Mathematical Physics

Mathematical physics can be studied at the University of Würzburg as an individual Bachelor subject. The degree qualifies for a master’s degree in mathematical physics or (with a suitable focus in the bachelor’s program) for a master’s degree in mathematics or a master’s degree in physics.

Mathematics is man's answer to the complexity of nature. They enable us to both better understand complex processes and make well-founded predictions. Often we are not aware of how much mathematics surrounds us in everyday life, e.g. in the mobile phone, in the car, on CDs, with the weather report, ...

Mathematics does not convey views that need to be interpreted. It is based on generally recognized statements (axioms) and logical conclusions. In the course of the course, a feeling for the essentials is developed. This goes hand in hand with the development of the ability to use mathematical methods and structured thinking on complex problems
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Mathematics can be roughly subdivided into pure and applied mathematics: The areas of applied mathematics usually have direct contact with other scientific disciplines; Numerical mathematics and optimization are used, for example, in engineering, and the methods of mathematical statistics are indispensable, for example, in medical research or in finance. Pure mathematics usually includes the areas of algebra and number theory, analysis and function theory, and geometry.

However, the demarcation from applied mathematics does not mean for the departments just mentioned that their content has no application relation to the real world. On the contrary, it often turns out that parts of the abstract theories find surprising applications later - sometimes not until years later. For example, older results from number theory provide today's foundations of modern cryptography, which in turn makes secure Internet connections possible in the first place.

The consecutive Bachelor-Master degree program in Mathematical Physics aims, as opposed to other degree programs in mathematics, primarily to the interplay between the two key sciences, mathematics and physics. Both are inextricably linked: Mathematics is the universal language of physics and provides efficient methods for dealing with physical-technical questions. Physics, in turn, is one of the most important driving forces behind the development of new mathematical theories and is one of the main areas of application of mathematics.

The rapid progress in mathematics and physics in the last few decades is largely due to these cross-connections between physics and mathematics. Many surprising new results, e.g. in the areas of quantum field theory or quantum control, were made possible in the first place.