Physics

The Master's course educates students in advanced topics in physics and imparts knowledge and experience in analysing, understanding, and controlling phenomena in the natural sciences. It engages students in research at the forefront of physics and prepares them for a successful career in research and development in industry or academia. The research areas of the Department of Physics shape the Master's programme with emphasis on modern topics like Photonics, Nano-Science, Quantum Information, Renewable Energies, and Soft-Matter Science. In the first year, students choose from specialised lectures, laboratory courses, and seminars to obtain the necessary knowledge and training for independent scientific research. In the second year, they choose a research group at the university to prepare for and undertake their individual scientific projects. This includes laboratory work, seminars, and preparation of a Master's thesis. It may includes stays at international research institutes.

Educational organisation

The curriculum of the Master's programme is as follows:

Advanced Studies (semester one and semester two):

• Advanced quantum mechanics or statistical mechanics
• Elective lecture I (theoretical physics)
• Elective lecture II (experimental physics)
• Elective lecture III (theoretical or experimental physics)
• Two seminars (experimental or theoretical physics)
• Two advanced lab courses (One lab course can be substituted by project work in one of the research groups.)

Research Phase (semester three and semester four):

• Working group seminar
• Methodological knowledge and project planning
• Master's thesis project
• Master's thesis presentations

Forms of assessment

Lecture courses are generally assessed by means of a 45 minute oral examination.
Seminars are generally assessed by means of a presentation and an essay.
The two-semester Master's thesis is assessed by two examiners.
Upon successful completion of the modules of the programme (lectures, seminars, lab courses, Master's thesis project and presentation), the degree of Master of Science in Physics is awarded.

Course objectives

The aim of the programme is to equip students with an advanced knowledge in theoretical and experimental physics on an internationally high level, in order to enable them for independent research or technological development in wide areas of natural science and technology.

Language requirements

Applicants must provide proof of their German and English skills.

Either only German:

• Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache (TestDAF) at least "Stufe 4" in all four areas or
• Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang (DSH) at least "Stufe 2"

Or German and English:

• Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache (TestDAF) at least "Stufe 3" in all four areas or
• Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang (DSH) at least "Stufe 1"

and

• Cambridge First Certificate (CFE) - minimum Grade C or
• International English Language Testing System (IELTS) - minimum band 5.5 or
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) - minimum 87 (Internet-based)

Required DSH / TestDaF

Yes

Academic requirements

The entry requirement is a Bachelor's degree in Physics or closely related subject.

Enrolment fees

Students currently pay the following fees per semester:
Administrative contribution: 60 EUR
Social contribution: 80 EUR
Student body contribution: 10 EUR

Costs of living

Approx. 650-800 EUR per month to cover personal expenses.

Arrival support

The International Office and the Language Institute (Sprachlehrinstitut) offer orientation on living in Konstanz, German academic culture, and language courses for newcomers to make it easier for you to settle into your new surroundings.

Special options for students with a basic knowledge of the German language:

• Intensive German language courses
• Orientation programmes
• Kon'Start - Study preparation for German and international degree-seeking students
• CheckIn-Office - Service point for new arrivals (six weeks prior to lecture period)

The Welcome Centre at the University of Konstanz supports doctoral/PhD students from abroad, visiting scientists and researchers, postdocs, and newly appointed professors - and, being a family-friendly university, their families as well - in the planning, preparation, and realisation of their stay in Konstanz. It also provides information and specifically targeted assistance in all non-academic, extracurricular fields.

Services and support for international students

We will not leave you to fend for yourself! We advise and inform students individually and in groups, organise orientation days and visits, provide information on study and career choices, and offer courses on study skills.

Central Student Advisory Service
Phone: +49 (0) 75 31-88 36 36
E-mail: Studienberatung@uni-konstanz.de

The International Office and the Language Institute (Sprachlehrinstitut) offer general orientation and language courses for newcomers to make it easier for you to settle into your new surroundings.

International Office
Phone: +49 (0) 75 31-88 30 89
E-mail: international@uni-konstanz.de

Accommodation

Students have the possibility of living in the residence halls of the University of Konstanz. For further information on student accommodation, please see:
http://www.seezeit.com

Private accommodation in Konstanz can also be found via the following websites:
http://www.konstanz-unterkunft.de
http://www.vierwaen.de
http://www.suedkurier.de