StudyQA — Master: Physics — Leibniz University Hannover

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The Physics Bachelor’s program at Leibniz University Hannover offers students a comprehensive foundation in the fundamental principles and emerging areas of physics. This undergraduate course is designed to equip students with a deep understanding of classical and modern physics, including mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, quantum physics, and atomic and molecular physics. Throughout the program, students will engage in rigorous theoretical studies complemented by practical laboratory work, fostering essential skills in scientific reasoning, problem-solving, and experimental techniques.

The curriculum emphasizes both depth and breadth, enabling students to specialize in areas such as condensed matter, astrophysics, nuclear physics, or quantum technologies. Students will have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities, providing hands-on experience with advanced instrumentation and computational tools. The program also encourages interdisciplinary approaches, integrating physics with mathematics, computer science, and engineering to prepare graduates for diverse career paths in research, industry, education, or technology development.

Leibniz University Hannover’s Physics program places a strong emphasis on research-oriented learning, with opportunities for students to participate in ongoing projects and internships. The program aims to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and quantitative expertise, preparing graduates to contribute effectively to scientific innovation and technological advancement. Graduates will be well-equipped for postgraduate studies or entry into careers in academia, research institutions, private industry, or governmental agencies.

The university’s dedicated faculty members are renowned for their research in various physics disciplines, providing students with mentorship and opportunities to engage in cutting-edge scientific inquiries. The program benefits from close cooperation with industry partners and research organizations, ensuring that the curriculum remains aligned with current scientific challenges and technological developments. Overall, the Physics Bachelor’s program at Leibniz University Hannover offers a rigorous and stimulating education for aspiring physicists eager to explore and understand the fundamental laws governing our universe.

Educational organisation

The Master's programme is divided in a one-year specialisation phase and a one-year research phase. In the first year students acquire the basic knowledge and skills which are necessary for independent research work in physics as well as advanced knowledge in the three major research fields of our faculty: solid state physics, quantum optics, and gravitation physics. The study programme is rounded off by an elective course from another scientific field (e.g. mathematics, chemistry, electrical engineering, philosophy, computer science, etc.).
The central element of the research phase (second year) is the Master's thesis. This is based on an independent research project on a current issue of modern physics. It is intended to last for six months and is preceded by a preparatory research training of six months.
The study programme is divided into modules. To earn the Master's degree, students must complete all required modules. Each module covers a thematic subject area. It can therefore include more than one course and extend over more than one semester. To each module credit points are assigned, according to the expected workload. To earn credits for a module, students must complete various coursework (homework, labs, seminars) and pass an examination. Coursework may be repeated several times and does not have an impact on the final grade. Some credit points can also be earned by doing an industry internship.
The official examination regulations list the required modules, the coursework, the forms of examinations, and the possible elective courses.

Forms of assessment

Besides the writing of a Master's thesis, the forms of assessment are oral and written examinations as well as oral presentations (seminars). The final grade is calculated as a weighted average of the exam grades and the Master's thesis grade.

Course objectives

Successful graduates of the Master's programme will be able to design appropriate and possible meaningful experiments and then interpret the observations and measurement results on the basis of comprehensive and broad applicable knowledge. Characteristic skills of physicists in the theoretical field are the abstract and mathematical analysis of observed physical properties as well as the development of numerical models and numerical methods on different levels of abstraction.
Moreover, students will acquire interdisciplinary key competences like the precise representation and presentation of structured problem solving, efficient project management, and collaboration in international teams.

Language requirements

Applicants must provide proof of their English or German skills.
English language requirement: TOEFL iBT (87), IELTS (6.0), Cambridge Certificate, FCE Grade A, or equivalent
German language requirement: TestDAF (4 x TDN 4), DSH2, or equivalent
Students who do not fulfil the German language requirements must take basic German language courses as part of their coursework.

Academic requirements

Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in Physics

Enrolment fees

Students have to pay approx. 370 EUR as administrative fee incl. semester ticket (free public transport for six months in Hannover and on regional trains within Lower Saxony).

Costs of living

Expenses per month:
Rent, additional costs: 282 EUR
Food: 148 EUR
Health (health insurance, medicine, consultations): 60 EUR
Clothing: 49 EUR
Telephone, internet, etc.: 43 EUR
Other (cultural events, sports, leisure activities): 81 EUR
Total costs of living: 663 EUR
Administrative/semester fee: 84 EUR
Other study costs: 45 EUR
Total study costs: 129 EUR
Total costs: 792 EUR
Please see: http://www.international.uni-hannover.de/lebenshaltungskosten.html?&L=1

Job opportunities

There are many opportunities to work as a student assistant (Hiwi) or outside of the University:
http://www.international.uni-hannover.de/jobben_hannover.html?&L=1

Arrival support

The International Office offers a variety of services and support for international students.
It helps students in finding suitable accommodation, offers a pick-up service from the airport or railway station, provides newly arrived students with a "study buddy" and helps them deal with administrative issues. Moreover, it organises an orientation week at the beginning of each semester.
http://www.international.uni-hannover.de/