Physics, Master of Science Friedrich Schiller University Jena

The MSc in Physics is part of a full-scale higher education programme of the Friedrich Schiller University Jena, starting at undergraduate level (BSc in Physics), continuing at Master's level, and culminating in a structured doctoral programme. 

The four-semester Master's programme consists of a lecture phase and a one-year research phase. The lecture phase contains:

• the physical core courses (quantum field theory, laser physics, quantum optics, research lab work, general relativity, stellar physics, celestial mechanics, solid-state theory, experimental solid-state physics)
• a wide range of elective courses

The student specialises in one of the following fields of research:

• optics/photonics: laser physics, plasma physics, image processing, non-linear optics, quantum optics, biophotonics, lens design, optical modelling, fibre optics, ultrafast optics, nanooptics, instrumentation
• gravitational and quantum theory: general relativity, quantum field theory and string theory, as well as more specialised courses on relativistic astrophysics, numerical relativity, gravitational waves, computational physics, physics of the quantum vacuum, supersymmetry, atomic theory, cosmology, quantum information theory
• solid state physics/material science: superconductivity, nuclear solid state physics, solid state optics, optoelectronics, semiconductors, electronic structure theory, polymer physics, material science
• astronomy/astrophysics: stellar physics, celestial mechanics, laboratory astrophysics, astronomical lab work, observational techniques, terra astronomy, historical astronomy, planetary systems, solar systems, neutron stars

The topic of the Master's thesis is also chosen from these fields.

The ECTS system allows students to make individual choices according to the programme guidelines. The programme combines in-class learning with practical learning elements. 

• First semester: fundamentals 
• Second semester: fundamentals and specialisation 
• Third semester: specialisation and research
• Fourth semester: research

Students are trained for technical or scientific positions in an academic or industrial environment. 

More information:
https://www.physik.uni-jena.de/en/
https://ranking.zeit.de/che/de/

For this Master's programme, you need a subject-specific Bachelor's degree (minimum six semesters/180 ECTS credits) or a recognised equivalent. The curriculum of this degree should contain at least:

• 20 credits (ECTS) in basic subjects of mathematics
• 10 credits (ECTS) obtained from internships/practicals in physics
• 5 credits (ECTS) in the field of quantum theory

Approx. 320 EUR per semester. Includes the Deutschlandsemesterticket (free public transport in Germany) and the Jena culture ticket; see details here.

Studying in Jena is tuition-free.

Costs (per month) vary depending on individual circumstances: rent and food: 550 EUR, books and learning materials: 50 EUR, health insurance: 120 EUR, other expenses: 180 EUR, total: 900 EUR.

There are various job opportunities in Jena. You should have at least a good command of German if you want to have a wider choice of jobs. Jobs in which you do not need (much) German are rare, often physically demanding, and not very well paid. In some cases, you may also have to commute to nearby cities. Our Career Point offers advice on finding a job.

Deutschlandstipendium (application in April each year).

Some programmes offer scholarships. Please consult the specific study programme website.

When applying for internships, part-time jobs or entry-level roles after graduation, the Career Point team at the University of Jena supports Bachelor’s and Master’s students with free events and advisory services. Career talks, alumni events, company visits, workshops on soft skills, intercultural skills, and future skills, and a free interdisciplinary career and job fair enable exchange with employers. Templates, a job portal, LinkedIn and a mailing list provide information on vacancies, event invitations and exclusive offers. Students interested in entrepreneurship can reach out to the university’s K1 Startup Service.

Bachelor's and Master's level students may apply for student accommodation (all off-campus, furnished single rooms in shared apartments, rent: 200 to 350 EUR per month, application deadline: 15 July/15 January).

International doctoral candidates have the possibility of applying for a place in one of three university guesthouses. Enrolled doctoral candidates can also apply for a room in student housing.

You can find more information about finding accommodation in Jena here.