This two‑year, English‑taught Master of Science in Physics is a research‑focused programme that deepens your understanding of fundamental physics and the scientific methods used across the natural sciences. It emphasizes both theoretical and experimental approaches, from subatomic to cosmological scales, and positions physics as a foundation for modern technological development.
Students expand their general physics background while being guided to carry out their first independent research project within a chosen specialization. The curriculum is flexible and geared toward preparing graduates for careers in university research and teaching or for research roles in industrial laboratories. The programme seeks motivated, above‑average students who are ready to make the most of a hands‑on, research‑oriented learning environment.
Graduates leave with specialist knowledge and practical skills relevant to their chosen field, the ability to design and run research projects, and competencies in analytical and numerical modelling. The course also develops teamwork and scientific communication skills so you can work effectively in international, cutting‑edge research settings.
This Master's programme is modular and flexible, allowing you to tailor your study plan to match your interests. In the first year you follow mandatory core lectures designed to deepen and broaden your existing physics knowledge. Alongside these cores, elective courses let you specialise in one of several focused areas.
The second year concentrates on academic research: you carry out research work in your chosen specialisation and complete an independent scientific project. The programme’s final semester is dedicated to a research-oriented Master's thesis with a duration of six months.
The syllabus is closely tied to the department’s current research activities, so teaching is research-driven and up to date. Students have the chance to participate in cutting-edge scientific work within an international academic setting, gaining hands-on experience with contemporary research problems.
Key modules and learning outcomes
This master’s programme requires a completed undergraduate education in physics (or an equivalent study programme) and demonstrable subject-specific preparation. International applicants should be aware of the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) used to quantify coursework, and that some grade thresholds below refer to the common German 1.0–5.0 grading scale (lower numbers = better). Applicants whose degrees come from outside the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) will normally be invited to a selection interview.
Below are the entry requirements in clear, itemised form:
Academic degree
Subject-specific ECTS requirements
Research aptitude
Selection interview (for non-EHEA degrees)
Language proficiency
Winter Semester (International)
15 May 2026
Summer Semester (International)
15 November 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 May 2026
Summer Semester (EU/EEA)
15 November 2026
Graduates are prepared for doctoral studies and academic research positions as well as research roles in industrial laboratories. The combination of advanced theoretical training, experimental skills and an independent research project also makes alumni competitive for technical and development positions in high-tech industries or for roles requiring strong analytical and modelling expertise.
Those aiming for academic careers will be well positioned to apply for PhD programmes nationally and internationally; graduates interested in industry can pursue R&D, technical consultancy, or roles in companies that rely on advanced simulation, instrumentation or data analysis.
Friedrich Schiller University Jena — Jena
University of Göttingen — Göttingen
Technical University of Munich — München
Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz — Mainz