Applied Physics

The English-Taught M.Sc. Applied Physics aims to continue and broaden studies begun at Bachelor level. It provides an interdisciplinary study programme at the interface between fundamental physical concepts and resulting modern technologies. Participants will deepen their knowledge in modern physics and are introduced to central methods of physical research, like measuring techniques, methods for data analysis or numerical simulation. In cooperation with associated institutes at the university and with the Fraunhofer Institutes in Freiburg, the Master's programme offers the possibility for a specialisation in a particular area of applied physics, such as optical technologies, biological systems, energy conversion, or interactive and adaptive materials.

In the first year of their studies, participants consolidate their knowledge in advanced theoretical and experimental physics. Advanced Physics and Applied Physics courses can be selected from a range of state-of-the-art topics from a broad spectrum. Students can choose each semester among various term papers, where they learn to give oral presentations and prepare written handouts in English on a specific topic of modern research. In addition, students can select from a variety of elective courses in physics, or from course programmes of other faculties.

During their final one-year Master thesis, students specialize in a particular field by participating in a cutting-edge research project at the Institute of Physics or one of the associated research centres. Successful students are qualified for independent research in physics and will be prepared for a scientific career in research, academia, or industry. Furthermore, they are on the next step towards a PhD, which generally is a prerequisite for leading positions in economy or industry, or for a later academic career.

The regular duration of the master programme is 4 semesters (2 years) and is devided into a scientific consolidation phase (first year) followed by a research phase (second year).

Whereas the research phase is given by the 6-month research traineeship and the master thesis, in the consolidation phase students can select their courses by own choice.

Consolidation Phase (1st-2nd semester):

In the first year of their studies participants consolidate their knowledge in advanced theoretical and experimental physics. Applied Physics courses can be selected from a range of state-of-the-art topics in the main research areas of the department and the participating departments and research institutes. Students can choose each semester among various term papers, where they learn to give oral presentations and prepare written hand-outs in English on a specific topic of modern research. In addition, students can select from a variety of elective courses in physics, from course programmes of other faculties.

Research Phase (3rd-4th semester)

During their final one-year Research Traineeship and the Master thesis, students specialize in a particular field by participating in a cutting-edge research project at the Institute of Physics or one of the associated research centers, e.g. the Freiburg Materials Research Center (FMF), the Freiburg Institute for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired Technologies (FIT), the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE), the Fraunhofer Institute for Material Mechanics (IWM), the Kiepenheuer Institute for So-lar Physics (KIS), the Freiburg Center for Data Analysis and Modelling (FDM), the Freiburg Institute for Advanced Studies (FRIAS), or with one of the co-opted members at the Faculty of Biology, the Faculty of Medicine, or the Department of Microsystems Engineering (IMTEK).

Admission requirements are:

• High school diploma (university entrance qualification)
• A Bachelor's degree in physics that is officially recognised in Germany or an equivalent degree, satisfying the following conditions: 

- An equivalent of at least 32 ECTS credits in courses in theoretical physics (mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, thermodynamics/statistical physics)

- An equivalent of at least 32 ECTS credits in courses in experimental physics (mechanics, thermodynamics, electromagnetism, optics, structure of matter)

- An equivalent of at least 24 ECTS credits in courses in mathematics (analysis, linear algebra)

- An equivalent of at least 18 ECTS credits in physics lab courses (beginners, advanced lab)

- A Bachelor's thesis in physics (equivalent of 10 ECTS credits) or equivalent. 

- Bachelor’s degrees from non-European countries need to be from 4-year programmes. You can apply if you have a 3-year degree AND either a graduate diploma or master’s degree (1 year).

• Language proficiency: B2 in English.
• Admission is not granted if the applicant has lost the "Prüfungsanspruch" (has ultimately failed) in a master's degree programme or an equivalent programme in physics