This elite Master’s programme provides a rigorous, wide-ranging education in theoretical and mathematical physics, emphasizing the power of abstraction and mathematical reasoning. Core subjects covered include advanced and applied quantum mechanics, quantum field theory and gauge theories, general relativity and cosmology, differential geometry and string theory, as well as statistical physics and stochastics. The curriculum is designed to give both depth and breadth so you can tackle fundamental questions shared by physics and mathematics.
A distinctive feature is the programme’s strong focus on interdisciplinarity and transdisciplinarity — transferring methods and insights across closely related fields and highlighting the common problems that unite modern theoretical physics and mathematics. Teaching combines annual courses by local faculty with specialised short courses from visiting international experts. Students are actively linked to cutting‑edge research by being integrated into one of the more than thirty participating research groups.
The programme is run jointly by two of Germany’s leading research universities, both recognised in the German Universities Excellence Initiative, and benefits from their extensive international networks. Many high-profile researchers (including Nobel laureates, Leibniz Prize winners, ERC grantees and Humboldt professors) have been or are affiliated with these institutions. Situated in Munich, the programme also connects to a dense regional ecosystem of Max Planck and Fraunhofer institutes, global companies and a lively start‑up scene—creating strong conditions for state‑of‑the‑art research training and international career opportunities.
This two-year (four-semester) MSc programme is built to give you a deep, research-oriented education at the interface of theoretical physics and rigorous mathematics. In the first three semesters you tailor your studies from a broad catalogue of advanced courses across the two disciplines, allowing you to build a programme that matches your interests—whether you favour abstract mathematical foundations, analytical modelling, or theoretical approaches to physical systems. Teaching formats typically combine lectures, problem classes, and research-style seminars that train you to tackle complex theoretical problems.
The fourth semester is devoted to a concentrated, half-year Master’s project: an independent research project under academic supervision that culminates in a written thesis and often includes an oral presentation. This capstone phase is designed to consolidate your coursework, develop research skills, and demonstrate your ability to carry out and communicate original work in theoretical or mathematical physics.
Key learning outcomes include mastering advanced theoretical concepts and mathematical techniques, developing proficiency in formulating and analysing research problems, and gaining practical experience in scientific writing and presentation. Graduates should be able to engage in independent research, collaborate across disciplinary boundaries, and apply rigorous mathematical reasoning to current questions in theoretical physics.
Requirements / programme structure
This master's programme requires applicants to already hold a first professional university degree in either physics or mathematics. Degrees awarded in Germany or from foreign institutions are acceptable, provided they are comparable in level and content to the required qualification.
If your degree was completed outside Germany, it must be recognized as equivalent to the programme’s entry qualification. For full details on application steps, required documents and equivalency assessments, consult the programme’s application information on the official website or contact the admissions office.
Winter Semester (International)
15 June 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 June 2026
The programme is designed to prepare graduates for international research careers, providing the theoretical background and research experience needed for doctoral studies and positions in research institutions. Graduates are also well placed to pursue roles that require strong mathematical and modelling skills within academic, public‑sector or industry research environments.
Friedrich Schiller University Jena — Jena
University of Göttingen — Göttingen
Technical University of Munich — München
Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz — Mainz