Application period (beginner)
Wintersemester: 01.05. - 15.07.
Sommersemester: 01.12. - 15.01.
Physics is the science of inanimate nature. It is concerned with the properties and behaviour of matter and fields in space and time, as well as the dynamics of space and time itself. Physics is regarded as the fundamental science upon which all others are based, such as for example the science of astronomy, chemistry, up to and including biology.
For inclusion in a master's degree is the completion of studies at the Bachelor's level requirement.
The subject-specific entry requirements are set out in the current Aufnahme-/Zulassungsordnung (admission regulations).
It also includes the different deadlines for the provision of evidence.
If proof of German language skills is required: Information on German language skills.
The aim of the Master's programme is to provide special training in several sub-disciplines of physics at the highest international level and to guide students towards independent scientific and technical work based on relevant practical experience. The Master's programme is characterised by the scientific profile of the faculty.
The prerequisite for admission is a Bachelor's degree in physics or an equivalent qualifying degree with corresponding academic achievements. The admission of applicants with other degrees is regulated by the Master's Admission Regulations, which may contain aptitude tests.
The Master's programme comprises 120 ECTS credits corresponding to a study duration of 4 semesters. The course contents are summarised in modules, each of which extends over one to two semesters. In accordance with the objectives outlined above, the programme is divided into two one-year sections, the specialisation phase and the research phase.
The specialisation phase serves to develop the advanced knowledge required for independent productive work in physics. By means of a special education in several sub-subjects of physics, shaped by the scientific profile of the university and its physics department, the graduates can prepare themselves specifically for certain future fields of activity.
The research phase is to be regarded as a unit. It takes into account the fact, typical for modern science, that the scope of essential knowledge has become so large that it is unavoidable, even with a streamlining and concentration that reaches its limits, that even the teaching of basic knowledge takes up a large proportion of the study time. It is precisely this streamlining and concentration, however, that widens the gap to the ever-advancing innovative front of science and technology, on which graduates are subsequently to prove themselves in research and industry.
Not compulsory, but possible and sensible. However, it should be agreed at an early stage with the examination board whether the study achievements completed abroad can be recognised.
In the specialisation phase (1st and 2nd semester) lectures, exercises and internships are offered.
In the research phase (3rd and 4th semester) a research project is worked on in one of the faculties institutes, i.e. in one of the working groups. The research is supported by seminars.
Exams may be held in one or more of the following forms:
1. written exam (duration 1 - 2 hours)
2. oral examination (minimum 30 minutes maximum 60 minutes)
3. seminar lecture from 20 up to 45 minutes duration
4. written elaboration
Physicists work on basic and application-oriented problems both in public research laboratories and in industrial research laboratories. The topics range from cosmology and elementary particle physics, which are usually dealt with in large international working groups, to the physics of condensed matter and materials and innovative technology. Physics is the starting point of future-oriented high technologies, from microelectronics to nanotechnology, and without its participation sustainable contributions to the solution of energy and environmental problems are inconceivable.
Physicists are highly regarded for their ability to systematically analyse complex processes in science, technology and industry from a quantitative point of view and to further develop them innovatively. Because of these analytical skills, physics graduates are also sought-after in occupational fields that are otherwise reserved exclusively for engineers and in more remote areas such as management consulting and insurance.
A successfully completed Master's degree entitles the holder to a doctorate.
The main areas of research in physics are applied optics, biophysics, solid state physics, theoretical physics, environmental physics and computational materials science.
18 professors in Physics; readers and tutors