Nanoscience (MSc) University of Kassel

The Nanoscience consecutive study programme expands the knowledge and skills obtained in a corresponding Bachelor's degree programme towards deeper theoretical understanding and practical applications of nanoscale phenomena. Embedded in state-of-the-art research, students apply interdisciplinary approaches based on physics, chemistry, and biology to special research areas of nanoscience such as materials chemistry, nanoelectronics, and photonics or advanced molecular biology.

By planning and conducting experiments and presenting the results in written and oral form, students develop their skills in scientific practice. They obtain competencies highly beneficial for employment in an interdisciplinary environment in industry or public service. These competencies include not only subject-specific knowledge but also soft skills such as scientific communication and time management. In addition to lectures in all natural sciences with special emphasis on the nanoscale and laboratory work involving at least one natural science, individual specialisation is possible in a large number of elective courses. Some of the courses may also be taken abroad in a partner university or institution.

The two-year programme concludes with a Master's thesis on a special research topic in nanoscience. Upon successful completion of the programme, the academic title Master of Science will be awarded.

Watch our image video to gain further insights into studying at the University of Kassel.

Students may enter into the two-year programme in the winter or summer semester (i.e. October or April). In order to complete the programme, a total number of 120 credits have to be obtained, including the Master's thesis. Depending on the previous subject of study, additional requirements of up to 30 credits may be necessary. The actual duration of the study programme may differ based on these requirements and individual pacing.

The modules are divided into compulsory modules, focus modules, and elective modules.
Compulsory modules are "Methods of Nanostructure Analysis", "Nanophysics", "Nanochemistry", "Nanobiology", a preparatory project before starting with the Master's thesis, and the Master's degree module with the thesis itself.

Students are required to select at least one advanced module from the three disciplines as a focus module. Further elective modules can be chosen from a variety of modules. Examples of course-like modules are "Aromatic Building Blocks for Organic Nanostructures", "Nanoscale Quantum Optics", "Basics in Chronobiology and Olfaction", and many others.

A detailed description of the modules can be found in the "Modulhandbuch" (module handbook) on our website.

Internships in the laboratories of different research groups are also included in the programme. On a high international level, researchers from the University of Kassel work on the understanding and application of nanosystems.

In the "Center for Interdisciplinary Nanostructure Science and Technology" (CINSaT), research teams from biology, chemistry, physics, and engineering find a joint platform for discussing their ideas and work together on interdisciplinary projects. The participating "Institute of Nanostructure Technologies and Analytics" (INA) operates 400 square meters of cleanroom facilities and advanced preparation equipment for nanoelectronic and photonic devices. Current focus areas of CINSaT are, amongst others, three-dimensional nanostructures, bioimaging, photonics, chiral systems, and nanomaterials. Spin-off companies, e.g. in biosensorics, connect the research in Kassel to industrial applications.

In order to obtain admission to the Master's programme in Nanoscience, applicants must have a Bachelor's degree of at least 180 credits (ECTS) in nanoscience or a related equivalent degree. Sufficient knowledge in chemistry, physics, and biology including practical skills in at least one of the disciplines must be documented. The examination committee may demand a hearing for assessing the fulfilment of the admission requirements and/or may stipulate additional obligations of up to 30 credits.

The semester contribution (391.27 EUR for the 2026 summer semester) includes the "Deutschlandticket", which allows you to use all regional trains and local transport throughout Germany free of charge! You will also receive discounts on meals in the canteens and much more.

To cover their personal expenses while studying in Kassel or Witzenhausen, students are advised to budget between 950 and 1,100 EUR per month for accommodation, food, health insurance, books and other miscellaneous expenses.

Students can apply for various part-time jobs, including positions as a student assistant or tutor on campus. The University of Kassel's Career Service can help you find a part-time job.

The Career Service of University of Kassel offers individual support to facilitate a successful transition from academic to the professional world. Especially for international students aiming for a career in Germany, the Career Service provides workshops, reviewing application documents, networking with alumni and individual counselling. Learn more about the Career Service.

You can find useful information on accommodation, how to find a place to live, and the private housing market in Kassel and on the Witzenhausen campus on the University of Kassel website. More on accommodation in Kassel and Witzenhausen.
International students enrolled at the University of Kassel can choose to stay in a private accommodation or in a student hall of residence ("Wohnheim"). Around the campuses, there are about 1,000 rooms available in the student halls. Further information can be found at the Website of Studierendenwerk Kassel. Rent for a room varies from 260 to 545 EUR per month, depending on location and facilities. Students can choose between single apartments with en-suite facilities and shared flats with fellow students.

Why should you choose the University of Kassel?

Our university is an inspiring educational and research hub located in the heart of Germany. You will find the ideal environment in which to learn, grow, and take your first steps towards a fulfilling career, all the while making a meaningful global impact.

• Innovative learning: We encourage creativity, cross-disciplinary thinking and teaching excellence to unlock your potential.
• Sustainability Focus: We offer pioneering research and programmes in sustainability to address global challenges.
• Dynamic Location: Live in the vibrant city of Kassel with its cultural offerings, natural beauty and excellent transport links for exploring Germany and beyond.
• Welcoming community: Thanks to our diverse campus community of over 3,000 international students, you will feel right at home in our inclusive and supportive environment.

Facts & Figures

Founded in 1971, the University of Kassel is committed to international cooperation and interdisciplinary research. It has ten faculties and a School of Art and Design. It has 3,000 international students from over 130 countries among its 21,000 students. Around 300 professors teach and conduct research here.

Most faculties are located on the main campus (Holländischer Platz) and on four other campuses in Kassel. The Faculty of Organic Agricultural Sciences is located in the nearby town of Witzenhausen.

Thirteen international and interdisciplinary graduate programmes combine profound knowledge with applied research and project-based learning. Explore our English-taught Master's programmes.

The university also provides a wide range of leisure activities, such as sports facilities, cultural events and social gatherings.

If you’re looking for a place that offers the perfect balance of academic excellence, affordability and a high quality of life in a green setting, then Kassel is the ideal place to study in Germany.

Your Green Hub in the Heart of Germany

With a population of around 200,000, Kassel is located in the centre of Germany, next to the Fulda River. The city boasts a rich cultural and economic diversity.

• Kassel is a vibrant hub where opera, theatre, and world-class art meet. Every five years, the world-famous "documenta" contemporary art exhibition transforms the city into a cosmopolitan hub.
• There are also many parks and forests in and around the city where you can relax or enjoy outdoor activities. The "Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe", Europe's largest mountainside park in Kassel, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Thanks to its central location in Germany and excellent motorway and rail links you can easily and quickly explore other German and European cities (e.g. Berlin, Hamburg or Munich are just three hours away).
• Your semester ticket includes the "Deutschlandticket", which allows you to travel on all buses, trams, regional trains and underground services throughout Germany free of charge.
• Compared to other major German cities, Kassel is surprisingly affordable, with comparatively low rents. Many cafés, bars and cultural venues offer students special discounts.

Witzenhausen, where the Faculty of Organic Agricultural Sciences is located, is a charming little town about 30 km east of Kassel. Around 1,000 students live and study here. The town's historic half-timbered houses lend it a unique charm, and it is famous for its cherry orchards in the surrounding areas. The annual spring cherry blossom festival is a highlight for all ages.