Physics (German-French Double Degree)

Physics (German-French Double Degree) at Free University of Berlin offers an exceptional opportunity for students to immerse themselves in the fundamental principles of physics while gaining international academic experience. This programme is designed for highly motivated students who wish to pursue their passion for understanding the laws of nature through a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum. The double degree structure enables students to study at both the Free University of Berlin and a partner university in France, typically Université Paris-Saclay or another renowned institution, allowing exposure to diverse scientific cultures and research approaches.

Throughout the programme, students will engage with advanced courses in classical mechanics, quantum physics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, and statistical physics, alongside specialized topics such as condensed matter physics, atomic and molecular physics, and astrophysics. The curriculum emphasizes a strong foundation in mathematical methods, experimental techniques, and computational skills necessary for modern physics research. In addition to coursework, students participate in laboratory work, seminars, and independent research projects, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

A key feature of the programme is the integrated research component, where students have the opportunity to collaborate with leading physicists and participate in innovative projects. This international experience aims to prepare graduates for diverse career paths in academia, industry, or research institutions, equipping them with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The programme concludes with a double degree awarded by both partner universities, acknowledging the students’ proficiency and dedication in the field of physics.

The student life at the Free University of Berlin and partner institutions enriches the educational experience through cultural exchanges, student organizations, and access to state-of-the-art laboratories and libraries. The programme is supported by a team of experienced faculty members committed to academic excellence and international collaboration. Graduates of the Physics (German-French Double Degree) programme will be well-equipped to contribute to cutting-edge scientific developments, pursue doctoral studies, or assume roles in technological innovation and research globally, benefiting from the unique cross-cultural academic exposure facilitated by this double degree programme.

Educational organisation

The Master's course in physics consists of graduate coursework and a research phase. The coursework serves to deepen and broaden students' knowledge of physics and - depending on the elective courses chosen - of related disciplines, and it leads up to the level of current topical research. In the research phase, students learn to work independently in a specialised field of physics and to gain access to new areas. This includes carrying out research and presenting it in the form of a Master's thesis.

Study abroad unit(s)

Participants spend the third and fourth semester of the programme at the École Polytechnqiue in Paris.

Internships

No additional internship is necessary. In the research phase, which takes place in the second year of the programme, students join one of the research groups at École Polytechnique. They specialise in a current research field of modern physics in this phase of the programme. In these research groups, they learn the corresponding methodology, and they write their Master's thesis in this field. During the entire research phase, every student is assigned to a professor, who serves as his or her research adviser.

Forms of assessment

Module exams are written exams, oral exams, or homework. Further forms of assessment include seminar presentations, reports on practical courses, writing, and presenting and defending the Master's thesis.

Course objectives

The Master's course in physics is intended to impart to students a deeper level of professional knowledge and an understanding of the scientific methods of physics, and - depending on the choice of elective courses - of related subjects. The goals of the course are the deepening and specialisation of students' physics knowledge and capabilities, as well as the development of the ability to perform independent research work. In particular, course participants should acquire the ability to deal successfully with problems from a variety of scientific and technical areas as generalists in natural science. The Master's degree facilitates entry into doctoral programmes, especially in the natural sciences and technological areas.

Language requirements

Students must have a good knowledge of German, English (B1, proof required) and French (A2). Applicants whose native language is not English and who have not acquired their qualifying degree at an educational institution where English is the language of instruction will need to present certification of their proficiency in English at or above level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEF). Verification of language proficiency can be provided by generally-recognised language tests (for example TOEFL Internet-based: min. 70 points, IELTS: min. 5.5 points). German and French language knowledge has to be demonstrated upon application.

Academic requirements

Professionally-qualifying German or equivalent non-German degree at university level in physics, corresponding to the Bachelor of Science in Physics at the Freie Universität Berlin. Applicants have to apply both for admission to the Master's programme in physics at Freie Universität Berlin and for admission to the double degree programme. The latter can be done either in advance (by 30 April at the latest before beginning the Master's studies) or during the first semester of the Master's studies in physics at Freie Universität Berlin (by 30 April during the first year of the Master's course of studies).

Enrolment fees

An enrolment fee of approx. 300 EUR per semester entitles students to use all public transport in the Berlin area.

Costs of living

Approx. 750 EUR per month (Berlin)/950 EUR per month (Paris) to cover personal expenses.

Job opportunities

A limited number of part-time job opportunities (40 or 60 hours per month) for students is available at the department of physics at Freie Universität Berlin.

Funding opportunities within the university

The programme is supported by the Deutsch-Französische Hochschule (DFH). Participants receive a mobility aid of 270 EUR per month for 10 months during their studies abroad at École Polytechnique.

Arrival support

Students are supported by the representatives of the programme, both in Paris and Berlin. Counselling and information service are offered by both universities.

Services and support for international students

The International Students Office of the University's Department of International Affairs provides a number of advisory and social activities for international students. There are introduction weeks in both in Paris and Berlin, during which students can learn about student life and modalities.

Accommodation

The Studentenwerk Berlin (http://www.studentenwerk-berlin.de/en/berlin/international) can be of assistance in finding accommodation in a student residence in Berlin (rent approx. 270 EUR per month). Reasonably priced accommodation on-campus is offered at École Polytechnique.