This research-focused Master's programme prepares students to work independently at the leading edge of physics research and technology development in both academia and industry. The curriculum combines training in the general practice of scientific work with professional specialisation, so graduates learn to design and carry out original research projects while gaining deep knowledge in core physics areas.
Students study several areas of physics and gain advanced, in-depth expertise in three principal research fields: solid-state physics, quantum optics, and gravitational physics. A central component is an independent research project completed in one of these areas; many projects are supervised by active experimental or theoretical research groups. The programme’s structure and research orientation are designed to give students the practical and conceptual tools needed for doctoral work or technical positions in industry.
Research environments include numerous experimental and theory groups across the faculty and partner institutes. Quantum optics is strongly represented (six experimental and four theory groups) and covers topics such as atom optics and quantum sensors, ultra-cold quantum gases, optomechanics, quantum dynamics in external light fields, ultrafast laser optics, quantum computing, quantum metrology, applied laser physics, trapped-ion quantum engineering, and optical clocks. Solid-state physics involves four experimental and three theoretical groups studying low-dimensional solids (graphene, atomic wires, thin films), nanostructures (quantum dots), solar energy, strongly correlated electrons, exactly solvable quantum systems, and quantum transport. Gravitational physics research—conducted by several experimental and theoretical groups at the faculty and at the associated Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics (Albert Einstein Institute)—includes laser interferometry and gravitational-wave astronomy (ground and space), quantum control, string theory, general relativity, and cosmology. Additional Master’s thesis options may be available in radioecology and quantum information theory, and projects can also be carried out at collaborating centres such as Laser Zentrum Hannover e.V.
Key programme requirements and expectations
The Master’s programme is organised into two consecutive one-year phases: a one-year specialisation phase followed by a one-year research phase. During the first year you build the core knowledge and practical skills required for independent research in physics and take advanced courses across the faculty’s three principal research areas: solid-state physics, quantum optics, and gravitation physics. You also choose an elective from another scientific discipline (for example mathematics, chemistry, electrical engineering, philosophy, or computer science) to broaden your perspective and interdisciplinary competence.
The second year focuses on research. A six‑month preparatory research training precedes the central component of the programme — the Master’s thesis, which is an independent research project addressing a contemporary problem in modern physics and is intended to run for six months. This research-intensive phase gives you hands-on experience designing and carrying out a project, analysing results, and reporting findings in written and oral form.
Teaching and assessment are organised in modules, each covering a thematic area that may include multiple courses and span several semesters. Modules are assigned credit points proportional to the expected workload. To obtain credits you must complete coursework (such as homework, laboratory work and seminars) and pass the associated examinations. Some credits can also be earned through an industry internship. The official examination regulations specify the required modules, coursework, exam formats and available electives. Graduates emerge with advanced theoretical and experimental skills in the programme’s core fields, practical research experience, and the ability to plan and execute independent projects — competencies that underpin further academic research or technically demanding roles in industry.
Requirements (concise)
To qualify for this Master's program you must hold an undergraduate degree in Physics. This means a Bachelor’s degree (or an academic qualification judged equivalent) that demonstrates foundational training in core physics subjects and the methods used in the discipline.
If your first degree was obtained outside Germany, it should be comparable to a German Bachelor’s in Physics. International applicants whose qualifications are in closely related fields or whose equivalence is unclear are advised to contact the admissions office early to request an individual assessment of eligibility.
Winter Semester (International)
31 May 2026
Summer Semester (International)
30 November 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 July 2026
Summer Semester (EU/EEA)
15 January 2027
Graduates are prepared for doctoral studies and research careers in universities and research institutes, as well as for R&D positions in industry sectors such as photonics, quantum technologies, semiconductor and materials science, and aerospace. The programme’s emphasis on independent research, experimental and theoretical techniques, and interdisciplinary electives also equips students for roles in technology development, scientific instrumentation, and applied research labs.
Connections with regional research centres and the Max Planck Institute can help students build networks for academic or industry placements, while the option to earn credits through internships supports transitions to non-academic careers.
Friedrich Schiller University Jena — Jena
University of Göttingen — Göttingen
Technical University of Munich — München
Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz — Mainz