Physics and Astronomy

The Physics and Astronomy Bachelor's programme at Radboud University offers a comprehensive and engaging introduction to the fundamental principles governing the universe. Designed for students with a passion for understanding the natural world, this three-year undergraduate degree combines rigorous scientific coursework with practical laboratory experience, research projects, and opportunities for international exchange. The programme covers a broad range of topics, including classical mechanics, quantum physics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, astrophysics, and cosmology, providing students with a solid foundation in both theoretical and experimental physics.

Throughout the programme, students develop strong analytical, problem-solving, and technical skills, essential for pursuing careers in academia, research institutions, science communication, technology, or engineering. The curriculum emphasizes active learning through individual assignments, group projects, and state-of-the-art laboratory experiments designed to simulate real-world scientific challenges. The faculty at Radboud University consists of experienced researchers and educators committed to fostering an inspiring academic environment, encouraging inquiry, creativity, and critical thinking.

In addition to theoretical knowledge, students gain practical experience with advanced scientific tools and computational techniques, preparing them for the increasingly data-driven and technologically advanced landscape of modern physics. The programme also offers specialized elective courses allowing students to tailor their studies towards particular interests such as astrophysics, particle physics, or applied physics.

International exposure is a key aspect of the programme, with options for exchange programmes and collaboration with research institutes around the world. Students are encouraged to participate in internships or research projects during their studies to gain valuable practical insights and build professional networks. At the end of the programme, students are equipped with a versatile skill set suitable for diverse career paths, including research, industry, education, or further academic study at the master's level.

Radboud University’s Physics and Astronomy Bachelor's programme is committed to academic excellence, innovation, and preparing students to contribute to scientific advancements and solve complex problems facing society today. With a friendly campus atmosphere and a strong international community, students find an inspiring environment that promotes both personal and professional growth.

The Bachelor's degree programme in Physics and Astronomy at Radboud University offers students an in-depth and comprehensive education in the fundamental principles of the physical universe. The programme is designed to develop a solid understanding of classical and modern physics, including mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, quantum physics, and relativity, alongside specialized courses in astronomy. Throughout the three-year curriculum, students engage in both theoretical studies and practical experiments, fostering essential skills in scientific analysis, problem-solving, and research methodology.

The first year provides a broad foundation in physics, mathematics, and related sciences, allowing students to acquire essential knowledge and skills. They are introduced to key concepts such as Newtonian mechanics, wave phenomena, and basic electromagnetism, while also developing laboratory skills through experimental coursework. The second year deepens understanding by exploring more advanced topics such as quantum mechanics, statistical physics, and astrophysics, with opportunities to participate in research projects and laboratory work. Students are encouraged to think critically and independently, preparing them for the challenges of scientific inquiry.

In the final year, students have the option to tailor their studies by choosing electives that focus on specialized areas such as particle physics, condensed matter physics, astrophysics, or computational physics. During this year, students often undertake a research internship or a thesis project, providing valuable hands-on experience and the opportunity to contribute to ongoing scientific research. The programme also emphasizes numerical methods and software skills, recognizing their importance in modern physics research.

Graduates of the Physics and Astronomy programme are well-equipped for diverse career paths, including further academic research, science communication, engineering, data analysis, and technological innovation. The programme benefits from close collaboration with the university's research institutes and offers networking opportunities with professionals in physics and astronomy fields. Overall, the programme aims to inspire curiosity about the universe, cultivate analytical thinking, and prepare students for a dynamic career in science and technology.

A completed Bachelor's degree from a spatially-oriented discipline

In order to get admission to this Master's you will need a completed Bachelor’s degree from a spatially-oriented discipline, such as spatial planning, human geography or environment studies.

Proficiency in English

In order to take part in this programme, you need to have fluency in both written and spoken English. This requirement has been satisfied when the student meets one of the following conditions:

• Has successfully completed a three-year Bachelor's programme at a Dutch university.
• Is a citizen of Australia, Canada (with exception of Quebec), Ireland, New Zealand, United Kingdom, or the United States of America.
• Has successfully completed a Bachelor's programme that was taught completely in the English language in one of the following countries: EU/EEA-countries, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, United States of America.
• Has successfully completed a Master's programme from a Dutch university of applied sciences (HBO).

All other students need one of the following certificates (TOEFL and IELTS certificates may not be older than two years).

• A TOEFL score of ≥90, with subscores not lower than 18
• A IELTS score of ≥6.5, with subscores not lower than 6.0
• Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE) or Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) with a mark of C or higher

A background in research methodology

Because of the academic nature of this programme, we require all our students to have basic training in research processes, e.g. research design and data analysis.

There are various scholarships available for studying at Radboud University. Some of the opportunities are described below. A full list, including detailed information, can be found on our scholarships and grants page at our website. 

Radboud Scholarship Programme

Open to a select number of excellent international students. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,006 in 2017/2018). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Orange Tulip Scholarship

Open to students from Brazil, Mexico, Russia, Indonesia, South-Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, and China. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,006 in 2017/2018). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Fulbright-Radboud Scholarships

Open to excellent American students. The grant will be paid in 12 monthly instalments of 1,050 euros. International travel and the cost of the residence permit will be covered, and an extra allowance of €1150 will be paid on arrival.

Sino-Dutch Bilateral Exchange Scholarship

Open to excellent students from China. Consists of a contribution of € 16,113 towards the total costs of one year of study or research in the Netherlands.

DIKTI-Neso Scholarships

Aimed at lecturers at higher education institutions in Indonesia who wish to pursue a PhD or Master's at a university in the Netherlands. A DIKTI scholarship includes allowances for living expenses, insurance, travel costs, tuition fees and more.

Indonesian Education Scholarship (LPDP)

Open to excellent Indonesian students under the age of 35. Involves a full scholarship.

Holland Scholarship Programme

Open to excellent students from Canada, America, India and Turkey. Scholarship consists of 5,000 euros payed at the start of study.

Dutch Student Finance

EU/EEA students and Swiss students under 30 years of age are eligible if they are working at least 56 hours per month in the Netherlands, or have been living in the Netherlands for five years or more. Dutch student finance consists of four components: a basic grant, a supplementary grant (depending on the parental income), a student travel product, and a loan.

The Physics and Astronomy Bachelor's degree programme at Radboud University offers students an in-depth understanding of the fundamental principles governing matter, energy, and the universe. This undergraduate program provides comprehensive training in various branches of physics, including classical mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, quantum physics, and astrophysics. Students are encouraged to develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills through lectures, laboratory work, and research projects. The curriculum emphasizes not only theoretical knowledge but also practical application, preparing students for careers in research, industry, or further academic study.

Radboud University’s Physics and Astronomy programme is characterized by its small-scale, personalized education approach, fostering close interaction between students and faculty. The programme typically spans three years, during which students acquire a solid foundation in fundamental physics principles and experimental techniques. Specializations or minors may be available in areas such as astrophysics, condensed matter physics, or particle physics, allowing students to tailor their studies to specific interests. Besides coursework, students engage in research projects, often collaborating with professors on current scientific problems, thereby gaining valuable research experience.

The programme benefits from the university’s strong links with research institutes and industry partners, providing opportunities for internships and networking. Graduates of the Physics and Astronomy programme are well prepared for diverse careers, including scientific research at universities, employment in high-tech industries, data analysis, or continued studies in master’s programmes. The university's campus facilities include advanced laboratories, lecture halls, and observatories that enhance the learning experience.

Radboud University emphasizes an international and inclusive environment, welcoming students from all over the world. The programme is delivered primarily in English to accommodate international students and facilitate global scientific communication. Graduates emerge with a rigorous scientific education, equipped with skills in critical thinking, quantitative analysis, and scientific communication, making them competitive in various scientific and technological fields. Overall, the program aims to cultivate innovative physicists and astronomers who can contribute significantly to advancements in science and technology.