Quantum Engineering

Overview

This English-language Master's programme bridges fundamental natural sciences—particularly physics—with application-driven engineering, with a strong emphasis on systems engineering. It delivers in-depth training across the complementary core areas of quantum physics and engineering to prepare students for the research, development and real-world implementation of quantum technologies. Students can tailor their studies toward a theoretical, experimental or applied focus depending on their interests and career goals.

Coursework combines core modules in quantum physics and systems engineering with a broad selection of electives, seminars and project labs. General electives (for example, courses in economics or languages) let students broaden or deepen interdisciplinary and practical skills according to individual preferences. A laboratory project plus an associated project seminar provide hands-on experience and serve as a direct introduction to the Master's thesis, which is completed within research groups.

Graduates leave with qualifications suited to a variety of paths: continuing to doctoral research, joining academic or industrial R&D teams, or working in high-tech roles related to the manufacture, development or marketing of emerging quantum technologies that are moving from the lab into practical application.

Key programme requirements and components

• Instruction language: English
• Interdisciplinary focus combining quantum physics and systems engineering
• Option to specialise in a theoretical, experimental or applied profile
• Selection of courses from core quantum physics and systems engineering modules
• Choice of elective subjects, seminars and (project) lab work across a wide range of topics
• General elective courses (e.g., economics or language modules) for additional skills and interdisciplinarity
• Completion of a laboratory project and associated project seminar as preparation for the thesis
• Master's thesis carried out and written within research groups

Curriculum overview

This research-focused Master's programme spans 120 credit points (CP) over four semesters and is designed to deepen your understanding of both quantum physics and systems engineering. Course work balances rigorous theoretical instruction with hands-on laboratory experience and project work, preparing you for careers in research, industry, or further doctoral study. The programme culminates in an independently researched Master's thesis (30 CP) and a preceding laboratory project (15 CP).

Key modules and learning pathways

Required study modules are organised into several categories: core quantum physics, core systems engineering, subject-specific compulsory electives, subject-specific seminars and lab/project seminars, general electives, the laboratory project, and the Master's thesis. Core modules provide advanced, in-depth training in quantum theory and engineering principles, while subject-specific electives and project options let you tailor the programme to your interests. Labs and team projects drawn from physics and systems-engineering catalogues give practical experience in experimental and system-level work.

Learning outcomes and career-relevant experience

The programme aims to build advanced technical expertise in quantum technologies and systems integration, plus the ability to design and execute independent scientific research. The lab project and six-month Master's thesis (which includes the thesis colloquium) are central to developing research autonomy, as well as teamwork and scientific communication skills through close involvement with a research group. General electives, tutoring roles, and optional internships in industry or research institutions allow further specialisation or development of interdisciplinary competencies.

Requirements (concise)

• Total programme workload: 120 CP over 4 semesters
• Laboratory project: 15 CP (prepares for the thesis)
• Master's thesis: 30 CP; duration six months including the Master's colloquium
• Core module categories: quantum physics and systems engineering
• Additional mandatory categories: subject-specific compulsory choices; subject-specific seminars, lab work, and project seminars
• General elective courses available for specialization or interdisciplinary skill-building
• Opportunities to undertake tutoring assignments and internships in industry or research facilities

Graduates are prepared for doctoral research or for technical and development roles in the emerging quantum-technology industry. Typical career paths include academic research (PhD), R&D positions in high-tech companies, roles in hardware or systems development, manufacturing and technology transfer, as well as sales and application engineering for quantum products.

The programme’s emphasis on lab work, projects and collaborations with international partners also supports entry into industry internships, research institutes and start-ups focused on quantum sensors, quantum computing components, quantum communication systems and related technologies.