Physics University of Siegen

The University of Siegen offers a Master’s programme in Physics with a duration of four semesters. Students can tailor their curriculum to our three focus areas: particle physics, solid state physics, and quantum optics and quantum information.

General Information: The MSc in Physics is a research-oriented study programme. During the first year, students attend elective lectures, lab courses, and seminars. In the second year, students carry out a project in one of the research groups, leading to the Master's thesis. The programme language is English. Admission is possible each year in spring and autumn.

Research: At the Department of Physics, about 300 students and 20 professors work together, resulting in an outstanding student-to-staff ratio. Our research groups work on:

• Experimental particle & astroparticle physics
• Theoretical particle physics
• Experimental quantum optics with trapped ions
• Experimental quantum & nano-optics
• Theoretical quantum optics & quantum information theory
• Experimental solid state physics
• Experimental x-ray methods

We are part of numerous international collaborations, giving young students the chance to work directly on challenging problems in cutting-edge research, such as:

• Exploring the fundamental nature of matter and new phenomena in strong and weak interactions, as part of the cluster of excellence "color meets flavor"
• Challenging the Standard Model of particle physics through precision calculations for experiments at the energy and intensity frontier, as part of the CRC "particle physics phenomenology after the Higgs discovery"
• Exploring and developing novel concepts and methods for quantum information processing with trapped ions, in cooperation with the local quantum industry pioneers at eleQtron GmbH and research partners worldwide
• Probing the limits of quantum theory with matter waves and macroscopic quantum effects, together with leading experimental groups in Europe
• Detector development for the world’s largest particle accelerator at CERN, the world’s largest cosmic rays experiment in Argentina, and for medical imaging
• Understanding the nature of entanglement, its role in quantum networks, and practical applications, as part of European quantum information science initiatives
• Development of quantum sensors and single-photon sources based on colour centres and optical nanostructures
• Preparing and characterising novel, ultra-thin 2D materials as the ultimate limit of device miniaturisation
• Facilitating the development of new materials with cutting-edge x-ray methods at large-scale x-ray facilities in Germany, Europe and the world

Structure and content: In the first year, students can choose elective lectures and courses according to their specialisation. We offer courses focused around the following topics:

• Experimental solid state physics
• Quantum information theory and foundations of quantum mechanics
• Theoretical quantum optics and quantum thermodynamics
• Experimental quantum optics and nano-optics
• Theoretical particle physics
• Experimental particle and astroparticle physics
• Machine learning and computational methods in physics

The second year is devoted to the MSc thesis, which is prepared in one of the research groups. The aim of the thesis is to deliver a contribution to current research in theoretical or experimental physics. The outstanding student-to-staff ratio at the department implies direct supervision of each student, and results from MSc theses are regularly published in international scientific journals.

An MSc degree is a precondition for entering a doctoral programme in Germany. The PhD research is then performed in one of the research groups and prospective PhD students have to find a professor who is willing to supervise their work. Typically, PhD theses last three to four years and PhD students receive financial support.

Curriculum: The image displays an example curriculum specialising in quantum information theory, which starts in the winter term (WT). Core modules are marked in yellow, electives in green, and mandatory courses in red. CP: credit points. 

Applicants are required to hold a BSc in physics or be in the process of completing a BSc in physics.
The following application documents have to be submitted electronically:

• Cover letter (500 words)
• Curriculum vitae
• Certificates and transcripts of university education
• Proof of proficiency in English

Students have to pay a semester contribution of approximately 372 EUR, which is due before the start of each semester, as part of (re-)registration. This fee covers the cost of a public transport ticket (valid for six months in all of Germany), a social services contribution, and student activities.

The city of Siegen has very moderate costs for accommodation, offering attractive living conditions for students. Living expenses range from only 800 EUR to 1,000 EUR per month, including rent, health insurance, food, clothing, learning materials, phone/Internet, travel expenses, entertainment, and sports. This estimated cost of living can vary depending on lifestyle, type of accommodation, budget, and spending habits.

It is important that students plan and manage their finances throughout the duration of the degree programme to ensure they have enough funds to cover semester contributions and living costs.

Students can find part-time jobs with the help of the job placement service of the university. Siegen and the surrounding area are home to a large number of medium-sized industrial enterprises (SMEs), or so-called hidden champions in electrical and mechanical engineering. Some bigger examples include the companies SMS and Achenbach Buschhütten. A lot of smaller, yet very successful and quickly growing high-tech companies are located here as well, for instance, PMD Technologies and Asentics, which are spin-off companies of the university. Therefore, there are employment prospects in the region, particularly for positions that are available during the semester break and following graduation.

Students at the University of Siegen can apply for the “Deutschlandstipendium / Studienförderfonds”, which can cover part of the students' cost of living. Scholarships for doctoral students are available at the House of Young Talents of the University of Siegen.

The career services team helps with all questions regarding career entry and career planning. It offers information on occupational fields, helps with the career-related structuring of studies and provides direct support with individual coaching and consulting services when it comes to finding a good career start after graduation.

Furthermore, the programme "Forging International Talents - FIT in Siegen" specifically supports international students during their whole studies with a focus on preparation for the German job market. Additionally, the offers of the "Alumniverbund" provide a good opportunity to network and to benefit from the experiences of former students.

There are student residences (dormitories) of the "Studierendenwerk" (student services) close to the university. The rent for a room is between 240 EUR and 460 EUR. Please be aware that German universities do not usually have campus systems like universities in some other countries, where all students can find accommodation directly on the university property. Therefore, some students might have to find rooms on their own. The private accommodation costs per room are 400 EUR on average. Detailed information concerning general accommodation can be found here.

Early application/search is advisable.