Master's Programme in Physics, 120 hp

Aim and purpose of the programme

Physics is an empirical science where new ideas and theories on physical phenomena are tested through observations and controlled experiments. In this Master’s programme you will be trained to plan, perform, and to analyze advanced experiments. In physics, the art of identifying crucial and more sensitive experiments to test current theories and to make room for unexpected discoveries, is just as important as to further develop and refine those theories. The programme is a very good preparation for future PhD studies in experimental physics (at our Physics Department there are strong experimental research programmes in atomic, molecular, and cluster physics, quantum optics, superconductivity, and in nuclear and particle physics). In addition, the thorough training with instrumentation and measuring procedures is an excellent preparation for front line development work in industry.

Content

There are three compulsory courses (Programming and Computer Science for Physicists, Statistical methods in physics, and Physical measuring techniques) during the first year. In addition, you will have to choose two courses among Atomic Physics, Molecular Physics I, Nuclear physics, Elementary Particle Physics, Optics and Laser Physics, and Condensed Matter Physics I, and one of Analytical Mechanics, Electrodynamics I, Quantum Mechanics III, and Statistical physics I. During the first and the second year you will specialize in a particular branch of modern experimental and instrumental physics through 4-6 courses from a broad selection (including also advanced theory courses). The Master’s program is concluded with a thesis project which normally takes one and a half semester and which may be performed in a research group or in industry.

Degree and job market

A Master degree in Physics will make you attractive on the international job market. Suitable branches in industry are those involved with telecommunication, sensors, detectors, various forms of laser applications, instrumentation for medicine, energy production etc. Some suitable PhD topics are mentioned above but include, in addition, any field requiring a good knowledge of theoretical and experimental physics, and of modern instrumentation.

Department of Physics Roslagstullsbacken 21, AlbaNova universitetscentrum