Why do physics graduate students leave their programs? Previous studies report that nearly 40% of physics graduate students do not complete their Ph.D. programs. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 54 graduate students from 23 institutions and asked why physics and astronomy graduate students discontinue their graduate studies. Graduate students cited a variety of cultural and systemic issues that negatively impacted their sense of belonging in the physics community, such as citing unhealthy expectations and hostile environments. In addition, personal non-academic (e.g., health-related) reasons were also frequently mentioned. Finally, a lack of available support structures contributed to students’ discontinuing their graduate studies. Understanding the mechanisms behind student departure is the first step in making positive changes to increase retention for all students in physics.

Why Graduate Students Leave: Exploring Student Perspectives and Experiences

(HE) PER: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion IV

technical paper

AAPT meetings are a great way to reflect on your teaching, recommit to best practices and re-energize your career with new research, products, and techniques. Listen to internationally known plenary speakers, attend sessions, workshops, and special activities. This meeting is an excellent opportunity to share your expertise and learn from and network with leaders in the field.



AAPT SM 22

AAPT meetings are a great way to reflect on your teaching, recommit to best practices and re-energize your career with new research, products, and techniques. Listen to internationally known plenary speakers, attend sessions, workshops, and special activities. This meeting is an excellent opportunity to share your expertise and learn from and network with leaders in the field.

Lindsay Owens

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Why Graduate Students Leave: Exploring Student Perspectives and Experiences

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