Physics

A research-oriented master's program at the University of Kassel offering two distinct specialisation streams — Experimental Physics and Theoretical Physics — with particular strengths in optics, nanotechnology, nano-scale quantum optics, and astrophysics/cosmology. Students combine advanced laboratory work with independent seminars and a substantial research thesis, benefiting from Kassel's focused expertise in photonics and nanoscience.

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The Master's program in Physics at the University of Kassel is a research-intensive, English-taught program structured around two principal specialisation streams: **Experimental Physics** and **Theoretical Physics**. The program is designed to take students with a solid undergraduate foundation in physics and develop them into independent researchers capable of working at the frontier of modern physical sciences. **Curriculum approach and methodology** The curriculum combines compulsory advanced modules with a flexible elective structure. The compulsory core includes an advanced master's-level laboratory course covering optics, nanoscience, and spectroscopy, alongside dedicated seminars in both experimental and theoretical physics where students conduct independent literature research and deliver presentations on current topics. A specialisation module and a methodological expertise and project-planning module round out the core, preparing students for the demands of research. Elective modules in the **Experimental Physics** track span applied and semiconductor physics, semiconductor lasers, ultrashort laser pulses and their applications, surface science, molecular physics and spectroscopy, nano-scale quantum optics, thin film physics, astrophysics and cosmology, and synchrotron radiation physics. The **Theoretical Physics** elective strand covers theoretical solid-state physics, advanced quantum mechanics, computational physics, modern methods in theoretical physics, and general relativity and cosmology. Students may also draw on cross-disciplinary modules and opt into an occupational internship as part of their elective credits. **Research orientation** Kassel's particular research identity in optics and nanotechnology is embedded throughout the curriculum. The advanced lab and the elective module landscape reflect active research groups in these areas. The program culminates in a master's thesis worth 30 credits — a substantial independent research project carried out under academic supervision, representing the central outcome of the degree. **Program highlights** - Clear disciplinary identity with two coherent specialisation directions - Dedicated seminar modules that build skills in scientific communication and critical reading of literature - Strong experimental-physics offering spanning multiple photonics and nanotechnology sub-fields - Theoretical stream reaching from solid-state physics and quantum mechanics to astrophysics and cosmology - Flexibility to combine experimental and theoretical content, or to include non-physics electives and an optional internship