Materials Physics

Materials Physics at Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg offers an interdisciplinary and research-oriented Master's degree program designed to provide students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in the field of materials science and physics. The program focuses on understanding the fundamental physical properties of materials and their applications in modern technology. Students explore a broad spectrum of topics, including solid-state physics, nanomaterials, surface and interface science, and materials characterization techniques. The curriculum combines theoretical coursework with hands-on laboratory work, fostering an environment that encourages innovation and scientific inquiry. Students gain expertise in advanced methods such as electron microscopy, spectroscopy, and diffraction techniques, which are essential for analyzing material structures and properties. The program emphasizes the development of analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to conduct independent research. Through coursework, laboratory training, and a research project or thesis, students learn to address current technological challenges related to materials in electronics, energy storage, nanotechnology, and biomaterials. The Master's program prepares graduates for careers in academia, industry, and research institutions, where they can contribute to the development of new materials and technologies. Collaborations with industry partners and research centers at Friedrich-Alexander University ensure that students acquire practical experience and participate in cutting-edge research projects. The program duration is normally two years, and instruction is primarily in English, facilitating international mobility and cooperation. Graduates of the Materials Physics program are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue doctoral studies or employment in specialized fields within the materials science domain, contributing to innovations in sustainable technologies, electronic devices, and materials engineering.

Educational organisation

The first two semesters of the course are dedicated to advanced courses and projects in materials physics. 60 credit points have to be earned in total, of which 35 come from compulsory courses (advanced solid state physics, theoretical solid state physics, lab courses on experimental methods, seminar on materials physics).
Additional courses (25 credit points) are related to materials research and can be chosen from a broad selection of advanced topics.
The third semester is dedicated to an in-depth specialisation in a subject of ongoing research. In general, this specialisation will be in the subject of the Master's thesis and will be guided by the supervisor of the thesis. Hence at the beginning of the Master's thesis (fourth semester) the student has acquired knowledge of all theoretical and experimental concepts needed to successfully work on the research project.
The course is completed in the fourth semester with the submission of the written thesis and a seminar (Master's colloquium) presenting the results.

Study abroad unit(s)

Semesters abroad can be arranged e.g. through the ERASMUS programme, but are not compulsory.

Internships

None

Forms of assessment

Lecture courses: assessed by written or oral exams (45 ECTS credit points)
Lab courses: the quality of the lab work and the written protocol are rated (10 ECTS)
Seminars: the grade is based on the quality of the presentation and participation in the discussion of other participants' talks (5 ECTS)
In-depth specialisation (third semester): pass/fail (total 30 ECTS, no weight in final grade)
Master's thesis: 25 ECTS (double weight in final grade)
Master's colloquium: 5 ECTS (double weight in final grade)

Course objectives

Upon completion of the course, candidates have the ability to conduct research in the area of materials physics and materials science. This ability can be used to embark on a PhD programme at a university or to seek employment in industry.

Language requirements

The required English level is "vantage or upper intermediate" level (B2) according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, or an equivalent score in an internationally recognised test.

Academic requirements

Applicants are required to have a Bachelor's degree in physics or an equivalent qualification.
A list of courses (with details on the duration of the course and hours involved) and grades must be provided, as well as a CV and a letter of motivation.
Academic records should be submitted in their original languages accompanied by English or German translations (usually prepared by the university or a government agency, unless the institution issues original documents in English). In general, records or transcripts must be issued by the school and must include the school's stamp or embossed seal and the signature of the authorising official.
If upon inspection of the above documents an interview is deemed necessary, it may be conducted either in person or by phone. In addition, proof of proficiency in English may be required.

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Enrolment fees

The contribution to student services currently amounts to 42 EUR per semester. An additional charge of 65 EUR per semester covers the mandatory basic "semester ticket", a transit pass that provides students with unlimited access to public transport in the metropolitan region of Nuremberg from 7pm to 6am on weekdays and at all times at weekends. (For an additional optional charge, the validity of the pass can be extended to 24 hours a day, seven days a week.)

Costs of living

The cost of living can only be approximated very generally, as the needs and living conditions of every student are different.
Rent: 250-600 EUR per month
Health insurance, doctor, medicine: approximately 70 EUR per month
Food: approximately 165 EUR per month
Study materials: approximately 30 EUR per month (depending on the subject)
Transport: minimum 65 EUR per semester
Student services: 42 EUR per semester
For more information, see: http://www.fau.eu/study/prospective-students/financing-your-studies/costs-of-studying
General information on the average cost of living in Germany is available online: http://www.internationale-studierende.de/en/prepare_your_studies/financing/costs_of_living

Job opportunities

Students of the Master's course can conduct tutorials and lab exercises for undergraduates (earning up to 400 EUR per month).

Funding opportunities within the university

The Central Office for International Affairs offers scholarships from Bavarian state funding to allow highly qualified international students in Master's, "Diplom", and State Exam degree courses to complete their degrees.
http://www.fau.eu/international/international-applicants/bachelors-masters-state-examinations/during-your-studies/scholarships-for-international-students-about-to-graduate/

Arrival support

Departmental staff will provide you with individual advice and support.

Services and support for international students

The Student Advice and Career Service (IBZ) will provide you with detailed information on all important topics relating to your studies (study courses, subject combinations, application requirements, support with organising your study programme and complying with all assessment/examination requirements) and on settling in at the beginning of the semester (coping with particular difficulties, changing subjects or suspending studies). For more information, see http://www.fau.eu/study/prospective-students/student-advice.
The Career Service of FAU will provide you with information on career opportunities and the specifics of an application procedure in Germany. For information, see: http://www.fau.eu/study/current-students/career-service.
The Student Service Centres (SSC) and student advisers in the faculties will provide you with further advice on your particular course of study. Programme coordinators organise subject-related orientation events and guide you through the entire study period.
The Central Office for International Affairs (RIA) will provide you with detailed information on accommodation, visa issues, and scholarship possibilities. In cooperation with the IBZ, it also organises information events and general orientation courses for first-semester-students.
See: http://www.fau.eu/international/international-applicants.
The Alumni network provides students with many topics and events for professional advancement. See: http://www.fau.eu/alumni.

Accommodation

Erlangen and Nuremberg are attractive cities with a historic flair and modern infrastructure. Therefore, the housing market is quite tight. FAU will do its best to assist new students in finding accommodation.
Student halls in Erlangen and Nuremberg can only provide accommodation for a small number of students. Another option is the private housing market. If you extend your search to neighbouring towns, such as Fürth and Forchheim, your choice of accommodation is much larger and rents are lower, while the well-developed local public transport system ensures that you're never far away from the university. In addition, there is the option to sublet a room, or you can share a flat with other students. This option not only saves you money but also helps you settle in quickly and make friends in your new home. You can find information to help with your housing search on specialised websites and the university's notice boards.
Detailed information on finding accommodation is available at http://www.fau.eu/international/international-applicants/important-information.
If you need further assistance, you can also turn to the Accommodation Service of the Central Office for International Affairs (RIA). E-mail: accommodation@fau.de.