Chemistry and Physics of Functional Materials

The Master of Science in Chemistry and Physics of Functional Materials at the University of Koblenz-Landau (on the Koblenz Campus) is an interdisciplinary programme. It combines concepts of chemistry and physics in material science with electives in maths, biology, geoscience, economics, and computer science.

Material science in a scientific point of view connects the characteristics on the microscopic scale to the effect (expected or undesirable) on a macroscopic scale. The international Master of Science in Chemistry and Physics of Functional Materials thus integrates concepts of chemistry and physics as well as neighbouring sciences, maths, and computer science. Due to its interdisciplinary and applied approach, the programme enables its graduates to synthesise and characterise functional materials. An international direction of the study programme is realised by our international research staff, regular talks of guest lecturers from abroad, and internships that can be undertaken all over the world. All mandatory courses are taught in English. The programme can be completed entirely in English. However, German language skills are highly recommended for internships (not required) or later work in regional industry.

Educational organisation

Study Contents

• Synthesis and Characterisation of functional materials
• Electives allow for setting an individual focus (mathematics, biology, geoscience, economics, and computer science)
• Lectures will be held in English (choices in electives are thus restricted)
• Possibility of studying a semester abroad

The Master's programme comprises three semesters of full-time study with a total amount of 90 ECTS. For students with a Bachelor's with 180 ECTS, an additional 30 ECTS (one semester) is offered. Ultimately, a total of 300 ECTS have to be earned.

The programme consists of a compulsory part on solid state physics as well as the synthesis and characterisation of functional materials. This gives students a broad knowledge in the field of functional materials (15 ECTS). Furthermore, three optional modules (18 ECTS) out of six in specific application fields of chemistry and physics in material science have to be chosen. Electives (12 ECTS) and a research project (15 ECTS) prepare the students for their final Master's thesis and a final oral exam (30 ECTS).

Study abroad unit(s)

Not necessary, but optional for internship or Master's thesis

Forms of assessment

Written and oral exams, project work, lab report, presentations, Master's thesis

Course objectives

Our graduates are duly qualified for jobs in scientific facilities, research institutes, authorities or industry. In addition, the Master's programme prepares students for further research and a PhD in this field.

Language requirements

Knowledge in English equivalent to B2 level is required.

Academic requirements

BSc in Applied Natural Sciences at Universität Koblenz-Landau or equivalent degree (final grade 2.5 or better)
The board of examiners decides on any exceptions on the basis of applications submitted.
Exceptions in this regard are a Bachelor's thesis with the grade 1.5 or better or professional experience of at least one year in the field of chemistry and physics of functional materials.

Enrolment fees

There is an administrative fee (mainly for the student union and the student body) that every student enrolled needs to pay (currently about 214 EUR per semester).

Costs of living

We estimate that you need around 600-800 EUR per month for rent, food, books, clothes, phone, health insurance, semester contribution, and recreational activities.

Job opportunities

A limited number of jobs are available at the university (i.e. as study assistants). Students who speak good German can also find part-time jobs outside the university.
Please note: Due to the intensive nature of the programme, students might find it difficult to work while studying.

Funding opportunities within the university

The university has a limited number of scholarships to support excellent international students in our international Master's programmes during their first semester. The scholarship covers 400 EUR per month during the first semester at the University of Koblenz-Landau.
https://www.uni-koblenz-landau.de/en/international-en/incomings/scholarship/weco-scholarship

Arrival support

Prior to their arrival, international students are already in contact with the programme coordinator and the Welcome Center for support regarding academic and organisational questions.
Student buddies will support the newly arriving international students. They will help new students deal with the administrative issues at the beginning and to settle in and feel comfortable at the university.

Services and support for international students

The Welcome Center on campus is the main point of contact for students regarding administrative matters. Intensive support is also provided by the advisory service, lecturers, and professors of the Master's programmes.
Buddies (older or graduate students) are paired with incoming students and offer support in everyday situations.
Furthermore, due to the small number of students, direct contact and communication between students of different semesters is easy.

Accommodation

Accommodation is available in student residences or on the private housing market. A certain number of rooms in student residences is reserved for incoming international students.
Students can contact the Welcome Center of the university for further information on the application process or the search for private housing.
E-mail: welcome@uni-koblenz-landau.de