Master of Physics

The Master of Science in Physics is awarded after the completion of a research-oriented study programme, which introduces students to the frontier of research in physics. The main goal of this programme is to develop the ability to work efficiently and independently at the forefront of research and technology development in the academic world and the business sector. This requires both an introduction to the general practice of scientific work and a professional specialisation in a field of physics. Students are taught knowledge and skills in several areas of physics and are trained in independent scientific work. In particular, they acquire in-depth knowledge in three basic research areas (solid state physics, quantum optics, and gravitational physics) and carry out a research project in one of these areas. Six experimental groups and four theory oriented groups work in quantum optics, covering a broad spectrum of topics, including: atom optics and quantum sensors, ultra-cold quantum gases, optomechanics, quantum dynamics in external light fields, ultrafast laser optics, quantum computing, quantum metrology, applied laser physics, trapped-ion quantum engineering, and optical clocks. Four experimental groups and three theoretical groups work in solid-state physics. The research topics include low-dimensional solids (graphene, atomic wires, thin films), nanostructures (quantum dots), solar energy, strongly correlated electrons, exactly solvable quantum systems, and quantum transport. Several experimental and theoretical groups conduct research related to gravitational physics at our faculty and at the associated Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics (Albert Einstein Institute). The research topics include laser interferometry and gravitational wave astronomy on ground, and in space, quantum control, string theory, general relativity, cosmology. Additional research fields for Master's theses are radioecology and quantum information theory. In addition, a Master's research project can be carried out in several collaborating research centres such as the Laser Zentrum Hannover e.V. The Master's programme is divided into a one-year specialisation phase and a one-year research phase. In the first year, students acquire the basic knowledge and skills which are necessary for independent research work in physics as well as advanced knowledge in the three major research fields of our faculty: solid state physics, quantum optics, and gravitation physics. The study programme is rounded off by an elective course from another scientific field (e.g. mathematics, chemistry, electrical engineering, philosophy, computer science, etc.). The central element of the research phase (second year) is the Master's thesis. This is based on an independent research project on a current issue of modern physics. It is intended to last six months and is preceded by a preparatory research training of six months. The study programme is divided into modules. To earn the Master's degree, students must complete all required modules. Each module covers a thematic subject area. It can therefore include more than one course and extend over more than one semester. To each module, credit points are assigned, according to the expected workload. To earn credits for a module, students must complete various coursework (homework, labs, seminars) and pass an examination. Coursework may be repeated several times and does not have an impact on the final grade. Some credit points can also be earned by doing an industry internship. The official examination regulations list the required modules, the coursework, the forms of examinations, and the possible elective courses. PDF Download