This master's programme builds on a bachelor’s degree in physics or a closely related natural science or engineering discipline and is taught in English. Its aim is to deliver advanced, specialised training across several subfields of physics at a high academic level, while promoting independent, goal-oriented learning and working methods.
The course is organised into two consecutive one-year phases. The first year is a professional specialisation phase made up of lectures, exercises and practical placements that deepen subject-specific knowledge and skills needed for independent scientific or technical work. The second year is a research-focused phase featuring seminars and a substantial research project, giving students hands-on experience in applying methods and solving open-ended problems in physics.
Graduates leave with targeted expertise in multiple physics sub-disciplines, preparing them for research roles in public or industrial laboratories and research centres, as well as engineering positions or careers outside traditional physics settings. The mix of coursework, practical training and research experience also supports the development of transferable skills valued by employers, such as problem solving, project work and autonomous scientific thinking.
Requirements (concise)
This programme expects applicants to hold a relevant undergraduate degree and a solid foundation in core physics and mathematics. The minimum entry qualification is a three- to four-year bachelor’s (or equivalent) in physics, another natural science, or an engineering discipline, with the required allocation of credit points in subject-specific courses. You should also be prepared to demonstrate your English language ability and submit a short personal statement explaining your motivation and fit for the programme.
For international applicants, ensure your transcripts clearly show the number of credit points (typically expressed as ECTS) and the breakdown of courses so the required physics and mathematics credits are visible. The letter of motivation should briefly describe your academic background, research or career goals, and reasons for choosing this master’s to help the admissions committee assess your fit.
Winter Semester (International)
15 July 2026
Summer Semester (International)
15 January 2027
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 July 2026
Summer Semester (EU/EEA)
15 January 2027
Graduates are prepared for roles in publicly funded or industrial laboratories, research centres, and engineering positions. The specialised training across multiple subfields of physics enables graduates to target specific industry sectors such as instrumentation, applied physics, materials, or technical consulting, as well as roles in data analysis or technology development outside traditional physics departments.
The research-focused component and transferable skills (independent problem solving, experimental and computational methods, and scientific communication) also provide a solid basis for continuing into doctoral research (PhD) or academic careers, as well as for interdisciplinary careers that require strong quantitative and analytical capabilities.
Friedrich Schiller University Jena — Jena
University of Göttingen — Göttingen
Technical University of Munich — München
Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz — Mainz