Advanced Functional Materials

Description

This English-taught, interdisciplinary MSc programme builds advanced understanding of the chemical and physical principles that underpin modern functional materials. Core teaching combines materials chemistry and materials physics to give a rounded foundation in how functional materials are designed, synthesised, characterised and manufactured. Emphasis is placed on gaining practical skills that link laboratory methods with materials development and analysis.

The programme is research-oriented and delivered by the Faculty of Natural Sciences. Coursework is complemented by advanced modules in current research areas and substantial lab-based training. Hands-on elements include an extended research project and a Master’s thesis, giving you the opportunity to work closely with supervisors and gain experience in experimental design, data analysis and scientific reporting. This structure suits students aiming to deepen their scientific expertise and pursue careers in R&D, materials development or further academic study.

Typical entry requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., chemistry, physics, materials science or closely related field)
• Solid background in physical and chemical principles relevant to materials science
• Proof of proficiency in English (programme is taught in English)
• Academic transcripts and a curriculum vitae; motivation letter and references commonly requested

Please consult the official programme page or admissions office for exact, up-to-date entry criteria and required documentation.

This Master’s curriculum combines advanced chemistry, physics and engineering to develop functional materials for applications ranging from nano‑electronics to energy conversion. Core (mandatory) modules — delivered in English during the first to third semesters — build a strong foundation in advanced concepts in chemistry and physics, synthetic methods, material characterization, surface and interface science, sustainable production technologies, semiconductor and nanostructure physics, and the physics of solar cells. The programme also includes a research project and targeted soft‑skills training to prepare you for independent research and interdisciplinary teamwork; basic German (Deutsch als Fremdsprache I & II, A1/A2) is offered for non‑native speakers.

A rich set of compulsory-elective modules lets you specialise across micro‑ and nanotechnology, optics, magnetism, optoelectronics and printed/flexible electronics, modern battery and polymer materials, catalysis and computational chemistry. Examples taught in English include modules on modern microscopies, 2D materials, halide perovskites, organic semiconductors, LEDs/laser diodes and optical sensors, photocatalysis, synthesis of functional polymers, and colloids & interfaces (including a lab course). A smaller selection of electives is available in German only (for example, “Prozesse und Produkte der chemischen Industrie”, “Heterogene Katalyse”, “Werkstoffwissenschaft – Strukturbildungsprozesse”).

Learning outcomes

• Master advanced theoretical principles in chemistry and condensed‑matter physics relevant to functional materials.
• Design and execute chemical syntheses and processing routes, and apply modern characterization techniques to evaluate structure–property relationships.
• Analyse and engineer surfaces, thin films and interfaces for devices (e.g., solar cells, LEDs, sensors) and understand semiconductor/nano‑scale physics.
• Conduct independent research (research project), communicate results effectively (soft skills and language courses), and apply sustainable production concepts and interdisciplinary problem‑solving in academic or industrial settings.

Key programme requirements (concise)

• Mandatory basic modules (semesters 1–3, taught in English): Advanced Concepts in Chemistry and Physics; Synthetic Methods in Chemistry; Material Characterisation; Surfaces, Thin Films and Interfaces; Sustainable Production Technologies; Semiconductor Physics – Nano Structures; Facets of Material Science; Physics of Solar Cells; Research project; Soft skills.
• Compulsory elective modules (semesters 1–3, primarily in English): a broad selection including Materials in Micro and Nano Technologies; Modern Microscopies; Complex Materials for Manufacturing; Surface and Interface Engineering; Magnetism I & II; LEDs/laser diodes/optical sensor systems; Nanophysics; Physics of 2D Materials; Modern Optics; Halide Perovskites; Organic Semiconductors; Modern Battery Materials; Flexible/Printed Electronics; Electroplating and Thermal Coating; Functional Materials; Polymer Materials; Colloids & Interfaces (+ lab); Circular Economy of Polymers; Computational Chemistry; Photocatalysis; Synthesis of Functional Polymers, etc. (selection shown).
• Some electives taught only in German (selection): Prozesse und Produkte der chemischen Industrie; Heterogene Katalyse; Werkstoffwissenschaft – Strukturbildungsprozesse.
• Language options: Deutsch als Fremdsprache I & II (A1/A2) for non‑native German speakers. If these German A1/A2 modules are not taken, non‑native English speakers may choose Englisch in Studien‑ und Fachkommunikation I/II; non‑native German speakers who did not take A1/A2 may choose higher‑level German modules (Deutsch als Fremdsprache III B1, IV B2, or Fachkommunikation I C1).
• Detailed descriptions and the full list of elective modules are provided in the programme regulations.

Graduates are prepared for careers in research and development within academia and industry, particularly in sectors such as materials science, semiconductor and electronics manufacturing, energy conversion and storage, coatings and surface engineering, and polymer or composite production. The hands-on lab experience and specialised electives also make graduates attractive candidates for product development and quality assurance roles in high-tech companies.

The programme also provides a solid foundation for doctoral studies (PhD) in materials science, chemistry or physics for students aiming to continue in research.