Master of Science in Physics (International Physics)

Overview

This English‑taught Master of Science in Physics offers three distinct pathways so you can shape your studies around your interests and career goals. The programme combines advanced theoretical and experimental lectures with specialised elective modules and research opportunities. Your chosen focus is recorded on your degree certificate, which helps communicate your expertise to employers and research institutions.

Specialisations

• General Physics: This flexible track lets you assemble modules from the programme catalogue to create a tailored profile. Core advanced courses cover both experimental and theoretical physics, keeping future career options broad. Many of the compulsory elective subjects in this specialisation emphasise computational physics and materials science, with particular attention to the optoelectronic properties of micro‑ and nano‑structures — including their fabrication, characterisation, spectroscopic behaviour, device applications and theoretical simulation.

• Photonic Quantum Technologies: This specialisation dives into current quantum technologies through courses such as Quantum Optics, Quantum Computing and Quantum Information Technology. Students benefit from strong research infrastructure provided by the PhoQS (Institute for Photonic Quantum Systems), which supports advanced study and project work in the field.

• Optoelectronics, Materials, Devices: Focused on optoelectronic semiconductor components, optics and photonics, this track prepares you for technically demanding roles in both research and industry where expertise in materials, devices and photonic systems is required.

Recommended background and application considerations

• Bachelor’s degree in physics or a closely related discipline (solid grounding in classical and quantum physics)
• Strong mathematical foundations (analysis, linear algebra, differential equations)
• Prior exposure to optics, solid‑state physics or materials science is advantageous for the specialised tracks
• Practical experience or coursework in experimental techniques and/or computational methods is helpful
• Proficiency in academic English to follow lectures, complete coursework and conduct research

This MSc programme combines classroom-based coursework and hands-on research. During the first two semesters you take lectures in theoretical and experimental physics alongside seminars. A required advanced quantum mechanics course is taught in the first semester, while most other classes are elective so you can tailor the programme to your interests and chosen specialisation. Lectures are paired with practical laboratory classes and theoretical exercise sessions, where you perform experiments or solve and present physics problems. You also prepare and present two literature-based seminar projects, and complete two technical English courses designed to strengthen subject-specific English and communication skills for study, research and professional work.

In the second year you become a member of a departmental research group and carry out a supervised individual research project that forms the basis of your Master’s thesis. The third semester includes a preparatory phase to acquire the specialised skills needed for your project. The written thesis is submitted at the end of the fourth semester and is usually defended in a colloquium consisting of a presentation followed by questions. The programme is structured to develop both deep theoretical knowledge and practical research experience.

Key modules and components

• Compulsory advanced quantum mechanics (first semester)
• Elective courses in theoretical and experimental physics to define a specialisation
• Practical laboratory classes and theoretical exercise sessions with student presentations
• Two literature-based seminars where students develop and present a scientific topic
• Two technical English courses to build discipline-specific language and communication skills
• Supervised individual research project within a departmental research group
• Master’s thesis (written) and oral defence in a colloquium

Learning outcomes

• Solid understanding of core physics principles and advanced topics
• Ability to conduct independent scientific research and to work scientifically in R&D or technology settings
• Specialised expertise—depending on chosen electives—in areas such as quantum technologies, optoelectronics, materials science, and computational physics
• Strong subject-related English and presentation skills applicable to international research and industry environments
• Qualification for employment in optics/electronics industries or academic institutions, and eligibility to pursue PhD programmes in Paderborn or elsewhere

Programme completion requirements (concise)

• Complete compulsory advanced quantum mechanics course
• Fulfil elective course requirements to achieve chosen specialisation
• Participate in practical classes and theoretical exercise sessions, including student presentations
• Prepare and present two literature-based seminars
• Complete two technical English courses
• Carry out a supervised research project within a departmental group
• Submit a written Master’s thesis by the end of the fourth semester and defend it in a colloquium

Graduates are equipped for independent scientific work and possess deep foundations in physics plus specialised skills depending on their track (quantum technologies, optoelectronics/materials, or computational physics). These qualifications open career paths in optics and electronics industries, photonics and semiconductor companies, as well as positions in research institutions and laboratories.

The degree also provides the academic credentials to pursue a PhD at Paderborn or other research universities, making it suitable for students aiming for careers in research and development or in higher education.