Master in Physics
- Degree - Master of Science (M. Sc.)
- Research-oriented
- Following the bachelor's program
- Provides entry into doctoral programs
- Duration - 4 semesters
- Language - English
- Beginning - winter and summer semester
- No tuition fees
Students acquire specialized knowledge in diverse fields of physics, deepen their understanding of scientific methods, and strengthen their expertise in theoretical and experimental physics.
Excellent research community
- As a master's student, you will be a part of the cutting-edge research at our university.
- You will receive individual support from instructors and professors.
- You will benefit from our well-equipped laboratories and international networks.
Requirements
- Bachelor of Science in Physics or a similar degree*
- Certified English language proficiency at level B2 or higher
* Your bachelor's degree must be equivalent to the bachelor's degree in physics of the Freie Universität Berlin
Apply for Master's Program
Application period: 01.12.2024 - 15.02.2025
Graduate in Physics
Prof. Dr. Katharina Franke and Prof. Dr. Joachim Heberle
Physics Master's Program — Unleash the Scientist Within You
If you admire complexity and seek new intellectual challenges daily, you'll feel right at home in our community. Our students and graduates share an innate curiosity and a constant drive to ask "Why?". The department's research spans diverse topics, including quantum computing, nanoscience, biological nanomachines, quantum information, and more.
Program Goals
The English-only program equips students for careers in international teams and interdisciplinary projects in research and development.
What skills do graduates acquire?
Our master’s students gain universally valuable expertise, such as understanding complex systems, analytical proficiency, and critical reasoning. They develop problem-solving skills applicable across various fields in natural sciences and technology, becoming adaptable and highly sought-after professionals in the job market.
Program Structure
To complete the Master's program, a student must earn 120 credit points (CPs). It is recommended to take approximately 30 CPs per semester.
During the first year, students deepen their understanding of modern physics.
Compulsory - 15 CP
- Advanced Laboratory Course
- Selected Topics: Scientific Presentations
Compulsory-elective - 20 CP
Students must complete two modules, with at least one in theoretical physics.
Modules to choose in theoretical physics
- Advanced Quantum Mechanics
- Statistical Physics and Thermodynamics
- Advanced Statistical Physics
- Quantum Field Theory and Many-Body Physics
Modules to choose in experimental physics
- Advanced Solid State Physics
- Advanced Atomic and Molecular Physics
- Advanced Biophysics
Elective - 25 CP
Students select modules from the offerings of the Department of Physics (ca. 25 modules) or other departments according to their personal interests. Non-physics modules, e.g. German Language Course or Computational Methods, may also be taken to acquire interdisciplinary skills and additional qualifications for professional development.
Students specialize in a current research area of modern physics. They join various research groups and complete a master’s thesis within these groups. Throughout the research phase, each student receives individualized supervision from a university faculty member.
Compulsory
During the research phase, students are automatically enrolled in the following modules:
- Modul Scientific Specialization - 15 CP
- Modul Methodology and Project Planning - 15 CP
- Master’s thesis with accompanying colloquium - 30 CP
The Master’s course would typically follow the following schedule. Students are free to design their schedule individually.
For more details on the structure of the Master's program please see Study Regulations.
As a master's student of physics, you can gain a master's double degree from the Freie Universität Berlin and the Institut Polytechnique de Paris.
Documents and Links
Please note that only German versions are legally binding.
- Study regulations for the Master’s Programme in Physics - English, 2020
- Access Statute - German, Zugangssatzung, 2022
- General Information Concerning Application for Master's Programs
- List of non-physics courses in elective area - English
- Study Plan during your Master's: first year
- Form Research phase registration - English, please print double-sided
- Form Exam "Scientific Specialization" - German
- Recommendations: Good scientific practice for reports and theses
- Scientific Integrity
- Flyer Masters' Program in Physics
Testimonial - Alexander Goschew, PhD in Physics
"Doing a Master's in Physics at the FU Berlin was an interesting yet challenging experience. The course sizes were generally small, and I appreciated the interactions with the instructors and fellow students very much.
What I liked most was the work in a research group as part of my Master's project. Doing "real" physics and applying all that I had learned in the laboratory was very fulfilling."