Physics

The Physics degree program at the University of Bern offers students a comprehensive education in fundamental and applied physics, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the physical principles underlying natural phenomena and technological innovations. The program is designed to provide a solid foundation in classical mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, quantum physics, and statistical physics, combined with practical laboratory work and computational skills. Students have the opportunity to explore various specializations, including condensed matter physics, particle physics, astrophysics, and materials science, allowing them to tailor their studies to their interests and career aspirations. The curriculum emphasizes a strong theoretical background complemented by experimental techniques and problem-solving abilities, preparing graduates for careers in research, industry, or further academic study. The program benefits from the university’s state-of-the-art facilities and close collaborations with research institutes, fostering an innovative environment where students can engage in cutting-edge projects and scientific inquiries. Additionally, interdisciplinary courses and international exchange programs enrich the learning experience, promoting a broad understanding of physics in diverse contexts. Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking, scientific communication, and teamwork skills, essential for success in scientific and technological fields. The Physics degree at the University of Bern aims to produce highly qualified physicists ready to contribute to advancements in science and technology, support innovation, and address global challenges. Graduates leave well-equipped for careers in academia, industry, research institutions, or interdisciplinary fields requiring analytical and quantitative expertise. The program’s flexible structure and dedicated faculty ensure personalized guidance and support throughout the studies, fostering an engaging and intellectually stimulating academic environment.

Master in experimental physics, applied physics, astronomy (90 ECTS)

The ECTS points for each course are given in the brackets.

1st semester

• Lab Course for Modern Physics II (12)
• Measurement Techniques in Physics (4)
• Numerical Methods in Physics (4)
• Advanced Course I (4)

2nd semester

• Masters Thesis (22.5 of 45)
• Seminar I (2.5)
• Advanced Course II (4)
• Specialist Course I (4)

3rd semester

• Masters Thesis (22.5 of 45)
• Seminar II (2.5)
• Advanced Course III (4)
• Specialist Course II (4)

Master in Theoretical Physics (90 ECTS)

The ECTS points for each course are given in the brackets.

1st semester

• General Relativity (5)
• Advanced Concepts of Theoretical Physics (4)
• Quantum Field Theory I (5)
• Theoretical Exercises (6)
• Additional course (5)

2nd semester

• Masters Thesis (20 of 45)
• Quantum Field Theory II (5)
• Standard Model (5)
• Additional course (5)

3rd semester

• Masters Thesis (25 of 45)
• Additional course (5)

Specialist courses

• Groups and Algebras for Theoretical Physics (4)

The following academic qualifications are required for admission to the master’s degree program in Physics (mono):

• Curriculum vitae in table form with uninterrupted chronology of your education and academic studies up to the present incl. up-to-date passport photo (45 mm high by 35 mm wide)
• Motivation letter (incl. family name, given name, full address, e-mail address, date and signature and – if you have one – mobile phone number)
• If you are holding a bachelor degree's: Originally certified photocopies of your degree (e.g. diploma and diploma supplement). The correspondence of the photocopy to the original must be officially certified.
• Originals (stamped and signed) or originally certified photocopies of all official proofs of your achievements (transcripts) with grades/scores
• Grading system of the degree issuing university, if the grading system is different from ours. Our scale goes from 1 to 6, with 6 being excellent and grades below 4 being unsatisfactory.
• Brief description of the content/learning objectives of the different courses/lectures (annotated course catalog or module handbook)
• Originally certified translations of the original documents (e.g. diploma, diploma supplement, bachelor's or master's degree, transcripts of diploma records), if these are not written in German, English, French or Italian. These translations have to be inseparably connected with the originally certified photocopies of the original documents.
• Photocopy of your valid passport or identity card
• Application fee: CHF 105

The University of Bern offers a range of financing options for students enrolled in its Physics degree programmes to support their academic and personal needs. Tuition fees at the University of Bern are generally modest compared to many other Swiss institutions, with semester fees typically covering administrative costs, student services, and cultural activities. For international students, additional costs such as residence permits and health insurance may apply, but these are standardized and well-documented.

Students are encouraged to explore scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities available through the university and external organizations. The University of Bern provides several scholarship programmes aimed at promoting academic excellence, supporting students with limited financial means, or recognizing specific talents. These scholarships can cover partial or full tuition fees and may also include stipends for living expenses. Application procedures and eligibility criteria vary; students are advised to consult the university’s official scholarship portal for detailed information and deadlines.

In addition to institutional aid, students often seek external funding sources such as government grants, international scholarship programmes, and private foundations. Switzerland participates in various international scholarship initiatives designed to support students from abroad, which can significantly reduce the cost of studies at the University of Bern. Students may also consider part-time employment opportunities, which are common in Bern’s academic community and support students in financing their education while gaining valuable work experience.

The university provides comprehensive advice on financing and often hosts informational sessions for prospective and current students. Furthermore, students can benefit from student loan schemes available through Swiss financial institutions, although these typically require repayment after graduation. Students are advised to plan their finances carefully, considering living costs in Bern, which include accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses. Overall, the University of Bern’s diverse financing options aim to make physics education accessible to a broad range of students, ensuring that financial considerations do not hinder academic pursuits.

The Bachelor's degree in Physics at the University of Bern provides students with a comprehensive foundation in fundamental physical principles, experimental techniques, and theoretical understanding. The program is designed to promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills through a combination of coursework, laboratory work, and research projects. Students gain knowledge in classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum physics, thermodynamics, and statistical physics, preparing them for diverse careers in science, industry, or further academic study. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical concepts and practical applications, often involving modern computational methods and data analysis techniques. The program encourages active participation in research activities, with opportunities to collaborate on ongoing projects within the university's research institutes. Students are also supported to develop transferable skills such as scientific communication, teamwork, and project management. The degree typically spans three years, culminating in a Bachelor's thesis that demonstrates the student's ability to conduct independent research. The University of Bern's location offers access to a variety of research facilities and collaborations with national and international scientific institutions. Graduates from the program are well-equipped to pursue master's studies in Physics or related disciplines, or to enter the job market in research, technology, education, or industry sectors. The program also emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary learning, integrating physics with mathematics, computer science, and other scientific fields. Overall, the Bachelor's in Physics at the University of Bern aims to produce well-rounded physicists prepared to contribute to scientific advancement and technological innovation.