This two-year (four-semester) Master of Science in Physics is delivered in English and awards 120 credit points. The curriculum is research-oriented and allows you to specialise in a contemporary physics topic while combining advanced coursework, hands-on laboratory work, and a substantial research thesis.
During the first two semesters you take advanced laboratory courses plus advanced theoretical or computational physics modules. You also choose a special subject that includes both a laboratory placement in a research working group and a seminar. In addition to physics courses, the programme requires one non-physics elective from mathematics, chemistry, or business administration to broaden your skill set. The research-led Master’s thesis spans two semesters (including planning, preparation and execution) and concludes with a public colloquium presentation.
Theses are carried out within the Institute of Physics’s working groups and may also be completed in collaboration with major local research partners—the Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics (Greifswald branch) or the Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology—providing strong opportunities for hands-on experience and collaboration. You can choose to specialise in one of three main research areas: Plasma and Cosmos; Soft Matter, Bio- and Environmental Physics; or Quantum and Nano Science.
Program requirements (concise)
The curriculum combines advanced coursework, hands-on laboratory training and a substantial research project. Key components include:
Learning outcomes focus on advanced experimental and computational techniques, independent research design and execution, scientific communication, and preparedness for doctoral studies or professional roles in research and industry.
Applicants must hold a completed Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in physics or in a closely related field within the natural sciences or technology. This degree should provide a solid foundation in physics and related quantitative subjects.
If your bachelor’s degree has a different title or was awarded outside the country, be prepared to document the content and level of your studies (transcripts, course descriptions) so the admissions office can assess equivalence.
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 research careers and doctoral study in physics and related fields, thanks to the programme’s strong emphasis on experimental and theoretical methods, computational modelling and an extended research thesis. The close ties to research institutes make the programme especially suitable for those aiming to continue into academia or specialized research roles.
The combination of practical laboratory experience, computational training and a non-physics elective also opens pathways into industry and applied science roles—such as positions in high-tech companies, environmental and biophysics applications, instrumentation, modelling and data analysis, or technical consultancy and project management.
Friedrich Schiller University Jena — Jena
University of Göttingen — Göttingen
Technical University of Munich — München
Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz — Mainz