Physics

A research-intensive master's program at the University of Bonn offering deep specialisation in particle physics, condensed matter, photonics, and quantum technologies — built around the Bonn-Cologne Graduate School of Physics and Astronomy, one of Germany's leading graduate physics networks.

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The Master's in Physics at the University of Bonn is a research-oriented programme designed to bring students to the frontier of modern physics across two major thematic clusters: hadron and particle physics on one side, and condensed matter physics and photonics on the other. The curriculum is structured around a compulsory foundation, a flexible specialisation block, and a substantial research phase. All students complete an Advanced Laboratory Course and advanced quantum theory before moving into their chosen specialisation. The specialisation block — worth 24 credit points — lets students focus their coursework in experimental, applied, or theoretical physics and select either foundational or advanced-level modules within that direction. Alongside specialisation work, students choose 18 credit points of advanced elective lectures from a broad menu covering topics such as particle astrophysics, accelerator physics, hadron structure, quantum technology, photonics, magnetism, superconductivity, molecular physics, quantum field theory, and general relativity. The programme culminates in a substantial research phase spanning approximately one academic year. Students begin with a supervised exploration of their thesis topic, develop their research methods and project plan, and complete a master's thesis worth 30 credit points. This structure places students inside active research groups from an early stage, making the thesis experience genuinely formative rather than a final add-on. The programme is delivered entirely in English and is embedded in the Bonn-Cologne Graduate School of Physics and Astronomy (BCGS), a joint graduate training network of two strong research universities. This affiliation gives students access to the combined faculty, seminars, and research infrastructure of both institutions. A limited number of BCGS scholarships are available for exceptional applicants. Students graduating from the University of Bonn's bachelor's programme in physics are admitted automatically; students from other institutions apply through the BCGS office and are assessed on the basis of their academic background.