StudyQA — Master: Physics — University of Stuttgart

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Physics at the University of Stuttgart offers a comprehensive and rigorous education in fundamental and applied physics, preparing students for a wide range of careers in research, industry, and academia. The programme is designed to provide a solid foundation in core areas such as classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, and statistical physics, alongside extensive laboratory work and practical exercises that foster hands-on experience and experimental skills. Students will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories, enabling them to engage in cutting-edge research and innovation from early stages of their studies.

The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and applied knowledge, integrating modern topics such as nanotechnology, materials science, photonics, and computational physics. Students are encouraged to develop analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and scientific communication skills, which are essential for successful careers in science and technology. The program offers flexibility through elective modules, allowing students to tailor their education according to their interests, whether in fundamental research, applied physics, or interdisciplinary fields.

In addition to coursework, students may participate in research projects, internships, and collaborations with industry partners, providing valuable practical experience and networking opportunities. The programme also prepares graduates for further academic pursuits, including master's and doctoral studies, offering a pathway to careers in academia, research institutions, or technological enterprises. The University of Stuttgart's strong links with industry and research organizations ensure that students are well-connected to the latest developments and opportunities in physics. Overall, the Physics bachelor's programme at the University of Stuttgart aims to cultivate proficient physicists equipped with the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary to contribute to scientific advancement and technological innovation.

Educational organisation

The curriculum is divided into two parts. During the first and second semester, the lectures focus on a postgraduate education in general physics, lab courses, and seminars. Elective lectures allow for a specialisation and may be chosen from a rich variety of topics in different field of physics.
For the third and fourth semester, students concentrate on their Master's thesis. This research project is carried out in a physics institute at the university or any participating Max Planck institute. Students full integrate into the research activity of the institute, and their education then focuses on the skills required to perform state-of-the-art scientific research.

The Master's studies in physics include the following modules:
First year: Lectures, Lab-course and Seminars

Advanced Experimental Physics (first semester)
Advanced Quantum Theory (first semester)
Seminar in Physics (first semester)
Elective Lecture 1 (first and second semester)
Advanced Physics Laboratory (first and second semester)
Advanced Condensed Matter Physics (second semester)
Advanced Seminar in Physics (second semester)
Elective Lecture 2 (second semester)

Second year: One-Year Research Project

Scientific Specialisation
Practical Skills and Project Planning
Master's thesis

For more details on the educational programme please have a look at: http://www.msc.physics.uni-stuttgart.de

Study abroad unit(s)

Recommended for German students who want to join collaborating partner universities.

Internships

Please check our website for more information.

Forms of assessment

Lectures: oral exams, problem classes
lab course: lab work, report, oral exam
seminar: seminar talks,contribution to discussion

Course objectives

Graduates of the MSc Physics programme will have experienced a balanced but diverse period of postgraduate studies and will be qualified to find employment in a wide range of professions. They have excellent chances of starting a career worldwide. Not only do physics graduates find employment in universities or research laboratories but they are frequently found in computer companies, management consultancies, in the automotive industry or in the field of telecommunications. A qualified graduate of this programme will be entitled to continue to study towards a doctoral degree in physics at a German university without having to fulfil additional academic requirements.

Language requirements

Applicants must provide proof of their English skills:
TOEFL ibt: 80, cbt: 213, pbt: 550; IELTS: overall Band 6.0
Cambridge Advanced Certificate in English (CAE) or Cambridge Proficiency in English Certificate (CPE)
For international students without sufficient knowledge of the German language, the intensive German language course preceding the programme in September is mandatory.

Academic requirements

All applicants must provide:

Bachelor's degree in physics, certified copies of both the BSc degree certificate and the transcript are needed
official English test with sufficient score (TOEFL (institutional code: 0460): ibt: 80, cbt: 213, pbt: 550; IELTS: band 6.0)
school leaving/university entrance certificate (certified copy)

Applicants from China, Mongolia, or Vietnam have to submit an APS certificate issued by the "Akademische Prüfstelle für chinesische Studienbewerber (APS)" at the corresponding German embassy.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

✔️ Flexible study schedule
✔️ Experienced teachers
✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Enrolment fees

Approx. 170 EUR per semester

Costs of living

To cover living expenses, you will need about 750 EUR per month. This is for rent (approx. 300-350 EUR), health insurance for non-EU residents (approx. 80 EUR), the semester ticket for public transport (190 EUR/six months), food (approx. 200 EUR), other incidental expenses and working materials (approx. 100 EUR).

Job opportunities

Owing to its location in the heart of one of Europe's largest high-tech regions, there are many opportunities to find employment. Nevertheless, please do not come to Germany expecting to be able to finance your entire studies by working. The study load is very high and it is not always easy to find a part-time job. Non-EU citizens are allowed by law to work for a maximum of 120 full days (240 half days) per year. Students who are employed by the university in one of the institutes or departments ("Studentische Hilfskräfte") are exempt from this regulation, but other restrictions apply. You are not allowed to work during the first year while attending a German language class in preparation for the test of German as a foreign language (TestDaF).

Funding opportunities within the university

A limited amount of fellowships are available for excellent students. The application procedure and deadlines are announced on our website.
http://www.msc.physics.uni-stuttgart.de/admission/fellowship/

Arrival support

A pick-up service is part of our welcome package. If you wish, you will be contacted before your departure, and if you arrive between 8am and 8pm, you will be met at Stuttgart airport or railway station and taken to your accommodation. Your host partner will also help you to deal with all formalities. This service is free of charge.