on the student's academic committees, and verify that the research project is appropriate for a graduate degree in Physics.  The internal advisor is not required to have any academic advisory role.  Students are encouraged to select this internal advisor in consultation with their external faculty advisor.  However, if they are unable to do so then the Graduate Committee will assign an internal advisor. To change your advisor, contact the Graduate Program Advisor, who will, with the approval of your past and proposed advisors, make the change in your records.

It is important that you meet with your advisor every quarter to discuss your goals, coursework and expectations. Your advisor can provide a wealth of information, from his/her years of experience, about the "real world" aspects of the program. Your advisor is your personal consultant on academic matters and serves as a liaison between you and the Physics Department in procedural matters. Advisors can discuss the program with you and provide guidance regarding coursework. They can consult with you about degree and other program requirements, provide a sounding board about your research, consult with you about financial aid and other financial support, help you create a long-term strategy for accomplishing your goals, help you stay on track and advise you about your career options.

Advisors can also assist and advise you if you run into problems, and they can help you to identify potential problems, whether that is with your courses, research, funding, employment, registration/billing, personal needs, or other matters.